Good morning, Jackson County. In a time when inflation headlines dominate the news, Ripley city leaders are putting their money where their values are. The unanimous vote for maintenance staff pay raises - pushing wages up to $33.50 per hour - shows that some communities still believe in investing in the people who keep our cities running. It's a refreshing reminder that local government can make real differences in working families' lives.
Meanwhile, our winter wonderland is serving up two very different stories of dedication: At Jackson Park, families are creating memories on the beloved sledding hill, while across town, technician Hayden Hatmacher braves the cold to expand vital internet infrastructure. Whether it's work or play, Jackson County folks know how to make the most of a snow day.
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69% ☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🌐 Technician braves winter weather to expand vital internet infrastructure. Hayden Hatmacher of GloFiber Business (formerly Verizon) was spotted installing high-speed fiber lines near the Porterfield Community Building in Chillicothe. The new connection will extend from Colegate Drive to serve the Memorial Health System Belpre Medical Campus. When questioned about storm-related repairs, Hatmacher clarified this was a planned expansion project, separate from recent winter storm recovery work. The installation represents ongoing efforts to enhance digital connectivity for critical healthcare facilities in the region.
🏛️ Small West Virginia city approves notable pay raises for maintenance staff. The Ripley City Council unanimously approved salary increases for several maintenance department employees, with positions now ranging from $17 to $33.50 per hour. The council also greenlit a five-year elevator maintenance contract and received updates on the community's "Movin' in May" wellness program, which attracted 80 participants to its recent reboot event. New activities planned include beach volleyball, Games for Grownups, and Mommy and Me Yoga sessions. The meeting concluded with the allocation of remaining ARPA funds to the Utility Board for future storm drain projects.Note: I chose to focus on the pay raises as the lead since it represents concrete municipal action affecting multiple employees and taxpayer funds. The emoji represents local government/civic matters. The summary maintains the key facts while condensing multiple meeting items into a clear, flowing narrative.
⛄ Winter wonderland comes alive at Jackson Park's popular sledding hill! Local families are making the most of recent snowfall in the Mid-Ohio Valley by flocking to the recreational hotspot. The News and Sentinel captured the seasonal fun through photos submitted by community member Melissa Packer. The newspaper is actively encouraging residents to share their own snapshots of regional winter beauty through their Instagram page and email submissions. The initiative aims to showcase the Mid-Ohio Valley's natural charm while fostering community engagement during the winter months.
🏀 Basketball Schedule Slam (Girls)
| Team | Opponent | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|
 Jackson Ironman/Ironladies | ||
| vs Miami Trace | 1/11 @ 7:00pm | |
| @ McClain | 1/15 @ 7:00pm | |
 Wellston Golden Rockets | ||
| @ Gallia Academy | 1/11 @ 12:00pm | |
| vs Alexander | 1/13 @ 6:30pm | |
| vs River Valley | 1/15 @ 6:30pm | |
| vs Paint Valley | 1/16 @ 6:30pm | |
 Oak Hill Oaks | ||
| vs Northwest | 1/13 @ 7:15pm | |
| @ Clay | 1/15 @ 6:30pm | |
| @ South Gallia | 1/16 @ 6:00pm |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Budget-friendly dream home potential
This property is listed for $89,000 and offers a blank canvas for your imagination. While the details are sparse, there’s plenty of potential to create your dream space in this budget-friendly opportunity.
Secluded oasis with rustic appeal
This charming home, listed at $289,900, features stunning pine floors, multiple fireplaces, and a custom design that exudes warmth and character. Nestled on 9 secluded acres, the property offers a serene lifestyle with a covered porch overlooking beautiful landscaping, a stream, and a 24x36 pole barn that can accommodate various uses—perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
This charming home is listed at $289,900 and offers a prime location just one minute off US Highway 35, making it perfect for commuting to Chillicothe or Jackson. With four bedrooms, three full baths, and a host of recent upgrades including a new roof, HVAC system, and modern finishes, this property is move-in ready and further enhanced by a welcoming covered porch ideal for enjoying fall views.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Consider setting up an automatic savings plan that transfers a portion of your paycheck into a savings or investment account; this way, you can effortlessly build your wealth over time without the temptation to spend those funds first.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
-Proverbs 3:5-6