🔥 Historic blaze battle

Good morning, Muskingum County. Flames tore through downtown Newcomerstown this week as the historic Ritz Theater—a landmark later converted to apartments and offices—succumbed to a devastating fire that required twelve fire departments and seven hours to contain. The dramatic battle against the blaze showcased both modern technology, with Coshocton's drone pinpointing hotspots, and timeless community spirit as locals rallied to support emergency personnel throughout the ordeal.

In brighter developments, Kessler Sign Company is illuminating Zanesville's economic future with a $350,000 expansion creating four new jobs, while the Renner Theatre is bringing '80s pop flair to Sherwood Forest. "Hood the Musical" opens Thursday, featuring a real-life father-son duo as Robin Hood and his nemesis—proving that in Muskingum County, even centuries-old tales can find fresh life through local creativity and family connections.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Zanesville

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New Concord

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South Zanesville

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Roseville

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Dresden

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Frazeysburg

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Philo

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Fultonham

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Norwich

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Adamsville

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🔥 Historic theater erupts in flames, destroying downtown Newcomerstown landmark. Twelve fire departments battled the blaze for over seven hours after it spread from a car fire inside the former Ritz Theater building. The structure, which had been converted into apartments and office space, suffered a partial roof collapse that forced firefighters to evacuate and switch to aerial water attacks. Coshocton Fire Department's drone helped pinpoint hotspots, while local restaurants and residents provided support to emergency personnel. No injuries were reported in the fire, which will be investigated by the State Fire Marshal's Office.

🏭 Zanesville sign company invests $350,000 to expand local operations. Kessler Sign Company's investment will enhance production capabilities and create four new jobs at their 50,000-square-foot facility. The expansion includes facility upgrades and new equipment acquisition, including a flatbed printer to improve efficiency and market reach. The project is supported by a $25,000 JobsOhio Small Business Grant, in partnership with Ohio Southeast Economic Development and the Zanesville-Muskingum County Port Authority. Founded in 1979, Kessler specializes in custom fabrication, painting, printing, and routing services for commercial and industrial clients.

🎭 '80s pop meets Robin Hood in Zanesville's musical twist. "Hood the Musical" opens Thursday at the Renner Theatre, featuring a fresh take on the classic tale with catchy tunes and dynamic fight scenes. Thomas Hoover stars as Robin Hood alongside his real-life father Lee Hoover as the sheriff of Nottingham, the main antagonist. The production includes both veteran performers and newcomers, with performances scheduled throughout March. Tickets are available at therenner.org for this Zane Trace Players production.

Auction Bidding Starts March 2025: This Auction.com exclusive property listed at $0 requires bidders to be prepared for the online auction starting on March 16, 2025, with platform support available throughout the process.

Remodeled country gem huge yard: Priced at $165,900, this fully remodeled 2-bedroom home features new everything—roof, windows, kitchen, bathroom—and sits on nearly an acre with a generous backyard that could accommodate a home office or additional bedroom.

Spacious ranch new flooring ready: Priced at $238,900, this Dresden home offers a large living and dining area that flows into a fully-applianced kitchen. The property features new flooring, carpet, and windows, plus a convenient commute to Newark or Columbus.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎓 Mar. 13 - Putnam Seminary History: Step back in time at South Branch Library's Lunch & Learn on March 13! Discover the fascinating history of Putnam Female Seminary and 19th-century education in Zanesville with Muskingum County History.

🇺🇸 Mar. 14 - God, Flag & Country: Join the patriotic celebration at "God, Flag & Country" on March 14 at 2929 Maysville Pike in Zanesville. Show your American spirit at this community-focused event that honors our shared values.

🎨 Mar. 14 - Docent Meeting @ ZMA: Calling all art enthusiasts! Join the Zanesville Museum of Art for their Docent Meeting on March 14, where volunteers gather to enhance visitor experiences at this cultural gem on Military Road.

🏀 Mar. 14 - Future vs Elite Basketball: Catch the youth sports showdown as Ohio Future (Trout) faces Ohio Elite (Flynn) at 225 Market St in Philo on March 14. Check the event link for game time and additional details.

🥧 Mar. 14 - Zanesville Pi Day Party: Celebrate Pi Day with a slice of fun at Ohio University Zanesville Library! Math enthusiasts and pie lovers alike can enjoy sweet and savory treats on March 14 at 1425 Newark Rd.

📅 Mar. 14 - Busy: Mystery event alert at 4000 Millers Ln in Duncan Falls! Check out what's happening on March 14 by visiting the Franklin Local Schools facility request page for complete details.

🎷 Mar. 15 - Ronjae Live Jazz Fusion: Groove to smooth jazz meets techno pop as Ronjae performs live with Sam Savage and Company at The Barn on March 15. Experience melodic rhythms that move you toward inner healing at 1947 Linden Ave.

🍀 Mar. 15 - Schmidt's Truck Pub Crawl: Grab a Fat Daddy or Bahama Mama when Schmidt's Sausage Truck rolls into Y Bridge Brewing Company during Zanesville's St. Patrick's Pub Crawl on March 15, 2025. Delicious German fare meets Irish festivities!

🙏 In Remembrance

Roy R. Hawkins

Roy R. "Hawkeye" Hawkins, age 78, passed away on March 11, 2025, at Genesis Hospice Morrison-House in Zanesville. Born in 1947, he worked as a forklift operator at Putnam Transfer and served as Santa Claus annually for children. An outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting, Roy was also a Blue Devils fan and euchre player who frequented the senior center. He is survived by his wife Judy, son Ben, step-daughter Jorinda, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, two sisters, and many friends, while being preceded in death by his first wife Lois, his parents, a brother, and two sisters.

John D. Adamik Sr.

John David Adamik, Sr., an 83-year-old Zanesville resident, passed away on March 7, 2025. Born in Detroit in 1941 and raised near Pleasant City, Ohio, John served in the U.S. Army in Alaska before marrying Mary Ann Gerlisky in 1966. He worked for Big Bear Foods for 34 years, retiring in 2003, and was an active union member advocating for warehouse employees. John spent most of his adult life in Perry County near Somerset, where he and Mary Ann raised their family, gardened, raised cattle, and formed many friendships before his death, which came shortly after he enjoyed watching Ohio State win the National Championship.

David E. Crane

David E. Crane, 93, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and service. He had a long career in agriculture and made a significant impact on his community through his work with church youth groups, 4H, and the Grange. David was known for his generosity, supporting various charities and saving hundreds of lives through platelet donations over decades. He is survived by his daughter, sisters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, best friend, and extended family, with a celebration of life planned for a later date in Shalersville, Ohio.

Kevin L. Benson

Kevin L. Benson, a 63-year-old truck driver from Norwich, passed away on March 9, 2025, at Riverside Methodist Hospital. Born on November 17, 1961, in Barnesville to Clifford and the late Claudette Benson, Kevin attended First Baptist Church in Cambridge and enjoyed restoring his Dodge truck and riding his Harley. He is survived by his wife C.J., his biological and considered children, nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and other relatives, while being preceded in death by his mother and two grandchildren. Following Kevin's wishes, a cremation will take place with no services held at this time.