Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Fayette County / July 23, 2025

🏆 Young achievers shine

Fayette County • July 23, 2025

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Good morning, Fayette County. The future of Highland County is in remarkably capable hands, as evidenced by the recent 4-H Summer Awards Ceremony. Young participants dazzled judges with everything from fashion design to nutritional expertise, earning coveted spots to represent their community at the Ohio State Fair. Behind these achievements stands Kaley Fannin, whose exceptional leadership recently earned her recognition as a 2025 Friend of 4-H for transforming the program through meticulous coordination and meaningful mentorship.

While these youth achievements illuminate bright possibilities, the community also faces sobering realities. A Greenfield resident will spend nearly a decade behind bars after pleading guilty to methamphetamine trafficking charges across multiple cases. The Highland County Task Force investigation culminated in a sentence that could potentially extend to 12 years, along with financial restitution and weapon forfeiture—a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges that exist alongside the county's remarkable successes.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🌟 Highland County youth shine at 4-H Summer Awards Ceremony. The event, held at Southern State Community College, celebrated exceptional achievements in Fashion, Nutrition, and Family and Consumer Sciences projects. Many winners will represent Highland County at the upcoming Ohio State Fair, showcasing their talents and hard work. The diverse range of projects—from fashion design to nutritious cooking and life skills—embodies the 4-H motto of "Learning by Doing." Organizers congratulated all participants on their dedication and wished State Fair qualifiers the best of luck.

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🌟 Kaley Fannin's leadership transforms Highland County's 4-H program. The Highland County 4-H Advisory Committee has recognized her as a 2025 Friend of 4-H for her exceptional contributions. Fannin's meticulous coordination keeps the Junior Fair running smoothly, from overseeing entries to guiding committees. She builds crucial bridges between 4-H, FFA, and other youth organizations while mentoring students in leadership and community service. Thanks to her tireless efforts, Highland County's Junior Fair continues to grow stronger with improved facilities and enhanced opportunities for young participants.

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🔒 Greenfield man sentenced to nearly a decade for drug trafficking. Michael Certain, 44, received at least nine and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple methamphetamine trafficking charges across three separate cases. The charges stemmed from Highland County Task Force investigations that began in February, with Certain also convicted of having weapons while under disability. Under the Reagan Tokes Law, his sentence could potentially extend to 12 years total. He was ordered to pay $920 in restitution to the Task Force and forfeit a shotgun that was in his possession.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Spacious updated rural retreat: Priced at $470,000, this three-bedroom mini farm near Washington Court House offers 3+ acres with fenced pastures, two barns, a workshop garage, and an above-ground pool, all with recent updates including a new metal roof.
Real estate listing image Modern remodel near school: This charming $349,000 remodeled home offers hardwood floors, modern kitchen, and large sun room with three bedrooms, two baths, and a covered deck with fenced yard—all conveniently located across from a school.
Real estate listing image Modern Family-Friendly Custom Home: Priced at $323,990, the Palmetto is a new construction floor plan with front living space, chef's kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and customizable options including a basement, sunroom, and flexible room configurations.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎱 Jul. 23 - Free Pool Tuesday: Rack 'em up for free at MUGS every Tuesday! Grab your friends and enjoy complimentary pool all day long at 1309 S Fayette St while sipping on your favorite brew.
🌽 Jul. 23 - Fayette County Farmers Market: Fresh local produce awaits at the Fayette County Farmers Market! Stop by 1650 Columbus Avenue every Wednesday from 3-6pm through October 1 for the season's best farm-fresh goodies.
🏛️ Jul. 23 - City Council Meeting: Have your voice heard at the City Council Meeting on July 23 at 105 N Main St, Washington Court House. Join fellow citizens to discuss local issues that matter to our community.
👨‍🍳 Jul. 23 - Chef Battle Showdown: Columbus's Cooking Caravan brings the sizzle to Washington Court House! Watch local chefs battle it out on July 23, where audience members become sous chefs and judges at 301 E Market St.
💼 Jul. 23 - Finance & Personnel Meeting: City officials gather to discuss budgetary matters at the Finance & Personnel Meeting on July 23. Join your local government in action at 105 N Main St, Washington Court House.
💼 Jul. 23 - Economic Strategies & Cooperation: Dive into economic collaboration at "Economic Strategies & Cooperation" on July 23 at 105 N Main St in Washington Court House. Discover new business connections and community growth opportunities in this insightful local gathering.
💭 Jul. 24 - The Wake: Hope Talks: "The Wake" tackles tough topics at Jaimes Event Center on July 24, with free food at 6:30pm before the 7pm discussion about teen depression and mental health. Join this important community conversation.
✍️ Jul. 24 - Adult Journaling & Art: Unleash your creativity at Just Journaling for Adults! Enjoy a peaceful space to write, collage, and make art on July 24 at 127 S North St. All supplies provided, or bring your own favorites!

🙏 In Remembrance

Frances Wade

Frances Elizabeth Wade, 87, of Sabina, passed away on July 18, 2025, at Clinton Memorial Hospital. A 1956 graduate of Midway High School, Frances was a devoted homemaker who enjoyed sewing, crafting, cooking, attending auctions, corresponding with pen pals, and spending time with her dog Banjo. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert Lee Wade, her parents, three brothers, and two sisters. Frances is survived by her children, five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, one brother, and her extended family.

Helen L. Spencer

Helen L. Spencer, 67, of Washington CH, passed away on July 18, 2025, at Adena Regional Medical Center in Chillicothe. Born in 1958 and a graduate of Waverly High School, she worked for many years as a State Tested Nursing Assistant at Court House Manor. Helen enjoyed canning food with her sister, crocheting, spending time with family, and had a special love for her dogs. She is survived by her siblings Sandra Wiseman and Kathy Logan, along with several nieces and nephews whom she considered grandchildren.

Helen L. Spencer

Amanda Jo Bainter

Amanda Jo Bainter, 43, of Greenfield, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at OSU Medical Center in Columbus. She was surrounded by her family and friends at the time of her death. The Murray-Fettro Funeral Home in Greenfield is handling the funeral arrangements for the family. No additional details about her life or the cause of death were provided in the notice.

Lediabelle Kline

Lediabelle (Ledie) Wolf Kline, 98, passed away on July 19, 2025, in Chillicothe, Ohio. Born in Columbus in 1926, she was known for being determined, positive, and devoted to her faith after being saved at a revival meeting. Ledie was a dedicated wife to Dr. Robert Kline, supporting his ministry, and she cherished family gatherings during holidays while also enjoying sports as a longtime fan of the Cincinnati Reds and Ohio State Buckeyes. She is survived by two daughters, a son-in-law, four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and numerous other relatives and friends.

Lediabelle Kline

James Welsh

James Douglas Welsh, the infant son of Devin Jo Newton and Brady Glenn Welsh of New Holland, Ohio, was stillborn on Friday, July 18, 2025, at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus. His funeral arrangements are being handled by the Kirkpatrick Funeral Home in New Holland. The family resides in New Holland, Ohio.

Amanda Jo Bainter

Amanda Jo Bainter, a 43-year-old resident of Greenfield, passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025. She was 43 years old at the time of her death. The Murray-Fettro Funeral Home will be handling her funeral arrangements and services. No additional details about her life or the cause of death were provided in the brief announcement.

Janice Reynolds

Janice Arlene Reynolds, 86, of Jackson, Ohio, died on July 18, 2025, at her home surrounded by family. Born in 1938 and a 1958 Jackson High School graduate, she married James T. Reynolds that same year and moved to Washington Court House. After working at Fairley Hardware Store and retiring from Master Refrigeration Service, she was an active member of Staunton United Methodist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, her parents, a sister, and other relatives, and is survived by numerous family members including her sister Sandy Pelfrey.

Janice Reynolds

Frances Wade

Frances Elizabeth Wade, 87, of Sabina, passed away on July 18, 2025, at Clinton Memorial Hospital. A 1956 graduate of Midway High School, she was a devoted homemaker who enjoyed sewing, crafting, cooking, attending auctions, and corresponding with pen pals. Frances is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her brother, having been preceded in death by her husband Robert, several siblings, and her parents. A funeral service will be held on July 23, 2025, at Summers Funeral Home with burial following at Bethel Cemetery.

Thomas Seaman

Thomas Michael Seaman, a 70-year-old resident of Good Hope, Ohio, passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025. His death occurred at Cedarvale Commons Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Washington Court House, Ohio. Kirkpatrick Funeral Home in Washington Court House is handling the funeral arrangements. No additional details about his life or survivors were provided in the brief announcement.

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