Hocking County • July 28, 2025
Good morning, Hocking County. Even Mother Nature couldn't wash away the vibrant spirit of Lancaster's 38th annual Art Walk last week. As raindrops fell, so did bubbles from a nearby machine, creating a magical atmosphere where 4-year-old Freya Shumaker and other children sported colorful face paint while Doyle Sargent and the Teeb provided the soundtrack to this beloved community tradition.
The heart of our community shines brightest through its youngest members. Three remarkable 8U softball All Stars from New Lexington transformed tragedy into hope by crafting and selling bracelets, necklaces, and painted rocks to support local restaurants devastated by fire. Their compassionate fundraising caught the attention of county officials, who formally recognized their efforts—a heartwarming contrast to the contentious legal battle unfolding between former council president Greg Smith and Nelsonville over settlement disputes and alleged political retaliation.
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🎨 Rain couldn't dampen spirits at Lancaster's 38th annual Art Walk. Despite the downpour, attendees huddled under umbrellas while enjoying live music from Doyle Sargent and the Teeb on Broad Street. Children like 4-year-old Freya Shumaker got their faces painted with colorful designs, while bubbles from a machine mingled with raindrops above the crowd. The beloved community event featured various festivities throughout downtown Lancaster, bringing together art enthusiasts of all ages for a memorable celebration on July 25.
⚖️ Former council president countersues Nelsonville in legal showdown. Greg Smith filed a countersuit against the Ohio city after Nelsonville accused him of attempting to defraud them by seeking back pay. Smith denies any fraudulent conduct related to a $137,500 settlement agreement he signed in 2023. His countersuit claims the city's allegations are retaliatory for his involvement with Issue 23, a successful ballot initiative to change Nelsonville's form of government. Smith also denies conspiring with his successor Rita Nguyen to disrupt a city council meeting, calling the city's claims "malicious" attempts to defame him.
💖 Young softball players craft hope from community tragedy. Three New Lexington 8U softball All Stars rallied to help local restaurants devastated by fires. Jocie McCoy, Alayah Dawson, and Aisley Wintermute made and sold craft bracelets, necklaces, and painted rocks to raise funds for Dodson's on Broadway and The Pizza Place. Their efforts caught the attention of county officials, with Commissioner Ben Carpenter presenting them letters of appreciation during their donation delivery. While The Pizza Place has reopened with minor damages, Dodson's was a total loss, making the girls' compassionate gesture all the more meaningful to the emotional restaurant owners.
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-John 3:16
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