Hocking County • July 21, 2025
Good morning, Hocking County. When summer temperatures soar, most of us reach for beach towels and sunscreen—not scarves and mittens. Yet Ohio University Lancaster is embracing this seasonal contradiction with their production of "White Christmas" hitting the Wagner Theatre stage this July. Complete with the largest orchestra in the theater's history and enhanced costumes, this summer snowfall promises to deliver what Director Victor Jones calls a "Broadway-caliber experience" right in our backyard.
Meanwhile, the roads connecting our communities face challenges as a collapsed culvert has closed a section of Ohio 144 "for the foreseeable future," according to ODOT. Drivers are now navigating detours while following this developing situation. In the courthouse, former Chief Deputy Caleb Moritz remains under the watchful eye of the justice system after a judge denied his request to release his $50,000 bond, ensuring he continues to comply with conditions while awaiting his rescheduled trial on multiple felony charges.
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⚖️ Former chief deputy's bond stays locked despite clean record. A judge denied Caleb Moritz's request to release his $50,000 bond posted after his 2023 indictment on multiple felony charges. Prosecutors successfully argued the bond was working as intended, ensuring Moritz complies with conditions while awaiting trial. The former Hocking County Sheriff's Chief Deputy faces serious charges including witness intimidation, grand theft, and evidence tampering. His first trial ended in mistrial after important undisclosed evidence emerged, with a new trial date pending.
🚧 Culvert collapse shuts down Ohio highway, disrupting local traffic. A section of Ohio 144 between Main Street and Four Mile Creek Road in Coolville closed Monday after a culvert gave way. Ohio Department of Transportation spokesperson Ashley Rittenhouse confirmed the closure will remain in effect "for the foreseeable future." Officials have established a detour route directing drivers from U.S. 50 to Ohio 124 to Ohio 144. Road signs have been posted to help motorists navigate around the affected area.
🎭 Ohio University Lancaster brings holiday magic to summer stages. Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" will be performed at the Wagner Theatre from July 18 through August 3, with two shows featured during the Lancaster Festival. The musical follows two WWII veterans who follow singing sisters to a Vermont inn owned by their former commanding officer. Director Victor Jones notes this production features their largest-ever 20-piece orchestra and upgraded costumes, creating a "Broadway-caliber experience." All tickets are $20 and must be purchased online in advance, with proceeds supporting the theatre program year-round.
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-Isaiah 40:31
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