Good morning, Gallia County. A remarkable transformation is unfolding at the University of Rio Grande, where President Ryan Smith's leadership has pushed enrollment to an all-time high of 2,600 students. Since taking the helm in 2019, Smith has implemented an affordability plan, doubled College Credit Plus participation, and tripled international student numbers—with a $12 million multiuse center in McArthur on the horizon for 2026. It's a rare success story in today's challenging higher education landscape.
The scales of justice have been busy as well, with Judge Margaret Evans sentencing eleven offenders to prison terms ranging from 11 months to over 16 years for crimes including fentanyl trafficking and assault on police officers. Meanwhile, sports enthusiasts can look forward to new recreational opportunities as Mason County approved the construction of two pickleball courts at Hannan High School—continuing an initiative that's already brought this increasingly popular sport to Point Pleasant and New Haven.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎓 Small Ohio university celebrates record growth under President Smith's leadership. The University of Rio Grande extended Ryan Smith's contract for five years after enrollment reached an all-time high of 2,600 students. Since becoming president in 2019, Smith implemented a Tuition Affordability Plan, doubled College Credit Plus enrollment, and tripled international student numbers. Campus improvements include renovated facilities, new housing, expanded athletic programs, and strengthened workforce partnerships with regional employers. A new $12 million multiuse center in McArthur is set to open in 2026, furthering the university's commitment to education and economic development in southern Ohio.
⚖️ Eleven offenders sentenced to prison in Gallia County, Ohio. The sentences, handed down by Judge Margaret Evans, ranged from 11 months to 16.5 years for various crimes including drug trafficking, child endangerment, and assault on a police officer. Among the most severe punishments, Kelli Richie-Johnson received 11-16.5 years for trafficking fentanyl, while Christopher VanMeter was sentenced to 11-14.5 years on multiple drug possession charges. Several individuals were imprisoned after violating the terms of their community control, including Matthew Athey who tested positive for methamphetamine while in treatment and Scott Dray who failed to comply with a protection order.
🏓 Mason County approves pickleball courts for Hannan High School. The Board of Education unanimously supported a proposal to construct two courts next spring or summer at no cost to the district. The project will be funded by the Mason County Commission and the Claflin Foundation, continuing their initiative that has already created courts at Point Pleasant and New Haven. During the meeting, the board also approved multiple personnel changes, policy updates, and a stipend increase for afterschool interventionists from $35 to $50 per hour. Additionally, they authorized the purchase of a $59,510 heating and cooling unit for Point Pleasant Jr./Sr. High School.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Historic Colonial River Town Steal: Priced at $310,000, this spacious 3,556 sq ft colonial in Gallipolis offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and abundant natural light on a quiet cul-de-sac, with 2023 hardwood floors and expansion potential in the full basement.
Renovated spacious country oasis: For $249,000, this recently renovated Green Township double-wide offers 2,232 sq ft with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, wood burner, detached garage, pool, and sits on 1.25 acres where nearly everything was replaced in the last four years.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Evaluate your subscriptions regularly and consider canceling those that you no longer use or find valuable; this simple act can free up extra money each month, which you can redirect towards savings or debt reduction.
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