Local News

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal is again teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to promote Fire Prevention Week, which kicks off today, Oct. 5 and concludes Saturday, Oct. 11. This year’s theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” focuses on educating Ohioans about the safe use of common rechargeable batteries to …

– AAA is reminding drivers that October through December marks deer-mating season, so the animals are more active and more likely to dart into the road, increasing the risk of a costly and potentially deadly collision. Deer can be spotted near roadways any time of the year, but drivers should be especially vigilant in the fall, and especially during times of darkness. …

NEWARK, OHIO – The Christmas season is rapidly approaching and we are currently planning for ourannual “Cops & Kids” event with the Newark City Schools. “Cops & Kids” pairs students selected byNewark City Schools with police officers of the Newark Division of Police so that the student may buyChristmas gifts for their family members. This year’s event will be held …

COLUMBUS, OH  — This week, the Franklin County Commissioners announced the recipients of the Community Partnerships Grant, which provides vital resources to nonprofit organizations working to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for residents across the county.This year, 22 organizations are receiving a total of $3 million in funding through the county’s General Revenue Fund. Grants will support programs from …

The State Route 257 bridge over Ottawa Creek, between Taway Road and Smokey Road, is closed until further notice. During a routine inspection, District 6 bridge inspectors noted additional deterioration on areas of the bridge that had previously been identified for repair. Inspectors made the decision to close the road out of an abundance of caution until repairs can be …

It’s beginning to look like fall out there… which means the holiday season isn’t far behind! For 77 years, the Licking County Courthouse Christmas Lighting has marked the official start of the holidays in our community. To keep this cherished tradition shining bright, we’re raising funds by October 20. The committee is aiming to raise 50,000 dollars. Your donations make …

NEWARK, OHIO, SEPT. 26, 2025 — Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) President John M. Berry, PhD, presented the prestigious Legends of Loyalty award to four extraordinary, deserving recipients. In 2011, the Office of the President established the Legends of Loyalty award, which it bestows at the annual Legacy and Leadership Dinner. The award honors individuals who have, over the years, made a significant …

The Licking County Sheriff’s Office recently received information regarding concerning comments made by an individual during a phone conversation with a staff member of Northridge Local Schools. The comments were not directed toward students or the school but they were directed at a Licking County Sheriffs School Resource Officer assigned to the school. On September 24, 2025, deputies received additional …

The Mansfield Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to a two-vehicle serious injury crash on State Route 314, near Stine Road, in Sharon Township, Richland County. The incident occurred on September 25, 2025, at 7:51 AM.  A juvenile driver, age 16, of Lexington, Ohio was operating a 2010 Honda Civic northbound on SR 314. Gregory Ditmars, age 62, …

If it feels like everyone has road rage these days, that’s because they probably do. A staggering 96% of drivers admit to engaging in aggressive driving behaviors over the past year, according to a new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The study also found that more than one in 10 drivers admitted to engaging in violent actions in road …