🏗️ Blight begone - Fayette County

Good morning, Fayette County. The battle against blight is gaining momentum as the Land Bank advances toward its ambitious goal of processing 60 properties this year. With demolition bids being sought for three asbestos-free properties, foreclosure complaints filed for 17 others, and three more properties headed for sale, the county's landscape is literally changing before our eyes. Even New Holland's police chief has joined the effort, seeking assistance with an abandoned property facing daily code violation fines.

From property transformations to royal transitions, Hannah Houck has claimed her place as the 2025 Fayette County Fair Queen at the recent Queen's Tea. Meanwhile, Altrusa International's community yard sale demonstrates how simple donations can become powerful investments in literacy and education. Now celebrating its 50th year, the service club continues turning ordinary items into extraordinary opportunities—proving that in Fayette County, both buildings and communities are being thoughtfully rebuilt.

🌤 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

🏚️ Fayette County tackles blight with demolition plans and foreclosures. The Land Bank approved seeking demolition bids for three properties that tested negative for asbestos, while demolition was completed at another site. Attorney Mark Miller reported foreclosure complaints filed for 17 properties, with additional properties awaiting service on heirs or legal notices. The board voted to advertise three properties for sale, with 41 properties currently in the Land Bank process toward their annual goal of 60. New Holland Police Chief Jason Lawless also requested assistance with an abandoned property facing daily fines for code violations.

👑 Hannah Houck claims the crown as Fayette County's new royalty. The soon-to-be 2025 Fayette County Fair Queen was named during the Queen's Tea held June 5 at the Mahan Building. Houck, who was the sole contestant, will officially receive her crown during the fair's opening ceremony on July 13. The celebration also saw the recognition of eleven commodity queens, including Trinity Johns as Horse Queen and Paige Fitzgerald as Small Animals Queen. Amberly Szczerbiak, who serves as both 2024 Fayette County Fair Queen and 2025 Ohio Fair Queen, attended to help crown the new royal court.

🛍️ Local service club turns yard sales into community impact. Altrusa International of Washington Court House hosted a community yard sale on June 7 to raise funds for literacy and outreach programs in Fayette County. All proceeds will support initiatives like providing free books through Little Free Libraries and scholarships for local students. The event, held at All Saints Church, featured donations from club members that will be reinvested back into the community. Now celebrating its 50th year, Altrusa continues transforming small actions into lasting contributions for Fayette County.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🌽 Jun. 11 - Fayette County Farmers Market: Fresh produce awaits at the Fayette County Farmers Market! Stop by 1650 Columbus Avenue every Wednesday from 3-6pm for locally grown goodies and artisanal treats. The summer market runs through October 1.

👶 Jun. 11 - County Baby Supplies Drive: Help tiny neighbors stay warm and comfy! Drop off new diapers, pajamas, wipes, and toddler clothing at 317 S Fayette St on June 11 for the Community Baby Shower happening in August.

🛡️ Jun. 11 - Service & Safety Committee: Join the Service, Safety & Recreation Committee meeting at 105 N Main Street on June 11, where community matters take center stage. Your voice matters in shaping Washington Court House's future!

💭 Jun. 12 - The Wake: Mental Health: "The Wake" tackles tough conversations about teen depression at The Jaimes Event Center on June 12. Grab free food at 6:30pm before this important community discussion begins at 7pm.

🏡 Jun. 13 - Family Farm & Home: Browse the best of rural living at Family Farm & Home's special event at Harbor Freight! Discover activities and local treasures in Washington Court House on June 13 for an unforgettable day out.

🚂 Jun. 14 - Spirit of Urbana: All aboard the "Spirit of Urbana"! Hop on this special fundraiser train excursion at Eyman Park on June 14, where American Steam Railroad and Cincinnati Scenic Railway offer a nostalgic journey through Ohio's countryside.

🌽 Jun. 14 - Fayette County Farmers Market: Fresh, local bounty awaits at the Fayette County Farmers Market! Browse seasonal produce and handcrafted goods every Saturday from 8:30am to noon at 101 East East Street in Washington Court House.

📚 Jun. 14 - Salty Silent Book Club: Curl up with your current read at the Salty Silent Book Club! Bring your favorite book to 216 E Court St on June 14 and enjoy the peaceful company of fellow bookworms.

🙏 In Remembrance

Shirley Storer

Shirley Ann Storer, 84, of Washington CH, passed away on June 4, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born April 30, 1941, to William and Francis Landenburg, she was a homemaker and stay-at-home mother who enjoyed thrifting and yard sales, and was known as a "social butterfly." She was preceded in death by her husband Roger Vernon Storer, Sr., and two brothers. Shirley is survived by her children Roger and Krystal, five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, two sisters, and many other relatives and friends.

Stephen Moore

Stephen Charles Moore, 73, of Washington Court House, passed away on June 6, 2025, at Grant Medical Center in Columbus. Born on July 21, 1951, in Fayette County, Ohio, Steve was a 1970 graduate of Washington Senior High School who had a lifelong passion for horses as a Standardbred trainer and driver. He worked at various jobs throughout his life, including positions at Armco Steel and Steelox, and more recently as a truck driver for Hogan Trucking. Steve is survived by his wife Connie, three sons, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, siblings, and many other family members and friends. A funeral service will be held on June 10, 2025, at Roberts Funeral Home with burial at Highlawn Cemetery.

Brian Keith Saxour

Brian Keith Saxour, 60, of Washington CH, died unexpectedly at home on June 3, 2025. Born in London, Ohio in 1964, Brian worked as a painter for most of his life and enjoyed outdoor activities and spending time with loved ones. He is survived by his four children, twelve grandchildren, three siblings, his dog Mia, and extended family. Following cremation, a private Celebration of Life will be held at the family's convenience.

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