Good morning, Meigs County. Fifty years is a remarkable streak by any measure, but that's exactly how long Trimble schools have operated without asking voters for additional funding. Now facing an $11 million deficit, the district has unanimously approved placing its first levy since the 1970s on November's ballot – a 1% earned income tax that would generate $665,000 annually while sparing retirees' fixed incomes from any increases.
Meanwhile, the rhythm of summer continues along the Ohio River as Pomeroy's Big Bend Blues Bash celebrates its impressive 25-year milestone on August 1-2. The volunteer-run festival will bring national acts like The Band Feel and Jackie Venson to the Riverside Amphitheater while raising funds for free summer concerts. Across the river, Mason County schools are tackling modern challenges with policy updates that would allow students to keep phones – provided they're turned off during class time – while investing in cutting-edge virtual reality training for career center students.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
💰 Trimble schools seek first levy in 50 years amid fiscal crisis. The school board unanimously approved placing a 1% earned income tax on November's ballot to address an $11 million deficit. The five-year levy would generate $665,000 annually and only affect earned income, sparing retirees. Community members expressed concerns about accountability for the financial mismanagement but ultimately rallied behind saving their district. Officials warned that if the school closes, residents would pay taxes to other districts anyway – potentially at higher rates.
🎵 Pomeroy's Big Bend Blues Bash celebrates 25 years of soulful sounds. The two-day festival, scheduled for August 1-2 at the Riverside Amphitheater, will feature an impressive lineup of regional and national blues, roots, and rock performers. Friday's headliner is The Band Feel from St. Louis, while acclaimed R&B artist Jackie Venson will close out Saturday's performances after a full day of music. Organized by the volunteer-run Pomeroy Blues & Jazz Society, the event raises funds for free summer concerts while offering attendees food vendors, artisan shopping, and primitive camping options in the charming Ohio River town.
🏫 Mason County school board tackles phones, policies, and major purchases. The board discussed adding a landline at Hannan Junior/Senior High School due to poor cell reception that could hamper emergency response. Multiple policy changes were approved, including rules for personal electronic devices that would allow students to have phones if turned off during instructional periods. The board also accepted several staff resignations and approved a $46,500 purchase of a virtual reality training system for the career center. Community member Donna Duke advocated for additional resources at Hannan, including more electives, sports funding, and facility improvements.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Affordable acre with updated roof: This cozy 3-bedroom home with a fresh metal roof sits on nearly an acre of land, offering modern interiors and convenient access to Route 7—all for $185,000.
Remodeled ranch dream with acreage: Listed at $419,000, this ranch-style home in Pomeroy sits on 2.9 acres and features a remodeled interior with custom live edge accents, a dream kitchen with quartz countertops, and three spacious bedrooms with walk-in closets.
Rural hunter's paradise on acreage: Priced at $324,900, this 3-bedroom rural Ohio retreat sits on nearly 19 acres with hunting amenities, wildlife viewing, wrap-around porch with sunroom, and detached garage—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking privacy.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🙏 In Remembrance
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🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
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
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