Gallia County • February 5, 2025
Good morning, Gallia County. Heroes don't always wear capes - sometimes they wield shovels. Just ask Randall Randolph, whose life was saved by his quick-thinking coworker's split-second decision to throw a shovel at an oncoming truck. The West Virginia Division of Highways worker and father of six survived what could have been a tragic ending, thanks to that extraordinary act of courage that sounds more like an action movie scene than a typical workday.
Meanwhile, our community's spirit of excellence shines through in brighter moments, from the Chamber of Commerce's 88th annual gala celebrating local pioneers to Rio Grande's men's volleyball team clinching their first victory in dramatic fashion. It's a reminder that whether facing life's challenges or marking its triumphs, Gallia County knows how to rally around its own.
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π§ Highway worker's life saved by quick-thinking coworker's shovel throw. Randall Randolph, a West Virginia Division of Highways employee and single father of six, was severely injured while repairing potholes when a truck struck him despite wearing reflective gear. His coworker's split-second decision to throw a shovel at the truck's wheels caused it to swerve, preventing a fatal impact. The 50-year-old worker suffered multiple broken bones, including his femur, arm, and shoulder, leading to several surgeries. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $7,500 to support his family while he recovers, with no clear timeline for his return to work.
π Small-town chamber celebrates big achievements at 88th annual gala. The Gallia County Chamber of Commerce recognized outstanding local businesses and community leaders during their prestigious awards ceremony in Gallipolis, Ohio. Crisenbery Electric and Hubbell-Boeing Corporation took home business honors, while the late city manager Dow Saunders received the coveted Bud & Donna McGhee Service Award. Foundation for Appalachian Ohio CEO Cara Dingus Brook delivered a moving keynote speech honoring chamber legend Marianne Campbell's legacy. The event concluded with a leadership transition as Karrie Swain Davison was announced as the chamber's incoming president.
π Rio Grande men's volleyball spikes first win in dramatic home opener. The RedStorm secured a 3-1 victory over Bluefield University, bouncing back from early season struggles. Senior Daniel Bedoya led the charge with 18 kills, while freshman Daniel Rivas contributed 12 in the winning effort. The team showed resilience, particularly in the fourth set where they hit a match-best .440 and sealed their first triumph of the season. Rio Grande looks to build momentum as they head into the Rio Invitational Tournament this Friday.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Ohio Valley Christian (4-12) | ||
@ Parkersburg Christian | L 52-36 |
The Vikings squeaked past Cardington-Lincoln 50-43 in a nail-biter that had fans reaching for their blood pressure meds. River Valley (8-13) played spoiler to the Pirates' hopes of sailing above .500, dropping them to an even 10-10 on the season. Both teams will look to right their ships against fresh opponents later this week, though the Vikings might want to avoid any "clear" forecast with 17-3 Clear Fork looming on the horizon.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Gallia Academy (9-11) | ||
@ South Point | W 48-44 | |
River Valley (8-13) | ||
vs Cardington-Lincoln | W 50-43 | |
South Gallia (15-5) | ||
@ Oak Hill | W 57-16 | |
Ohio Valley Christian (4-1) | ||
@ Parkersburg Christian | W 56-32 |
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