Good morning, Pike County. After nearly two centuries of operation, the historic Pixelle paper mill will close its doors for good on August 10, marking the end of an industrial era that has shaped Chillicothe since the mid-1800s. While operations relocate to Pennsylvania, local officials are rallying to support the affected workforce through resource centers and an upcoming job fair—a community response that highlights the resilience needed during economic transitions.
Meanwhile, alarming safety concerns echo through Ohio's prison system, with Representative Mark Johnson citing shocking statistics of 1,800 drug overdoses among 2,100 inmates at Ross Correctional Institution. As his proposed "Andy's Law" aims to restore order within facility walls, Pike County residents might find smoother travels ahead thanks to extensive roadwork. With ODOT tackling three major highways and the Countywide Paving Program already improving 747 roads, summer's construction inconveniences promise long-term transportation benefits.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
📄 Historic Ohio paper mill announces final shutdown date: August 10. Pixelle Specialty Solutions is closing its Chillicothe facility despite efforts from state officials to find a buyer. The mill, which has operated since the mid-1800s, will relocate most operations to Pennsylvania as the company cites declining orders and increasing employee departures. Governor DeWine and Senator Moreno had previously criticized the decision as "aggravating" and "corporate greed." A resource center and upcoming job fair have been established to help affected workers transition to new employment.
🔒 Ohio prisons face dire safety crisis, lawmaker warns. Representative Mark Johnson claims security is "out of control" in state facilities, particularly at Ross Correctional Institution. His proposed "Andy's Law" follows the Christmas Day murder of prison staffer Andrew Lansing by an inmate. Johnson highlighted alarming statistics of 1,800 drug overdoses among 2,100 prisoners at RCI within a year, suggesting widespread contraband smuggling. The legislation aims to implement stronger safeguards to protect both staff and inmates while restoring order within prison walls.
🛣️ Scioto County roads get massive summer makeover. The Ohio Department of Transportation is working on three major roadways including State Route 823, U.S. 52, and State Route 335, with various completion dates expected. County Engineer Darren LeBrun's office is implementing the Countywide Paving Program, which has already improved 747 roads and will surpass 800 by 2025. The Shelly Company won the $3.95 million bid for this summer's work, covering asphalt, milling, and other road improvements. Additionally, emergency repairs are underway on Feurt Hill and Clinton Furnace Road, with the former requiring a $3 million project expected to be completed by Thanksgiving.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Fixer-upper on paradise acreage: Opportunity alert for land lovers: $139,900 gets you 6.4 acres of country paradise with wildlife and a stone-layered stream. The house needs serious TLC but has potential for those willing to put in the work.
Rural renovator awaits vision: This rural "blank canvas" property in Pike County offers 1.75 acres with creek access, a 1.5-car garage, and all utilities for $89,000—just bring your renovation vision to the gutted 3-bed, 1-bath home.
Sprawling woodland dream home: Priced at $599,000, this expansive 4,656 sq.ft. woodland retreat offers five bedrooms and four baths on 5.3 acres, featuring a stocked pond, multiple entertainment decks, and a cozy stone fireplace.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🙏 In Remembrance
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🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
-Philippians 4:6
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