Pike County • October 22, 2025
Good morning, Pike County. The twinkling lights of the holiday season are beginning to sparkle across our community. Chillicothe's annual tree lighting ceremony returns November 21st, promising to transform Yoctangee Park into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights illuminating the darkness. Meanwhile, Minford's Winterfest tradition continues its 23-year run on November 8th, offering everything from themed Christmas trees to Santa visits while supporting the local marching band's equipment needs.
Beyond the holiday glow, practical changes are coming to downtown Chillicothe as the city works to revamp parking meters in response to business owners' concerns. The Development Committee is crafting modifications that include extended enforcement hours, additional meters, designated restaurant pickup spots, and credit card payment optionsβall designed to increase parking turnover and support local merchants as we head into the busy shopping season.
π€ Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|

π Chillicothe's annual tree lighting ceremony returns to brighten the holidays. The beloved community event will illuminate Yoctangee Park on Friday, November 21st at 6pm with thousands of twinkling lights. Free and open to all, the celebration includes a countdown to the lighting, live music, and the official opening of Santa's house. "This tree reminds us that even in the darkest months, our community shines brightest when we come together," says Lisa Wayland, Shine On Chillicothe board president. The event is funded by donations from local businesses and residents who support the holiday programming.
π ΏοΈ Chillicothe revamps downtown parking meters to boost business turnover. The city council's Development Committee is working on modifications after hearing feedback from local merchants represented by Downtown Chillicothe Inc. Program Manager Tiffany Baldwin explained that current meters aren't creating enough parking turnover, hurting businesses. Proposed changes include extending enforcement hours, adding more meters, creating additional 10-minute "to go" spots for restaurant pickups, and upgrading to meters that accept credit cards. Implementation will happen gradually as the city budget allows, with committee chair Greg McKeever expecting to finalize legislation within weeks.
π Minford's Winterfest transforms small town into holiday shopping wonderland. The 23-year tradition returns November 8th, featuring entertainment, Christmas tree auctions, and Santa visits while raising critical funds for the Minford Marching Band. All proceeds help cover expensive band necessities like instrument repairs and uniforms, which once cost boosters over $30,000 to replace. This year's event showcases unique themed Christmas trees including an American Flag design and an alien-themed creation alongside traditional favorites, drawing families to support student musicians while kickstarting their holiday season.
Countryside haven near town conveniences: This $180,000 rural retreat offers tranquility and privacy while remaining close to town amenities. The spacious property allows for gardening, outdoor activities, and potential expansion for those seeking a serene countryside lifestyle.
Secluded acreage income potential gem: Priced at $364,900, this private 11-acre retreat offers a 4-bedroom main home with remodeled kitchen, plus a separate apartment above the 3-car garage, providing income potential just minutes from local schools.
Buildable acre with street utilities: This vacant lot priced at $10,500 offers over an acre with utilities already at the street, perfect for building or other uses, though the fire-damaged mobile home isn't salvageable.The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.
-Psalm 23:1-3
|
|