Good morning, Kent.

Rev. Dr. Jack Sullivan Jr. will speak today at 6 p.m. at Kent United Methodist Church to discuss efforts to end the death penalty (sharing his personal story of loss and healing) as part of an event sponsored by Ohioans to Stop Executions.

ODOT announced $51 million in funding to install electric vehicle charging stations statewide, including three new sites in Portage County (Love’s Travel Stop on Route 225, Aldi on Route 14, and Sheetz on Sanctuary View Drive).

Construction will begin early 2027 and many stations will open by the year’s end.

Ohio lawmakers approved a rule on April 13 to permanently ban synthetic kratom on May 14 while keeping natural forms legal as discussions on further regulation continue.

Taxpayers in Kent have until today — April 15 — to file their 2025 returns and pay any tax owed.

Last-minute mail filers and those seeking an extension should check IRS guidelines to avoid penalties.

The Ohio Casino Control Commission fined online prediction market Kalshi $5 million for offering unlicensed sports gaming, an action announced Tuesday, Apr.

14. The penalty aims to enforce state law — a measure designed to keep gaming operations legal.

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.