Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Licking County / May 9, 2025

🧩 Justice renewed

Licking County • May 9, 2025

Local Brew Logo
​

Good morning, Licking County. The west courtroom of Licking County's historic courthouse stands renewed in magnificent splendor, its restored dome and leaded glass artwork featuring Lady Justice serving as a powerful symbol of renewal. This architectural renaissance, celebrated appropriately on Law Day, reminds us that preserving our heritage often involves both honoring the past and creating space for the future—much like the Granville Farmers Market, now entering its impressive 32nd season with a blend of returning vendors and fresh faces.

In stark contrast to these community celebrations, a somber courtroom drama unfolds as Jacob McDonald faces trial for the devastating I-70 crash that claimed six lives. Witnesses recounted their desperate rescue attempts while prosecutors presented evidence suggesting cell phone activity preceded the collision. The juxtaposition of community traditions continuing alongside profound tragedy reflects the full spectrum of local life—where markets bloom, courthouses shine, and communities seek justice and healing through even the darkest circumstances.

🌤 Sky Skoop

NewarkWeather Icon
36°
63°
rain 0%
PataskalaWeather Icon
35°
65°
rain 0%
HeathWeather Icon
36°
63°
rain 0%
GranvilleWeather Icon
36°
63°
rain 0%
JohnstownWeather Icon
35°
65°
rain 0%
UticaWeather Icon
36°
59°
rain 0%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

Brewing Locally Image

🌽 Granville Farmers Market kicks off its 32nd season with fresh offerings. Running every Saturday morning until October 25 at Raccoon Valley Park, the market features seasonal produce, plants, baked goods, and cottage foods from both returning and new vendors. This year includes a weekly email newsletter sent on Fridays with updates about special events, vendor offerings, and scheduled entertainment. Two Granville Area Chamber of Commerce tents will showcase local businesses each week, encouraging community support. Co-managers Steve Matheny and Betsy Roberts invite patrons to connect with questions as they celebrate this long-running community tradition.

Read more

🚌 Semi driver's trial begins for deadly bus crash that killed six. Jacob McDonald faces 26 charges, including aggravated vehicular homicide, for the 2023 I-70 crash in Licking County that devastated a school community. Prosecutors claim cell phone data was being received before McDonald's semi slammed into a charter bus carrying students and chaperones from Tuscarawas Valley Local School District. Witnesses described the horrific crash scene and their efforts to rescue trapped students, while McDonald sat emotionless during testimony. Though McDonald is diabetic, a forensic pathologist testified his blood sugar wasn't high enough to affect his driving.

Read more

🏛️ Historic courthouse unveils stunning restoration in Licking County. The renovated west courtroom showcases a magnificent dome and new leaded glass artwork featuring Lady Justice. Plaques honoring notable figures like Civil War veteran Samuel Hunter and U.S. Congressman William Stanbery now adorn the south wall. The rededication ceremony took place on May 1—Law Day in the United States—with dozens of dignitaries in attendance to celebrate the preservation of this architectural treasure.

Read more

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Campus Ranch Oasis With Kitchenette: This $299,900 peaceful ranch-style condo near OSU Campus offers 2 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a cozy fireplace, 3-season room, and finished lower level with kitchenette—all nestled in a tree-lined setting with nearby walking paths.
Real estate listing image Ranch near everything: Priced at $220,000, this ranch-style home in Newark offers 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and sits on a half-acre lot with a large backyard and two-car garage, conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, and the hospital.
Real estate listing image Potential gem needs updates: Priced at $265,000, this 3-bed, 3-bath home offers a first-floor master suite, modern flooring, and a walk-out basement, sold as-is for buyers seeking a well-built property with potential in a desirable area.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🛍️ May 9 - Spring Vintage Shop Hop: Treasure hunt through downtown Newark at the Spring Shop Hop! Browse vintage finds and local gems at the Licking County Library on May 9. Perfect for collectors and curious shoppers alike.
👑 May 9 - Rich Regal Celebration: Catch Rich Regal live at The Newark Hub on May 9! Join the community for what promises to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment at 370 W Church St in Newark.
🎸 May 9 - Sweet Baby James Tribute: Experience America's #1 James Taylor tribute as Bill Griese brings his acclaimed Sweet Baby James show to Weathervane Playhouse on May 9. This isn't your typical tribute—it's a delightful musical journey!
🦞 May 10 - Licking County Crawfish Boil: Get your cajun fix at the Licking County Crawfish Boil! Join the festive feast at The Landing on Waterworks on May 10, from 5:30-9:00 PM. Contact Licking County OH0019@ducks.org for details.
🎸 May 10 - Austin Finley Live Music: Catch Austin Finley's honest, genre-spanning tunes at Newark Station on May 10! He's bringing original songs and four decades of musical favorites that'll have the whole family tapping their feet.
🎻 May 10 - Granville Symphony Orchestra: Experience the captivating sounds of New Granville Symphony Orchestra at Midland Theatre on May 10. Enjoy an evening of musical brilliance in the heart of Newark without any hidden fees!
🛍️ May 10 - Spring Vendor Show: Browse unique treasures at the 2025 Spring Vendor Show on May 10! Local artisans and crafters showcase their best wares at 248 Needles Dr SW in Pataskala for an unforgettable shopping experience.
🌱 May 10 - Newark Garden Club Sale: Green thumbs unite! The Newark Garden Club Plant Sale blooms at Licking County Aging Partners on May 10. Find the perfect additions for your garden at 1058 E Main St, Newark.
{% if subscriber.rh_reflink != blank %}

Share with friends, get cool stuff, grow local!

Have friends who'd love our newsletter too? Give them your unique referral link (below) and get an awesome local reward when they subscribe.

{{subscriber.rh_reflink}}

PS: You have referred {{subscriber.rh_totref}} people so far

{% endif %}
Instagram

Interested in advertising? Get in touch.

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here.

Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here

← Previous
🛡️ Armor upgrade
Next →
🏛️ Courthouse glow-up