Good morning, Muskingum County. Behind every powerful image is a storyteller with a unique perspective, and Zanesville's own Paula Lively has spent 15 years capturing life's extraordinary moments through her lens. From photographing celebrities like Gene Simmons and Stan Lee to earning recognition from CNN Travel and National Geographic, this local artist—who'll showcase her work at next year's Y-Bridge Arts Festival—has turned her passion for "documenting moments" into a remarkable career that's taken her across multiple states.
Speaking of the Y-Bridge Arts Festival, art enthusiasts can mark August 1-2 on their calendars as the event relocates to the Zane State/Ohio University Zanesville campus. The festival promises a vibrant mix of artists, musicians, and food vendors, complete with children's activities and special pottery competitions. Meanwhile, homeowners across Ohio are confronting the sobering reality of rising property taxes, with the state now ranking eighth nationally—a situation serious enough to prompt Governor DeWine to form a working group exploring potential reforms.
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88%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
📸 Zanesville photographer Paula Lively captures life's most extraordinary moments. The local artist, who will showcase her work at the 2025 Y-Bridge Arts Festival, has photographed celebrities, musicians, and everyday events during her 15-year career. Her camera has taken her across multiple states and connected her with figures like Gene Simmons, Stan Lee, and Hillary Clinton. Despite recognition from CNN Travel and National Geographic, Lively considers her proudest achievement being named grand photographer for the Ohio Freemasons—a rare honor for women. Her diverse portfolio spans concerts, wildlife, politics, and photojournalism, reflecting what she calls her true calling: "documenting moments."
🎨 Local art festival finds new home amid downtown construction. The Y Bridge Arts Festival will take place August 1-2 on the Zane State/Ohio University Zanesville campus, featuring artists, musicians, and food vendors. Organized by the Artist Colony of Zanesville, which received a $10,000 donation from the Straker Foundation, the event showcases diverse art forms including painting, jewelry, ceramics, and photography. Pottery artists can compete for special prizes funded by the McCoy Lovers NMXpress Pottery fund. Children can enjoy free hands-on activities provided by the Zanesville Museum of Art, while attendees sample food from vendors and enjoy performances by local musicians.
🏠 Ohio homeowners shocked by soaring property tax bills. Fairfield County residents are facing unexpected increases as Ohio now ranks eighth nationally for property taxes. Cathy Grundtisch, who has lived in her Lancaster home since 1985, saw her property value jump by $65,000, expressing disappointment that "property taxpayers are bearing the brunt." While higher home values benefit sellers, many worry about neighbors who can't afford the increases. Governor Mike DeWine has formed a working group to examine property tax reform, emphasizing that any solution must provide real relief while still funding essential services like schools and mental health programs.
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💰 Financial Friday
Consider automating your savings by setting up regular transfers to a dedicated savings account; this simple habit can help you build an emergency fund or save for future goals without even thinking about it.
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