Good morning, Pike County. The statistics are sobering: Scioto County once had Ohio's highest overdose death rate at 80 per 100,000 people, earning the painful designation as the "epicenter" of Ohio's opioid crisis. While community leaders like HopeSource founder Jay Hash continue fighting for adequate resources, the county finds itself caught in a frustrating settlement limbo—missing out on crucial funds as their case remains tied up in court, even as the state distributes $2 billion that many argue should better prioritize the hardest-hit communities.
On brighter notes, alumni connections are strengthening as the Jackson Ironmen Alumni Committee prepares for their May reunion festivities. Their April 3rd planning meeting at Jackson City Library will coordinate activities for the May 24th celebration, including "The Happening" after-party. Meanwhile, Scioto County drivers should prepare for early April road work, with a 90-day closure coming to Pond Run in Nile Township as bridge replacement work begins—a reminder that rebuilding takes many forms in our communities.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
💊 Portsmouth bore the brunt of Ohio's devastating opioid crisis. Scioto County, once dubbed the "epicenter" of the epidemic, had Ohio's highest overdose death rate for years, with 80 deaths per 100,000 people. Local officials and treatment providers argue the county deserves a larger share of the state's $2 billion opioid settlement funds, which currently prioritize total case numbers over per capita impact. While the county initially rejected the first settlement to pursue its own lawsuit for more money, it's now receiving some funds but missing out on others as its case remains stuck in court. Meanwhile, community leaders like HopeSource founder Jay Hash continue pushing for more prevention resources and recovery support in a community still rebuilding.
🎓 Jackson Ironmen Alumni Committee plans for May reunion events. The committee will hold its third meeting of 2025 on Thursday, April 3 at 6 p.m. in The Potter Room of Jackson City Library. Representatives from classes having special reunions this year are invited to coordinate participation in the May 24 alumni events. Activities include a 5:30 p.m. program at Jackson Middle School Auditorium followed by "The Happening" after-party from 7:30-10:30 p.m. at ParksEdge Event Center.
🚧 Scioto County announces road work and closures for early April. The Engineer's Department released their schedule for April 7-10, including lane restrictions on Junior Furnace-Powellsville Road where a bridge over US 52 remains partially open. Pond Run in Nile Township will be completely closed for approximately 90 days as contractors replace a bridge. County crews will be clearing right of way on Bracken Ridge Road and mowing several other routes throughout the county. Residents with questions can contact the engineer's office or visit their website.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Spacious countryside haven with animals: This quaint home near US 23 offers five bedrooms, barn space for animals, and a private recreational area behind the wood line, all for $245,000.
Countryside starter on 3.7 acres: For a mere $60,000, this 2-bedroom singlewide on 3.7 acres offers country living with new water heater and kitchen appliances—perfect as an investment or starter home, sold as-is.
Wooded lot with pond: Tucked away at the end of a lane, this serene wooded lot with a pond is on the market for $29,900. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or those looking to build their dream retreat.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🙏 In Remembrance
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🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.
-Proverbs 4:23
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