Good morning, Fairfield County. Remember Dr. Amy Acton's calming presence during those surreal early pandemic days? The former Ohio health director who guided us through uncharted waters is making headlines again, this time charting a course toward potentially becoming Ohio's first elected female governor. It's the kind of plot twist that would make "The West Wing" writers proud.
Meanwhile, Canal Winchester's ambitious Miller Farms development is taking an unexpected intermission, with developers hitting the pause button on their 95-acre transformation plans. The project, which promises enough new homes to create its own small neighborhood and would pump $1.72 million annually into local schools, is getting a second look - proving that even the biggest dreams sometimes need a moment to catch their breath.
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73%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏗️ Canal Winchester mega-housing project hits unexpected pause. The developer of "Miller Farms," a proposed 95-acre development in Canal Winchester, Ohio, has requested their rezoning application be temporarily tabled for further review. The ambitious project would transform agricultural land into a mixed-use development featuring 444 residential units, including single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses, plus 4.6 acres of commercial space. Recent revisions to the plan include prohibiting certain commercial uses and committing to fee-simple townhome lots, while maintaining 37.5% of the land as open space. The development is projected to generate $1.72 million in annual tax revenue for local schools, though final approval remains pending until at least January 21.
👩⚕️ Former COVID hero Amy Acton launches historic bid for Ohio governor. The Democrat, who gained prominence as Ohio's health director during the pandemic's early days, could become the state's first elected female governor. Acton earned widespread recognition in 2020 for her calm leadership and decisive action during daily COVID briefings, though her health orders sparked protests from Republican opponents. After resigning in mid-2020, she transitioned to nonprofit leadership before setting her sights on the 2026 gubernatorial race. She'll likely face Republican Attorney General Dave Yost in the contest to replace term-limited Governor Mike DeWine.
🏛️ Ohio courthouse reverses Jimmy Carter remembrance closure plan. The Hocking County Courthouse will remain open today, after initially planning to close in honor of former President Carter. Officials changed course after learning that other state offices in Ohio would not be closing for the day of remembrance. The decision reflects a last-minute alignment with state-level protocols. The announcement ensures continued public access to courthouse services on January 9, 2025.
🏀 Basketball Schedule Slam (Girls)
| Team | Opponent | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|
 Amanda-Clearcreek Aces | ||
@ Circleville | 1/11 @ 7:00pm | |
@ Heath | 1/13 @ 7:15pm | |
 Berne Union Rockets | ||
vs Bishop Rosecrans | 1/11 @ 12:30pm | |
@ Fisher Catholic | 1/15 @ 7:30pm | |
 Bloom-Carroll Bulldogs | ||
vs Teays Valley | 1/11 @ 1:30pm | |
vs Circleville | 1/13 @ 7:00pm | |
@ Fairfield Union | 1/15 @ 7:00pm | |
 Fairfield Christian Academy Knights | ||
@ Wellington School | 1/11 @ 7:30pm | |
@ Patriot Prep Academy | 1/14 @ 5:30pm | |
 Lancaster Golden Gales | ||
@ Canal Winchester | 1/14 @ 7:00pm | |
 Fairfield Union Falcons | ||
vs New Lexington | 1/13 @ 7:30pm | |
vs Bloom-Carroll | 1/15 @ 7:00pm | |
 Pickerington Central Tigers | ||
vs Teays Valley | 1/14 @ 7:30pm | |
@ Reynoldsburg | 1/16 @ 7:30pm | |
 Millersport Lakers | ||
vs Grove City Christian | 1/11 @ 12:30pm | |
vs GCA | 1/13 @ 6:30pm | |
@ Columbus School for Girls | 1/15 @ 6:00pm | |
 Pickerington North Panthers | ||
vs New Albany | 1/11 @ 7:30pm | |
@ Dublin Coffman | 1/14 @ 7:30pm | |
 Fisher Catholic Irish | ||
@ Miller | 1/11 @ 7:30pm | |
@ Crooksville | 1/13 @ 7:30pm | |
vs Berne Union | 1/15 @ 7:30pm | |
 Liberty Union Lions | ||
vs Northridge | 1/13 @ 7:00pm |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Stunning Reynoldsburg home awaits buyers
This stunning two-story home in Reynoldsburg is listed at $395,000 and features an open-concept design that seamlessly connects living areas. With a spacious primary bedroom, three versatile additional bedrooms, and two and a half well-appointed bathrooms, it offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience—making it a must-see for potential buyers.
Cozy schoolhouse with outdoor perks
This charming former schoolhouse, now a cozy four-bedroom, two-bath home, is listed at $289,900. Set on a half-acre surrounded by protected farmland, the property features a delightful potting shed, a newer one-car garage, a handy root cellar, and even comes with a Briggs & Stratton whole house generator.
Meticulously maintained family gem
This meticulously maintained home, listed at $415,000, features 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, along with a formal dining room, living room, and a family room complete with a cozy fireplace. Located in the desirable Summerfield neighborhood, it’s just a stone's throw from the community pool, making it perfect for warm-weather relaxation.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Establish an emergency fund that covers three to six months of living expenses; having this safety net can provide peace of mind and protect you from unexpected financial storms.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.
-Psalm 55:22