Muskingum County • October 13, 2025
Good morning, Muskingum County. The kitchen heat was on at the Coshocton County Fair, where young culinary talents stirred, baked, and wrapped their way to victory. From Katelyn Specht's award-winning strawberry coggan to Brodey Richard's zesty salsa, these 4-H members demonstrated that impressive gastronomic skills come in all ages. The competition showcased everything from Mexican street corn to bacon-wrapped sausages, proving the next generation of chefs is already seasoning our local food scene.
Meanwhile, Newark's roads are getting a $1 million makeover as the Ohio Department of Development funds a significant Thornwood Drive expansion project. The improvements, featuring a new roundabout at Faye Drive, will begin construction in March and support traffic flow to Packaging Corporation of America's expansive new facility. This development arrives as America's senior workforce continues growing, with nearly 20% of those 65+ still punching the clock—double the percentage from 1985, reflecting both necessity and purpose in our changing economy.
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🍳 Young chefs shine at Coshocton County Fair cooking competition. Katelyn Specht of Chili Challengers took first place in the dessert category with her strawberry coggan. Brodey Richard won best appetizer with his salsa, while Caleb Finner claimed the top spot for main dishes with cowboy beans. Nathan Adams earned recognition for his Mexican street corn in the salad category, and Amaya Fisher's bacon wrapped sausages won the snacks division. The competition showcased the culinary talents of local 4-H members across various food categories.
🛣️ Newark's $1 million road project tackles growing traffic challenges. The Ohio Department of Development has awarded Newark funding to widen Thornwood Drive into three lanes and construct a roundabout at its intersection with Faye Drive. Construction is expected to begin in March with completion before November, creating a safer pathway for trucks entering Packaging Corporation of America's new 78-acre facility. City Engineer Brian Morehead explained the improvements will help traffic flow more efficiently compared to a signalized intersection. This project continues Newark's efforts to enhance the north-south connection between State Route 16 and Interstate 70, while helping retain 138 jobs at the new facility.
👵 America's seniors are working longer than ever before. Nearly 20% of Americans aged 65 and older are still in the workforce today, almost double the percentage from 1985. This surge reflects both personal preference and economic necessity, with women now representing 46% of older workers compared to just 33% in 1964. The aging Baby Boomer generation is driving this trend, though some seniors work simply because they find fulfillment and purpose in their jobs. Local resources like the Ohio Means Jobs Resource Center help connect older adults with employment opportunities.
Brick cottage with outdoor space: Priced at $154,900, this brick cottage offers 2 bedrooms, a potential third room upstairs, original woodwork, cedar closets, and a basement garage—all within a convenient Zanesville location with extra outdoor space.
Spacious ranch with modern updates: Priced at $299,900, this well-maintained 4-bed, 2-bath Ranch in Tri-Valley Schools offers hardwood floors, solid oak features, a finished basement with fireplace, and updates including a new roof from 2018.
Sprawling woodland retreat since 2019: Priced at $535,000, this spacious 2019-built home offers 3+ bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms across 4,400+ sq ft, nestled on 5 acres of wooded land with cathedral ceilings and a basement bar area.
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