Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Jackson County / June 23, 2025

🤝 Second chance success

Jackson County • June 23, 2025

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Good morning, Jackson County. From rock bottom to redemption, Kenneth Jarrett's journey through addiction to recovery reminds us that second chances can transform lives. His story of overcoming a 22-year battle that began with prescription pills showcases the impact of Jackson County Drug Court and supportive communities like Breath of Life Recovery—proving that even the most difficult paths can lead to healing and reconciliation.

Meanwhile, inclusion takes center stage at Camp Joy, where First United Pentecostal Church of Ravenswood is creating meaningful church experiences for those with special needs through tailored services and thoughtful accommodations. In athletic leadership news, the WVSSAC is strengthening its executive team with three accomplished educators joining the ranks. Dr. Jaclyn Swayne, Chris Wells, and Jason Bankston bring decades of combined experience to support interscholastic activities across West Virginia.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🌟 From pain pills at 14 to drug court victory at 36. Kenneth Jarrett's journey through addiction began with a prescription following wrist surgery, leading to years of substance abuse, dishonesty, and strained family relationships. After facing a felony charge that landed him in jail, Jarrett received an unexpected opportunity to join Jackson County Drug Court, which became his pathway to recovery. With support from both the program and his newfound church family at Breath of Life Recovery, he has reconciled with loved ones and now aims to help others struggling with addiction. "I want to be part of the change," says the Ripley, West Virginia graduate.

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♿ Camp Joy creates special church experience for those often excluded. The First United Pentecostal Church of Ravenswood hosted its second annual Camp Joy, a three-day camp ministering to people with special needs. Led by Crystal Johnston, the camp offers tailored services, games, crafts, and relationship-building opportunities for campers while providing headsets and reset rooms for those who become overstimulated. The program, part of ABLE ministries, also includes dedicated sessions supporting parents and caregivers. Though the location remains undetermined, Camp Joy will return June 18-20, 2026, continuing its mission of inclusion.

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🏆 WVSSAC adds three key leaders to its executive team. Dr. Jaclyn Swayne and Chris Wells have been appointed as Assistant Executive Directors, while Jason Bankston will serve as Director of Compliance, all beginning July 1. Swayne brings 21 years of experience from Kanawha County Schools, most recently as principal of St. Albans High School. Wells joins from Ritchie County High School where he was principal and athletic director, while Bankston previously managed one of the state's largest athletic programs at Cabell Midland High School. Incoming Executive Director Wayne Ryan expressed confidence that the trio's diverse skills will enhance the organization's mission of supporting West Virginia's interscholastic activities.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Countryside ranch close to town: This charming $239,000 ranch home features 3 bedrooms, hardwood floors, and a picture window bringing the countryside in, all on nearly an acre with a massive garage close to town.
Real estate listing image Secluded acreage wildlife haven ready: This secluded 27.226-acre plot in Jackson and Gallia counties is available for $115,000, offering potential for a homesite or cabin with wildlife access, a new gravel driveway, and nearby utilities.
Real estate listing image Modern Ranch luxury wooded retreat: Priced at $390,000, this serene Ranch home sits on a peaceful wooded lot with three bedrooms, modern kitchen featuring granite countertops, and luxurious amenities including a hot tub, above-ground pool, and whole house generator.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

💦 Jun. 23 - Summer Water Aerobics: Make a splash at Hillcrest Pool's Summer Water Aerobics! Dive into this donation-based fitness class that's gentle on joints while delivering a cardio burn. Join the fun at 122 E Huron St on June 23.
🐐 Jun. 24 - Preschool Petting Zoo Fun: Tiny animal lovers rejoice! Traveling Acres Petting Zoo brings furry friends to Wellston Library for our Preschool Summer Reading Program on June 24. Perfect for ages 3-5. No registration needed!
🍽️ Jun. 25 - A-Plant Workers Benefit Lunch: Former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant workers: Grab a free pizza lunch at LaRosa's in Jackson on June 25 while learning how to maximize your White Card benefits under the EEOICPA program.
⛳ Jun. 27 - Chamber Annual Golf Outing: Tee off for community fun at the Jackson Area Chamber Annual Golf Outing 2025! Join local businesses and golfers on June 27 at Franklin Valley Golf Course for a day of networking and friendly competition.
🎸 Jun. 27 - Corduroy Brown Live: Catch soulful Corduroy Brown live at Rowdy's Smokehouse in Jackson on June 27th! Grab your tickets now for an evening of great music and smoky flavors starting at 7:00 PM.
🎸 Jun. 27 - Joey D LIVE: Catch versatile solo artist Joey D as he brings his multi-genre musical magic to Wellston! DUBV Entertainment presents this live performance on June 27 at 114 S Ohio Ave. Don't miss it!
🚲 Jun. 28 - Jackson County Bike 5K: Pedal through Jackson at the 2nd annual Bike Day 5K! Meet at Eddie Jones Park on June 28 at 9am for a community ride around the city, sponsored by Jackson County Forward.
🎆 Jun. 28 - Jerry's 4th Celebration Bash: Kick off Independence Day early at Jerry & Janelle's celebration on Webb Pierce Rd! Bring chairs, tents, and good vibes for a night of live music from Thirsty Pony Band and spectacular fireworks on June 28.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

-2 Timothy 1:7

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