WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory until 6:00 pm.

Meteorologist Christopher Hogue said in addition to the snow, a cold front will move in packing winds of up to 35 mph.  Licking, Fairfield, Franklin, Knox and Muskingum counties are under a Level 1 Snow Emergency.

WARMING CENTER

The Licking County Emergency Warming Center will be open this weekend for anyone in need of a warm, safe place to stay during the extreme cold. The warming center is located at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 592 W. Main St. in Newark.  Hours: Today: 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 a.m. Saturday: 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 a.m.

DRUG BUST

Thursday morning, Muskingum County authorities executed a high risk drug warrant in the 3100 block of East Pike. During the drug bust, officers seized multiple guns and narcotics. Two people were taken into custody. Their names are being withheld pending formal charges.

LANCASTER MAN FACES LENGTHY PRISON SENTENCE

A 24-year-old Lancaster man pleaded guilty in federal court to receiving child pornography. Carson Bigham, who was a former Columbus firefighter, was originally arrested on federal charges in May 2025. Between August 2024 and May 2025, Bigham received child pornography, including files that depicted minors engaged in sex acts with adults. He faces up to 20 years in prison.

ROD COOK IS RETIRING

After 23 years of passionate service to the community, Rod Cook, Executive Director of the East Central Ohio Red Cross Chapter, is retiring effective May 22.

Cook thanked all those he has worked with over the years and the community for their longtime support of the Red Cross.

FARMERS MARKET

The Arcade in downtown Newark will be busy later today as the indoor Farmers Market will be held from 4:00-7:00 pm. Over twenty vendors will be on hand.