Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Pike County / July 22, 2025

πŸš“ Justice served

Pike County • July 22, 2025

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Good morning, Pike County. A devastating chapter has closed in our community with the sentencing of Gage Smith to life imprisonment for the deaths of a mother and three children. The May 2024 crash, which occurred after a kindergarten graduation celebration, has left an indelible mark on local families. Smith won't be eligible for parole for 60 years after prosecutors revealed the truly disturbing circumstances surrounding the collision, including disconnected brake lines, bald tires, and multiple substances in his system.

On a brighter note, chrome gleamed and engines rumbled at Chillicothe's Igniters Street Rods Cruise In last week. The McDonald's parking lot transformed into an automotive showcase as enthusiasts gathered to admire custom features and unique details on classic vehicles. Photographer Shelby Reeves captured both the impressive machinery and the unmistakable community spirit that makes this annual gathering a highlight for car lovers throughout the region.

🌀 Sky Skoop

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β˜•οΈ What's Brewing Locally

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πŸ’” Piketon man gets life for killing mother and three kids. Gage Smith, 24, was convicted of four counts of murder after driving under the influence and crashing on State Route 104 in May 2024. The victims, who had just attended a kindergarten graduation, died when Smith lost control of his car while speeding at 80 mph in a 55 mph zone. Prosecutors proved Smith had disconnected a brake line, was driving on bald tires without a license, and had multiple drugs in his system. Smith will serve 60 years before becoming eligible for parole.

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🏎️ Classic cars dazzle at Chillicothe's Igniters Street Rods Cruise In. The event, held at McDonald's on July 18, 2025, showcased a diverse collection of unique vehicles that drew automotive enthusiasts from across the area. Each car displayed distinctive details and custom features that highlighted the creativity and passion of their owners. Photographer Shelby Reeves captured the essence of the gathering for the Chillicothe Gazette, documenting both the impressive vehicles and the community spirit of this popular local car show.

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🏑 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Spacious country home large acreage: For $250,000, this 3-bedroom country home in Piketon offers nearly 8 acres of land with a chicken coop, creek, and modern amenities, positioned just 15 minutes from Lake White and 30 minutes from neighboring towns.
Real estate listing image Tiny relocatable log cabin bargain: For just $55,000, this charming 560 sq. ft. log tiny home offers cozy living with rustic features, but buyers should note it requires relocation from its current rented campground lot.
Real estate listing image Stadium-adjacent Waverly four-bedroom: Priced at $130,500, this spacious home offers two floors with four bedrooms, two full bathrooms, formal living and family rooms, and a fenced backyard that backs up to Waverly Schools Stadium.

πŸ—“οΈ Happenings & Hoopla

πŸ“š Jul. 22 - Apprenticeship Classes (1st/2nd): Boilermakers Local 105 welcomes apprentices for 1st & 2nd Year Classes at their Piketon location on July 22. Advance your skills at 4561 US-23 and take the next step in your trade journey!
πŸ“š Jul. 24 - Apprenticeship Classes (1st/2nd): Boilermakers Local 105 welcomes apprentices for 1st & 2nd Year Classes on July 24. Build your skills at the Piketon training center, located at 4561 US-23β€”the perfect stepping stone for your trades career.
πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§β€πŸ‘¦ Jul. 24 - Mid-Lifers Meetup: Connect with fellow mid-lifers at the lively Mid-Lifers Group gathering on July 24. Drop by 535 E 2nd St in Waverly for an evening of conversation, connection, and community spirit.
🌠 Jul. 25 - Blake Banks River Adventure: Gaze at the stars with Blake Banks at the Stargazer Festival 2025! Join the cosmic celebration at Adventures on the River in Waverly on July 25, starting bright and early at 7:00 AM.
β›³ Jul. 25 - Kolton Hamilton Memorial Scramble: Tee up for a good cause at the Kolton Charles Hamilton Memorial Golf Scramble on July 25. Join fellow golfers at 451 Danville Pike in Hillsboro for a day of friendly competition and remembrance.
✊ Jul. 25 - Waverly Protest Rally: Rally for accountability at the Hands Off Protest in Canal Park! Join fellow south Ohioans on July 25 as they demand attention from elusive Representative David Taylor at 211 Ford Ave, Waverly.
🌿 Jul. 26 - Stargazer Cannabis Festival: Groove to funky beats at Stargazer Cannabis Festival with Austin & The Syd Experience on July 26! Catch good vibes at Adventures on the River in Waverly for this vibrant celebration under the stars.
🎑 Jul. 26 - PCA Summer Fair Fun: Bring the family to Pike Christian Academy's Summer Fair for an evening of games and local shopping! Join the fun July 26 at 400 Clough St, Waverly. Vendor spots still available!

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.

-Psalm 55:22

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