🌱 Possible Severance Package For Chief + Police Investigate Shooting

Morning, everybody! I'm back in your inbox this morning to walk you through all the most important things happening in Columbus these days.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Mostly sunny and very warm. High: 83 Low: 54.
• Friday: Very warm with periods of sun. High: 84 Low: 65.

📢 I'm looking for business owners and marketers in Columbus who want to build awareness, connect with customers and increase sales.

I have a limited number of sponsorships available to introduce our readers to local businesses they need to know. If that's you, then I invite you to learn more and secure your spot now.

Here are the top three stories in Columbus today:

1. NAACP President Wane Hailes claims that he has heard rumors that Columbus Police Chief Freddie Blackmon was offered a severance package by Mayor Skip Henderson. To fire Blackmon, seven of the ten city council members must vote to terminate, but city officials have yet to confirm if such a vote is currently planned. Some members of the public said that they believe a vote of this importance should be public and are calling for the vote to take place at the next city council meeting on Mar. 28. (WTVM 9)
2. The Columbus Police Department is investigating the shooting that occurred on the night of Mar. 21 in the 3000 block of Urban Avenue. One person was injured and is in the hospital, but there has been no update on their condition as of Mar. 22. (WTVM 9)
3. The Columbus Police Department is searching for missing 16-year-old Gracie Cureton, who was last seen on Mar. 17 around the 4800 block of 20th Avenue. Police describe her as a white female, 5 feet 7 inches tall, and weighing 115 pounds with blue eyes and blonde hair. If you see her or know her whereabouts, please call 911, the Columbus Police Department’s Youth Services Unit at 706-653-3449, or Sergeant L. Zieverink at 706-326-6662. (WRBL)

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Today and tomorrow in Columbus:

Thursday, March 23

• The SpongeBob Musical At Springer Opera House (6:30 PM)
• Crown & Comedy At The Loft (7:30 PM)

Friday, March 24

• Friends Of Libraries Spring Book Sale At Columbus Public Library (10:00 AM)

From my notebook:

• The YMCA of Metropolitan Columbus announced two free, kid-friendly events for the community! Check out Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, Apr. 29, and a water safety program on Saturday, May 20. (WRBL)
• Sometimes you just need to see the home in person to know if it's the right fit. Check out upcoming open houses in the Columbus area, including a huge five-bedroom on Saturday, Mar. 25! (Columbus Patch)
• On the hunt for a new place to live or just curious about what else is out there? Check out the latest homes for sale in the Columbus area, including a cute two-bedroom on 15th Avenue for $125,000! (Columbus Patch)

You're all caught up for today! I'll see you around.

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!