🍦 Sweet escapes

Good morning, Fayette County. A stark reminder of highway safety emerged Monday evening when 21-year-old Gabriel Bolander's Camaro crossed the US-35 median in Ross County, colliding with a semi-truck. While Bolander sustained only minor injuries and the semi occupants escaped unharmed, the incident closed westbound lanes for 2.5 hours as emergency crews from multiple agencies responded to the scene.

As temperatures climb, Central Ohio's ice cream landscape offers sweet relief with the region boasting dozens of local shops. From Graeter's and Jeni's to charming spots like Dell's Homemade, our state's dairy heritage (ranking 11th nationally with 1,400+ farms) shines through in every scoop. Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts should remain alert but calm—black bears are making rare appearances in our region, with three confirmed sightings in June alone. Remember Wildlife Officer Adam Smith's advice if you encounter one: back away slowly without making eye contact.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Washington Court House

62°

85°

Greenfield

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86°

Jeffersonville

60°

86°

Bloomingburg

62°

85°

Good Hope

62°

85°

Milledgeville

62°

85°

Octa

60°

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚗 Young driver's Camaro collides with semi after crossing median. Gabriel Bolander, 21, from Washington Court House, veered off US-35 in Ross County on Monday evening, crashing into a Kenworth semi in the westbound lanes. Bolander sustained minor injuries and was transported to Adena Regional Medical Center, while the semi driver and passenger escaped unharmed. Multiple emergency agencies responded to the scene, including Ohio State Highway Patrol and Union Township Fire and EMS. The accident forced authorities to close westbound lanes of US-35 for approximately 2.5 hours.

🍦 Central Ohio's ice cream paradise awaits summer heat seekers. A comprehensive guide from 10TV showcases dozens of local shops across the region, from chains like Graeter's and Jeni's to small businesses like Dell's Homemade and Little Ladies Soft Serve. The list highlights Ohio's strong dairy heritage, ranking 11th nationally in milk production with over 1,400 dairy farms. The state has even created an official "Ohio Ice Cream Trail" to help residents discover the best frozen treats in each region. Whether craving classic cones or elaborate sundaes, central Ohioans have plenty of delicious options to beat the summer heat.

🐻 Black bears are making rare but notable appearances in Central Ohio. Three confirmed sightings occurred in June, with two bears tragically killed by vehicles. Officials estimate Ohio's total black bear population between 50-100, with most sightings involving young males from Pennsylvania and West Virginia seeking new territory. Wildlife Officer Adam Smith advises staying calm during encounters—backing away slowly while avoiding eye contact. The Division of Wildlife encourages residents to safely appreciate these uncommon wildlife moments and report sightings.

Modern retreat peaceful backyard bargain: This warm two-story home with modern updates offers charm, flowing spaces, and a private backyard retreat with deck and fire pit. Listed at $299,400 in a quiet neighborhood with easy access to local amenities.

Auction Home As Is: This foreclosure property is listed for $0 and will be sold through the auction process. The property is being sold "as is" with assumed occupancy, and buyers take full responsibility for condition and inhabitants.

Brick Ranch Home Waiting Patiently: This $220,300 brick ranch home features 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, two living spaces, and a fenced yard with deck. Updates include metal roof, new electric panel, and newer gutters.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎨 Jul. 2 - Summer Youth Art Club: Unleash your child's creativity at Art Club this summer! Young artists ages 8-16 will explore drawing, painting, clay, collage, and digital art at 127 S North St. Registration required. July 2.

🏠 Jul. 2 - Open House Tour: Step inside your potential dream home at 6000 US-22 in New Holland! Explore this charming property during the open house on Tuesday, July 1st from 4-5pm. MLS #11518996.

🎆 Jul. 3 - 4th Annual Firework Bash: Kick off Independence Day early at Champion's Grill's 4th Annual Firework Bash! Enjoy Washington Court House's dazzling fireworks, live music, delicious food and more on July 3rd at 703 Highland Ave.

🎆 Jul. 3 - Red, White and Boogie: Get ready to boogie under the stars at Fayette County's ultimate fireworks celebration! Enjoy food, bounce houses, a dunk tank, and live music from Ryan Adams & The SOBs on July 3rd.

🍦 Jul. 4 - Lodge Ice Cream Social: Cool down on Independence Day with homemade ice cream and delectable desserts at Jeffersonville Lodge's Ice Cream Social! Join the festive community gathering at 23 S Main St from 5-7PM on July 4th.

🌽 Jul. 5 - Fayette County Farmers Market: Fresh produce and local treasures await at the Fayette County Farmers Market! Stop by 101 E East St this Saturday, July 5, from 8:30am to noon for the best seasonal offerings from area farmers.

🏕️ Jul. 5 - Saturday Night Camping Bash: Rock out under the stars with Yesterday's Wine Ohio at Walnut Lake Campgrounds! Grab your camping gear and join the summer fun on Saturday, July 5, 2025 in Jeffersonville.

🙏 In Remembrance

Edna Johnson

Edna Lucille Johnson passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the age of 79. She died at Greenfield Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Greenfield, Ohio. The Murray-Fettro Funeral Home in Greenfield is handling the funeral arrangements. No additional details about her life or survivors were provided in the brief obituary notice.

Verda Mae Peters

Verda Mae Peters, 103, of Hillsboro, passed away on May 23, 2025, surrounded by family at Adams County Regional Medical Center. Born in 1921 in Chicago, she was a devoted wife to Harry Peters for 67 years, a church organist, and a retired LPN who advocated for peace and environmental causes. She is survived by her three sons, nine grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren. Following her wishes, her body was donated to the University of Cincinnati Medical College, with a celebration of life planned for July 12 at the Marshall Community Center.

Michael Stiles

Michael James "Hippy" Stiles, 69, of South Salem, Ohio, died on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Edgewood Manor of Greenfield. The Murray-Fettro Funeral Home in Greenfield is handling the funeral arrangements. No additional details about his life, family, or funeral services were provided in the brief obituary notice. The cause of death was not specified.

Joyce Bennett

Joyce R. "Joy" Bennett, age 86, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in New Holland, Ohio in 1939, she was married to Victor "Eddie" Bennett for 56 years until his death in 2013. Joy was a devoted mother to her four children and a loving grandmother to her thirteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She enjoyed reading, puzzles, card games, watching the Cincinnati Reds, and spending time with her family. Her funeral service will be held on July 2, 2025, at Summers Funeral Home, followed by cremation.

Sandra Sowash

Sandra S. Sowash, 75, of Washington Court House, Ohio, passed away on June 29, 2025, at Adena Regional Medical Center surrounded by family and friends. She is survived by her husband William, daughter Gina, son Jared, four grandchildren, and several siblings. Sandy, a graduate of Ohio State University and Xavier University, retired in 2006 after 35 years in the Miami Trace School system as a teacher, guidance counselor, and coach. She was an active community member, participating in numerous organizations including her church, retired teachers association, and senior citizens groups, and enjoyed card games, travel, fishing, and time with her grandchildren.

Grace Miller

Grace Marie Miller, 77, of Greenfield, Ohio, passed away on Friday, June 27, 2025 at OSU Medical Center in Columbus. Her funeral arrangements are being handled by the Murray-Fettro Funeral Home in Greenfield. No additional details about her life, family, or funeral services were provided in the brief announcement. The obituary did not include information about her cause of death or surviving family members.

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← Previous

🌾 Wheat warriors

🎆 Festive vigilance

🌤 Sky Skoop

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🙏 In Remembrance