📱 Digital doorstep

Good morning, Fairfield County. Digital government has arrived at your fingertips with Hocking County's newly redesigned Auditor website. Launched this week, the mobile-friendly platform transforms how residents access property information and county resources—a significant upgrade for everyone from homeowners to real estate professionals. The modernization effort reflects a growing trend of local governments embracing technology to improve service delivery and transparency in an increasingly digital-first world.

Meanwhile, relief is finally flowing to those affected by July's devastating floods, with Governor DeWine announcing SBA low-interest loans for residents who suffered substantial uninsured losses. And for those seeking comfort food after dealing with disaster paperwork, Barry's Bagels is bringing its famous boiled-and-baked creations to a fourth Central Ohio location near campus, complete with extended late-night hours for those midnight carb cravings. From digital upgrades to disaster recovery to delicious eats, our county continues moving forward.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Lancaster

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Pickerington

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Reynoldsburg

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Canal Winchester

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Baltimore

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🌐 Hocking County's new Auditor website brings digital government to your fingertips. Launched on September 16, 2025, the redesigned site offers improved navigation and easier access to property and tax information. The mobile-friendly platform ensures residents can access county resources from any device, with special tools for realtors and appraisers. County Auditor Robers emphasized their commitment to transparency and accessibility, encouraging residents to explore the new features. Questions about the website can be directed to the Auditor's Office at 740-385-2127.

💰 Disaster loans arrive for flood-hit Fairfield County residents. Governor DeWine announced the Small Business Administration's approval of low-interest loans for homes and businesses damaged by July flooding. Eligible applicants must have sustained uninsured losses of 40% or more of replacement value. The aid extends to Fairfield and five neighboring counties, with physical damage applications due by November 12, 2025. Affected residents can apply online through the MySBA Loan Portal or contact the SBA's Customer Service Center for assistance.

🥯 Barry's Bagels brings boiled-and-baked goodness closer to campus. The popular chain is opening its fourth Central Ohio location at 1881 N. Pearl St., just off High Street near the university area. This new spot will operate seven days a week with extended late-night hours three days weekly, offering their famous made-to-order sandwiches including the "Eggel" breakfast creation. Barry's already has locations in Westerville, New Albany, and Dublin, with construction underway and an opening date announcement expected soon. The chain currently boasts 80 locations across five states with plans for continued expansion.

Affordable ranch with growth potential: This cozy $150,000 ranch in Lancaster offers 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and full basement potential on a quiet street, with a fenced yard and convenient access to parks and stores.

Affordable countryside cape with acreage: This quintessential farm house on over 2 acres is listed at $249,900. The well-maintained cape cod features a first-floor primary bedroom, two additional upstairs bedrooms, updated mechanicals, and two spacious outdoor sheds.

Renovated Thurston home needs windows: Listed at $209,900, this updated Thurston single-family home boasts 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 2025 renovations including a new roof, HVAC, and kitchen—with remaining front windows to be installed by closing.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍺 Sep. 19 - Pickerington Oktoberfest: Raise your steins at Pickerington Oktoberfest! Join the festive celebration at Combustion Brewery & Taproom on Friday, September 19, 2025, starting at 3:00 PM. Prost to local brews and Bavarian fun!

🍻 Sep. 20 - Rockmill Music & Brew: Raise your glass at Rockmill Fest 2025! Soak up live music from eight bands while savoring craft brews and delicious eats at Rockmill Brewery, September 20-21—rain or shine.

🎤 Sep. 20 - Hip Hop Worship Night: Groove to a higher power at the Hip Hop Worship Gathering! Experience eclectic worship, engaging rap and life-changing testimonials with global artists at Rockhouse 39 on September 20.

🌽 Sep. 20 - Lancaster Farmer's Market: Fresh local produce awaits at Lancaster Farmer's Market every Saturday! Browse seasonal goodies from local vendors at 143 West Chestnut Street, 8:30AM-12PM through October. Don't miss this weekend's harvest bounty!

🎸 Sep. 20 - The Menus Rock Night: Rock the night away with The Menus at The Mill Event Center on Sep 20! Tim Goldrainer will have you laughing, singing, and dancing all evening long at this must-see live performance.

🎸 Sep. 20 - Battle of the Bands: Rock out at Zane Square as local bands battle for glory at the Rotary Club's fundraiser! Head to Veteran's Park on September 20 at 4pm to enjoy live music while supporting the community Playground Fund.

🍺 Sep. 21 - Rockmill Brewery Evening: Unwind at Rockmill Brewery this Thursday evening with craft brews and good company. Stop by their Lancaster location from 6-9PM for a perfect mid-week break. 5705 Lithopolis Rd NW.

🍔 Sep. 21 - Big Back Food Truck: Smash burger heaven awaits at Double Edge Brewing Company on Sept 21! Big Back food truck rolls in with juicy burgers, loaded fries, and decked-out hotdogs to satisfy your cravings.

💰 Financial Friday

Diversifying your investments can reduce risk and improve potential returns; by spreading your money across various asset classes, you're better positioned to weather market fluctuations and tap into different growth opportunities.