Fairfield County • May 21, 2025
Good morning, Fairfield County. When it comes to manufacturing innovation, size matters—especially to small Ohio producers feeling overshadowed by giants like Intel. A new $24 million proposal from state representatives aims to level the playing field with grants up to $150,000 for equipment upgrades and automation, though the legislation has sparked debate across party lines about economic fairness and potential job impacts.
Meanwhile, cellphones may soon disappear from Ohio classrooms following a decisive 30-2 Senate vote to ban devices during school hours. The statewide measure, championed by Governor DeWine, gives schools until September to implement policies with medical exceptions. In brighter local news, Logan High School's Kaylee Starkey is taking her pitching talents to Hocking College's softball program, demonstrating that whether in manufacturing, education, or athletics, opportunities for growth continue to emerge across our region.
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🏭 Ohio lawmakers push $24 million to boost small manufacturers. Republican state representatives Nick Santucci and Steve Demetriou proposed grants capped at $150,000 to help manufacturing companies upgrade equipment and automate processes. The bill faces scrutiny from both parties - Republicans worry about "picking winners and losers" while Democrats fear job losses from automation. Recipients would need to match funds dollar-for-dollar, with half the money earmarked for businesses with 50 or fewer employees. Small manufacturers argue they're often overlooked in favor of large corporations like Intel when it comes to state support.
📱 Ohio lawmakers vote to ban phones in classrooms statewide. The Ohio Senate passed a bill requiring schools to prohibit student cellphone use during school hours by a vote of 30-2. Introduced by Republican Senator Jane Timken and supported by Governor Mike DeWine, the legislation aims to reduce distractions and improve academic performance. Schools would need to implement the ban by September 1, with exceptions for students monitoring health conditions with a doctor's note. The bill, which now heads to the Ohio House, also requires schools to include cellphone protocols in active shooter emergency plans.
🏆 Logan's Kaylee Starkey signs with Hocking College softball team. The senior pitcher committed to continue her academic and athletic career with the Hawks. Meanwhile, seniors seeking employment can explore job-search websites specifically tailored for older workers, with columnist Jim Miller highlighting 10 options. President Trump's push for domestic critical mineral production faces significant financial and market hurdles. The Logan Daily also features local savings and a cheese tortellini pesto pasta salad recipe.
Spacious rustic ranch countryside views: Country dream for $412,000: Brick ranch with full basement and garage on 2.25 acres, offering stunning views of rolling farmland. Well-maintained home includes an unfinished basement with 10-foot ceilings and propane generator.
Melrose Manor modernity meets tradition: Located in the coveted Melrose Subdivision, this meticulously maintained one-owner home is offered at $425,000, featuring a renovated kitchen with Amish cabinetry, refinished hardwood floors, and spa-like bathrooms across its four bedrooms.
Spacious updated Columbus school bargain: Priced at $329,500, this 4-bedroom Pickerington home offers a spacious interior, recent updates, and a private backyard with a deck—all with Columbus taxes but in the Pickerington School District.
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Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
-Matthew 7:7
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