🐕 Bark and shine

Good morning, Pike County. Mark your calendars for August 30th when Yoctangee Park goes to the dogs—literally. The Ross County Humane Society's annual Bark in the Park car show is rolling into Chillicothe with over 100 vehicles competing for 35 trophies. Pre-register by August 6th to secure your spot and a free t-shirt at what organizers call "one of our most anticipated events of the year." The combination of chrome, engines, and furry friends makes for a uniquely heartwarming summer gathering.

Meanwhile, ripples of change continue throughout our region as the Southern Ohio Council of Governments prepares for their August 1st board meeting. This vital organization provides administrative backbone for developmental disability services across 13 southern Ohio counties. Their work dovetails beautifully with recent community initiatives like the Pioneer Center's iCan Swim Camp, where 30 individuals with disabilities conquered water fears while building confidence through personalized instruction from trained swim buddies.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Waverly

61°

91°

Piketon

61°

91°

Beaver

64°

90°

Latham

62°

88°

Stockdale

64°

90°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏢 Southern Ohio Council of Governments sets August 1 board meeting. The meeting will take place at 10 a.m. at SOCOG's Chillicothe office, with virtual attendance options available. SOCOG provides administrative support for County Boards of Developmental Disabilities across 13 counties in southern Ohio. Their work focuses on quality assurance, provider compliance, investigative services, and residential administration to support individuals with developmental disabilities. As a government entity created under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 167, SOCOG plays a vital role in coordinating developmental disability services throughout the region.

🐾 Car show goes to the dogs at Ross County's Bark in the Park. The annual event, featuring over 100 vehicles competing for 35 trophies, will take place August 30th at Yoctangee Park in Chillicothe. Organized by the Ross County Humane Society, the truck, car, and bike show runs from 10am-3pm with pre-registration available until August 6th for $25, which includes a free t-shirt. Attendees can enjoy vendors, activities, a DJ, and door prizes in what organizers call "one of our most anticipated events of the year."

🏊‍♀️ Swim camp helps disabled kids conquer their fear of water. The Pioneer Center partnered with the YMCA of Ross County to host a week-long iCan Swim Camp for 30 individuals with disabilities. Participants received personalized instruction from trained swim buddies, learning crucial water safety skills while building confidence and independence. The free program, sponsored by the Pioneer Center, provided take-home safety supplies like flotation noodles and life jackets. "The demand for this camp is always high," noted Trish Wallace, highlighting the community's commitment to inclusive programming.

Secluded wildlife paradise estate views: Priced at $479,000, this 24-acre estate at the end of a quiet road offers a 5-bed, 3.5-bath home with in-law suite, storm shelter, multiple garages, and views of nature, pond and wildlife.

Premier Ohio hunting paradise: For $189,500, this 64-acre tract in southern Ohio offers exceptional hunting opportunities with dense cover, established food plots, and a private location adjacent to agricultural land known for trophy whitetail bucks.

Tiny log home needs moving: Snag this charming 560 sq. ft. log tiny home for $55,000, featuring a cozy interior with rustic charm, but be aware it requires relocation from its current rented campground lot.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

💪 Jul. 23 - Overcomers Support Group: Find strength and community at the Overcomers Group meeting on July 23 at 535 E 2nd St in Waverly. Join neighbors supporting each other through life's challenges in a welcoming environment.

👥 Jul. 24 - Mid-Lifers Group Meetup: Connect with fellow mid-lifers at the friendly Mid-Lifers Group gathering on July 24 at 535 E 2nd St in Waverly. Share experiences, make new friends, and enjoy meaningful conversation in a welcoming environment.

📚 Jul. 24 - Apprenticeship Classes 1&2: Calling all first and second-year apprentices! Sharpen your skills at the Boilermakers Local 105 apprenticeship classes on July 24. Head to 4561 US-23 in Piketon, OH to continue your journey toward mastery.

🎮 Jul. 24 - Thursday Night TCG Games: Calling all card game enthusiasts! Join "TNTcg" at 109 E 2nd St in Waverly every Thursday from 6:30-8:30pm for Disney Lorcana, Pokémon, and more trading card game fun.

🌟 Jul. 25 - Blake Banks River Adventure: Gaze at the stars with Blake Banks at the Stargazer Festival 2025! Join the celestial celebration at Adventures on the River in Waverly on July 25, starting bright and early at 7:00 AM.

✊ Jul. 25 - Waverly Protest Rally: Stand up for democracy at the Hands Off Protest in Waverly's Canal Park! Join fellow south Ohioans on July 25 to rally and demand attention from the elusive Representative David Taylor.

⛳ Jul. 25 - Kolton Hamilton Memorial Scramble: Tee off in memory of Kolton Charles Hamilton at this heartfelt golf scramble on July 25. Join the community at 451 Danville Pike in Hillsboro for a day of friendly competition and remembrance.

🌟 Jul. 26 - Cannabis Funk Festival: Groove to the funky beats of Austin & The Syd Experience at Stargazer Cannabis Festival! Catch the vibrant celebration July 26 at Adventures on the River in Waverly, where music and cannabis culture collide.

🙏 In Remembrance

Eugene Glenn Schoolcraft Jr

Eugene Glenn Schoolcraft, Jr, 60, of Piketon, Ohio, passed away on July 20, 2025, at his home. He was born in Chillicothe, Ohio in 1965, and is survived by his wife Valorie, his son Sammy, three siblings, and numerous other family members. Eugene worked as a meat cutter at Save-a-Lot in Waverly and enjoyed gardening and being outdoors. He was known as a hard-working man who loved his family, and no visitation will be observed under the arrangements of Boyer Cremation Services.