Fairfield County • September 2, 2025
Good morning, Fairfield County. Native wildlife is making a dramatic comeback in Ohio, with Canyon and Forest—two bobcat brothers—finding a new home at Paws and Claws Animal Encounters near Bremen. This sanctuary, founded by Ohio University graduate Sara McClaskey, has evolved from modest beginnings into a nationally recognized destination where visitors can develop deeper connections with exotic animals, including those popular otter swimming experiences that have animal lovers flocking to our region.
Fall's crisp embrace has arrived, bringing with it the annual traditions of pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and apple cider that define autumn in central Ohio. While families plan weekend adventures to Circle S Farms and Lynd Fruit Farm, the community mourns a tragic loss in neighboring Jackson County, where 25-year-old off-duty Wellston police officer Matthew Juniper died in a golf cart collision early Saturday morning—a somber reminder of life's fragility amid the season's celebrations.
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🐱 Two bobcat brothers find new home at Ohio animal sanctuary. Canyon and Forest have joined Paws and Claws Animal Encounters, a unique facility founded by Ohio University graduate Sara McClaskey. The sanctuary, located near Bremen, Ohio, aims to educate visitors about wildlife conservation through personal encounters with exotic animals. McClaskey hopes the bobcats will help people develop respect for local wildlife as Ohio sees increasing populations of native species. What began as a small dream has grown into a thriving business known nationally for its interactive experiences, including popular otter swimming encounters.
🍎 Fall fun awaits at central Ohio's family-friendly farms. From mid-September through October, visitors can enjoy pumpkin picking, apple harvests, corn mazes, and hayrides at numerous locations around Columbus. Circle S Farms, Leeds Farm, and Lynd Fruit Farm are among the many options offering seasonal activities like zip lines, animal encounters, and fresh treats including apple cider and donuts. These autumn destinations provide approximately 30 acres of pumpkins and gourds at places like Lehner's Farm, while others feature sunflower fields and farm markets open seven days a week.
🚗 Tragic collision claims off-duty officer's life in Jackson County. A 25-year-old Wellston police officer, Matthew Juniper, died after a golf cart he was riding in was struck from behind by a Hyundai early Saturday morning. The impact sent the golf cart crashing into a tree near South Pennsylvania Avenue and Sixth Street in Wellston. The golf cart driver suffered serious injuries requiring airlift to a West Virginia hospital, while the juvenile driving the Hyundai sustained only minor injuries. Pennsylvania Avenue remained closed for nearly six hours as Ohio State Highway Patrol continues investigating the 2 a.m. crash.
Luxury ranch maintenance-free living: Priced at $474,900, this Donley Homes ranch-style build in Pickerington's Enclave at Meadowmoore offers maintenance-free living with 3 beds, 3 baths, and luxury touches like hardwood floors, quartz countertops, and a 2-car garage with extension.
Fenced Ranch Peace Abundant Value: Priced at $229,900, this raised ranch in Lancaster's Lenmar Subdivision offers three bedrooms, two baths, a partially finished lower level with a Murphy bed, and a fenced backyard in a tranquil setting.
Vacant downtown development opportunity: Priced at $350,000, this vacant lot in Pickerington Olde Village downtown offers potential for residential or commercial construction, with the option to also purchase the adjacent home for the largest remaining lot in the area.For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
-2 Timothy 1:7
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