Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Gallia County / July 15, 2025

🏗️ Steel vs streets

Gallia County • July 15, 2025

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Good morning, Gallia County. The stark contrast between progress and deterioration is playing out along West Virginia's Route 2, where a massive $4 billion Nucor steel mill rises alongside a highway that locals describe as "literally crumbling." With hundreds of tractor-trailers expected daily once operations begin, the revelation that repaving won't happen in 2025 has left community members questioning priorities for this vital transportation corridor.

Meanwhile, summer entertainment is kicking into high gear with the return of the authentic Rafter M Rodeo on July 21, bringing bronco riding, bull riding, and the crowd-favorite mutton busting for the little ones. Country music fans won't want to miss "The Voice" winner Bryce Leatherwood, who brings his soulful sound to the Jackson County Junior Fair on July 22. The rising star, who considers West Virginia "like home," will be available for autographs after performing hits like "Still Learning."

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🛣️ Crumbling West Virginia highway raises alarm as Nucor mill rises. The deteriorating condition of W.Va. Route 2 in Mason County has become a major concern as Nucor builds its $4 billion steel mill along the highway. School bus driver Wes Bowen describes the road as "literally crumbling," while local officials worry about safety risks from increasing traffic. Despite Governor Morrisey's pledge to prioritize road repairs, the highway department confirmed Route 2 won't be repaved during the 2025 construction season due to ongoing Nucor work. With expectations of 200-300 daily tractor-trailers once the mill opens, local leaders question why fixing this vital corridor isn't a higher priority.

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🤠 Rafter M Rodeo returns to thrill Jackson County fairgoers. The beloved event kicks off July 21 at 7 p.m., featuring classic competitions like bronco riding, bull riding, and barrel racing. Children under 55 pounds can participate in the popular mutton busting challenge with parental approval. What makes this rodeo special is its authenticity—nothing is staged, and participants come from both the local area and across the country. The American Pro Rodeo Association and International Pro Rodeo Association sanctioned event promises entertainment for everyone with lively announcers and clowns keeping the energy high.

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🎤 Country star Bryce Leatherwood brings his voice to Jackson County. The 2022 winner of "The Voice" will perform at the Jackson County Junior Fair on July 22 at 8 p.m. Mentored by Blake Shelton, Leatherwood describes West Virginia as feeling "like home" with its welcoming, family-like atmosphere. He plans to perform popular songs like "Still Learning" and credits his faith in Christ as his "cornerstone." Fans can meet the young country artist after the show for autographs.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Flood-prone cozy brick dwelling: $202,500 fetches a well-maintained 3-bed, 2-bath brick home with updated kitchen, modern bathrooms, and spacious deck, though buyers should note it sits in a FEMA-designated floodplain.
Real estate listing image Vintage craftsman with pool: This charming 1920 craftsman home with original features and modern upgrades is listed at $265,000. Situated on a double city lot, it boasts hardwood floors, built-ins, a full basement, and an 18x32 pool with deep end.
Real estate listing image Gallipolis ready home huge yard: This move-in ready home in Gallipolis City School District is listed at $164,900, featuring a 2022 roof, new flooring, finished back deck, and spacious backyard with shelter house ideal for entertaining.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Jul. 15 - Welsh Studies Conference 2025: Celebrate three decades of Welsh scholarship at the NAASWCH Conference 2025! Join fellow enthusiasts at University of Rio Grande on July 15 for this milestone international gathering after the pandemic pause.
🎸 Jul. 17 - Hot Summer Concert Series: Groove to the rhythm at Hot Summer Nights as Blue Moves takes the stage at French Art Colony! Just $5 gets you in for live music, drinks, and delicious food truck eats on July 17.
🎵 Jul. 18 - Emmy Davis Live: Join country sensation Emmy Davis for an intimate evening of soulful melodies at Twisted Vine Family Vineyard on July 18. Doors open at 7:00 PM for this summer night under the stars.
🎸 Jul. 19 - Jesse Crawford Summer Concert: Sip your favorite vintages while Jesse Crawford serenades at Merry Family Winery on July 19! Celebrate summer with great music and delicious wine at this charming Bidwell venue.
🍷 Jul. 19 - Brent's Solo @ Twisted Vine: Catch Brent's soulful sounds at Twisted Vine Family Vineyard on July 19! Enjoy a free evening of live music surrounded by the beautiful vineyard setting at 1375 Carter Rd, Patriot.
🌽 Jul. 19 - Community Farmers Market: Join us for Community Resources Day at MSPIB Farmers Market! Browse local vendors while connecting with community services on July 19 at the Roy Rogers Esplanade in Portsmouth.
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Jul. 20 - Welsh Heritage Week: Celebrate Welsh culture at University of Rio Grande during Welsh Heritage Week 2025! Join the festivities on July 20th for traditional music, dance, and cultural displays that honor Wales' rich traditions.
👪 Jul. 20 - Family Tree Workshop: Uncover your roots at "Genealogy at the Gee" on July 20! This hands-on workshop at 48 Pine St, Gallipolis helps you trace your family history with ease. No ancestry experience needed!

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.

-Psalm 23:1-3

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