FATAL MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A 19-year-old Alexandria woman was killed in Tuesday evening motorcycle crash in Newark. According to a press release from the State Patrol, a large group of motorcycles was heading southbound on Thornwood Drive, just north of Faye Drive, a little after 9:00pm, when one driver began having difficulties and slowed down. That driver was hit by another motorcycle, prompting a third driver to swerve in an effort to avoid hitting the other two. Morgan Dingess-Napper, who was a passenger on one of the bikes, was thrown from the motorcycle and was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

A CROWDED FIELD

Twenty people submitted applications to replace expelled 72^nd House District State Representative Larry Householder including his son. Derek Householder was elected Perry County Commissioner in 2020 and is now looking to fill the seat formerly held by his father. Brittany Misner, vice president, Licking County Chamber of Commerce, is among those vying for the seat. A committee will conduct interviews with a goal of selecting a new state representative as quickly as possible.

HOUSE FIRE

Multiple Licking County fire departments were busy Wednesday night battling a house fire in Union Township. According to the 911 Center, around 6:15pm crews were called to the scene in the 3300 block of Deeds Road Southeast and upon arrival found smoke coming from the home. They remained on the scene for several hours. No injuries were reported. The cause is under investigation.

BAD DRUGS

Local law enforcement agencies are warning folks - do not take any medication that is not prescribed to you by a physician. Officials have identified pills with Fentanyl disguised as Xanax and Oxycontin. If you have come in contact with these pills immediately call your local law enforcement agency.

SNAP BENEFITS

Low-income Ohio households with more than $2,250 saved up could be cut off of SNAP benefits under provisions in Ohio's biennium budget plan.

Hope Lane, with the Center for Community Solutions, argues that the changes are not needed because SNAP has one of the lowest fraud rates among public-assistance programs.

PATRICK'S BACKPACKS

The Tomes family of Newark has teamed with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to help families whose child has a serious nervous system disorder. Lisa Tomes says they are putting together Patrick's Backpacks.

Tomes 17-year-old son Patrick has been diagnosed with a rare disease called chromosome ring 22. If you'd like to make a donation visit the Prayers for Patrick Facebook page.