Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Licking County / April 8, 2025

🚨 Coaches caught

Licking County • April 8, 2025

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Good morning, Licking County. A troubling chapter in local education has come to light as two Heath wrestling coaches resigned following a Title IX investigation. Records reveal they created a "hostile environment" by making inappropriate sexual comments and using derogatory language toward students. The district has permanently barred both coaches from student contact, emphasizing that student safety remains their "number one priority" in the wake of these concerning revelations.

In other developments, tragedy struck in Obetz with the death of 49-year-old Jessica Bird, allegedly from stabbing injuries. Authorities have arrested 44-year-old Jeffrey Caudill on murder charges as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, on a brighter note, the Ohio Natural Energy Institute received recognition from Building Bridges to Careers for its outstanding work connecting students with opportunities in the energy sector through learning summits, school presentations, and field trips.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🤼‍♂️ Two Heath wrestling coaches sexually harassed students, investigation finds. The coaches violated Title IX policy by creating a "hostile environment" toward multiple students at Heath High School, according to newly released records. They allegedly called students derogatory names, made inappropriate sexual comments about their wrestling positions, and shared details about their personal relationships with women. Both coaches resigned earlier this year after being placed on leave in January when the district launched its investigation. The superintendent emphasized student safety as the district's "number one priority" and confirmed the coaches are permanently prohibited from contacting students.

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🔪 Woman found dead in Obetz leads to murder charge. Police discovered 49-year-old Jessica Bird deceased at a Groveport Road location Wednesday evening. Authorities arrested 44-year-old Jeffrey Caudill in Columbus, charging him with Bird's murder. Court records indicate she died from "stabbing or cutting" injuries. The Obetz Police Department continues investigating and asks anyone with information to come forward.

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🔌 Ohio energy institute honored for bridging education and career gaps. Building Bridges to Careers recognized the Ohio Natural Energy Institute for their outstanding contribution to career exploration programs. The organization has sponsored learning summits, presented at schools, and organized field trips that connect students with opportunities in the energy sector. "ONEi is proud to help bridge the gap between students and the essential energy industry in Ohio," said Executive Director Bruce Tague. The institute focuses on educating communities about natural gas and oil production through workshops, training, and speaker programs.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Expansive wooded homesite awaits builder: This bucolic 5.7-acre building lot, listed at $479,000, offers 250 feet of road frontage and utilities at the street, with the tranquil bonus of woods covering the back third of the property.
Real estate listing image Lakeside home needs more bathrooms: This 3 BR, 1 Bath updated home in Buckeye Lake Village is listed at $369,000. The property features a finished attic bedroom and walking distance to local attractions, with optional turnkey furnishings for additional cost.
Real estate listing image Sprawling estate with modern updates: Priced at $575,000, this spacious family home on 2 acres offers 3-4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a pool with deck, outbuilding, garden, and recent updates including a new roof, driveway, and appliances.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

📚 Apr. 8 - Mobile Library Visit: The Licking County Mobile Library rolls into the Look Up Center on April 8! Browse books and resources for all ages during this monthly visit to 50 O'Bannon Ave in Newark.
🥬 Apr. 8 - Fresh Produce Drive-Thru: Fresh produce at your fingertips! Drive through our weekly distribution at 458 S Main St, Pataskala on April 8, where volunteers will load farm-fresh goodies right into your vehicle. Just follow the signs!
📚 Apr. 8 - Preschool Story Time: Little bookworms unite at Preschool Story Time! Join us at 101 W Main St in Newark on April 8 for engaging tales, giggles, and early literacy fun that sparks young imaginations.
🛡️ Apr. 8 - Safety Council: Safe Digging: Join the April Safety Council Meeting at Licking County Aging Partners for Frank Riegler's "Safe Digging" presentation. Doors open at 11am, registration at 11:15am, and the program kicks off at noon on April 8.
🪴 Apr. 9 - DIY Hanging Shelf Workshop: Craft your own hanging shelf at Licking County Library's West Newark branch on April 9! Transform your living space while learning creative decluttering techniques in this hands-on workshop. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts!
☕ Apr. 10 - Licking County Provider Meetup: Connect with fellow providers over coffee at River Road Coffee House on April 10! Network and share ideas in this casual community gathering at 973 N 21st St in Newark.
🎸 Apr. 10 - Bryan Andrews Live Music: Groove to the soulful sounds of Bryan Andrews at the historic Midland Theatre on April 10. Enjoy a night of live music in the heart of Newark at this intimate downtown venue.
🎸 Apr. 11 - Peter Noone Live: Legendary '60s icon Peter Noone brings his timeless hits to Midland Theatre! Catch this unforgettable performance on April 11, 2025 at 8PM in downtown Newark. Book your tickets now!

🙏 In Remembrance

Joseph Davis Kennedy

Joseph Davis Kennedy, 85, passed away on April 6, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. A Vietnam War veteran who served in the Air Force as a navigator, he later worked in Chambers of Commerce and various community roles across multiple cities. Kennedy dedicated his life to service, founding numerous community initiatives including a youth soccer league, a learning center, and community gardens, while also being active in Kiwanis and Rotary clubs. An avid motorcyclist and traveler who visited all fifty states, he will be remembered for his diverse hobbies and his lifelong commitment to learning and growth.

Joseph Davis Kennedy

Louise "Liz" Marshall

Louise "Liz" Virginia Marshall, who lived to be 100 years old, will be commemorated with funeral services at the Reed-Egan Funeral Home in Newark on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 10:30 A.M., with Fr. Fritzner Valcin officiating. Calling hours will be held the previous evening from 4-7 P.M., featuring a time for sharing stories at 6:30 P.M. Following the service, interment will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to The Turban Project, and condolences can be shared online at the funeral home's website.

Louise Liz Marshall
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