Ross County • January 15, 2025
Good morning, Ross County. In the tapestry of small-town America, few threads shine as brightly as those woven by our veterans. This week, we bid farewell to Larry Eldridge, a Vietnam veteran whose 77 years of service - from Navy whites to maintenance blues - exemplified the quiet strength that builds communities. His legacy at Portsmouth's Gaseous Diffusion Plant and dedication to the American Legion remind us that true heroes often walk among us without fanfare.
Meanwhile, our community continues to navigate modern challenges with characteristic determination. As K-9 officer Reg's keen nose leads to another fentanyl bust, city council wrestles with the emerging cannabis landscape through a temporary dispensary pause. It's a delicate balance of honoring our past while steering toward our future, something Ross County has always done with remarkable grace.
π€ Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
ποΈ Vietnam veteran and Navy retiree Larry Eldridge leaves lasting legacy at 77. The Chillicothe resident, who passed away at Ohio State's James Cancer Hospital, dedicated his life to both military and civilian service. After serving in Vietnam and the Navy Reserve, Eldridge built a distinguished career at the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant, retiring as a maintenance group manager in 2012. He was an active member of both the American Legion and Aurora Masonic Lodge, leaving behind children, grandchildren, and his longtime partner Linda Holbrook. His memory will be honored with Masonic and Military services, with donations encouraged to the American Cancer Society or Southern Ohio Shepherds-Rescue.
π K-9 cop's nose leads to fentanyl bust during routine traffic stop. A detective in Chillicothe, Ohio, arrested two individuals after observing suspicious activity at a known drug house on Renick Avenue. K-9 officer "Reg" detected narcotics in the vehicle, leading to the discovery of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. Passenger Brianna Wolford, who had active warrants, was arrested and jailed, while driver Chase Spencer was cited and released. Both suspects face drug possession charges pending chemical analysis results, with court appearances scheduled for January 2025.
πΏ Chillicothe hits pause button on new cannabis shops. The city council passed a temporary moratorium on new cannabis dispensaries, with council member Dan Demint casting the lone dissenting vote. The pause, sponsored by Lisa Bennett, aims to give the city time to revise its zoning code for the newly legal industry by spring. Currently, only one dispensary operates within city limits, though other cannabis-related businesses remain unaffected by the ban. The short council session, marked by several absences including Mayor Luke Feeney, focused more on public addresses about homelessness than the cannabis vote.
π‘ Real Estate Reveals |
| PRESENTED BY Dwell Real Estate |
Comfortable home with garage access
This charming 3-bedroom home is listed at $209,900 and features spacious rooms, a cozy double living area, and updated furnace and central A/C for year-round comfort. With a heated block garage that includes a suspended gas heater and rear alley access, plus a mudroom/utility room, this property combines convenience and comfort in one delightful package.
North Fork Village gem awaits you
Conveniently located in North Fork Village, this charming property listed at $255,000 features an open living room and kitchen layout with a central island, complemented by a spacious family room and a half bath on the lower level. With a new deck, fenced backyard, and a large 2.5 car garage, this home also includes a cozy gas fireplace and a sizeable 10x20 storage shed, making it a delightful place to relax and entertain.
Waterfront retreat with scenic views
This stunning waterfront brick home at Lake White is listed at $419,650 and offers three spacious bedrooms and two baths, including a primary suite with a walk-out patio and luxurious en-suite. The open-concept kitchen and living area showcase beautiful lake views, while the screened porch, multiple decks, and private boat docks create a tranquil retreat perfect for relaxation or entertaining.
π Fresh Rides | ||||||||||||||||||||
|
In a recent incident, authorities investigated a burglary that occurred at a local convenience store during the early hours. The perpetrators were able to escape with an undisclosed amount of cash and merchandise, prompting a community alert and increased patrols in the area.
A theft was reported at a nearby park where several bicycles were stolen from locked racks. Witnesses described seeing a suspicious individual loitering near the area shortly before the bikes went missing, leading to a police investigation.
Local police responded to a vandalism complaint at a community center, where graffiti was found on the building's exterior. The damage is being assessed, and officials are appealing to residents for any information that could lead to the identification of the culprits.
A car theft occurred in a residential neighborhood, with the victim's vehicle being taken from their driveway. Investigators are examining security camera footage from surrounding homes in hopes of tracking down the stolen car.
Restaurant Week
Downtown Chillicothe
January 21
St. Clairβs Defeat Revisited: A New View of the Conflict
Mound City Group Visitor Center 16062 SR 104, Chillicothe
January 21 @ 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
-Matthew 6:34