📰 Community crossroads

Good morning, Pickaway County. A devastating tragedy has rocked our community as the family of 73-year-old Jo Ann Echelbarger pursues justice through a lawsuit following what attorneys describe as "the most vicious and savage dog mauling in the history of the state." The legal action targets not only the pit bulls' owners but also county officials and the condo association for allegedly failing to address warnings about dangerous dogs that had reportedly "terrorized the community for years."

More heartbreak struck Tuesday when 20-year-old Nathaniel Johnston lost his life in a head-on collision with a semi-truck on State Route 104, leaving another family in mourning. Amid these difficult headlines, there's a bright spot for local veterans as Todd Huffman prepares to step into leadership at Veterans Services. The Gulf War veteran and Logan Elm graduate brings three decades of military experience to the role, continuing his passionate commitment to helping fellow veterans access vital benefits and services.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Circleville

46°

76°

Ashville

46°

76°

South Bloomfield

46°

76°

Williamsport

46°

76°

Commercial Point

38°

71°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🐕 Deadly dog attack leads to lawsuit against owners and officials. The family of 73-year-old Jo Ann Echelbarger, who was killed by two pit bulls while gardening, is suing the dogs' owners, the Pickaway County dog warden, and the condo association. The lawsuit claims the dogs had "terrorized the community for years" and that authorities failed to act despite multiple warnings and incidents. Attorney Rex Elliott called it "the most vicious and savage dog mauling in the history of the state," noting that condo management had obtained a court order to remove the dogs but never followed through. The family seeks damages exceeding $25,000 and hopes the case will improve dangerous dog enforcement statewide.

💥 Tragic head-on collision kills 20-year-old Circleville man on State Route 104. Nathaniel H. Johnston's Ford Mustang crossed the center line and struck a semi-truck Tuesday afternoon, resulting in his death at the scene. The semi-truck driver, 47-year-old Clarence E. Davis from Georgia, was transported to Mount Carmel Grove City Hospital following the crash. Multiple emergency response teams rushed to the site after reports of an explosion following the collision. The Pickaway County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate what caused Johnston's vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic.

🎖️ Air Force veteran Todd Huffman steps up as Pickaway County Veterans Director. Huffman, who joined Veterans Services in 2016, will assume the role effective December 1, 2024, succeeding the retiring Margi Pettibone. With over 30 years of military service including deployments during the Gulf War, the Logan Elm High School graduate brings valuable experience to the position. As Executive Director, Huffman aims to develop his team's strengths to better serve local veterans with programs including disability compensation, pension claims, and transportation services. "I am very passionate in serving our community veterans to help them obtain the benefits available to them," Huffman stated.

Budget oasis with modern updates: List price: $200,000. This cozy 2BR 1 Bath boasts all the modern trimmings with new windows, roof, siding, utilities and a shed, just waiting for you to make it home.

Rural ranch convenient location: Nestled on two parcels, this $429,000 custom ranch offers 1830 sqft with 3 beds, 2.5 baths, and a versatile outbuilding—all within 30 minutes of four cities for convenient rural living.

Private ranch custom kitchen views: This ranch style home listed at $339,900 sits on an acre of private land, featuring an open floor plan with custom kitchen, two bedrooms, updated bath, first-floor laundry and a private deck overlooking the yard.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏅 Mar. 13 - Special Olympics Memorial Game: Honor the legacy of Steve Palkowski and Robert Bing at the Pickaway County Special Olympics Community Memorial Game on March 13 at Circleville High School. Join this heartwarming celebration of two dedicated athletes.

🐰 Mar. 14 - Alice @ Wonderland: Fall down the digital rabbit hole with "Alice @Wonderland" at Roundtown Players on March 14! This modern, tech-savvy reimagining of Carroll's classic tale brings Wonderland to life for today's smartphone generation.

♿ Mar. 15 - Inclusive Storytime for All: Celebrate Disability Awareness Month at "I Can Storytime," where kids of all ages and abilities enjoy interactive fun at Pickaway County Library on March 15. Everyone belongs at this educational adventure!

🐰 Mar. 15 - Alice @ Wonderland: Step into Wonderland with a modern twist at Roundtown Players! "Alice @Wonderland" reimagines Carroll's classic tale with a tech-savvy heroine on March 15 at 165 1/2 E Main St, Circleville.

🐸 Mar. 15 - Ohio Amphibians Adventure: Hop into Canal Park on March 15 for "Amphibians of Ohio" where Naturalist Meghan Ellis reveals the fascinating world of our local frogs and salamanders. Perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages!

🧶 Mar. 15 - Spring Craft Bazaar: Hop into spring at the First Church of God's Craft Bazaar! Browse handmade crafts and tasty treats on March 15 at 25822 OH-159, Circleville. Vendor spaces available for just $20.

🐰 Mar. 15 - Alice @Wonderland Encore: Fall down the digital rabbit hole with Roundtown Players' "Alice @Wonderland" encore performance at Circleville High School! This fresh twist on Lewis Carroll's classic tale returns March 15 at 380 Clark Dr.

🙏 In Remembrance

Nancy Brown

Nancy Sue Brown, 79, of Circleville, passed away on March 9, 2025, after a life dedicated to family and community service. Following a 30-year career at Harden Chevrolet, she devoted her time to caring for her grandchildren, whom she deeply loved. Nancy is survived by her husband of 55 years, Theodore Eugene Brown, her two children and their spouses, and two grandchildren. An Elvis Presley enthusiast who enjoyed the outdoors and family gatherings, Nancy was also recognized for her extraordinary volunteer work with Circleville High School sports and Circleville Youth Soccer.

Randall L Smith

Randall L. Smith, 70, of Grove City, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2025, leaving behind his wife Sharon of 49 years, daughter Shayanna, and granddaughter Kallee. His life was marked by a 55-year love story with Sharon that began in junior high school, a career at the Franklin County Treasurer's Office, and a passion for sports, particularly boxing, where he fought professionally and later mentored youth. Randy was dedicated to his family as their protector and biggest supporter, and will be remembered for his legacy of love, adventure, and mentorship to those he cherished most.

Jimmie Vanover

Jimmie Lee Vanover, 85, of Laurelville, passed away on March 8, 2025, surrounded by family. He was married to Eileen Elliott for 63 years and is survived by his four children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jimmie worked as a truck driver, logger, mechanic, horseman, and part-time auctioneer throughout his life. He enjoyed spending time with his family and was passionate about NASCAR racing, particularly Dale Earnhardt, and also raced at local dirt tracks using #87, a tradition his sons and grandson continued.

Tony "Tom" Wagner

Tony "Tom" Wagner, 71, of Circleville, passed away on March 10, 2025, leaving behind his mother, wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings. A Navy veteran, he worked at E.I. Dupont and served as pastor of Mt. Sterling Baptist Church. Wagner was known for his strong faith, devotion to family, and passion for outdoor activities, particularly hunting and fishing. Funeral services will be held on March 14, 2025, at Wellman Funeral Home with burial at Hitler-Ludwig Cemetery.