Good morning, Meigs County. In an era when healthcare costs dominate headlines, thirteen dedicated surgical tech students just wrote their own success story at Buckeye Hills Career Center. After conquering a rigorous 1,342-hour program across twelve regional hospitals, these graduates aren't just earning pins - they're stepping into life-changing careers that our community desperately needs. Leading the pack, Nicholas D'Angelo's academic excellence and Kaitlyn Walters' groundbreaking early placement are setting new standards of achievement.
Meanwhile, from sawdust to success, Ohio Valley Timber has grown from humble roots into a thriving enterprise that's giving the big box stores a run for their money. Who knew that mulch, firewood, and river rock could build not just structures, but stronger community connections? Their commitment to supporting local events and maintaining hometown pricing proves that in Meigs County, business growth and community spirit go hand in hand.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
👨⚕️ Thirteen surgical tech students earn their pins in life-changing ceremony. The Buckeye Hills Career Center graduates completed an intensive 1,342-hour training program, including hands-on experience across 12 regional hospitals. Nicholas D'Angelo led the academic achievements, winning both highest GPA and first-semester clinical awards, while Kaitlyn Walters made history as the program's first early placement student. The ceremony featured heartfelt speeches, multiple award presentations, and ended with graduates becoming eligible for national certification. Enrollment for the next cohort opens in February, continuing the program's twice-yearly schedule.
🏟️ School stadium renovation bids shock officials with $5.4M lowest offer. The Wood County Board of Education in Parkersburg received three bids for their high school stadium project, far exceeding their $2M budget allocation. Project architects had estimated costs around $3.5M, but demolition expenses were significantly underestimated according to Pickering Associates CEO Ryan Taylor. The board must now decide whether to accept one of the current bids or restart the design process at their January 28 meeting. In related district news, boundary changes are being planned for 2025-26, including the closure of Fairplains Elementary and Van Devender Middle School.
⚖️ Wood County courtroom sees flurry of arrests and arraignments. Multiple defendants faced serious charges in Wood County Magistrate Court during the first week of January, including a $400,000 bond for malicious assault. Cases ranged from DUI and shoplifting to domestic battery and burglary charges, with bonds varying from $500 to $50,000. Several defendants reached plea agreements, resulting in fines, suspended jail sentences, and probation terms. Most notable cases included third-offense shoplifting, multiple domestic battery charges, and unauthorized delivery of items to inmates. The court also handled numerous traffic violations and insurance-related offenses across Parkersburg and surrounding areas.
🌲 Local timber company grows into one-stop shop for building materials. Ohio Valley Timber has evolved from its 2006 roots as a simple timber operation to become a comprehensive supplier of construction and landscaping materials across Beverly and Belpre, Ohio. The company offers everything from mulch and firewood to drainage products and river rock, with competitive prices matching big box stores. Their natural mulch sells for $25 per yard while colored variants go for $45, and they maintain strong relationships with local townships, churches, and schools. The business gives back to their community by donating materials to local fairs and 4-H events, serving customers from two convenient locations with flexible hours.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals | |
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Tri-level home near nature retreat
This charming tri-level home in Pomeroy, OH, is listed at $215,000 and offers a blend of comfort and nature with a backyard surrounded by woodland, perfect for evening gatherings. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and an updated kitchen, this property also features both attached and detached garages on a desirable .5483-acre lot.
Spacious home on expansive land
This charming three-bedroom home, listed at $199,999, features new carpet and paint, a spacious detached two-car garage, and a lovely back patio. Nestled on 10.2 acres of mostly cleared land with three new water taps and ample road frontage, the property includes opportunities for off-grid living, camper parking, and storage or hobby space, while also offering a potential income stream with rental possibilities.
This charming 1930 two-bedroom, one-bath home, listed for $130,000, combines vintage appeal with modern updates on a spacious 0.71-acre lot. With new vinyl siding, septic system, and water line, it features stylish farmhouse accents, a small garage, and a back deck, all conveniently located off US 33.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday |
| TIPS PRESENTED BY Farmers Bank |
Take a moment to track your monthly expenses with a budgeting app; this simple habit can illuminate spending patterns, helping you identify areas where you can cut back and contribute more towards your financial goals.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb |
| PRESENTED BY Northbend Church |
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
-Joshua 1:9