Good morning, Kent.

Portage Animal Protective League will host its annual fundraiser, Paws to Celebrate, on April 18 at 5:30 p.m. at American Legion Hall in Kent with dinner, live and silent auctions, raffles, games, and music by the Monea Brothers & generous donations supporting animal rescue.

Severe storms on March 31 tore part of the roof off the Southeast Local Schools gym in Palmyra Township and flooded its floor, prompting insurance-approved repairs with a new floor expected by August + superintendent Bob Dunn said no one was hurt although some students’ vehicles sustained damage.

Journalist Nora Neus will lead a memoir-writing workshop at 2 p.m. Apr.

11 at Kent Free Library (312 W. Main St.) and then discuss her Jan. 6 book with a book signing at 11:30 a.m. Apr. 12 at Kent United Church of Christ.

Kent State University earned national honors when 20 graduate programs were ranked among the best by U.S. News 2026 with seven in the top 100.

The rankings were updated on Wednesday, Apr. 8 to reflect the university’s strong performance across several fields.

Over 20 nursing students from Kent State University at Trumbull participated in a disaster training drill led by Michael Kerr of Mercy Health Youngstown on Thursday, April 9, gaining hands-on experience for emergency response through a strong local partnership.

Voters in Garrettsville, Freedom and Nelson will decide on a 1.5 mil EMS levy on Tuesday, May 5 to boost emergency response amid increasing call volumes, with the measure expected to fund added staffing and equipment for Community EMS District servicing 52 sq mi.

Kent taxpayers must file their 2025 federal returns by April 15; extensions give extra time for filing but taxes remain due that day — mail returns a few days early to avoid USPS delays, and e-filers can check refund status online soon after acceptance.

Kent State University is partnering with Osh State University in Kyrgyzstan to develop dual graduate programs in cell biology and molecular genetics aimed at reducing rising breast cancer rates (funded by the World Bank) as a Kent State delegation will visit this summer to plan implementation.

Record-Courier staff writer Jonah L.

Rosenblum highlighted Ayla Kolar’s debut as she helped Garfield secure a 7-1 win (against Windham) in a key softball game that showcased local talent.

Brain Break: Run Away From Your Stress 5k

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Kent State University Cunningham Hall — Registration fee required — Participate in a fun run to support mental health awareness and enjoy scenic routes on campus.

Doug Tallamy Presents: 'How Can I Help?' Saving Nature with Your Yard

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — SEED Campus - Davey Tree Expert Company — Free entry — Learn how your yard can make a big difference in preserving nature with Doug Tallamy's insights.

Bell Tower Brewing Saison Fest

12-4 p.m. — Bell Tower Brewing Co. — Ticket required — Celebrate the art of Saison brewing with tastings from over 20 local breweries.

Rooted and Rising: A Collective Affirmation Gathering

7-9 p.m. — The Healing Brew, LLC — $20 — Ground yourself with guided meditation and affirmations in a heart-centered community gathering.

American Roots Festival

3-9 p.m. — Ray’s Place — Free entry — Celebrate Americana, Bluegrass & Country music with a range of performances at this annual festival.

Paint a Pot: Mother's Day Gift Workshop

11 AM – 1 PM — Acorn & Evergreen Floral Studio — $20 per person — Create a handmade pot and plant gift for Mom in this kid-friendly workshop.

Race into Finals 5K and 1-Mile Run/Walk

8:30-11:00 a.m. — Henderson Hall — Funds raised benefit the College of Nursing — Lace up and enjoy a community race to celebrate the end of finals.

Plant Bingo for Moms

7-9 p.m. — Acorn & Evergreen Floral Studio — BYOB, donations welcomed — Play bingo, win plants, and support moms in need while having fun.