🎨 Crosswalk canvas

Good morning, Jackson County. The streets of Athens are getting a splash of color thanks to Ohio University student Lauren "Wren" Denny, whose vibrant salmon mural "The Migration" now transforms a local crosswalk. This talented young artist, who got a head start on college through the Credit Plus program, brings her distinctive style exploring movement and identity to public spaces while pursuing dual majors in Studio Art and Animation—proving that our region continues to nurture remarkable creative talents.

Meanwhile, Athens County has streamlined its land transfer rules with revised conveyance standards now available on the auditor's website, bringing welcome clarity to everyone involved in local real estate transactions. In more concerning news, authorities continue searching for Chad Polen, a 48-year-old Stark County man whose abandoned Honda was discovered in a remote area of Mountwood Park. Despite a two-day search effort, investigators have found no sign of Polen since his June 19 disappearance.

🌤 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

🎨 Young artist's vibrant salmon mural transforms Athens streets. Ohio University student Lauren "Wren" Denny's artwork "The Migration" was selected through a community-voted contest for a prominent crosswalk in Athens. The talented artist began her college journey early through the College Credit Plus program, which helped her enter university as a sophomore pursuing dual majors in Studio Art and Animation. Mentored by professors and artist Troy Sayers since age 10, Denny has developed a distinctive style exploring themes of movement, identity and girlhood. Her ultimate dream is to work in film and animation, bringing her visual storytelling talents to larger audiences.

📝 Athens County updates land rules for clearer property transfers. The revised conveyance standards, effective June 30, aim to improve consistency and clarity for everyone involved in real estate transactions in the county. County Auditor Jill Davidson worked with County Engineer Jeff Maiden to develop the standards after gathering public input through two hearings. The updates clarify requirements for land contracts and legal descriptions while maintaining state-defined exemptions for family transfers. The comprehensive standards document is now available on the county auditor's website for public reference.

🔍 Ohio man's abandoned car found, but no sign of him. Chad Polen, 48, from Stark County was reported missing on June 20 after last being seen leaving his home on June 19. His blue Honda Accord was discovered days later in a remote area of Mountwood Park in Wood County. Despite a two-day search by deputies and first responders, Polen remains missing with no suspicious items found in or around his vehicle. Authorities from both Wood County Sheriff Department and Perry Township Police continue investigating the disappearance, with no foul play suspected at this time.

Blank canvas for dreamers: This starter property at a very accessible $10,000 is the blank canvas of real estate. Perfect for creative buyers who want to build their dreams from scratch or those who prefer to imagine all possibilities.

Secluded wildlife retreat massive acreage: Priced at $465,000, this 58-acre Jackson County retreat offers seclusion with a 2-bedroom ranch home, pole barn with living quarters, livestock facilities, abundant water sources, and borders Liberty State Wildlife Area.

Huge estate close to town: Priced at $635,000, this sprawling 6-bedroom home nestled on 6.8 private acres features custom ash woodwork, a finished daylight basement with a large bar, and a screened porch, all just minutes from town.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏃 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 for this festive morning race starting at 9:00 AM. Registration: $30-35.

🏇 Jul. 5 - Henderson's Arena Showdown: Saddle up for exciting rodeo action at Henderson's Arena in Jackson on July 5! Join the TBD added money event co-sanctioned with OH04 at 800 Van Fossan Rd.

🏇 Jul. 6 - Henderson's Arena Showdown: Saddle up for some serious competition at Henderson's Arena on July 6! This co-sanctioned event offers $1500 in added money, bringing together riders from OH03, OH04, and OH06 districts in Jackson.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider automating your savings by setting up regular transfers to a high-yield savings account; this simple step can help you build an emergency fund without the temptation to spend that money first.

🙏 In Remembrance

Calvin Jenkins

Calvin Jenkins, 88, of South Webster, Ohio, passed away on July 2nd, 2025, at SOMC Hospice after battling dementia. Born in 1936 to George and Stella Jenkins, he is survived by his wife Barbara of nearly 60 years, two daughters, six grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter Joyce Matthews. A graveside service will be held on July 7th at C.M. Cemetery in Oak Hill, with memorial donations requested to the funeral home in lieu of flowers.