Pike County • May 2, 2025
Good morning, Pike County. May at Ohio University Chillicothe brings a homecoming story that embodies the power of education. Dr. Stacey Saunders-Adams—alumna, professor, hostage negotiator, and advocate for sexual assault survivors—returns to deliver the commencement address on May 1st. Her journey from student to keynote speaker represents the full-circle moment many graduates aspire to achieve as they prepare to don their caps and gowns at the Shoemaker Center.
Meanwhile, both legislation and local athletics are making waves across the region. The Ohio Senate has passed regulations for hemp-derived THC beverages, establishing age restrictions and excise taxes while the bill moves to the House. On the track, Waverly's teams are dominating competitions with impressive performances—the boys and girls squads both claimed Zane Trace Invitational titles, with standout Paige O'Bryant collecting multiple first-place finishes in sprints and jumps.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🎓 Ohio University alumna returns to deliver commencement keynote at Chillicothe campus. Dr. Stacey Saunders-Adams, an associate professor of social work and the 2024 OHIO Chillicothe Woman of Distinction, will address graduates on May 1st. Beyond her academic achievements, she has an impressive record of community service, including founding a sexual assault survivor advocacy program and serving as a hostage negotiator. Dr. Saunders-Adams, who began her own journey at Ohio University, expressed excitement about sharing perspectives with the graduating class. The ceremony will take place at 6pm in the Shoemaker Center.
🌿 Ohio Senate passes bill to regulate intoxicating hemp products. The legislation, sponsored by Senators Wilkin and Huffman, establishes rules for hemp-derived THC beverages that can be sold to adults 21 and older. These low-dose cannabinoid drinks will be permitted in dispensaries, breweries, bars, restaurants, and carry-outs, with manufacturers paying a $3.50 per gallon excise tax. The bill aims to protect consumers from dangerous unregulated products while prohibiting sales to minors, with violators facing serious penalties. Senate Bill 86 now moves to the Ohio House for further consideration.
🏆 Waverly track teams dominate in recent meets, sweeping Zane Trace titles. The boys team won with 121 points while the Lady Tigers claimed victory with 114 points at the Zane Trace Invitational. Paige O'Bryant led the girls with multiple first-place finishes in the 100m dash, 200m dash, and long jump, while distance runners Jeremiah Miller and Gabe Clifton secured key victories for the boys. Both teams have been consistently strong performers, with multiple relay victories and impressive individual placements across hurdles, jumps, and distance events throughout several recent competitions.
The Westfall Mustangs corralled a nail-biting 3-2 victory over the Piketon Redstreaks in Wednesday's Scioto Valley showdown. The win improves the Mustangs to an impressive 10-4 as they prepare to host Southeastern, while Piketon (4-10) looks to regroup against Dawson-Bryant in their upcoming non-league tilt.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Piketon (4-10-1) | ||
@ Westfall | L 3-2 | |
Waverly (7-6) | ||
vs Wheelersburg | L 4-1 |
Piketon's bats were hotter than a Fourth of July sparkler as they overwhelmed Westfall 16-3 in Wednesday's league showdown. The Redstreaks continued their impressive campaign, improving to 16-2 while the Mustangs fell to 9-7 and will look to regroup against Chillicothe next time out.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Piketon (16-2) | ||
@ Westfall | W 16-3 | |
Waverly (5-12) | ||
vs Wheelersburg | L 11-1 |
Lake ready three level retreat: Priced at $249,900, this Lake White Area home offers three levels of living space, a detached garage, and easy access to the lake for fishing or boating—all move-in ready for the new owner.
Rustic woodland fixer upper: For $139,900, this rustic 6.4-acre property offers a blend of woods, pasture, and a stone-layered stream abundant with wildlife. The sizeable house needs significant repairs but presents various opportunities for investors.
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-2 Timothy 1:7
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