Good morning, Gallia County. In an era where corporate giants dominate headlines, our small town is proving that local heroes still shine the brightest. The Gallia County Chamber of Commerce is rolling out the red carpet for its 88th annual celebration, where hometown champions like Crisenbery Electric and community servant Jenny Henchey are taking center stage. Though one prestigious award remains under wraps until the big reveal, the suspense is building faster than a Netflix season finale.
Meanwhile, leadership shuffles are bringing fresh energy to both Mason County's Commission and School Board. With Rick Handley wielding the commission gavel and policy changes reshaping education, 2025 is already shaping up to be a year of transformation. And in true small-town fashion, they're proving that partisan politics take a backseat to progress when neighbors work together.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
84% 
☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏆 Small town heroes shine in Gallia County's annual business awards. The Gallia County Chamber of Commerce has announced its 2025 achievement winners, with Crisenbery Electric and Hubbell-Boeing Corporation taking top business honors. Community servant Jenny Henchey earned the Marianne Campbell Volunteer of the Year award, while the Lion's Club was recognized as the Ray McKinnis Committee of the Year for their extensive service work. The prestigious Bud and Donna McGhee award winner remains under wraps until the January 30th gala at the Holzer Leadership and Innovation Center, where the community will gather to celebrate these local champions. The entire celebration marks the Chamber's 88th Annual Dinner & Award Ceremony, highlighting the achievements of businesses and individuals who have made significant contributions to Gallia County.
🏛️ Mason County Commission reshuffles leadership deck with fresh faces for 2025. Rick Handley was appointed as commission president while Sam Nibert took on the role of president pro-tem during their organizational meeting. The commission welcomed newly elected Commissioner Chris Johnson, marking a significant change as the seventh commissioner Handley has worked with during his tenure. Handley emphasized the commission's nonpartisan approach, stating that political affiliations stop at the door. The meeting also addressed practical matters, including setting 2025 meeting dates and reviewing staffing changes for EMS and custodial positions.
📚 Mason County School Board reshapes policies amid key leadership changes. In a comprehensive December meeting, the board accepted the retirement of Secondary Curriculum Director Dr. John K. Bond and approved multiple new policies covering everything from weapons to harassment. The board strengthened its educational partnerships by approving agreements with Moreland University and the University of Northwestern Ohio for student placement and college credits. They also took a stand on employee benefits by signing a resolution urging state officials to stabilize the Public Employee Insurance Agency. Several staffing changes were also approved, including the resignation of an English teacher and a junior high football coach.
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Gallia Academy Blue Devils | ||
| @ Fairland | L 61-43 | |
 River Valley Vikings | ||
| vs Galion | W 73-41 | |
| @ Bishop Watterson | L 67-64 | |
 South Gallia Rebels | ||
| @ Northwest | L 58-37 | |
 Ohio Valley Christian | ||
| @ RCCA | L 65-34 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Serene fixer-upper on spacious lot
This investment opportunity features a 1981 mobile home nestled on a serene 3.23-acre lot, listed at $74,900. Although the 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home requires some TLC, it boasts a brand new metal roof and a charming detached garage with updated electrical—perfect for those with a vision to breathe new life into this hidden gem.
Idyllic retreat on spacious acreage
Nestled on 65 picturesque acres just 12 minutes from downtown Gallipolis, this cozy 1-bedroom, 2-bathroom retreat is priced at $325,000. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts, hunters, or those seeking a peaceful getaway, it boasts a welcoming open-concept living space, a partial basement with extra rooms, modern amenities including a JennAir range and a GENERAC generator, plus a recently installed metal roof for added comfort.
Outdoor paradise with building potential
Kyger Creek Farm is listed at $625,000 and offers a remarkable opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring diverse topography perfect for hunting with proven success in attracting mature bucks. With established food sources, multiple trails for ATV/UTV access, and a potential building site with electric available, this turn-key property is ideal for both building a cabin and enjoying a year-round wildlife experience.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
-Philippians 4:8