🎵 Rhythm rising

Good morning, Jackson County. The sound of young voices belting out "Shake, Rattle & Roll" filled Ravenswood High School last week as sixteen talented performers took their first steps toward stardom at the inaugural Rhythm on the River music camp. Under professional guidance, these budding artists mastered choreography and vocal techniques in just three days—proving that our county's musical future is in remarkably capable hands. With plans to expand next year, this cultural bright spot is hitting all the right notes for our community's youth.

Meanwhile, after two decades of steady leadership that grew annual grants and scholarships to nearly $4 million, the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation will bid farewell to Fred Rader when he retires in late 2025. The search for his successor begins as the organization celebrates his legacy of fiscal innovation. In less celebratory news, local deputies responded to an unusual emergency when a man accidentally shot himself in the leg on a bike path—just one incident in a colorful police blotter that included everything from copperhead sightings to missing trash can concerns.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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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

🎵 Young performers shine at inaugural Rhythm on the River music camp. Sixteen students spent three days learning stage presence, choreography, and vocals from professional instructors at Ravenswood High School. Under the direction of Renee Knapp and team, campers showcased their talents with performances of "Shake, Rattle & Roll" and "Turn the Beat Around," earning "Future Star" certificates and special recognition awards. The camp was so successful that organizers hope to expand next year, potentially adding programs for younger children and instrumental sections. "Encouraging and exposing them to music at a young age is so important," noted Knapp.

🏢 Parkersburg Community Foundation director announces retirement after 20 years. Fred Rader will step down from the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation & Regional Affiliates at the end of 2025, prompting a search for his successor. Under Rader's leadership, the Foundation implemented cost-saving measures like solar panels while growing assets and grantmaking resources to nearly $4 million annually in grants and scholarships. Board Chair Tom Whaling praised Rader's "exemplary job" during a period of transition, noting he was only the sixth Executive Director in the organization's 62-year history. The Foundation has hired The Benefactor Group from Columbus, Ohio to conduct a national search for the next leader.

🔫 Man accidentally shoots himself in the leg on bike path. Deputies from the Athens County Sheriff's Office were able to stabilize the injured man before he was transported by emergency medical services. The police blotter also included reports of suspected narcotics, multiple break-ins under investigation, and a neighbor dispute over mailbox placement. Other incidents ranged from a loose dog chasing cattle to a copperhead snake sighting, with deputies finding no snake upon arrival. A concerned citizen even reported his missing trash can in case he was "framed" for improper disposal.

Spacious country home plus barn: This well-maintained $335,000 home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and multiple living spaces on 1.5 acres, with added perks including a 2-car garage, pole barn, new heat pump, and potential for future building on the second lot.

Micro mansions on orchard acres: Priced at $129,900, this cozy 536-square-foot home on 3.36 private acres features upgraded amenities, high ceilings, and a bonus tiny home for guests, all nestled in a former apple orchard setting.

Modern acreage near Jackson: Priced at $529,900, this completely transformed home at 523 Oakland Rd sits on 24 acres with a new roof, garage doors, and modern finishes throughout, featuring an open-concept layout and additional outbuildings just minutes from Jackson.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏺 Jul. 1 - Portagree Pottery Workshop: Get your hands dirty with Portagree Pottery at our K-5th Grade Summer Reading Program! Join owner Tabitha on July 1 for a creative clay adventure at 227 S New York Ave in Wellston.

🇺🇸 Jul. 1 - Office Closed for Holiday: Gallia Extension Office takes a patriotic pause for Independence Day! Doors reopen July 7 at 8am, just in time for Shooting Sports Judging. Plan your visits accordingly at 111 Jackson Pike, Gallipolis.

🏺 Jul. 2 - Teen Pottery Workshop: Get your hands dirty with Portagree Pottery at our Teen Summer Reading Program! Teens in grades 6-12 can create unique clay masterpieces with owner Tabitha on July 2 at Wellston Public Library.

🎆 Jul. 3 - Jackson Independence Day Celebration: Light up the summer sky at Jackson's Independence Day Celebration! Join the evening parade and festivities at Manpower Park on July 3, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.

🏃 Jul. 4 - Freedom Fest 5K Run: Kick off Independence Day with the exhilarating Freedomfest 5K Run/Walk at Manpower Park in Jackson! Lace up your patriotic sneakers and join the community celebration on July 4 at 9:00 AM.

🏇 Jul. 5 - Henderson's Arena Showdown: Saddle up for some thrilling rodeo action at Henderson's Arena in Jackson on July 5! This TBD added money event is co-sanctioned with OH04, promising an exciting day of competition at 800 Van Fossan Rd.

🏇 Jul. 6 - Henderson's Arena Showdown: Saddle up for big winnings at Henderson's Arena's co-sanctioned rodeo event with $1500 added money! Join the action on July 6 at 800 Van Fossan Rd in Jackson, OH.