🌱 Garden guardians rising

Good morning, Pickaway County. A new chapter unfolds in our community as local advocates rise to meet the challenges of our times. Unfortunately, the recent decision to cut USDA grants leaves vital community gardens like the Garden for All in a tough spot, jeopardizing their ability to provide fresh produce to those in need. However, Reverend Catherine Duffy’s unwavering optimism shines through, reminding us of the resilience that characterizes our community.

On a brighter note, Jessica Barpaye is making waves as she transforms her past struggles into support for immigrants and families. Her vision to create a safe space for women in crisis is one that inspires hope. Sadly, our community also mourns the loss of young Nathaniel Johnston, reminding us to cherish our loved ones and stay safe on the roads.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Circleville

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Ashville

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South Bloomfield

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Williamsport

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Commercial Point

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🌱 Ohio community gardens face funding cuts amid rising hunger crisis. The Trump Administration's decision to cancel vital USDA grants leaves local farms in jeopardy. The Garden for All, which provides fresh produce to food pantries, was set to receive $25,000, now lost. Reverend Catherine Duffy emphasized that without this funding, their ability to combat hunger in central Ohio is severely hampered. Despite the setback, Duffy remains optimistic about the garden's future and its commitment to serve the community.

🌟 Jessica Barpaye is a beacon of hope for those in need. After moving from Liberia to Ohio, she transformed her hardships into a mission to support immigrants and families. As the executive director of WAGEP International, she provides essential resources like food and clothing, often using her own funds to do so. Jessica is now working on creating a dedicated facility to offer a safe space for women and families in crisis, ensuring they know they’re not alone. Her commitment and resilience continue to inspire those around her.

🚑 Tragic collision claims the life of a young driver. A head-on crash on State Route 104 left 20-year-old Nathaniel H. Johnston dead at the scene. The accident occurred when Johnston's Ford Mustang crossed the centerline and collided with a semi-truck. The truck driver, 47-year-old Clarence E. Davis, was hospitalized, but his condition remains unknown. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏛️ Mar. 19 - City Council Session: Join your neighbors at the City Council Meeting on March 19 at 127 S Court St, Circleville, OH! Share your voice and stay updated on local happenings—your community needs you there!

🏥 Mar. 19 - Health Board Meeting: Join the conversation at the Board of Health Meeting on March 19 at 110 Island Rd, Circleville! Share your thoughts on public health and stay informed—your voice matters in our community!

🚶‍♂️ Mar. 20 - Thursday Trail Walks: Lace up your hiking boots for Thursday Trail Tours at Canal Park! Join the Park District and volunteer Cindy Whited on March 20 for a delightful stroll through our scenic county parks—nature awaits!

🦉 Mar. 20 - Build Your Clay Owl: Unleash your creativity and craft your very own clay owl at 7932 US-22 in Circleville on March 20! Choose between a small or big owl for just $10-$12, plus optional glaze for $8. Don't miss out!

🧦 Mar. 21 - Rock Your Socks!: Get ready to rock those colorful, mismatched socks on March 21 for World Down Syndrome Day in Circleville! Gather your friends, family, and pets to celebrate and spread awareness at 200 E High St.

🎸 Mar. 22 - Rockin' Rhoadhouse Bash: Get ready to celebrate at Rhoadhouse 56's second anniversary bash on March 22! Join the fun with live music from the John Schwab Party Band, tasty food, and community festivities at Rhoads Garden Center!

🎶 Mar. 22 - Travis Brown Acoustic: Get ready for a magical evening at Manchester Hill Winery on March 22 as seasoned musician Travis Brown strums his acoustic tunes! Join us for an unforgettable performance amidst the beautiful vineyard backdrop.

🏅 Mar. 22 - Medal Madness Run: Get ready to run at Medal Madness on March 22 at Mary Virginia Crites Hannan Park! Join this family-friendly race in 1M, 5K, or 10K distances and earn points for the US Road Running Race Series!

🙏 In Remembrance

Kathy Dowler

Kathy (Weaver) Dowler, a beloved mother and dedicated preschool teacher, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2025, at the age of 65. Born in Circleville, Ohio, on April 8, 1959, Kathy shared 44 loving years with her husband, Butch Dowler, and is survived by her daughter Hannah and son-in-law Peyton McComas. With nearly 30 years of teaching experience, she inspired generations of children and was known for her kindness and generosity in the community. Kathy held a deep faith in God and cherished her family, leaving behind a legacy of love and creativity. A celebration of her life is planned for March 21, 2025, with a graveside service to follow at Tarlton Cemetery.

Thelma Redding

Thelma Louise Redding, 79, of New Holland, Ohio, passed away on March 15, 2025, at Cedarvale Commons Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Washington Court House. Her funeral arrangements are being handled by Kirkpatrick Funeral Home in New Holland.

Carol Rorick

Carol Sue Zimmerman Rorick, 85, of Shawnee, Kansas, and formerly of Circleville, passed away on March 13, 2025, at the Overland Park Kansas Regional Medical Center. She is remembered fondly for her contributions to her community. A full obituary can be found at Kansas City Funeral's website.

Franklin Stroup

Franklin Delano Stroup, 91, of Stoutsville, passed away on March 13, 2025, at Pickaway Manor. Born on February 28, 1934, in South Salem, OH, he was a longtime member of Emmanuel United Methodist Church and worked at Manna Pro for 46 years. Stroup enjoyed fishing, yard sales, and fish fries after retiring in 1996. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, and numerous siblings, and is survived by his two sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a sister. A funeral service will be held at Wellman Funeral Home on March 19, 2025, with burial at Browns Chapel Cemetery.

Stanley V. Echelbarger

Stanley V. Echelbarger, 84, of Ashville, OH, passed away on March 16, 2025, at Grove City Senior Living. Born on June 18, 1940, in Columbus, he served in the U.S. Air Force and retired from the State of Ohio Employment Office. Stan was a graduate of Central High School and held an Associate's Degree from OSU, and was a member of South Bloomfield Methodist Church. He is survived by four children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and was predeceased by his wife, JoAnn, in October 2024. Visitation will be held on March 20, followed by a funeral service on March 21, with donations requested to The Parkinson's Foundation in lieu of flowers.

Clarence Jackson

Clarence Jackson, 77, of Circleville, passed away on March 15, 2025. Born on January 15, 1948, in Coshocton, he was a Vietnam Air Force veteran and was preceded in death by his parents and several siblings. He is survived by his wife Maureen, children Stewart and Heather, grandchildren Katherine and Emma, and siblings Nora and Clayton. Cremation has taken place, and condolences can be expressed online.

Judith Metzler

Judith Ann (Ekers) Metzler, an adventurous free spirit, passed away on March 17, 2025, at the age of 80. Known for her vibrant personality and diverse career, Judy was a trailblazer as one of Ohio's first female narcotics officers and also ran a canoe livery. She cherished her family, particularly her children Scott and Paige, and her beloved dog Pebbles, a gift from her late husband Donald O’Neill, who predeceased her in 2010. She is survived by her children, siblings, grandchildren, and many friends, all of whom will gather to celebrate her life on August 16. Donations in her memory can be made to Danielle’s Animal Safe Haven.

Stanely V Echelbarger

Stanely V. Echelbarger has passed away, with a full obituary notice to be provided later. Those wishing to honor his memory can send flowers to the family or plant a tree in his remembrance through the floral store. Further details regarding his life and legacy will be shared in the upcoming notice.