Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Gallia County / April 16, 2025

🚓 Virtual police academy

Gallia County • April 16, 2025

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Good morning, Gallia County. Law enforcement recruitment just got a high-tech boost in Mason County with a $40,000 police simulator that puts teens in officers' boots. Starting April 30, students from three local high schools can experience realistic scenarios on a massive 100-inch screen—perfect timing as the county anticipates increased demand for officers amid ongoing development projects. This hands-on approach could spark careers while addressing future workforce needs in an innovative way.

Meanwhile, creativity is forging new connections across the region. Four vocational schools are hammering out West Virginia's heritage in steel for Nucor's sculpture contest, with public voting closing Friday. And for those planning summer entertainment, the Mason County Fair just announced gospel powerhouses Sidewalk Prophets and American Idol's Megan Danielle will join country stars Sara Evans and Kelsey Hart for six days of "fun, food and more" this August.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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👮‍♂️ Mason County's new police simulator gives teens a taste of law enforcement. The $40,000 investment features a 100-inch screen with realistic scenarios like traffic stops and home entries. Launching April 30 at the Mason County Career Center, the simulator will serve students from three local high schools. County officials hope this hands-on experience will inspire young people to pursue careers in law enforcement. The initiative comes as Mason County anticipates increased demand for officers due to ongoing development projects and industrial growth.

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🔨 Students forge West Virginia history in steel sculpture contest. Nucor Steel West Virginia has organized the Ken Iverson Project, inviting four vocational schools to create sculptures celebrating the state's heritage. Each school had four months to design pieces with names like "Explore West Virginia" and "Roots of the Mountain State." Public voting is open until Friday at 6 p.m. through an online form, with Nucor planning to announce winners within the next month. The contest coincides with Nucor's construction of a $4 billion sheet steel mill near Apple Grove, expected to be completed in late 2026.

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🎵 Mason County Fair adds gospel stars to its star-studded lineup. Sidewalk Prophets and American Idol runner-up Megan Danielle will headline Gospel Night on August 5 at the 63rd annual fair in West Virginia. The six-day event (August 4-9) features an impressive mix of entertainment, including country artists Sara Evans and Kelsey Hart, plus traditional fair attractions like tractor pulls and livestock shows. Fair board member James Wilson encourages attendees to follow their Facebook page for schedule updates and ticket information for what promises to be days of "fun, food and more."

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Hilltop ranch with neglected pool: Priced at $284,900, this lovely raised ranch on a 1.69-acre hillside offers a nicely remodeled kitchen, three bedrooms, a cozy family room, and an 18x36 inground pool that hasn't been opened for about 4 years.
Real estate listing image Budget-friendly updated brick ranch home: Affordable brick ranch on Gallia Street asking $145,000 features 3BR/2BA with stylish updates including laminate floors, turquoise kitchen cabinets, primary suite, and mature backyard trees.
Real estate listing image Secluded private haven awaits buyers: This secluded haven is listed at $665,000 and offers a beautiful, private property where you can escape from the world and enjoy your own peaceful retreat.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🥎 Apr. 18 - Gallia vs Fairland Softball: Cheer on the Fairland Lady Dragons as they face Gallia Academy in an exciting varsity softball showdown! Catch all the conference action at Fairland High School this Friday at 5:30pm.
⚾ Apr. 18 - Gallia vs Ironton Baseball: Catch the diamond action as Gallia Academy visits Ironton for an exciting varsity baseball conference matchup! Head to 1701 S 7th St this Friday, April 18 at 5:30pm to cheer on the home team.
🍖 Apr. 18 - Sam Eplin & BBQ: Groove to live music with Sam Eplin while savoring mouthwatering BBQ from Smoke'Em Up at Twisted Vine Family Vineyard! Join the fun on April 18th at 1375 Carter Rd, Patriot.
🛍️ Apr. 19 - Sip & Thrift Spring: Treasure hunters unite at "Sip & Thrift - Spring Edition" at The Colony on April 19! Browse curated seasonal finds while shopping locally—save time and gas with this delightful pop-up thrift experience in Gallipolis.
🎵 Apr. 19 - Hayley Live @ Winery: Catch the soulful sounds of Hayley live at Merry Family Winery on April 19! Sip local wines while enjoying an evening of captivating music at 2376 OH-850 in Bidwell.
🐰 Apr. 19 - Community Easter Egg Hunt: Hop over to Vinton Community Park on April 19 for the Community Easter Egg Hunt! Pinnacle Church brings candy, free food and drinks, and maybe even the Easter Bunny himself for kids of all ages.
🎵 Apr. 19 - Live Music: Evie Schaffer: Groove to Evie Schaffer's live tunes while savoring delicious eats at The Colony on April 19. Stop by 418 2nd Ave in Gallipolis for this perfect pairing of food and melody!
🥞 Apr. 19 - Men's Breakfast Fellowship: Fuel your faith at Men's Fellowship Breakfast with guest speaker Brad Bird on April 19. Gather for good food and conversation at 11504 OH-588, Bidwell. Cover your own meal. Info: 740-517-0630.

🙏 In Remembrance

Michael Darin McFarland

Michael Darin McFarland, 57, of Bidwell, Ohio, passed away on April 12, 2025, after a long illness. A Marshall University archaeology graduate with a passion for Native American culture, he also taught GED courses through the ABLE Program at Buckeye Hills Career Center. Michael was known for his brilliance, wit, and compassion, as well as his love for music, 70's TV shows, reading, and dogs. He is survived by his parents Sandra and Charlie McFarland, his wife Stephanie Sprague, and several extended family members. A Gathering of Friends will be held on April 17, with donations to animal shelters requested in lieu of flowers.

Michael Darin McFarland

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

-Galatians 6:9

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