The City of Mount Vernon officially dedicated the new “Let Freedom Ring Blue Star Family Bell Circle” Wednesday morning, celebrating military families whose sacrifices help preserve the nation’s freedoms. The ceremony, held at American Heritage Park, brought together city leaders, state officials, veterans, military families and community members as the city unveiled the interactive public art installation just days before …

Richland County Children Services is asking the community to consider opening their homes to children in need through a new foster parent recruitment campaign. The initiative, titled “This Seat Is Waiting,” highlights the ongoing need for licensed foster families as more children enter the county’s child welfare system. Agency officials say the number of children requiring temporary placement continues to …

Mansfield City Schools has taken the first formal step toward what could become the district’s first new elementary school in years. The Board of Education recently approved a resolution to conditionally participate in the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission’s Expedited Local Partnership Program, allowing the district to begin planning for a potential new elementary school project. District officials say the approval …

Knox Technical Center recognized the achievements of its newest graduates during its summer commencement ceremony held Tuesday, June 30, at the Mount Vernon Nazarene University Chapel. The ceremony brought together graduates, families, instructors and community members to celebrate students who completed career and technical education programs designed to prepare them for today’s workforce. The graduation marked another milestone for Knox …

As central Ohio continues to experience dangerously hot temperatures, local community organizations are coming together to provide a safe place for residents to cool off. Hard Knox Mutual Aid, in collaboration with the People’s Solidarity Coalition and other community partners, has opened a pop-up cooling center at the SCRAPS Community Studio, located at 300 Tilden Ave., Suite 6, Mount Vernon. …

Downtown Mount Vernon welcomed a new destination for dining, business and community collaboration as Founders Food Hall officially celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by community leaders, development partners and local residents. The celebration marked the completion of the transformation of a historic downtown building into a vibrant mixed-use space that combines local food vendors, office space …

While many families will end their Independence Day celebrations watching fireworks, astronomy enthusiasts can cap off the evening by exploring the night sky at the Warren Rupp Observatory. The Richland Astronomical Society will host a free public viewing on Saturday, July 4, beginning at approximately 10 p.m. EDT, weather permitting. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe the night sky …

Knox County is celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with a full calendar of events throughout July, offering residents and visitors numerous opportunities to celebrate the nation’s history while enjoying local festivals, entertainment and family activities. The month begins with July First Friday: Party Like It’s 1776 on Friday, July 3, in downtown Mount Vernon. The patriotic-themed event will feature live music, …

Mansfield Speedway is inviting families from across north central Ohio to celebrate Independence Day during the Freedom 250 Festival on Saturday, July 4. The free event will run from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Mansfield Speedway, located at 400 Crall Road East, and is designed to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary with a full day of entertainment, competition and family-friendly …

After seven years of planning, fundraising and construction, the Knox County Regional Airport officially opened the Becker Mining Systems Aviation Education Center on Saturday, celebrating what community leaders say will become a hub for aviation education and workforce development throughout central Ohio. Airport officials, elected leaders, educators, business representatives and community members gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony recognizing the completion …