🌊 Rivers and revamps

Good morning, Gallia County. Move over, Manhattan - Point Pleasant, West Virginia just pulled off a tourism feat that would make even Times Square jealous. This tiny riverside town managed to draw a whopping 270,000 visitors last year, proving that sometimes the biggest attractions come in small packages. With 66 visitors for every resident, they're giving Disney World a run for its money in the crowds-per-capita department.

Meanwhile, back on our side of the river, Gallipolis is dreaming big with a $29 million makeover that would make any HGTV host proud. Between waterline replacements and riverfront transformations, our city planners are plotting the kind of glow-up that could have neighboring towns taking notes. And yes, pickleball courts are in the mix - because apparently, we're all living in 2024's hottest sports trend.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Gallipolis

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34°

Rio Grande

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Vinton

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Cheshire

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Crown City

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35°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

📈 Tiny West Virginia town draws massive crowds, stunning tourism experts. Point Pleasant welcomed over 270,000 visitors in 2024, marking a 10.4% increase from the previous year - the highest jump of any West Virginia main street. The riverside town attracted 66 visitors for every resident, leading the state in per-capita tourism. Only larger cities Wheeling and Morgantown saw more total visitors throughout the year. The popular Mothman Festival contributed significantly to these numbers, drawing approximately 15,000 people to the historic downtown area.

🏛️ Ohio city's budget soars to $29M for ambitious transformation projects. The Gallipolis City Commission reviewed plans for two major initiatives: an $8 million waterline replacement and a $9 million riverfront improvement project. Half of the waterline project will be funded through grants, while the remainder will be covered by an interest-free loan. The city is also moving forward with smaller projects, including new pickleball courts and a splash pad, supported by $100,000 grants each. With operating costs rising, city officials emphasize the need to pursue additional grants and explore new revenue sources.

Prime lot near Gallipolis Airport: This prime 4-acre lot is listed at $275,000 and is conveniently located near Gallipolis/Meigs Airport. It offers an excellent opportunity for development off Eastern Avenue/State Route 7.

Cozy home with seasonal views: This charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home at 174 Sanders Dr. is listed for $179,900 and features an open-concept layout, a cozy stone fireplace, and a spacious lot with stunning seasonal views. Join the open house this Sunday from 1 pm to 3 pm.

Modern comfort in Gallia County: This move-in ready home in Gallia County, Ohio, is listed at $180,000 and features modern updates like a new kitchen, updated bathrooms, and fresh paint throughout, making it perfect for families or anyone seeking comfort close to town.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🖤 Feb. 21 - Black History Illuminated: Discover untold stories and rich cultural heritage as Marcia Harris illuminates Black History at Portsmouth's Scioto County Public Library on February 21st. A fascinating journey through time that shouldn't be missed.

🎵 Feb. 21 - Columbia Music Arena Live: Rock out at the historic Columbia Music Arena in Portsmouth! Local and touring bands take the stage February 21st for an electrifying night of live music at 832 Gallia Street.

🎲 Feb. 21 - Game Night Showdown: Game enthusiasts unite at Scioto County Public Library's Board Game Day! Roll the dice and make new friends in the Meeting Room at 2:30 pm on February 21st, at 1220 Gallia Street in Portsmouth.

❄️ Feb. 21 - Indoor Snow Fun Time: Experience winter wonder without the chill at Scioto County Library's Indoor Snow Day! Join us February 21 for snowy sensory play, cool games, and cozy stories at our Portsmouth branch.

🎨 Feb. 21 - Tween Frame Art Workshop: Let your creativity shine at Wheelersburg Library's tween frame-painting party! Join us February 21st to decorate your own wooden 4x6 picture frame with all supplies provided at 10745 Gallia Pike.

💼 Feb. 21 - Business & Cloverbuds Meeting: Join fellow community members for the February Business Meeting and Cloverbuds gathering at Morning Dawn Lodge in Gallipolis. Connect and engage with neighbors on February 21st at this welcoming Third Avenue venue.

🙏 Feb. 22 - Evening Worship Service: Lift your spirit at our welcoming Evening Worship Service on February 22nd at 2328 Alice Rd in Vinton. Join your neighbors for a time of heartfelt praise and community connection.

🩸 Feb. 23 - Blood Bought: Join Blood Bought for an evening of fellowship and worship at their Valley View Drive location in Crown City, Ohio this February 23rd. Bring your family and friends for this uplifting community gathering.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider establishing an emergency fund that covers three to six months' worth of living expenses; this cushion can provide peace of mind and financial security in case of unexpected events or changes in your income.