Good morning, Ross County. Move over, Hollywood - Chillicothe's got its own action-packed script unfolding. While most communities eased into 2025, our New Year's Day featured a twelve-hour crime spree that played out like a low-budget remake of "The Purge," complete with everything from Paint Street shenanigans to an oddly specific Vietnam War claim from someone born during the Clinton administration.
But it's not all dramatic plot twists - our economic story is getting two thumbs up from the critics. State Director Lydia Mihalik just rolled out the red carpet at the Chillicothe Country Club, praising our region's starring role in Ohio's development narrative. Between innovative partnerships and thriving local solutions, we're not just part of the Appalachian renaissance - we're directing it.
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84% ☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🌆 Ohio development chief celebrates Ross County's economic renaissance at local breakfast. State Director Lydia Mihalik praised Chillicothe and Ross County's regional leadership during the Annual Celebration Breakfast, particularly highlighting their role in the Appalachian Community Grant program. Speaking at the Chillicothe Country Club, she emphasized the importance of local solutions and partnerships, drawing from her own experience as a former mayor of Findlay. The two-hour event featured seven speakers discussing economic development plans, including investments in Bainbridge and Frankfort. Mihalik expressed optimism about Ohio's future, noting that the state is embracing innovation and building an environment where "ideas thrive and solutions are born."
🔫 Drunk man attacks dog, flashes gun in bizarre Chillicothe confrontation. A 34-year-old Matthew Koon faces aggravated menacing charges after allegedly assaulting a neighbor's dog and threatening its owners on Vincent Street. The intoxicated suspect entered the victim's yard uninvited, began twisting the dog's collar, and escalated the situation by revealing a concealed firearm while making threats. During the confrontation, Koon bizarrely claimed to be a Vietnam War veteran (which would be impossible given his age) and threatened the residents with connections to people in the area. Police attempted to apprehend Koon at his nearby residence but were unsuccessful, and authorities are now pursuing a warrant for his arrest.
🚓 Chillicothe rings in 2025 with twelve-hour crime spree across city. The local police department responded to multiple incidents on New Year's Day, including thefts, burglaries, and drug-related arrests throughout various neighborhoods. Paint Street emerged as a particular hotspot, with officers handling three separate incidents including theft, an unruly juvenile, and stolen medication reports. Traffic violations and a hit-and-run crash rounded out the day's activities, while several cases including a public indecency complaint and multiple criminal trespass incidents remain under active investigation. The department continues to investigate most cases from the busy holiday, with further details pending as investigations progress.
🏀 Basketball Schedule Slam (Girls)
| Team | Opponent | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|
 Chillicothe Cavaliers | ||
| @ Bloom-Carroll | 1/4 @ 7:30pm | |
| @ Gallia Academy | 1/6 @ 7:00pm | |
 Adena Warriors | ||
| @ Southeastern | 1/8 @ 7:00pm | |
 Huntington Huntsmen | ||
| vs Alexander | 1/4 @ 6:00pm | |
| @ Zane Trace | 1/8 @ 7:15pm | |
| @ River Valley | 1/9 @ 7:00pm | |
 Southeastern Panthers | ||
| vs Federal Hocking | 1/4 @ 12:00pm | |
| vs Adena | 1/8 @ 7:00pm | |
 Paint Valley Bearcats | ||
| vs Unioto | 1/8 @ 7:15pm | |
 Unioto Shermans | ||
| @ Paint Valley | 1/8 @ 7:15pm | |
 Zane Trace Pioneers | ||
| vs Huntington | 1/8 @ 7:15pm |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals |
| PRESENTED BY Dwell Real Estate |
Spacious business opportunity awaits
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Spacious country home on acreage
This charming country home is listed at $230,000 and sits on over 14 acres of prime land, offering an ideal setting for outdoor adventures and recreation. With 3 bedrooms, a spacious barn, and a fenced backyard, this property presents a wonderful opportunity to create your own family retreat in a tranquil environment.
Lakeside retreat with stunning views
This stunning lakeside home in Lake White is listed for $1,250,000 and boasts one of the largest waterfronts in the area. Recently renovated, it features charming hardwood floors, a standout finished basement, a screened porch with breathtaking lake views, and a new boat dock equipped for both pontoons and jet skis, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking peace by the water.
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🚨 Cuff Notes
A local convenience store faced a dramatic robbery where masked individuals threatened the staff with weapons. Fortunately, no one was hurt, and law enforcement is actively investigating the incident, encouraging any witnesses to come forward.
In a suspicious turn of events, police responded to reports of vandalism at a popular park. Graffiti covered several areas and benches, prompting officials to urge the community to respect public spaces and report any future disturbances.
An uptick in shoplifting incidents has been noted at several stores in the downtown area, leading to increased security measures. Storeowners are cooperating with police to address the issue, aiming to ensure a safe shopping environment for everyone.
A residential burglary occurred late at night while the occupants were away, with various valuables reported missing. Investigation efforts are ongoing, and residents are reminded to secure their homes and report any suspicious activity.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
St. Clair’s Defeat Revisited: A New View of the Conflict
Mound City Group Visitor Center 16062 SR 104, Chillicothe
January 9 @ 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
“Music in the Park”
Chillicothe City Park City Park, Chillicothe
January 9 @ 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
💰 Financial Friday
Look into consolidating high-interest debts into a single, lower-interest loan; this can simplify your payments while potentially saving you money on interest, helping you pay off debts faster and breathe a little easier financially.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
-Proverbs 3:5-6