Local News

News Headlines for Monday, March 18

STATE OF EMERGENCY

As a result of last week’s severe weather that spawned tornadoes Governor DeWine has issued a proclamation declaring a state of emergency across 11 counties including Licking County. The National Weather Service confirmed that an EF1 tornado touch downed in the Johnstown area Thursday evening. The declaration orders all relevant State departments and agencies to lend their services, equipment, supplies, and personnel as necessary to assist in the response and recovery effort.

FATAL CRASHES IN LICKING COUNTY

The Licking County Safe Communities Coalition reports that through the end of February there have been two crash fatalities in Licking County. At this time last year, there were three crash fatalities. The Licking County Safe Communities Coalition reminds motorists to slow down, buckle up and keep your attention on the road.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

Three Newark City Council committees – Finance, Service and Capital Improvements are scheduled to meet today prior to the full City Council meeting. Committee meetings get underway at 5:45 pm, full City Council meets at 7:00 pm.

OHIO START

Ohio START, an evidenced-based program that helps parents struggling with substance use stay connected to their children is offering hope to Ohio counties ravaged by the opioid epidemic.

Jen McClellan, with the Public Children Services Association of Ohio, said substance abuse in the home increases the odds of child abuse and neglect, but research shows removing children from their home and placing them in foster care can cause mental distress and in some cases, lead to worse outcomes.

DIEBLER NAMED HAD COACH

You can longer call him interim-coach – Ohio State made it official Sunday naming Jake Diebler as the new men’s basketball coach. Diebler, 37, took over following the firing of then coach Chris Holtmann on Valentine’s Day. The Buckeyes finished the regular season 5-1 under Diebler. They beat Iowa in the Big Tournament before falling to Illinois in the quarterfinals. They will host Cornell in round one of the NIT on Tuesday.

COLUMBUS FURY

Megan Courtney Lush is a member of the U.S. National Volleyball Team, a former collegiate champion at Penn State, and co-captain of the Columbus Fury pro volleyball team.

The Fury is in its first season and they are currently 4-4. For more information including the upcoming schedule visit the Columbus Fury Facebook page.

KOOL 101.7 / Buckeye Country 107.7 / 790 WHTH bring you the best in local news! Our experienced, talented news staff gets you the most accurate news in Central Ohio!  We use weather from the National Weather Service! For the best local news, turn to KOOL 101.7 / Buckeye Country 107.7 / 790 WHTH!