Good morning, Gallia County. In an age when social media can spark panic with a single post, Sheriff Matt Champlin has stepped forward to set the record straight about a recent law enforcement operation. What was actually a carefully planned drug trafficking bust spanning multiple counties became the subject of unfounded immigration raid rumors, creating unnecessary fear throughout the community. His message is clear: verify information before sharing it online.
Meanwhile, two local initiatives are showcasing our community's commitment to service. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 23 celebrated a year of purpose under Rebecca Farley's leadership, awarding nearly $3,000 in scholarships and honoring 23 community partners. Across the river, Lawrence County's innovative "Fill the Freezer" program launches July 12, transforming fair-purchased livestock into vital protein for food pantries—addressing the sobering reality that 24% of local children face food insecurity.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
89%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎖️ American Legion Auxiliary Unit 23 celebrates service, installs new leadership. The Point Pleasant chapter recently held its annual meeting where Rebecca Farley was reinstalled as president alongside a full slate of officers for the 2025-2026 term. The unit honored the memory of member Diane Epling, welcomed eight new members, and recognized three Rhododendron Girls State participants who held leadership positions. Four scholarships totaling $2,750 were awarded to high school seniors, while 23 community partners received recognition for their support. President Farley reflected emotionally on a year filled with purpose and service, from hurricane relief efforts to membership activities that strengthened their bonds.
📱 Sheriff blasts social media rumors about ICE operation in Ohio. Gallia County Sheriff Matt Champlin clarified that a July 1 law enforcement action was targeting drug traffickers, not an immigration raid as falsely claimed online. The multi-jurisdictional operation involved months of planning across a tri-county, two-state region to combat regional drug distribution networks. Champlin expressed frustration that misinformation spread rapidly on social media, creating unnecessary fear throughout the community. He urged residents to verify information before posting, emphasizing that no ICE personnel participated in the operation.
🍖 Lawrence County fights hunger with innovative livestock donation program. The "Fill the Freezer" initiative, launching July 12 at the county fair, allows buyers to donate purchased animals for processing into meat for local food pantries. Partnering with Facing Hunger Foodbank, the Lawrence County Community Foundation aims to address the 18% food insecurity rate in the county, where 24% of children lack adequate nutrition. Of the 445,000 pounds of food distributed in Lawrence County last year, only 38,000 pounds was protein. The program hopes to replicate the success seen in six other counties that provided 25,000 pounds of meat to residents in 2024.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Wooded hunter paradise awaits: This secluded, heavily wooded acreage priced at $75,000 features mature trees untouched by harvesting for two decades. Property offers hunting potential, development possibilities, and perimeter road access.
Spacious country oasis with pool: This spacious brick home in Gallia County is listed at $310,000, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, an open-concept layout, upgraded kitchen with new appliances, and a stunning 2.16-acre property with pool and outbuilding.
Modern renovated open-concept bargain: This recently updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is on the market for $183,900, featuring new gutters, updated light fixtures, fresh paint, bathroom renovations, and modern flooring throughout its open-concept layout.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Take a close look at your spending habits by tracking where your money goes each month; this simple practice can help you identify areas for improvement and empower you to make more informed financial choices.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:13
|
|