🍮 Coffee culture clash

Good morning, Fayette County. The aroma of fresh Italian coffee will soon be wafting through Central Ohio as Qargo Coffee prepares to open its doors on Polaris Parkway. This Tampa-born chain isn't just bringing espresso—it's delivering a slice of Italian culture complete with Lavazza beans and freshly baked pastries for those seeking a more traditional coffee experience amid today's sea of elaborate concoctions.

While coffee lovers anticipate their morning fix, night owls have something to celebrate too. The Everett, a 1920s-inspired speakeasy hidden within Newark's West Church Social, is bringing Prohibition-era charm to weekend evenings. And in more urgent news, our local Dog Shelter has reached critical capacity, with staff using garage crates for overflow. If you've been considering adding a four-legged friend to your family, now might be the perfect time to visit the shelter and help ease their overcrowding situation.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Washington Court House

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71°

Greenfield

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Jeffersonville

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Bloomingburg

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Good Hope

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Milledgeville

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Octa

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

☕ Italian coffee chain brings traditional vibes to Central Ohio. Qargo Coffee is opening its first location in the region on March 21 at 422 Polaris Parkway. The Tampa-born chain, established in 2020, celebrates Italian culture with quality Lavazza beans and freshly baked pastries. Unlike shops offering elaborate flavor combinations, Qargo focuses on traditional beverages while still providing cold brews, teas, and energy smoothies. Their all-day menu features Italian delights from limoncello mascarpone cake to prosciutto sandwiches and pasta dishes.

🥃 Secret bourbon haven brings 1920s magic to Ohio arcade bar. The Everett, a new speakeasy inside Newark's West Church Social, offers an immersive historical experience with leather seats, dim lighting, and premium spirits. Currently open to the public on Friday and Saturday evenings, the owners plan to make it more exclusive in the future, potentially offering memberships. Visitors can enjoy craft cocktails in the hidden bar before heading back to the main venue for burgers and appetizers from West Church Social's kitchen.

🐕 Fayette County Dog Shelter faces critical overcrowding crisis. The Ohio facility has exceeded its 19-cage capacity due to surrenders and stray pickups, forcing staff to use garage crates for overflow. Dog Warden Nelson Prater, who founded the shelter in 2010, has never euthanized animals for space reasons but fears this may become necessary without community assistance. He urges residents who've lost pets to check the shelter and encourages adoptions to help alleviate the situation. Prater also reminds pet owners to secure their yards and enclosures to prevent animals from wandering.

Affordable renovation waiting for you: This charming 3-bed, 1-bath fixer-upper is ripe for renovation and sits on a generous half-acre lot—all for just $115,999. Perfect for the ambitious homeowner with vision and DIY skills.

Classic three bedroom budget beauty: Priced at $184,900, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home boasts hardwood floors and a two-car detached garage. It features updated bathroom amenities and custom kitchen cabinets throughout.

Brick ranch built onsite: This $327,990 stunner features an award winning ranch with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and over 1800 square feet, boasting 9 foot ceilings and brick front. The home is built on site, one 2x4 at a time.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🔧 Mar. 12 - Service & Safety Committee: Civic engagement awaits at the Service, Safety & Recreation Committee meeting on March 12. Join your neighbors at 105 N Main St in Washington Court House to discuss community improvements and local initiatives.

🏛️ Mar. 12 - City Council Meeting: Have your voice heard at the City Council Meeting on March 12 at 105 N Main St in Washington Court House. Join your neighbors to discuss local issues that matter to our community.

🧘‍♀️ Mar. 12 - Kids Yoga & Mindfulness: Little yogis can find their zen at ABC Pediatrics' "Roots & Wings" series! Kids will learn breathwork, meditation, and yoga techniques starting March 12th at 616 Willard St, Washington Court House.

🧹 Mar. 12 - Public Nuisance Committee: Join the Abatement of Public Nuisance Committee as they tackle community concerns at 105 N Main St, Washington Court House. Swing by on March 12 to learn about local improvement efforts.

🏠 Mar. 14 - Spring Open House Extravaganza: Step into spring at the Washington Court House Open House on March 14! Explore live concerts, art exhibitions, and more at 106 W Court St for an unforgettable day of local delights.

🎸 Mar. 14 - Nick Dittmeier & Sawdusters: Catch Nick Dittmeier & the Sawdusters live at Blue Hippo Car Wash on March 14! Enjoy an evening of rootsy tunes at this unique Washington Court House venue on Columbus Avenue.

🎵 Mar. 14 - OMEA Band Performances: Young musicians take the stage at OMEA District 16 Large Group Adjudicated Event! Catch Chillicothe's talented 8th Grade Band and Wind Ensemble performing at Miami Trace High School on March 14th.

🍷 Mar. 15 - St. Patrick's Wine Tasting: Raise a glass for an early St. Patrick's celebration at this festive wine tasting! Join the fun on March 15 at 3149 Bloomingburg New Holland Rd NE, Washington Court House.

🙏 In Remembrance

Linda Lee "Lyn" Hines

Linda "Lyn" Lee Hines, 73, of Washington Court House, passed away on March 6, 2025, after a brief illness. Born to James and Flora Bellar in 1951, she was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and enjoyed sewing and genealogy research. Lyn is survived by her husband Larry of 55 years, daughter Jennifer, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. Her funeral will be held on March 12, 2025, at the Masonic Lodge in Jeffersonville, followed by burial at Fairview Cemetery.