🐾 Pup protection program

Good morning, Pike County. The face of pet care is changing across Ohio as Ross County's animal services secure vital funding for dog spaying through the Ohio Pets Grant. This initiative isn't just helping shelter animals—it's extending to community members who meet income guidelines, creating what officials call "a win all around" by reducing unwanted litters. Next time you renew your license plates, that Ohio Pet Plate option actually directs funds to shelters statewide.

Meanwhile, local real estate is experiencing significant shifts as Ross County home prices dropped 16.4% in April, with the median home selling for $174,650—bucking the statewide trend of rising prices. On a brighter note, the Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library has secured a $10,000 grant to enhance accessibility for disabled patrons, continuing their mission to ensure "the library really is for everybody." Community members are invited to share project ideas at the July 30th conversation at Northside Library.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Waverly

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91°

Piketon

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91°

Beaver

71°

89°

Latham

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86°

Stockdale

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89°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🐾 Ross County animal services secure vital funding for dog spaying. The Ross County Humane Society and Dog Warden received additional money through the Ohio Pets Grant to help dogs in their care get spayed. This funding will also assist community members who meet income guidelines and are encountered by the dog warden during routine work. The initiative aims to reduce unwanted litters ending up in shelters, creating a "win all around." Ohio residents can support similar efforts by selecting the Ohio Pet Plate when renewing their license plates, directing funds back to shelters statewide.

🏠 Ross County home prices plummet in latest market report. The median home sold for $174,650 in April, down 16.4% from March and 3% lower than April 2023. Single-family home prices specifically dropped 17.8% month-over-month, with no million-dollar sales recorded during this period. Despite the local decline, Ohio's overall housing market showed strength with median prices rising to $230,000 statewide, representing a 2.2% increase from March. Total recorded sales in Ross County decreased slightly by 1.3% compared to the previous year.

📚 Chillicothe library wins $10,000 to boost accessibility for disabled patrons. The Chillicothe & Ross County Public Library was selected among 300 libraries for the Libraries Transforming Communities grant initiative. Executive Director James Hill emphasized this funding will help ensure "the library really is for everybody." Previous grant money was used to install accessible doors and universal changing tables in the Main Library Annex. The library invites community members with disabilities and their supporters to share project ideas at a July 30th conversation at Northside Library.

Secluded hunter paradise big bucks: A 64-acre hunting tract in Southern Ohio is available for $189,500, offering a mix of dense cover and food plots in a secluded location known for trophy whitetail bucks and successful hunting seasons.

Relocatable rustic tiny log home: This charming log tiny home built in 2019 offers cozy living with rustic charm at a list price of $55,000, though buyers should note it requires relocation from its current rented campground lot.

Fixer-upper with countryside stream: A rural land opportunity priced at $139,900 features 6.4 acres of beautiful countryside with wildlife and a stone stream. Property includes a sizeable house requiring significant renovation.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

💪 Jul. 15 - Overcomers Support Group: Find strength and community at the Overcomers Group, meeting July 15 at 535 E 2nd St in Waverly. Join neighbors supporting each other through life's challenges in this welcoming local gathering.

📚 Jul. 15 - Apprenticeship Classes 1st/2nd: Boilermakers sharpen their skills! First and second-year apprenticeship classes meet at Boilermakers Local 105 in Piketon on July 15. Advance your career in this essential trade at 4561 US-23.

📚 Jul. 16 - Apprenticeship Classes (1st/2nd): Calling all apprentices! Boilermakers Local 105 hosts 1st & 2nd Year Classes on July 16 at their Piketon location. Sharpen your skills and advance your career at 4561 US-23.

👥 Jul. 17 - Mid-Lifers Meetup: Connect with fellow mid-lifers for friendship and fun at the Mid-Lifers Group gathering on July 17. Join the community at 535 E 2nd St in Waverly for an uplifting evening of connection.

🎓 Jul. 18 - Apprenticeship Classes 1&2: Boilermakers apprentices, time to hit the books! First and second-year classes meet July 18 at Boilermakers Local 105 in Piketon, OH. Get ready to spark your skills at 4561 US-23.

🎮 Jul. 18 - Model Citizens 40K Teams: Warhammer warriors unite at Puma's Rest for the 2025 Model Citizens Friday Friendly! Join this exciting 40K team event on July 18th with three 2-hour rounds at 203 Lancaster Pike, Circleville.

🤝 Jul. 18 - Union Executive Board Meeting: Calling all Boilermakers Local 105 members! Join the Executive Board Meeting at 4561 US-23 in Piketon on July 18 at 6:00pm. Members in good standing welcome to attend.

🎸 Jul. 19 - Courtney Jo Band LIVE: Catch "The Little Lady with the BIG Voice" as The Courtney Jo Band rocks Long's Retreat Family Resort on July 19! Join the Poker Run festivities at 50 Bell Hollow Rd, Latham, for an unforgettable summer performance.