Good morning, Licking County. May 6th looms large on the horizon as North Fork School District voters face a critical decision about their community's educational future. The 1% income tax renewal represents a substantial $3 million annually—or 14.5% of the district's budget—funding everything from classroom supplies to staff salaries. The silver lining for retirees? The levy only applies to earned income, leaving retirement benefits untouched if voters choose to extend this 2007 measure through 2029.
Art and activism are converging in a vibrant display as volunteers prepare an 800-square-foot mural for the Newark Homeless Outreach building. The collaborative project between the Newark Ohio Pride Coalition and Denison University will boldly proclaim "We will not be erased" when unveiled next May. This creative partnership emerged after both organizations found traditional avenues of expression closed to them, transforming rejection into a colorful statement of resilience that will soon grace downtown Newark.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
💰 North Fork School District voters face 1% income tax renewal decision. The May 6 special election will determine if the 2007 levy continues until 2029, representing 14.5% of the district's total revenue. Currently generating over $3 million annually, the tax applies only to earned income, exempting retirees. According to Superintendent Scott Hartley, funds support operational expenses including supplies and personnel costs. Without renewal, the district could theoretically operate without cuts for three more years.
🎨 Newark's marginalized communities unite through powerful mural project. Volunteers are preparing an 800-square-foot mural on the Newark Homeless Outreach building, created in collaboration with the Newark Ohio Pride Coalition and Denison University student Mel Wienandt. The artwork, featuring vibrant colors and community quotes, will boldly proclaim "We will not be erased. We leave an imprint" when unveiled on May 3, 2025. This partnership emerged after both organizations were denied requests to light the county courthouse for their respective causes. Despite anticipating potential vandalism, organizers remain committed to their message of visibility and support for overlapping vulnerable populations.
✊ Protesters march against fascism in downtown Newark. The Licking County Democratic Party organized a "Hands Off" protest at Courthouse Square on April 19, 2025. Demonstrators carried signs reading "No fascism" and flags declaring "No Kings in America" as they circled the Licking County Courthouse. Led by local resident David McElfresh, participants chanted while marching through the downtown area. The event brought together numerous community members expressing their political concerns in this Ohio county.
⚾ Baseball Scoreboard
Lakewood's Lancers showed why they're a force to be reckoned with, taming the Little Muskies of John Glenn 7-2 to improve to an impressive 9-2 on the season. Meanwhile, the Northridge Vikings found their groove in a 4-1 victory over Mt. Gilead, giving them some much-needed momentum before Monday's Licking County showdown with these very same Lancers.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Johnstown-Monroe (6-4) | ||
vs Lexington | L 9-4 | |
Lakewood (9-2) | ||
@ John Glenn | W 7-2 | |
Northridge (4-5) | ||
vs Mt. Gilead | W 4-1 |
🥎 Softball Scoreboard
Licking Valley Panthers clawed their way to a 5-3 victory over Tri-Valley Scotties in Saturday's non-league showdown, improving to 7-3 on the season while handing the Scotties just their fourth loss. The Panthers now turn their attention to Licking County rival Watkins Memorial, while Tri-Valley (11-4) prepares for a Muskingum Valley clash with fellow 11-4 squad Sheridan.Liberty Union's bats were merciless in a 16-0 dismantling of Heath, as the Lions roared to a 12-1 season record while leaving the Bulldogs licking their wounds at 3-6. Both teams face quick turnarounds with Saturday matchups against the formidable 11-1 Chillicothe Cavaliers, who enter on a hot streak after blanking Adena 6-0.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Licking Valley (7-3) | ||
@ Tri-Valley | W 5-3 | |
Watkins Memorial (9-6) | ||
vs Springfield | L 13-3 | |
vs Lancaster | L 15-3 | |
Heath (3-6) | ||
@ Liberty Union | L 17-0 | |
vs Chillicothe | L 12-5 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Scenic Cape Acres Equestrian Retreat: Listed at $729,500, this Cape Cod-style home on 5.85 rolling acres offers panoramic views, 3 bedrooms, modern updates, an equipped barn with horse stalls, and outdoor amenities like a hot tub, all just minutes from Granville village.
Massive Heath ranch fresh updates: This $299,900 Heath brick ranch delivers move-in ready charm with a brand-new roof, modern kitchen and spa-like bath, plus nearly double the living space with a finished lower level.
Luxurious lakeside ranch retreat: This ranch-style luxury home near Buckeye Lake is listed at $877,500, offering open-concept living on nearly 3 acres with custom features, multiple living spaces, and convenient access to waterfront amenities via golf cart.
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