NEWARK MAN FACES DRUG CHARGES

A 31-year-old Newark man with an extensive criminal history is facing drug charges. Shonathin Dicenzo is being held at the Licking County Justice Center on trafficking in drugs charges but other charges could be forthcoming. Police arrested Dicenzo earlier this week at which time they allegedly found him in possession of drugs, a gun and a large amount of cash. He is being held on $750,000 bond.

CASE TASK FORCE

The Licking County Prosecutor's Office, in partnership with several Licking County law enforcement agencies, has formed the Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Task Force. This specialized unit is dedicated to the aggressive investigation and prosecution of crimes against children. Specially trained and dedicated investigators will now handle reports of child sexual and physical abuse for the county and have an experienced assistant prosecutor to provide legal advice and assistance from the beginning of the investigation to the end.

UNITED WAY IMPACT AWARDS

The United Way of Licking County held its Community Impact and Awards Breakfast on Wednesday at the Reese Center on the OSU-Newark/COTC campus.

Executive Director Deb Dingus handed out a couple of awards including the Ken Johnston Volunteer of the Year Award which went to Kirk Homrighouse. This year's Hope Award went to Jeff Clemons.

SHRED-IT DAY

True Core Federal Credit Union is hosting a free community event this weekend.

Vice President of Marketing Shani Smith-Reed said the Shred-It Day is open to all not just True Core Federal members.

THE WILDS WELCOMES ANOTHER RHINO

Just weeks after welcoming its first rhino calf of the year, The Wilds has welcomed a second southern white rhino, a female calf born on March 28. This calf is the third for Kali, a 12-year-old southern white rhino who was also born at The Wilds.

WALK WITH A DOC

Licking Memorial Health Systems will host a Walk with a Doc event on Saturday, April 18, at 9:00 a.m. Dr. Mark DeFrancisco will lead a discussion and answer general questions about vascular disease with claudication, which is exercise-induced muscle pain, cramping, and fatigue, during a casual, 40-minute walk at Rotary Park in Newark. Healthy snacks and blood pressure screenings will be provided. This event is free; however, registration is required. To register for the walk, please call the Licking Memorial Events Line at 220-564-1560.