Jackson County • July 1, 2025
Good morning, Jackson County. Charleston's historic Sternwheel Regatta is setting sail for its 54th celebration this summer, proving that big dreams can start small. What began in 1971 as a 13-year-old boy's pitch to the mayor has evolved into an award-winning festival featuring Carly Pearce, KC and The Sunshine Band, and Busta Rhymes. It's a heartwarming reminder that Nelson Jones' vision lives on, even after his passing in 2010, bringing joy to thousands each July.
Around the region, creativity takes many forms. In Parkersburg, a colorful snake painting serves as both street art and practical warning for pedestrians navigating uneven sidewalks. Meanwhile, Nelsonville faces an unusual governmental situation, with residents now able to file for special one-month council terms to bridge the gap before the new statutory government begins in January. The temporary positions highlight the complex transition as the city works to create new ward maps for its evolving structure.
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🗳️ Nelsonville faces a December without a city council. Residents can now file to run for special one-month terms to fill the gap when most current council members' terms expire on November 30. The unusual situation stems from last year's ballot initiative that abolishes the charter government at year's end, with the new statutory government starting January 1. Candidates cannot run for both the one-month term and the new two-year council positions beginning in January. Meanwhile, the city is working on creating ward maps for the new government structure, though current officials lack authority to approve them.
🚢 Charleston's historic Sternwheel Regatta returns for its 54th summer celebration. The beloved event, founded in 1971 by 13-year-old Nelson Jones, will run July 3-6 featuring performances by Carly Pearce, KC and The Sunshine Band, Busta Rhymes, and Jefferson Starship. What began as a simple sternwheel race pitched to the mayor has evolved into an award-winning festival, earning the 2022 Mountain State Award from West Virginia's Department of Tourism. Though founder Jones passed in 2010, his legacy continues as the Regatta remains a cherished summer tradition in Charleston.
🐍 Colorful snake painting warns pedestrians of uneven sidewalk in Parkersburg. The bright artwork on Washington Avenue serves as a creative safety measure for local residents navigating the sidewalk hazard. Photographer William Butler captured the whimsical solution, which was featured in the News and Sentinel. The newspaper encourages residents to submit photos showcasing the beauty of the Mid-Ohio Valley for possible publication. Images can also be viewed on the publication's Instagram account at parkersburg.news.and.sentinel.
Countryside fixer-upper needs love: This charming three-bedroom cottage with garage is listed at $122,500 on the edge of town, offering a country feel while remaining close to amenities—perfect for homeowners or investors willing to invest some TLC.
Wooded hunting paradise near lakes: For $359,900, this 3-bedroom ranch home sits on wooded acreage ideal for hunting, featuring a pole building, updated HVAC and roof, and proximity to Lake Katharine Nature Preserve and Hammertown Lake for outdoor recreation.
Old farmhouse awaits revival: Priced at $150,000, this rustic 1941 farmhouse sits on 7.08 acres in the Appalachian foothills near Jackson, offering countryside views and potential for restoration, though it's being sold "as-is."I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:13
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