🎵 Melody matters

Good morning, Hocking County. When it comes to protecting vital community resources, vigilance matters. Perry County's Job and Family Services is taking action against benefit fraud through both preventative measures and public education, reminding us that safeguarding these programs ensures help reaches those truly in need. These efforts represent the invisible infrastructure that keeps our social safety net functioning effectively for everyone.

On brighter notes, music lovers can mark their calendars for June 27 when Grammy-winner Patty Griffin returns to Stuart's Opera House, bringing her powerful songwriting back to Nelsonville after a two-year absence. Meanwhile, the LifeWise Academy's rapid expansion across Logan-Hocking schools demonstrates the program's growing footprint, having nearly tripled its student participation in just three years while building an impressive volunteer network from local churches.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Logan

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Bremen

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Hide-A-Way Hills

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Amanda

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West Logan

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚨 Fraud threatens vital benefits for those who truly need them. Perry County Job and Family Services is working to protect assistance programs from both large-scale skimming schemes and individual misrepresentations. Residents are advised to safeguard their SNAP/TANF cards, change PINs regularly, and be vigilant against phishing attempts. The agency encourages reporting suspected fraud, which can lead to benefit loss, repayment requirements, and potential prosecution. Officials emphasize that fraud prevention ensures resources remain available for qualified community members in genuine need.

🎵 Grammy-winning Patty Griffin returns to Stuart's Opera House in June. The acclaimed singer-songwriter will perform at the Nelsonville, Ohio venue on June 27, with tickets ranging from $45-$65. Griffin's last appearance at Stuart's was in June 2022, making this a highly anticipated return for fans of her powerful songwriting and poignant storytelling. Widely respected as one of the most influential artists of her generation, Griffin has spent over two decades crafting deeply personal music, including her Grammy-winning gospel album "Downtown Church" and her self-titled 2019 release that earned a Grammy nomination.

📚 Bible-based character education program expands across Logan-Hocking schools. LifeWise Academy has grown from serving 127 students at one elementary school to 341 students across three schools in just three years. The program, which offers religious instruction during "released time" from public school, recently appointed Danielle Arnett as its new director, replacing her father Jim Kemper. With plans to add eighth grade classes this fall, LifeWise relies on six paid teachers, four bus drivers, and over 70 volunteers from six evangelical churches. Nationally, the Ohio-based organization has expanded to more than 600 school districts across the United States.

Woodland retreat with rental potential: New cabin in Hocking Hills listed at $279,900 offers cozy woodland vibes with two acres, open living space, fireplace, modern kitchen, two bedrooms, and a deck perfect for rentals or personal retreats.

Spacious countryside dream plot awaits: A tranquil 3.48-acre parcel priced at $79,900 awaits your dream home or investment aspirations. The serene property balances open space with natural charm—a haven for those seeking privacy or development potential.

Woodsy home near state park: Priced at $189,000, this quality home near Hocking Hills State Park offers three bedrooms, wood floors throughout, a fireplace, and a large covered porch, making it ideal for an Airbnb or permanent residence.

🙏 In Remembrance

Dolores Faye Azbell

Dolores Faye Azbell, age 67, of Baltimore, passed away on May 10, 2025, at Pickering House in Lancaster. Born on February 14, 1958, in Nelsonville, Dolores was married to Daniel L. Azbell for 28 years and cherished time with her family above all else. She enjoyed nature, camping with friends, watching wildlife, listening to old country and gospel music, and playing Bingo. Dolores is survived by her husband, three children, eleven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, numerous siblings, and extended family, while her funeral service will be held on May 16, 2025, at Cardaras Funeral Home.