JB’s, located on N. Water Street next to Brewhouse in Downtown Kent, is undergoing changes over the holiday season and will reopen Jan. 21 as a nightclub.

JB’s was recently revamped, adding a new sound system, paint job and two new dancing poles when it became Kent’s first gay bar. A little more than a year later, it is undergoing some minor changes to become a club for an even larger variety of students in the area. These changes will include two new DJ’s, a large dance floor, pool tables, dancing poles and live music.

Unlike most bars in Downtown Kent, such as Zephyr Pub and The Loft, JB’s will be permitting people ages 18 and older, giving younger students a chance to participate in Downtown Kent’s nightlife.

Edd Johnson, a sophomore communication studies major and creator of the new club, is working alongside the owner to give the bar a new theme and feel.

“We’re here to bring people a place where you can let loose and feel safe,” Johnson said.

Weekly entertainment will be provided by two DJ’s: Johnson and Spencer Sinclair, a junior communications studies major.

“There’s variety between the two DJ’s,” said Kalyn Kegerize, a junior history major, who is familiar with both DJs.

“Edd plays a lot of hip hop and pop, while Spencer brings house and (electronic dance music) to the table,” she said. “They definitely appeal to a large variety of music lovers.”  

The new entertainment at JB’s will be focused on appealing to diverse crowds, Johnson said.

JB’s will also be hosting a themed party and will give students the opportunity to vote on its Facebook page for that theme, Johnson said.

There are plans to bring in a jam band once a month that will play throughout the night to bring back more of a live entertainment aspect to downtown Kent, Johnson said.

In the past, JB’s was previously known as Fat Jimmy’s and hosted many live music events and concerts.

“It sounds like something we haven’t had here at Kent State,” said Alyssa Yusko, a senior special education major.

Thursdays will be college ID night at JB’s, allowing students from any university to receive a free shot with their college ID.

“We’re calling it Therapy Thursdays,” Johnson said. “The name came from the idea of having fun, relaxing and celebrating (and) almost being done with another week of school.”

JB’s will be re-launching its Facebook page by Christmas and will have more information about the club along with updates on upcoming activities.

Carson Kleinman is the safety/transportation reporter for The Kent Stater. Contact her at [email protected].