📍 Farewell to Jym

Good morning, Fairfield County. After 37 years of tracking storms and brightening our mornings, beloved weatherman Jym Ganahl has delivered his final forecast. The legendary meteorologist, who started his career at just 17 by boldly walking into a TV station claiming he could do better, leaves behind a legacy as colorful as a double rainbow - from his folksy charm to his theatrical performances off-camera.

Speaking of unexpected career turns, our county made international headlines this week when U.S. Marshals nabbed one of Ecuador's most-wanted fugitives hiding out in Pickerington. And in an even more bizarre twist, a former Ohio fire chief is heading to prison after starting 26 forest fires "to give the boys something to do" - proving that truth really is stranger than the most dramatic TV police procedural.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Lancaster

17°

35°

Pickerington

17°

33°

Reynoldsburg

18°

33°

Canal Winchester

17°

33°

Baltimore

17°

33°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚨 Ecuador's most-wanted murderer caught hiding in small Ohio town. U.S. Marshals arrested 29-year-old Luis Naula-Candelario in Pickerington following a brief standoff at a home on Heft Court. The fugitive was wanted for the 2019 murder of Brenda Alexandra Garcia Puya in Ecuador, where he had been listed among the country's most dangerous criminals. A joint investigation between U.S. Marshals and ICE led authorities to central Ohio, where they successfully tracked him down. Naula-Candelario remains in ICE custody awaiting extradition to Ecuador.

⚡ Beloved Ohio weatherman dies after six decades of forecasting storms. Jym Ganahl, who passed away at 76, began his remarkable career at just 17 when he boldly walked into an Iowa TV station claiming he could deliver better forecasts. The veteran meteorologist spent 37 years at NBC4 in Columbus, where he covered historic events like the 1978 blizzard. Beyond weather, Ganahl lived a rich life - performing in theater, teaching science to middle schoolers, and serving in the U.S. Army. He retired from WSYX in May 2024, leaving behind a legacy of folksy weather reporting and his motto: "do something you like."

🔥 Former fire chief turned arsonist started 26 forest fires "to give boys something to do." James Bartels, a 52-year-old Ohio fire department administrator and ex-police officer, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for deliberately setting fires in Wayne National Forest throughout 2022. The blazes burned 1,300 acres, required over 100 firefighters from multiple states to contain, and cost the U.S. Forest Service $638,000. Bartels, who admitted to starting the fires to distract himself from depression, was caught after his truck's data placed him at multiple fire locations. He must pay full restitution and register as an arsonist in Ohio.

Team	Opponent	Score
Fisher Catholic (15-7)
	vs Northmor	L 53-50

🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)

Bloom-Carroll's Bulldogs showed they had plenty of bite left in their season, chomping past St. Francis DeSales 54-37 in Wednesday's non-league clash. The Bulldogs' defense put the Stallions out to pasture, holding them to just 37 points while improving to 11-12 on the year.

Team	Opponent	Score
Bloom-Carroll (11-12)
	vs St. Francis DeSales**	W 54-37

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Custom retreat on 40 acres: This stunning custom-built home in the Hocking Hills offers 40 acres of serene privacy, featuring 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, making it an ideal retreat or lucrative vacation rental opportunity for nature lovers. The list price is $899,990.

Spacious family oasis in Pickerington: Discover this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in Pickerington's Countrywood Subdivision, featuring a spacious 1/3-acre lot, a cozy family room with a fireplace, and a charming 4-season room for delightful living. Priced at $429,900.

Pristine ranch with serene views: This pristine 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch is move-in ready, featuring a spacious open-concept layout, a stunning eat-in kitchen, and a covered deck with serene views. Enjoy the luxurious primary suite and the convenience of a full basement, all for $399,900.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🧶 Feb. 14 - Crochet & Chat Circle: Hook up with fellow fiber enthusiasts at our cozy Crochet and Chat office hours! Bring your current project or start something new every second Thursday at 118 N Columbus St in Lancaster.

💪 Feb. 14 - Hot Sculpt Yoga Series: Kickstart your 2025 fitness journey with Kula's energizing Hot Sculpt series! Join trainer Kristina Fortney for eight invigorating morning sessions every Tuesday and Thursday at 6am, starting February 14 at Kula Yoga and Wellness.

🤝 Feb. 14 - Unity Noon Group: Join us for meaningful connection and support at the Lancaster Friday Unity Noon Group, where open discussions and fellowship await at 331 Gay St. Wheelchair accessible meeting welcomes all every Friday at noon.

🍪 Feb. 14 - Valentine's Cookie Decorating Party: Sweeten your Valentine's Day at The Dashing Suite's cookie decorating workshop! Get creative with frosting and sprinkles while sipping festive drinks at this charming Pickerington spot. February 14th, all supplies included.

🍺 Feb. 14 - Ladies' Day Brew: Ladies, grab your brewing gear! Join female leaders of downtown Lancaster at Double Edge Brewing Company for their 2nd Annual Women's Day Brew, starting at 9am on February 13th.

🎸 Feb. 15 - Dan Stambaugh Live: Unwind with soulful tunes as Dan Stambaugh takes the stage at RockSide Winery & Vineyards on February 15. Sip local wines while enjoying live music at this charming Lancaster venue.

🎨 Feb. 15 - Children's Museum Open House: Let the kids explore and play while the party room hosts a private event! AHA! Children's Museum remains open to the public on February 15th at 1708 River Valley Circle South, Lancaster.

🎨 Feb. 15 - Galentine's Paint & Sip: Grab your besties for a cozy evening of creativity and cabernet at Picture Perfect Ranch! Join this ladies' night out painting party on February 15 at 1214 Rockmill Rd NW in Lancaster.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider setting up an automatic savings plan to make saving feel effortless; by regularly directing a portion of your income into a savings account, you can build a financial cushion without even thinking about it.

🙏 In Remembrance

Stephen C. Stevens

Stephen Clarke Stevens, 66, of Lancaster, Ohio, passed away on February 10, 2025, at home. Born on June 19, 1958, he was the son of the late Russell and Jane Stevens and was preceded in death by his eldest daughter, Heather. Steven had a successful career in the alloy industry and retired from Research Alloys in Columbus. He cherished his family, particularly his children, and enjoyed hobbies such as firearms, biking, and cooking. He is survived by his daughters, son, grandson, siblings, and many loved ones who will miss him greatly.

Denise McGuire

Denise Deime McGuire, 64, of Lancaster, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on February 12, 2025, surrounded by family. A proud graduate of Fisher Catholic High School and a passionate educator for over 35 years, Denise was revered by her students at St. Bernadette for her kindness and mentorship. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, cherishing family trips and holiday traditions. Denise is survived by her husband Mike, children Shea and Marcie, granddaughters Mia and Ella, her mother Bernice, and several siblings. Her warm spirit and positive outlook profoundly impacted those around her, and she will be deeply missed.

Curtis Steven Wisecup

Curtis S. Wisecup, 69, passed away on February 11, 2025. A dedicated barber for over 30 years, he was a beloved fixture at Zane Plaza Barber Shop, where he formed lasting friendships with clients. An active member of the Jefferson Avenue Church of Christ in Chillicothe, Curtis enjoyed nature photography, hiking, and reading, and was a Double Black Belt in Jujitsu. He served in the Navy and is survived by his niece, nephew, and several great-nieces and nephews. A celebration of his life is planned for Spring or early Summer, with donations welcomed in his memory to his church.

Judy Ellen Fleming

Judy Ellen (Hawse) Fleming, 77, of Pickerington, Ohio, passed away on February 8, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband Bill Fleming, Jr., her parents, and many beloved pets. Judy is survived by her sisters, stepdaughter Amy Creech, step-grandchildren, and numerous friends and relatives. A retired math teacher and active community member, she cherished crafting and teaching Sunday School. In accordance with her wishes, Judy was cremated, with no formal service, and requested acts of kindness or charitable donations in her memory.