Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Fairfield County / January 31, 2025

πŸ’΅ Medicare math woes

Fairfield County • January 31, 2025

Good morning, Fairfield County. Here's a startling number that might make you spill your morning coffee: $185. That's the monthly Medicare premium facing Ohio seniors in 2025, and it only covers a fraction of their healthcare costs. With basic Medicare leaving seniors responsible for 20% of their medical bills - not to mention gaps in dental and vision coverage - our older neighbors are facing some tough financial decisions that TV commercials conveniently leave out.

On a brighter note, a $54.8 million wave of development is about to transform the Lake Logan area near Hocking Hills. Think of it as our region's own "Extreme Makeover: Tourism Edition," strategically positioned to welcome visitors to one of Ohio's most breathtaking natural destinations. Between healthcare challenges and economic opportunities, it seems Fairfield County is balancing both growing pains and growing potential.

🌀 Sky Skoop

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β˜•οΈ What's Brewing Locally

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πŸ‘΅ Ohio seniors face shocking healthcare costs beyond Medicare's coverage. The state's Senior Health Insurance Information Program warns that Medicare only covers medical necessities, not long-term care or assisted living expenses. Basic Medicare costs $185 per person monthly in 2025, with seniors responsible for 20% of health bills. Common expenses like dental and vision care aren't covered at all, forcing seniors to consider private insurance or Medicaid. Experts advise avoiding advice from neighbors and TV ads, instead seeking guidance from objective resources like OSHIIP.

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πŸ—οΈ Ohio backs massive $54.8 million lakeside development project near Hocking Hills. The new mixed-use development will be constructed near Lake Logan, supported by a recently announced tax credit from the Ohio Department of Development. The project is strategically located close to the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center, positioning it to capitalize on the area's strong tourism industry. Part of a broader state initiative, this development joins several other mixed-use projects receiving support across Ohio.

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πŸ€ Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)

A night of lopsided victories in Ohio high school hoops saw Bloom-Carroll bulldoze Logan 62-28, while Bishop Rosecrans handled Berne Union 40-23. The Wellington School Jaguars kept their impressive season rolling with a closer-than-usual 49-43 win over Millersport, improving to 15-4 on the year - looks like these Jags might have some January magic brewing.

TeamOpponentScore
Berne Union (6-11)
vs Bishop Rosecrans
L 40-23
Bloom-Carroll (8-9)
vs Logan
W 62-28
Fairfield Union (18-0)
@ Warren
W 32-28
Millersport (5-12)
@ Wellington School
L 49-43
Liberty Union (9-9)
vs Madison Plains
W 54-36

🏑 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Cozy open layout with amenities: This beautiful home priced at $375,000 features a spacious open floor plan, a cozy great room with a gas fireplace, and a relaxing front porch. Enjoy the lush lawn, paver patio, and close proximity to community amenities.
Real estate listing image Updated home with spacious backyard: Discover this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home for $414,900, featuring spacious living areas, a modern kitchen with new stainless steel appliances, updated bathrooms, and a lovely backyard on .57 acres.
Real estate listing image Elegant home with lush backyard: This elegant brick home, listed at $499,900, features a first-floor owner's en-suite with luxurious amenities, a sunny kitchen with new quartz countertops, and a private park-like backyard with mature trees and vibrant perennials.

πŸ—“οΈ Happenings & Hoopla

❄️ Jan. 31 - Snow Stories & Songs: Bundle up for winter wonder at Stories and Songs: Snow, where little ones ages 2-5 will delight in frosty tales and tunes. Join the fun January 31 at Sycamore Plaza in Pickerington.
🦌 Feb. 01 - Animal Tracks Adventure: Calling all nature detectives! Join the Northwest Branch Library for "Who Goes There?" - a fascinating exploration of animal tracks and signs in our local parks. Saturday, February 1 at 10:30 AM in Carroll.
🎸 Feb. 01 - Annie Hawe Live: Sip and sway as local songstress Annie Hawe brings her soulful sounds to Rockside Winery & Vineyards. Catch this live music experience on February 1st at their Lancaster location.
🍝 Feb. 01 - La Baia Italian Food Truck: Craving authentic Italian street food? La Baia's food truck rolls up to Double Edge Brewing Company with Naples-inspired pizza, panini, and dreamy Nutella crΓͺpes on February 1st.
πŸš‘ Feb. 01 - First Aid Certification: Be prepared when emergencies strike! Get certified in life-saving skills at Fairfield Medical Center Foundation's hands-on First Aid training on Feb 1. Call 740-687-8477 to reserve your spot.

πŸ’° Financial Friday

Think about creating a budget that reflects your true spending habits; tracking your expenses can uncover surprising insights into where your money is going and help you make informed choices for better financial health.

πŸ™ In Remembrance

David A. Brooks II.

David Allen Brooks II, aged 44, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025, in Lancaster, Ohio. A devoted husband and father, David was known for his humor and adventurous spirit, always striving to instill faith and joy in his children. He dedicated over 20 years of service to Nationwide Children's Hospital and had a passion for sports, especially The Ohio State Buckeyes. David is survived by his wife Alice, their three children, his father and sisters, along with extended family and many friends who will deeply miss his warmth and laughter. A visitation is scheduled for February 2, 2025, followed by a funeral service.

David A. Brooks II.David A. Brooks II.

June Ann White

June Ann (Parker) White, 79, of Pickerington, Ohio, passed away on January 26, 2025, after a six-month battle with ovarian cancer. Born on May 31, 1945, she was a dedicated educator for over 35 years and a cherished member of the Reynoldsburg Community Church. June is survived by her husband of 49 years, Jerry L. White, and their two daughters, Jamie and Jaclyn, along with three grandchildren. A visitation will be held at Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service and burial at Violet Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Ohio Health Bing Cancer Center or Mid-Ohio Foodbank.

June Ann WhiteJune Ann White

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

-Proverbs 3:5-6

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