Historically a manufacturing center, the largest economic sector today is education, with Kent State University being the city's largest employer.
Known as "Tree City," Kent operates nearly 20 city parks and preserves.
Below, two views of Main Street.
Every town needs a good coffee shop, an interesting shopping area, a friendly breakfast place, and a spot for a cold beer and a burger. That's what these next four places provide.
Over Easy at the Depot, above left, was originally the town's train station, opened in 1875. The Kent Historical Society is on the second floor.
Right, a view of the street where Mike lived for nine years - the George family home is the grey building nearly hidden among the trees. When it was built in 1962, it was the first house along this street. Below, two views of the street where Mike had his paper route.
The university provides museums, a range of performing arts, and 17 sports programs. All of these provide opportunities for Kent residents to enjoy life in a "college town."
The area beneath the bridge is part of an extensive park area providing hiking and biking trails along the river. There are also access points on the river for canoes and kayaks.
The photo on the right and the two below were taken along the Portage Bike and Hike Trail. The trail includes approximately 13 miles of paved or crushed limestone paths running along or close to the Cuyahoga River, easily accessed from several points within the city of Kent.
This is Trail Lake Park, technically in Streetsboro, but included here because it is just outside the boundary of Kent and close enough to get to easily. In addition, this park is a favorite destination of Mike's sister and her husband. It is literally just down the street from their home.
These next three pictures were taken in Towner's Woods, a park that quickly became Mike's favorite destination for a hike. It includes several trails, Pippen Lake (photo below), facilities for picnics and cross-country skiing, and a prehistoric burial mound that was discovered and excavated in the 1930s.
During our move to Kent, they were incredibly helpful in so many ways. In particular, we will always be grateful for their hospitality during the months while we were getting our new home ready. Cindy's son Jack also lives here - he is a fellow sports fan for me and a fellow outdoorsman for Mike.
We simply could not have done this without them.
The cemetery dates from 1857 and is a beautiful, peaceful place. It's a nice feeling knowing that family are here.
Below, a sunset from our porch.
