🏗 Future-proofing progress

Good morning, Fairfield County. When it comes to billion-dollar success stories, Southeast Ohio just landed its next chapter. Matt Abbott, the economic development dynamo who brought a cool billion in investments to Muskingum County, is taking his Midas touch regional. It's like watching your favorite local band hit the big time - except instead of platinum records, we're talking about platinum-level job creation across 25 counties.

Speaking of construction projects hitting new notes, the Ohio 16 bridge saga is getting an unexpected encore. While the $14.5 million project's extension into summer might test our patience, there's method to the madness - they're future-proofing it for a third lane. Meanwhile, over in Logan, the Hocking Soil and Water District is keeping their books as clear as their streams, inviting citizens to peek behind the environmental curtain at their Homer Avenue headquarters.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Lancaster

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45°

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Pickerington

32°

44°

89%

Reynoldsburg

31°

43°

83%

Canal Winchester

32°

44°

89%

Baltimore

32°

44°

89%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚧 Ohio bridge project hits unexpected delays, stretching into summer 2023. The $14.5 million Ohio 16 bridge replacement near Newark, originally set to finish last fall, will now extend to July. Officials changed plans mid-project to accommodate a future third lane expansion, avoiding costly bridge reconstruction later. The project includes replacing bridges over Raccoon Creek and T.J. Evans Trail, part of a larger vision to widen Ohio 16 from New Albany to Newark. ODOT plans to begin the additional lane construction in spring 2026, turning the corridor into a three-lane highway.

📊 Hocking Soil and Water District opens financial records to public. The district's completed 2024 annual financial report is now available for review at their Logan, Ohio office. Citizens can examine the documents at 148 North Homer Ave during standard business hours. The office maintains open access Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., ensuring transparency in local environmental conservation operations.

💼 Southeast Ohio economic leader Matt Abbott takes helm of regional development powerhouse. As the new President and CEO of Ohio Southeast Economic Development, Abbott brings an impressive track record of generating nearly $1 billion in private investment and creating over 1,000 jobs in Muskingum County since 2015. The appointment follows a rigorous search process that evaluated more than 60 candidates for the leadership role. Under previous management, OhioSE completed 406 projects and attracted $12.6 billion in capital investment, creating over 12,000 new jobs. Abbott will now spearhead initiatives focused on workforce development, site preparation, and business attraction across 25 counties.

Stylish kitchen spacious backyard retreat: This charming home, listed at $170,000, features a stylish kitchen with granite countertops, built-in storage, and a sizable backyard perfect for gatherings, all with easy accessibility options.

Charming condo with cozy amenities: Located in the Villas at Sherman Bluff, this charming condo offers an open floor plan with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a gas fireplace, and an attached 2-car garage, all for $239,900. Enjoy the peaceful community from your spacious front patio and included washer-dryer set.

Spacious modern home in desirable locale: This spacious home, listed at $575,000, features nearly 4,000 square feet of modern living, including a gourmet kitchen, a versatile loft, and a finished basement perfect for guests or recreation, all in a desirable neighborhood.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍖 Feb. 27 - Hogs 'N' Hunnies BBQ: Craving smoky, down-home goodness? Hogs 'N' Hunnies BBQ truck rolls up to Double Edge Brewing Company (158 W Chestnut St) on Feb 27, serving mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, and all the fixings.

🥖 Feb. 27 - Bread at the Brewery: Satisfy your sweet tooth when Girl Gang Bakery pops up at Combustion Brewery & Taproom in Pickerington! Grab fresh-baked treats from this beloved family bakery on February 27th at 80 W Church Street.

📚 Feb. 27 - SUTQ Standards Q&A: Get your Step Up to Quality questions answered at Fairfield JFS and AFC's informative gathering. Join us February 27 at 239 W Main St, Lancaster to learn about exciting program opportunities.

🎮 Feb. 28 - Kids Night Out Adventure: Give your kids an awesome evening out at PickNaz! Little ones will enjoy three hours of fun and pizza from 6-9pm on February 28th at this special Kids Night Out event. Drop-off at 11775 Pickerington Rd.

🏛️ Mar. 01 - Children's Museum Open House: While a party has reserved some space, AHA! Children's Museum remains open for public exploration and hands-on fun on March 1st at their River Valley Circle location in Lancaster. Regular admission applies.

💪 Mar. 01 - Bootcamp Info Session: Jump-start your fitness journey at CrossFit Outerbelt's Bootcamp info session! Learn how to break through plateaus and restart your exercise routine on March 1 at 3560 Dolson Ct NW, Carroll.

🧵 Mar. 01 - Learn to Sew Basics: Ready to start your sewing journey? Join Donna on March 1st at 540 N High St in Lancaster for a beginner-friendly workshop where you'll master machine basics and create your very first pillowcase.

🛍️ Mar. 01 - Online Auction: Treasure hunters, get ready to bid! Join our exciting online auction of storage unit contents at CubeSmart Self Storage in Reynoldsburg on March 1st. Visit 7200 Tussing Road to preview items.

🙏 In Remembrance

Jimmie Jean Silberzahn

Jimmie J. Silberzahn, 84, of Sicklerville, passed away on October 17, 2024. She is survived by her three daughters, seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and beloved companion Robert Panek, along with many siblings, nieces, and nephews. A graduate of Lancaster High School and a career-oriented woman, Jimmie held various positions in media and owned a general store in Ohio before returning to New Jersey. She cherished her time with family and friends, enjoying new adventures and memories. A memorial service will be held on April 12, 2025, with donations requested for the American Stroke Association and Disabled American Veterans.

Julia Lazzarro

Julia M. Lazzaro, 87, of Lancaster, peacefully passed away on February 21, 2025, at The Springs at Wyandot Trail. A graduate of Bishop Fenwick High School and Mount St. Joseph University, she dedicated her career to teaching across several states and even in Italy. Julia was actively involved in her community and church, raising four children with her husband, Frank Lazzaro. A passionate student of literature and art, she exemplified kindness and commitment to service throughout her life. She is survived by her husband and children, along with several siblings, and was preceded in death by multiple family members.

Ginger Ann Beckett

Ginger Ann (White) Beckett, 46, of Lancaster, Ohio, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025, at The Ohio State University-Wexner Medical Center, surrounded by her family and friends. Born on March 22, 1978, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, she was the daughter of the late Ray Gilbert and Tempie Deborah White. Known for her infectious laughter and generosity, Ginger leaves behind her two daughters, Marley Clare and Stella Marie, a sister, Sheila Rena Rathburn, and other family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 28, 2025, at the Tree Church in Lancaster, and donations in her memory can be made to support her daughters and cover final expenses.

Sheldon Lee Shultz

Sheldon Lee Shultz, 78, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on February 22, 2025, surrounded by family. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he enjoyed golfing and was a dedicated Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Survived by his wife Nancy of 56 years, children William and Tricia, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was known for his love of family. Sheldon was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings. Visitation is scheduled for February 25, followed by a funeral service on February 26.

Sharon E. (Hansley) Willis

Sharon E. (Hansley) Willis, 76, passed away on February 23, 2025. Born on May 27, 1948, she was passionate about art, gardening, and poetry, and enjoyed 42 years of marriage to her husband Tom. Together, they shared interests in camping, dancing, and the antique business. Sharon is survived by her daughter, sister, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but was preceded in death by her husband, a son, and several siblings. Arrangements for cremation have been made, and condolences can be left online.