📊 Youth victory tracker

Good morning, Licking County. The numbers tell a promising story in Columbus, where youth crime rates are declining thanks to a comprehensive approach combining prevention programs, community involvement, and targeted intervention strategies. Mayor Ginther's safety initiative shows what's possible when cities invest in young people before problems escalate—a refreshing counterpoint to the typical headlines about crime.

Meanwhile, citizen scientists across our community are taking environmental matters into their own hands, deploying 24 air quality monitors to establish baseline readings before Intel's semiconductor plants come online. This grassroots effort comes as Reynoldsburg faces its own challenges, with city officials stepping in to fund school resource officers amid the district's budget crisis. The $246,000 allocation provides a temporary lifeline for these positions that serve far more than security functions in our schools.

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

📉 Columbus youth crime drops as city invests in prevention programs. Mayor Ginther credits the decline to a comprehensive safety strategy involving police, community tips, and juvenile justice system collaboration. The city is targeting a small group of repeat young offenders while expanding summer youth employment and school programming. Ginther highlighted that juvenile judges are confirming the positive impact of these intervention efforts. Columbus plans to continue these initiatives while maintaining its focus on prevention, intervention, and enforcement strategies.

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🏭 Residents track air quality as Intel plants loom on horizon. Licking County citizens are deploying 24 air monitors to establish baseline measurements before Intel's semiconductor plants and other developments become operational. Ken Apacki is leading the initiative, placing monitors at schools, nursing homes, and fire stations to track volatile organic compounds and particulate matter. The effort comes amid broader concerns about potential pollution from not just Intel but also nearby data centers and other industrial facilities. Residents worry about environmental oversight, with one participant stating, "It's a fundamental right to breathe clean air."

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🚔 Reynoldsburg city steps in to save school officers amid budget crisis. The city council approved $246,000 to fund two school resource officers for the 2025-26 academic year after Reynoldsburg City Schools cut the positions. This temporary solution comes as the district grapples with $8.3 million in cuts following a November levy failure. Mayor Joe Begeny, a former teacher, emphasized that these officers provide crucial support beyond security, maintaining awareness of activities both inside and outside school buildings. The financial strain has already resulted in 51 teachers losing their jobs as the district navigates its deficit.

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⚾ Baseball Scoreboard

The Johnnies kept their hot streak alive, outlasting Northridge 9-6 in a high-scoring Licking County showdown that pushed Johnstown-Monroe to an impressive 6-1 record. Meanwhile, Lakewood's pitching staff delivered a masterclass across town, shutting out the still-winless Utica Redskins 2-0 to improve to 6-2 on the season. The Redskins will look to break their six-game skid when they host Newark Catholic tomorrow, though finding runs might prove challenging for a team that's been blanked by the Lancers.

🥎 Softball Scoreboard

Licking Valley Panthers made quick work of the winless Zanesville Blue Devils in a 12-0 shutout that was over before the fans could finish their popcorn. The Panthers improved to 4-2 with the victory, leaving the Blue Devils still searching for their first win at 0-8. Meanwhile, Johnstown-Monroe Johnnies matched the shutout theme of the day, steamrolling Northridge Vikings 13-0 to even their record at 3-3 while the Vikings dropped to 4-6.

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Investment Triplex Great Location: Priced at $399,000, this Hebron triplex offers investment potential with a vacant three-bedroom main unit and two occupied one-bedroom apartments upstairs, all featuring gas heating and central air in a desirable location.

Bargain fixer upper needs work: Investors take note: this vacant 3-bedroom home with a $95,777 list price offers hardwood floors, large rooms, and high ceilings, but needs some love after a 20-year tenant. Sold as is.

Updated Stylish Modern Family Home: Priced at $259,900, this stylish 4-bedroom, 2-bath home features an updated kitchen with granite counters, a primary bedroom with walk-in closet, and a large private fenced backyard for modern, inviting living.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🙏 In Remembrance

David Michael Hamilton David Michael Hamilton, 73, of Newark, passed away peacefully at home on April 12, 2025, surrounded by family. Known as "Big Wave Dave," he built a renowned career designing and building engines for jet skis and motorsports, owning Jet Ski East and his own race team. Dave was beloved for his friendly personality, ability to connect with people, and his joy in making others happy. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Suzette, along with his sister, in-laws, and extended family, with a Mass of Christian Burial to be held on April 23, 2025, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church.