🏭 Winds of change

Good morning, Pike County. From industrial transitions to renewable energy debates, the winds of change are blowing through our region this week. Former "growth manager" Jack Everson has stepped forward to clear the air about the Chillicothe paper mill situation, debunking rumors and confirming that Pixelle has been showing the historic facility to potential operators without restrictions—a promising sign for the future of this community cornerstone.

Meanwhile, Geronimo Power's solar projects have sparked a $73 million economic windfall for Ross and Fayette counties, though not without controversy as rural communities raise concerns about land use. On a brighter note, Waverly High School is celebrating an exceptional athletic season, with standouts like Paige O'Bryant competing at state level in track and the boys basketball team clinching nail-biting victories. The Tigers' impressive performances across multiple sports showcase the remarkable talent developing in our local schools.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Waverly

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Piketon

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Beaver

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Latham

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Stockdale

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

📄 Ross County Commissioner brings corporate expertise to paper mill crisis. Former "growth manager" Jack Everson clarified his role in managing industrial changes, contrary to previous "hatchet man" reports. In a detailed interview, Everson addressed concerns about the historic Chillicothe paper mill, which has been operated by Pixelle Specialty Solutions since 2018. He debunked rumors of a non-competition clause that would prevent other paper companies from taking over the facility. Everson confirmed that Pixelle has been giving site tours to potential paper mill operators without restrictions.

☀️ Ohio's solar boom sparks $73 million windfall and heated debates. Geronimo Power has launched operations at Ross County and Fayette solar projects, projecting significant economic benefits over 20 years including $29.5 million in new tax revenue. Despite promises of environmental gains—offsetting 4.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide—the projects face growing resistance from rural communities concerned about land use and local control. Several townships have enacted zoning bans as lawmakers consider legislation giving counties more authority to veto renewable energy developments. Geronimo has responded with community outreach efforts, including a "Solar Harvest Festival" to highlight benefits while acknowledging the ongoing tensions.

🏆 Waverly athletes shine across multiple sports in standout season. From track stars like Paige O'Bryant competing at the state level to thrilling basketball victories where the boys team celebrated a nail-biting 51-49 win over Jackson, Waverly High School's 2024-2025 athletic program showcased remarkable talent. The football team made an impressive playoff run, defeating Fairfield Union 28-21 in the Division IV regional playoffs. Student-athletes also excelled in wrestling, baseball, softball, tennis, and cross country, demonstrating the school's competitive spirit across a diverse range of sports.

Fixer-upper on wooded paradise: Country charmer for $139,900 offers 6.4 acres of wooded paradise with a stone layered stream and abundant wildlife. The house needs major repairs but the land's combination of woods and pasture presents many possibilities.

Spacious wooded ranch updated throughout: Priced at $189,900, this pristine 3-bedroom ranch offers 1,430 square feet of updated living on 3 wooded acres, featuring cathedral ceilings, a kitchen with center island, and spacious owner's suite with walk-in closet.

Rural fixer-upper near creek: This $89,000 property in Pike County offers a gutted 3-bed, 1-bath home on 1.75 acres with creek access, garage, and utilities already in place—perfect for buyers seeking a rural renovation project.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

📝 Jun. 20 - Pike County Petition Drive: Join the SB1 Petition Drive Thru at Lake White State Park on June 20th from 4:30-6:30pm! Make your voice heard against restrictions on "controversial" subjects while participating in this community protest event.

🎂 Jun. 20 - Beast & Bottle's 7th Anniversary: Raise your glass at Beast and Bottle's 7th Anniversary bash! Catch the Shelby Lore Band's free show on Friday night at 106 S Market St, Waverly, as they kick off this milestone celebration on June 20.

🐎 Jun. 20 - OHC SW Regional Ride: Saddle up for the 2nd Annual OHC Southwest Regional Ride at Pike State Forest! Enjoy 50 beautiful miles of trails and primitive creekside camping on June 20 in Bainbridge. Free entry with unlimited water available.

🔧 Jun. 20 - 3rd & 4th Year Apprentices: Calling all 3rd & 4th Year Apprentices! Join the next Apprenticeship Class at Boilermakers Local 105 in Piketon on June 20. Advance your skills at 4561 US-23 and take the next step in your career.

🎸 Jun. 21 - Country Rock Medical Gala: Dust off your blue suede shoes for the 2025 Adena Pike Medical Center Gala at Twin Lakes Resort! This country-rock themed celebration promises a diamond-bright evening of fun on June 21.

🎵 Jun. 21 - Kevin Spencer Gospel Concert: Catch Southern Gospel sensation Kevin Spencer live at Pike County Fair and Fairgrounds on June 21! This acclaimed vocalist brings his soulful sounds to Piketon for an evening of uplifting music and heartfelt performances.

🤝 Jun. 21 - The Gathering 3.0: Join the community at Pike County Fair and Fairgrounds for the 3rd Annual "The Gathering" on June 21. Come experience this summer celebration at 311 Mill St, Piketon, OH.

🎬 Jun. 21 - West Union Movie Night: Grab your popcorn and join the community for Movie Night on June 21 at 911 Old Cincinnati Pike in West Union! Enjoy films, meet neighbors, and experience the magic of cinema together.

💰 Financial Friday

Explore the benefits of automating your savings by setting up regular transfers to your savings account; this way, you're less tempted to spend extra cash and more likely to reach your financial goals without even realizing it.