Jackson County • July 24, 2025
Good morning, Jackson County. The music of blues legends will soon fill the summer air as Pomeroy's Big Bend Blues Bash celebrates its 25th anniversary August 1-2. This silver jubilee brings headliners like The Band Feel and Jackie Venson to the riverside stage, continuing a tradition that not only entertains but funds free summer concerts throughout the region—proving that sometimes the best community investments come with a soundtrack.
Meanwhile, contrasting stories of accountability are unfolding across our area. The Fourth District Court has upheld major fentanyl trafficking convictions, keeping significant offenders behind bars until nearly 2030. In education circles, Trimble schools face a watershed moment as they seek their first levy in half a century to address an $11 million deficit. The proposed 1% earned income tax would generate $665,000 annually while sparing retirees—a critical decision that residents will face at November's ballot box.
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⚖️ Ohio appeals court upholds major fentanyl trafficking convictions. The Fourth District Court rejected challenges from Vandonte Duncan and Jose Miguel Myers, who were convicted on serious fentanyl-related charges in Gallia County. Duncan, found with over 40 grams of fentanyl, received a 6-9 year sentence with his release expected in 2029. Myers, convicted for possessing nearly 18 grams of fentanyl, was sentenced to 7-10½ years with release anticipated in 2030. Prosecutor Jason Holdren praised the decisions, noting they keep significant drug traffickers behind bars.
💰 Trimble schools seek first levy in 50 years amid fiscal emergency. The district board unanimously approved putting a 1% earned income tax on November's ballot to address an $11 million deficit. The proposed five-year levy would generate approximately $665,000 annually and only affect earned income, sparing retirees. While some community members expressed concerns about accountability for the financial crisis, others rallied behind the proposal, fearing school closure. Without the levy, residents were warned they would end up paying taxes to whatever district absorbed Trimble's students.
🎸 Pomeroy's Big Bend Blues Bash celebrates silver jubilee with stellar lineup. The two-day festival, running August 1-2 at the Riverside Amphitheater, features regional and national acts including headliners The Band Feel and acclaimed R&B artist Jackie Venson. Organized by the volunteer-run Pomeroy Blues & Jazz Society, the event raises funds for free summer concerts while bringing blues, roots, and rock music to Southeast Ohio. Attendees can enjoy food vendors and artisan shopping in historic downtown Pomeroy, with primitive camping options available nearby.
Mysterious home needs details: This modest property is available for $129,900, though the listing provides no details on its features or amenities. Potential buyers will need to contact the agent for more information about what this mysterious home has to offer.
Wooded hunting retreat needs well: Secluded hunter's paradise listed at $99,900 offers wooded property with cleared paths, an enclosed tree stand, electricity, septic, and space for trucks and campers, though a new well is needed.
Farm paradise awaits homesteaders: Priced at $200,000, this charming 17-acre mini farm offers country living with a cozy 3-bedroom home, detached garage, carport, and picturesque pond—perfect for homesteading or simply enjoying rural tranquility.Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall. But those who walk righteously and speak what is upright, who reject gain from extortion and keep their hands from accepting bribes, who stop their ears against plots of murder and shut their eyes against contemplating evil.
-Isaiah 40:30
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