Good morning, Pickaway County. Mark your calendars for July 19, 2025, when the Chillicothe VA Medical Center transforms into a celebration central for our veterans. From morning 5K runs to evening fireworks, this free day-long tribute offers something for everyone who wants to honor those who served. The contrast between this upcoming celebration and the somber news of Mark Whaley's sentencing for crimes against a child reminds us that our community experiences both light and shadow.
In the woods, a different story is unfolding as youth turkey hunting numbers have taken a dramatic dive across north central Ohio. With Richland County reporting less than half its usual harvest and similar declines in surrounding areas, local hunting traditions appear to be facing challenges. Whether you're planning to attend the veterans' celebration, heading out for spring turkey season, or simply staying informed about local happenings, there's plenty happening in our corner of Ohio.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🇺🇸 Veterans to be honored at Chillicothe VA's day-long celebration. The 17th Annual Veterans Appreciation Night on July 19, 2025, will transform the Chillicothe VA Medical Center campus into a hub of activities honoring those who served. Beginning with a morning 5K and continuing with live bluegrass music, free food, resource fairs, and historical tours, the celebration culminates in a Chillicothe Paints baseball game and fireworks show. All events are free, with registration available by phone or email, making this community tradition accessible to veterans, their families, and supportive community members.
🦃 Youth turkey hunting numbers plummet across north central Ohio. The state's special youth-only hunting weekend saw 1,740 birds checked by hunters aged 17 and younger, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Richland County saw the most dramatic decline, with just 12 turkeys taken—less than half the three-year average of 27. Ashland and Knox counties also reported decreased numbers compared to previous years. Spring turkey hunting for all ages opens April 19 in the south zone and May 3 in the northeast zone, with hunters required to have valid licenses and permits.
⚖️ Child rapist sentenced to over 15 years in prison. Mark E. Whaley, a 53-year-old Circleville man, received a 15.5 to 21.5-year prison sentence after being convicted of rape, compelling prostitution, and gross sexual imposition involving a minor. The case began when a juvenile victim reported multiple assaults to school officials in late 2024, providing physical evidence that helped investigators build their case. During questioning, Whaley initially tried to blame the victim before eventually admitting to having sexual contact with the minor. Following a three-hour jury deliberation, Whaley was found guilty and immediately remanded to jail to begin serving his sentence.
⚾ Baseball Scoreboard
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Circleville (6-2) | ||
@ New Lexington | W 8-3 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Modern Luxury Meets Classic Styles: Listed at $406,900, this two-story Findlay home offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and second-floor laundry, with elevation options including traditional, farmhouse with full porch, or craftsman with stone accents.
Turnkey pond view condo: Listed at $225,000, this turnkey one-story condo offers 1104 sq ft with 2 beds, 2 baths, granite kitchen, and a three-seasons room overlooking a pond, plus community amenities for larger gatherings.
Budget beauty near downtown: This tidy one-story home near downtown with two bedrooms is listed for $223,000, featuring an updated kitchen, charming bathroom, and covered porches that make it ready for immediate occupancy.🙏 In Remembrance
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🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.
-Psalm 23:1-3
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