Good morning, Kent.

A rare pigeon with shimmering green and purple-tinted feathers was seen in Kent three weeks ago and has been nicknamed Harvey by local residents+ who say the bird appears lost and frightened.

Residents have been feeding Harvey and contacting animal control and bird experts+ in hopes that a sanctuary or the owner will come forward to give him a safe home.

Two 19-year-old Kent men were arrested on May 25 after they allegedly confronted a third man with loaded shotguns outside a Carlisle Court apartment complex and were charged with first-degree felony aggravated robbery in Portage County Municipal Court—preliminary hearings are set for May 30.

Ravenna’s Reed Memorial Library launched its Summer Concert Series in its new outdoor pavilion with a matinee by The Jazz Guys on May 11 and will host monthly concerts through September featuring local bands including Silver & Stings, Babies in Black, Back Alley Relics and Joanie Calem’s Sing-Along. The pavilion seats up to 200 people and food trucks will offer refreshments at each event—adding to the festive atmosphere.

The Kent Historical Society invites locals to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Erie Depot on June 1 from 3 to 5 p.m. at 152 Franklin Ave, where speakers, live music & family-friendly activities, free refreshments & a plaque dedication will mark the event while a special locomotive is visible on the tracks.

Portage County Sheriff Bruce Zuchowski posted a photo on Facebook of burning copies of The Portager & urged others to try burning the free newspaper, saying his action was just a joke that shows his freedom of expression.

Publisher Ben Wolford said the post puts the newspaper's free distribution at risk as the paper continues to cover local community stories.

The Mental Health and Recovery Board of Portage County hosted a Mental Health Celebration on May 14th in downtown Kent to honor Mental Health Awareness Month.

State officials, local groups and community members joined the event—practicing mindfulness, painting rocks and writing letters to support mental health.

Mary Kay Cabot, a longtime Browns beat writer for the Cleveland Plain Dealer and Cleveland.com, was named the 2025 Bill Nunn Jr. Award winner and is only the second woman to win the honor.

She, a graduate of Lakewood High School and Kent State, will be honored at the Gold Jacket Dinner on Aug. 1 at the Canton Memorial Civic Center + her work has helped improve NFL safety protocols.

Matteo Mancuso Live Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Kent Stage — Ticket prices available — Experience the musical journey of a young guitar prodigy blending jazz and fusion.

Art & Wine Festival 2025

5-11 p.m. — Hometown Bank Plaza — Cost TBA — Experience a vibrant showcase of art, wine, and music from local creators.

Thai Yoga Massage + Reiki Workshop

6-7:30 p.m. — SHINE Ohio — Limited spots available — Experience deep relaxation and healing through Thai Yoga Massage and Reiki.

Outdoor Summer Art Camp for Kids

11 AM - 12 PM — Fred Fuller Pavilion — $40 — A creative summer experience for kids aged 6-13 featuring outdoor art activities.

Annual Putt Around Downtown

12-5 p.m. — Laziza — $15 entry — Family fun meets local businesses in this unique putt putt golf event throughout downtown Kent.

Dan Smith Community Park Concert – Time Machine

6-8 p.m. — Dan Smith Community Park — Free entry — Experience a delightful evening of free live music from local bands in a community setting.