Fayette County • August 11, 2025
Good morning, Fayette County. After gathering dust for over two decades, Highland County's development roadmap is finally getting a much-needed refresh. Economic coordinator Julie Bolender is rallying impressive support for a comprehensive plan that will shape the county's future, with an overwhelming 87% of business leaders already on board within just 48 hours. The initiative aims to tackle pressing priorities from education to infrastructure, replacing the outdated 2003 plan with a vision that matches today's challenges.
Meanwhile, Ohio's recreational cannabis market has blazed through its first year with $702.5 million in sales and over 100,000 pounds of product moving through 159 dispensaries statewide. And for something completely different, the Highland County Fair is preparing to crown its cutest contestants – both human and furry – as the annual "Cutie Pie" and "Cutie Pet" competitions return, with penny votes benefiting programs for children with disabilities.
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🗺️ Highland County dusts off 22-year-old development roadmap for renewal. Economic development coordinator Julie Bolender is spearheading efforts to create a comprehensive plan that will guide the county's future growth and investment. The initiative has already garnered support from local governments in Hillsboro, Leesburg, and Lynchburg, with 87% of surveyed business leaders responding positively within 48 hours. Top priorities identified include education and workforce development, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. Commissioners unanimously supported the proposal, recognizing that the county's only previous plan from 2003 no longer addresses current challenges and opportunities.
🌿 Ohio's legal weed market blazes to $702.5 million in first year. The state has sold 109,706 pounds of marijuana since recreational sales began in August 2024, following voter approval with 57% support. Average prices hover around $6.63 per gram, with 159 dispensaries now licensed to sell both medical and recreational products. Industry insiders note that while revenue hasn't reached the projected $2 billion, the market continues to attract both new users and those returning after decades. Meanwhile, lawmakers are working to regulate intoxicating hemp products and have proposed bills to limit THC levels and smoking in public places.
🏆 Highland County Fair to host adorable competitions for kids and pets. SATH (Supplementary Assistance to the Handicapped) is sponsoring the annual "Cutie Pie" and "Cutie Pet" contests during the fair running August 31-September 5. Parents can enter children ages 1 day to 6 years with a $2 registration fee and a 4x6 photo, while pet owners can similarly register their furry friends. Visitors can vote for their favorites with penny donations, with proceeds benefiting SATH's programs for children with disabilities. Winners receiving the most votes by Friday evening will be awarded trophies and crowns during Saturday's ceremony.
Updated home with outdoor oasis: Priced at $349,000, this remodeled two-story home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood floors, a new kitchen with breakfast area, and a sun room opening to a covered deck with fenced yard.
Nature estate with modern comforts: Listed at $649,900, this 4-bedroom sanctuary on 5 wooded acres offers a perfect blend of natural serenity and modern luxury, featuring a stocked pond, heated barn, and whole-house generator for off-grid living.
Golf estate with speakeasy: Priced at $899,999, this custom brick estate beside Buckeye Hills Country Club's 15th hole offers 7,000 square feet of luxury living with amenities including a heated saltwater pool, private pickleball court, and even a hidden speakeasy.
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