Good morning, Meigs County. Five stars don't just light up Hollywood's Walk of Fame - they're now shining brightly at OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital, which just joined an elite club of rural healthcare facilities. While some small-town hospitals across America are struggling to keep their doors open, our local medical team is proving that excellence knows no zip code, earning spots on both the Chartis Top 100 list and Medicare's highest honors.
Around campus, Ohio University's Senate chambers are buzzing with change faster than a TripShot shuttle. Between appointing their first-ever commuter student senator, mobilizing against controversial legislation, and tackling the eternal challenge of campus parking, it seems the only thing not in motion is Parkersburg's waste management situation - though Mayor Joyce might have something to say about that.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎓 Ohio University Senate tackles parking chaos amid construction disruption. Transportation officials presented plans to expand accessible parking and improve campus transit services, including new shuttle routes and the TripShot app for reservations. The Senate appointed its first-ever commuter student senator and an LGBTQIA+ representative during the session. Student leaders are mobilizing against Ohio Senate Bill 1, drafting legislation to condemn the anti-DEI measure. The body also formed a special committee to work with Athens' disability commission while promoting upcoming Women's History Month events.
🏥 Rural Ohio hospital joins elite ranks with prestigious five-star rating. OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital earned spots on both the Chartis Top 100 rural hospitals list and received the highest possible rating from Medicare and Medicaid Services. The facility also secured EPA Energy Star certification while undertaking a $17.2 million surgical renovation project. Their partnership with Nationwide Children's Hospital has already served hundreds through their new Close To Home Center. Hospital president LeeAnn Lucas-Helber credits their success to a dedicated team focused on making patients feel welcome and safe.
🗑️ Parkersburg mayor considers privatizing trash service amid financial strain. Mayor Tom Joyce revealed the city's sanitation fund required nearly $900,000 in subsidies over two fiscal years, prompting exploration of private waste collection options. The proposed 2025-26 budget includes a $4 monthly fee increase aimed at transforming a $160,000 deficit into a $100,000 surplus. While no formal privatization steps have been taken, the department faces staffing shortages with five vacancies and equipment challenges. The budget also includes a 4.2% pay raise for municipal employees, including sanitation workers whose role residents strongly defend.
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)
The Manchester Greyhounds unleashed a defensive storm against Southern, taming the Tornadoes 52-44 in a gritty non-league showdown. Now at 13-11, the Greyhounds will need all the momentum they can muster as they prepare to face the formidable 18-5 Notre Dame Titans.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Southern (17-7) | ||
vs Manchester* | L 52-44 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals | |
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Charming country retreat with acreage: This country hideaway, listed at $82,000, features a remodeled mobile home with three bedrooms and two baths, alongside 2.624 acres of serene land complete with decks for enjoying nature. It's offered AS IS, with most furnishings included and immediate possession available.
Expansive parcels with scenic views: This expansive property, listed at $76,000, features two easily accessible parcels with stunning Appalachian Foothill views and abundant deer activity, making it perfect for secluded building sites. Drone videos are also available for a closer look.
Serene rural land near amenities: Discover 4.55 acres of serene rural land listed at $50,000, conveniently located near Athens and Gallipolis, with utilities easily accessible for your dream home or getaway.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday |
TIPS PRESENTED BY Farmers Bank |
Explore the world of budgeting by tracking your spending for a month; this can help you understand your financial habits and identify areas where you can easily cut back, paving the way for more savings and smarter spending.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb |
PRESENTED BY Northbend Church |
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-Romans 8:38-39
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