🧠 Mental health pivot

Good morning, Fayette County. Nearly one-third of incarcerated individuals struggle with mental health issues—a startling statistic that Highland County is tackling head-on by joining the Stepping Up Initiative. This national program, now embraced by 59 Ohio counties, creates vital connections between those facing mental illness and the treatment they desperately need, potentially breaking the cycle of incarceration for our region's most vulnerable residents.

In other community developments, local organizations have two significant opportunities on the horizon. The Highland County Community Fund is accepting grant applications until June 10, offering between $500 and $5,000 for projects spanning arts, education, health, and more. Meanwhile, Carnegie Public Library recently treated five lucky winners to an exclusive after-hours adventure complete with pizza and behind-the-scenes access—just one of many upcoming events including storytimes, Mother's Day crafting, and adult book clubs to enrich our community.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Washington Court House

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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

🧠 Highland County takes action to help mentally ill inmates. Commissioners unanimously approved joining the Stepping Up Initiative, a national program that connects criminal offenders with mental illnesses to treatment services. Judge Chad Randolph and probation officer Tonya Sturgill presented the initiative, noting that 30% of incarcerated individuals have mental health issues. While the program doesn't guarantee immediate funding, it provides resources and expertise to help divert those with serious mental illness from jails into appropriate care. Highland County becomes the 59th Ohio county to join this effort to break the cycle of incarceration for vulnerable individuals.

💰 Highland County Community Fund now accepting grant applications for 2025. Local nonprofits, schools, and public organizations can apply for funding between $500 and $5,000 until June 10. The fund supports projects across five areas: arts and culture, community development, education, environmental stewardship, and health services. Grants aim to create opportunities and address pressing needs in Highland County through the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio partnership. In 2024, the fund awarded four grants to organizations serving the county.

📚 Five lucky winners enjoyed an exclusive after-hours library adventure. Carnegie Public Library hosted a special "Library After Hours" event where winners received dinner from Donatos Pizza followed by a behind-the-scenes tour. The tour included staff-only areas like the processing room and featured stories about the historic building. Children and families can look forward to upcoming events including storytimes, Mother's Day card making, and Sewing Club. Adults can participate in the "Bring Your Own Book Club" and English Language Chat Group in the coming weeks.

Luxurious features spacious family home: The Ironwood by Arbor Homes, priced at $299,990, offers a spacious 3-bedroom design with optional fourth bedroom, featuring an open layout, chef's dream kitchen, walk-in closets, and a luxurious primary suite.

Spacious solar-powered dream home: Priced at $449,700, this Washington Court House two-story home offers four bedrooms, two baths, a gorgeous kitchen, formal dining, two-car garage, and notably low utility bills thanks to solar panels.

Custom Home Awaits Near Trail: This charming custom-built home is listed at $314,700, offering an open floorplan with a primary suite, two additional bedrooms, fresh paint, luxury vinyl flooring, and a three-car garage—all conveniently located near a biking path.

🙏 In Remembrance

Ronald C. Long Jr.

Ronald C. Long, Jr., 97, of Washington Court House, passed away on April 30, 2025, at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. A World War II Army veteran who served as a Guard Patrolman, Ronald was active at the Fayette County Commission on Aging Senior Citizens Center and was a member of the American Legion Post No. 25. He is survived by his two sons, eight grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Ronald was preceded in death by his wife Betty, his son Randy, his sister JoAnn, and his granddaughter Destiny.

Sandra Dee Tyler

Sandra Dee (Cox) Tyler, 61, of Chillicothe, passed away unexpectedly on May 2, 2025. Born in Canton, Ohio in 1963, she was known for her generous nature and willingness to help others in need. Sandy was a loving mother and grandmother who adored her grandchildren. She is survived by her sons Travis and Zach, daughter-in-law Angie, eight grandchildren, one great-grandchild with another on the way, two brothers, and many extended family members and friends.

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🌤 Sky Skoop

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

🙏 In Remembrance