Downtown Mount Vernon was filled with community activity during August First Friday, with residents and visitors coming out to enjoy an evening of local businesses, entertainment and special activities. One of the evening’s highlights was the 2026 WNZR Costumed Paws on Parade, held in partnership with Experience Mount Vernon. The competition brought local pet owners downtown with their creatively dressed …

A Mount Vernon woman is being recognized by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for more than three decades of work protecting Ohio’s natural resources. Jennifer Windus was among seven recipients of the 2026 Cardinal Award, presented during a ceremony at the Ohio State Fair. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to the conservation and responsible management of …

A Mount Vernon Nazarene University student researcher is taking the next step toward a career in chemistry after being accepted to all five graduate programs to which she applied — with every school offering her full financial assistance. Emily Howie, who participated in MVNU’s Summer Program for Undergraduate Research, or SPUR, from 2024 through 2026, will begin pursuing her doctorate …

After months of debate and public input, the Heath City Council has unanimously rejected a proposal from M/I Homes that would have altered development plans for a residential subdivision, a decision many residents applauded during this week’s meeting. The proposal would have modified conditions tied to a planned housing development, but council members said approving the request would have been …

A new residential development is taking shape in Shelby after plans were approved for the construction of eight new single-family homes. City officials say the project will help address continued demand for housing while expanding residential options within the community. The development is expected to add new tax base, attract additional families and support long-term growth in the northern portion …

The Richland County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam in which callers falsely claim victims have missed jury duty and must immediately pay a fine to avoid arrest. According to the Sheriff’s Office, scammers are posing as deputies or court officials and telling residents they failed to appear for jury service. The callers often demand payment through …

Two Columbus men have been arrested after authorities say they burglarized the Fin Feather Fur Outfitters store east of Ashland, stealing dozens of firearms before being captured following a traffic stop on Interstate 71. According to the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office dispatch report, deputies were called to the sporting goods retailer at 652 U.S. Route 250 East at approximately 1:39 …

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is introducing a new graduate program designed to help licensed teachers advance their careers while building on the professional learning they’ve already completed. The university announced this week that its new Master of Arts in Education in Curriculum and Instruction will welcome its first cohort beginning in October 2026. The program is designed for working educators …

After years of planning and design, construction has officially begun on Mount Vernon’s new police station. City officials, members of the Mount Vernon Police Department, City Council and project partners gathered Tuesday afternoon to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new facility, which city leaders say represents one of the largest public safety investments in Mount Vernon’s history. Mayor Matt Starr …

Knox Community Hospital President and CEO Bruce White wants the community to understand one thing about the hospital’s proposed partnership with Kettering Health: the decision wasn’t driven by financial distress. White said hospital leaders intentionally sought a partner while Knox Community Hospital is healthy and successful, believing that approach would provide the best long-term outcome for patients and the community. …