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🌈 Hope in hardship

Jackson County • December 31, 2024

Good morning, Jackson County. In an age where headlines often highlight technological marvels, a heartbreaking reminder of life's fragility has struck our community. The tragic loss of a 15-month-old girl in Gallipolis has left local authorities searching for answers, while our tight-knit community holds its collective breath, waiting to understand how such a precious life could be lost so soon.

Yet even in somber times, glimpses of hope shine through. At WVU Parkersburg, teenagers are building more than just 3D printers - they're constructing their futures. And speaking of bright futures, Parkersburg's own Isaac Boles is showing how small-town values can lead to global impact, serving with distinction in the Navy's medical command in Italy. From local workshops to international waters, our community's spirit continues to reach far beyond our borders.

🌀 Sky Skoop

JacksonWeather Icon
38Β°
51Β°
rain 88%
WellstonWeather Icon
39Β°
51Β°
rain 84%
Oak HillWeather Icon
38Β°
51Β°
rain 88%
CoaltonWeather Icon
39Β°
51Β°
rain 84%
ByerWeather Icon
39Β°
51Β°
rain 84%

β˜•οΈ What's Brewing Locally

πŸ‘Ά Tragic mystery surrounds death of toddler in small Ohio town. Police and emergency responders in Gallipolis discovered a 15-month-old girl deceased after receiving a distressing call about a child not breathing at a Portsmouth Road residence. The incident, which occurred Saturday afternoon around 2 p.m., prompted an immediate response from local authorities and the Gallia County Coroner's Office. The child's body has been sent for autopsy to determine the cause of death. Police Chief Jeff Boyer is leading the investigation, though details remain limited as the case unfolds.

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πŸ”§ Teens build their own 3D printers at innovative West Virginia academy. WVU Parkersburg hosted a three-day Teen 3D Printing Academy where participants aged 12-17 learned the fundamentals of 3D printing technology. For $150, each student received their own 3D printer, supplies, and membership to the Teen Makers Club - a value that instructor Kurt Knopp notes exceeds the course fee. The program aims to spark entrepreneurship, with Knopp emphasizing how accessible 3D printing has become with consumer printers now available for around $200. Students like 17-year-old Ka'Niyah Ford and 12-year-old Elias Brainard expressed enthusiasm about learning to design and create their own objects using this technology.

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πŸŽ–οΈ Parkersburg native serves in Navy's medical command in Italy. Petty Officer 2nd Class Isaac Boles, a 2013 Parkersburg South High School graduate, is currently stationed at U.S. Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Sigonella. After earning his bachelor's degree from Ohio Valley University, Boles is now pursuing a master's at West Virginia University with plans to become an officer. Drawing from his small-town West Virginia roots, Boles credits his success in the Navy to the values of humility, hard work, and character judgment he learned growing up. His story exemplifies how local values can translate into global service, as he applies these principles to build relationships and lead effectively in his military role.

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🍁 Learn to make liquid gold at Ohio's maple syrup workshop. The hands-on program, scheduled for January 24th at Canter's Cave 4-H Camp near Jackson, will teach participants everything about backyard maple syrup production. Attendees will learn practical skills including tree tapping, sap handling, boiling techniques, and proper syrup packaging during the four-hour afternoon session. The $25 workshop, running from 12:30-4:30pm, includes refreshments and comprehensive materials for aspiring syrup makers. The event is backed by an impressive coalition of forestry and conservation organizations, including Ohio State University Extension and the U.S. Forest Service.

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πŸ€ Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)

TeamOpponentScore
Jackson Ironman/Ironladies Logo Jackson Ironman/Ironladies
@ Adena
L 47-27
Wellston Golden Rockets Logo Wellston Golden Rockets
@ Point Pleasant
L 55-39
Oak Hill Oaks Logo Oak Hill Oaks
vs Green
L 47-5
@ River Valley
L 45-25

🏑 Real Estate Reveals

Wooded land ideal for recreation

This residentially zoned property is listed at $55,000 and offers an exciting opportunity for a new home site with 8.5 acres of wooded land that’s perfect for hunting and recreation. Situated just outside Jackson, this property provides convenient access to water and electricity, and all owned mineral rights will transfer to the buyer.

Fixer-upper with huge garage

This charming fixer-upper, priced at $69,900, features a two-story layout with four spacious bedrooms and aluminum siding. Nestled in a great location, it boasts a large 224x30 garage and a wonderful fenced-in yard, perfect for those ready to roll up their sleeves and transform this diamond in the rough into a cozy home.

Rustic cabin near wildlife paradise

Nestled in a serene, remote country setting, this Amish-built, log-style cabin features 2 bedrooms and 1 bath across 768 sq ft, seamlessly blending rustic charm with modern amenities. The property offers abundant wildlife, a shooting range, extensive trails, and convenient access to the vast Coalton Wildlife Area, all for a list price of $199,999.

πŸ™ In Remembrance

Eric S. Kern

Eric S. Kern, born on July 26, 1969, passed away at 55 on December 18, 2024, after a long illness. He is survived by his three children, parents, siblings, numerous nieces and nephews, and a close friend, Angela Hale. A U.S. Navy veteran and longtime restaurant worker, Eric enjoyed classic rock, fishing, and the Clemson Tigers. He wished for cremation and a private service for his immediate family. Arrangements are being handled by Lewis & Gillum Funeral Home in Oak Hill.

Eric S. Kern

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in meβ€”put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

-Philippians 4:9

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