🚌 Bus stop blues

Good morning, Jackson County. Traffic safety took center stage this week after a school bus carrying 35 Westfall students collided with a Kia Sorento at a Muhlenberg Township intersection. The May 16 incident, which sent multiple people to medical facilities including a child to Nationwide Children's Hospital, resulted in a citation for 64-year-old bus driver Arthur James Davis who reportedly failed to yield at a stop sign. The Ohio State Highway Patrol's investigation serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly routine commutes can turn dangerous.

Amid these challenging headlines, we also reflect on a life well-lived as the community remembers Jean West Henson, who passed peacefully at 86 in Dublin. The Ohio State graduate's 63-year marriage and passion for gardening, sunsets, and Elvis music created a legacy that continues through her husband Frank, three children, and the younger generations she adored. Those wishing to honor her memory can attend the May 30 service or contribute to Inniswood Volunteers Inc., where Jean's container gardening talents flourished.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Jackson

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Wellston

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Oak Hill

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Coalton

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Byer

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚌 School bus driver cited after crash injures multiple people. The incident occurred when 64-year-old Arthur James Davis failed to yield at a stop sign, causing his Motor Coach carrying 35 Westfall students to strike a Kia Sorento. Both drivers sustained injuries in the May 16 collision at Pherson Pike and State Route 56 in Muhlenberg Township, Ohio. A child from the bus was transported to Nationwide Children's Hospital, while the Kia driver was taken to a local medical facility. Ohio State Highway Patrol officials have confirmed Davis was cited for failing to yield the right-of-way.

🌸 Jean West Henson's 86-year journey ended peacefully in Dublin, Ohio. The Ohio State University graduate and beloved wife of 63 years passed away on May 21, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of family devotion. Jean is survived by her husband Frank, three children, two granddaughters, and a great-grandson who brought her immense joy. Her passions included beautiful gardens, vibrant sunsets, full moons, and Elvis music. A memorial service will be held on May 30 at Ferguson Funeral Home, with donations requested for Inniswood Volunteers Inc. where Jean cultivated her talent for container flower gardening.

Secluded Jackson custom home acres: Nestled on 1.23 private acres in Jackson, this $324,900 custom home features 1,498 square feet with 3 beds, 2 baths, a full unfinished basement, and energy-efficient 2x6 exterior walls.

Spacious country living steal deal: Priced at $129,900, this single-story home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and spacious living areas on a half-acre lot with fenced backyard, metal roof, and new furnace.

Vast ranch near nature preserves: This sprawling 74-acre ranch priced at $450,000 features a 3-bedroom home with full basement, a pole building, and potential for a second residence, all within minutes of Lake Katharine State Nature Preserve and Hammertown Lake.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🚜 May 30 - Spring Tractor Pulls: Rev up your engines for the Spring Spectacular Truck and Tractor Pulls! Feel the ground shake at 96 Meadow Run Rd, Wellston on May 30 - all the high-octane action for just $15 admission.

📚 May 30 - Books & Brews Discussion: Dive into Steinbeck's classic at Books & Brews Book Club! Discuss "Of Mice and Men" on May 30 at 21 Broadway St in Jackson. Grab a copy at the library or access the ebook through Hoopla.

🎓 May 31 - WHS '90 Reunion Bash: Wildcats of '90, reunite at The Patio Grubs & Suds on May 31! Catch up with old friends over good food and drinks in this casual, no-prepay gathering at this Wellston hotspot.

🏍️ May 31 - Flat Track Championships: Rev up for high-octane thrills at the Ohio Valley Flat Track Championships! Catch Round 1 of the 1/2 Fairground series on May 31 at Jackson County Fair in Wellston, Ohio.

🎣 May 31 - Kids Fishing Derby: Hook, line, and fun! Young anglers can cast their lines at the Kids Fishing Derby at Gallia County Fairgrounds on May 31, with registration opening at 10am. Hosted by local conservation groups.

🐐 May 31 - Summer Market & Menu Release: Sip into summer at Calming Goat Coffee CO's seasonal menu launch and market! Browse local vendors while enjoying fresh coffee creations on May 31 at 3104 Jackson Ave in Point Pleasant.

🏇 May 31 - Great Lakes Spring Classic: Saddle up for the Great Lakes Spring Classic at Henderson's Arena on May 31! This GVHS Points Approved Show brings equestrian excellence to Jackson with judges to be announced soon.

🎸 May 31 - Kent Jolly Unplugged: Experience Kent Jolly - Unplugged at The Pho Restaurant on May 31! Catch this talented musician in an intimate acoustic performance starting at 8pm at 259 Chillicothe St, Jackson.

💰 Financial Friday

Review your subscriptions and recurring expenses regularly; you might be surprised at how many services you’re paying for that you no longer use or need. A little financial spring cleaning can free up some funds for better investments or fun experiences.