Good morning, Kent.

Kent State University has selected 12 student leaders for its 2026 Homecoming Court who will serve as community ambassadors during a week of traditions and service.

The candidates will appear in a parade today and be honored at the football game at Dix Stadium.

Last Tuesday evening, Commissioner Mike Tinlin swore in the Hiram Township Fire Department at the township building (6352 State Route 82) with Chief Nicholas Bushek, Assistant Chief Jason Groselle, and Captain Christopher Sanchez now ready for 24/7 duty starting Oct.

1 as talks with the Village of Hiram continue.

CSX Railway will close the Lakewood Road railroad crossing in Ravenna Township from Monday, Oct.

5 through Friday, Oct. 9 — the Portage County Engineer's Office confirmed.

Ohio health officials reported that Ashland, Stark, Vinton, and Wood counties each logged one measles case on Oct.

2 (bringing the statewide total to 206). Most cases involve unvaccinated individuals, and experts urge vaccination to curb further spread.

Portage County high schools played their Week 7 football games on Friday, Oct.

2, while Recordpub published live scores and previews online plus box scores from various teams.

Portage County high school football teams bounced back in Week 7 as Streetsboro overcame Ravenna 63 to 14 with standout plays and Mogadore and Berkshire posted commanding wins while Kirtland secured a shutout against Crestwood.

The Garfield G-Men won 47-7 over Southeast on Friday at Freedom Field in Palmyra Township and remain undefeated in MVAC Grey Tier play, with a game against rival Liberty scheduled at JAG Stadium on Friday at 7 p.m.