Fairfield County • July 23, 2025
Good morning, Fairfield County. There's a musical transformation underway in Lancaster as new Festival Orchestra director John Devlin arrives with a summer lineup that's anything but ordinary. From classical masterpieces to collaborations with Rascal Flatts' Gary LeVox and pop star Colbie Caillat, the festival promises something for everyone between July 24 and August 2. The grand finale even includes fireworksβa fitting celebration for this fresh chapter in our local arts scene.
Beyond the harmony of music, our community faces more challenging notes. The Hocking Hills homeless shelter has been forced to reduce hours amid funding struggles, while health officials have detected West Nile virus in mosquitoes across Carroll, Thurston, and Stoutsville for the first time this year. As spraying efforts begin, residents are reminded to eliminate standing water and use EPA-registered repellents to keep those unwelcome summer visitors at bay.
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π΅ Lancaster welcomes new Festival Orchestra director with exciting summer lineup. John Devlin has arrived for his first season, expressing gratitude for the warm community reception. The festival kicks off July 24 with "Story, Songs and Symphony" featuring Tchaikovsky and Brahms, followed by a collaboration with Rascal Flatts' Gary LeVox on July 26. Other highlights include Broadway Love Stories on July 29 and a grand finale with Colbie Caillat and Dawes on August 2, complete with fireworks. Devlin personally invites everyone to experience these orchestral events, especially the new family-oriented Broadway program.
π Hocking Hills homeless shelter forced to reduce hours amid funding crisis. The shelter's operating hours have been cut from 5 p.m.-9 a.m. to just 7 p.m.-7 a.m. due to expired pandemic funding and budget constraints. Director Karrolle Dusek explained that running at full capacity has further strained their limited resources. Despite these challenges, the shelter continues supporting both residents and non-residents experiencing homelessness. Staff are currently working to raise funds for a Hocking Hills Children's Museum annual pass, needing just $100 more to provide daytime activities for residents.
π¦ West Nile virus found in Fairfield County mosquitoes for first time this year. The infected mosquitoes were collected in traps set in Carroll, Thurston, and Stoutsville during routine monitoring by the health department. Officials have scheduled mosquito spraying in these areas to control the spread. Health Commissioner Joe Ebel emphasizes that West Nile virus is transmitted through mosquito bites, with no vaccines available for prevention. Residents are advised to use EPA-registered repellents, wear protective clothing, and eliminate standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding.
Spacious brick ranch school district: This cozy $269,000 2BR, 1BA all brick ranch sits on nearly an acre in Bloom Carroll Schools, featuring a fireplace, wood floors under carpet, and partial lower level with half bath.For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
-John 3:16
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