Pike County • April 11, 2025
Good morning, Pike County. The sound of running shoes hitting pavement will echo through Ross County this weekend as The Buck Fifty relay race transforms local roads into pathways of determination and community spirit. While runners navigate their overnight journey from Ohio University Chillicothe, the 1920s will simultaneously roar to life on stage with "The Great Gatsby" at the Chillicothe Civic Theatre—offering two distinctly different ways to experience our region's vibrant culture.
Beyond these weekend happenings, remarkable stories of impact continue to unfold across our area. In Portsmouth, Joseph Pratt's "People of the Scioto Renaissance" column has spotlighted 27 local change-makers who quietly transform our communities, while Jackson County's child advocates are rallying support during National Child Abuse Prevention Month. From the dedicated staff at Jackson County JFS to everyday heroes creating safe environments for children, these efforts remind us that positive change often begins with neighbors caring for neighbors.
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🏃♀️ The Buck Fifty relay race takes over Ross County this weekend. Teams will begin leaving Ohio University Chillicothe at 1 p.m. on Friday, with runners traversing local roads throughout the night. Residents along the route are asked to secure their dogs for runner safety, and spectators can follow the race online or through Total Media's 740 Sports Show coverage. The weekend also features the Chillicothe Civic Theatre's production of "The Great Gatsby," bringing 1920s glamour to the stage from Thursday through Sunday.
📝 One writer's mission spotlights unsung community heroes in Portsmouth. Joseph Pratt's "People of the Scioto Renaissance" column has been celebrating local change-makers for nearly seven months, highlighting both behind-the-scenes volunteers and well-known figures who improve their community. The series showcases Portsmouth's impressive nonprofit network and downtown revitalization efforts that have been building for over 15 years. With 27 profiles completed and plans to extend beyond the original year-long commitment, Pratt aims to give visibility to those making a difference throughout Scioto County. The column has resonated with readers, generating thousands of shares and numerous messages of appreciation.
🛡️ Jackson County advocates unite to protect vulnerable children.During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, Jackson County JFS is raising awareness about child safety and protection. Director Tammy Osborne-Smith and her team attended a county commissioners meeting to highlight the effective prevention programs that create lasting positive outcomes for affected children. Community members are encouraged to participate in Wear Blue Day on April 9 and attend the United for Kids event on April 22 at ParksEdge Event Center. Osborne-Smith recognized her staff's tireless work in creating safe environments for local children while urging county residents to educate themselves on this critical issue.
The Unioto Shermans made short work of Piketon on Wednesday, blanking the Redstreaks 12-0 in a commanding league performance that left no doubt who was boss. Piketon's 3-2 record took a hit as they couldn't muster any offense against the Shermans' pitching staff. Both teams will look to bounce back quickly with non-league matchups tomorrow—Unioto taking on Chillicothe while Piketon tries to regroup against Dawson-Bryant.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Piketon (3-2) | ||
@ Unioto | L 12-0 | |
Eastern (1-4) | ||
vs Symmes Valley | L 9-0 | |
Waverly (2-2) | ||
vs Valley | L 1-0 |
Piketon squeezed past Unioto in a nail-biter, securing a 9-8 victory in Scioto Valley league action. The Redstreaks improved to 7-1 on the season, while the Shermans dropped to 2-4 and face undefeated Chillicothe next.Meanwhile, Valley Indians tamed the Waverly Tigers with a decisive 7-1 win in league play. The victory gives Valley (3-6) some momentum heading into their matchup with Portsmouth West, who coincidentally just defeated these same Tigers in their previous outing.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Eastern (4-3) | ||
vs Symmes Valley | L 7-4 | |
Piketon (7-1) | ||
@ Unioto | W 9-8 | |
Waverly (2-7) | ||
vs Valley | L 7-1 |
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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
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