🌕 Moon goes red

Good morning, Ross County. Look to the skies in the early hours of Thursday for a celestial spectacle as a total lunar eclipse transforms our moon into a captivating blood-red orb. Starting at 12:55 a.m. and lasting over three hours, this astronomical event offers a rare opportunity to witness our planet's shadow dance across the lunar surface—no special equipment needed. The forecast calls for partly cloudy skies with temperatures around 49 degrees, so viewing conditions should be decent for night owls willing to stay up late.

While you're gazing skyward, your wallet might feel a little heavier these days thanks to Ohio's falling gas prices. At $2.78 per gallon, we're enjoying fuel costs significantly below the national average of $3.07. The current price represents a welcome 27-cent drop from last month, though it's remarkably similar to what we paid at this time last year. Small victories for household budgets as we drift toward spring.

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🌕 Ross County's blood moon arrives in the early hours Thursday. The total lunar eclipse will begin at 12:55 a.m. on March 14 and last approximately three and a half hours. Unlike solar eclipses, this celestial event—occurring when Earth comes between the sun and moon—can be viewed safely with the naked eye. The National Weather Service forecasts partly cloudy skies with a low of 49 degrees, which may affect visibility. If you miss this one, the next lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026.

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⛽ Ohio gas prices dipped to $2.78 per gallon last week. This marks a 27-cent decline from the previous month, positioning Ohio's fuel costs 9.5% below the national average of $3.07. Over the past year, state gas prices have fluctuated significantly, reaching as low as $2.61 in January and peaking at $3.65 in April. Interestingly, current prices are nearly identical to those from a year ago, when Ohioans paid $2.77 per gallon for regular fuel.

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🚨 Cuff Notes

• A local individual was taken into custody for violating a protection order and for operating a vehicle under the influence on multiple occasions. The arrest was made by the Ross County Sheriff's Office.

• Another suspect was arrested for obstructing official business while also being charged with operating a vehicle under the influence. The incident involved the Chillicothe Police Department.

• One more person was detained for violating a protection order. This arrest was also carried out by the Chillicothe Police Department, highlighting ongoing issues in the area.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🙏 In Remembrance

Sherman W. "Bill" Hawk Sherman W. "Bill" Hawk, Jr., 73, of Chillicothe, passed away on March 11, 2025, at CareCore at Westmoreland. He is survived by his four children, eleven grandchildren, five siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill worked as a truck driver before retirement and later at O'Reilly Auto Parts. He was a lifetime NRA member who enjoyed motorcycles. Funeral arrangements are pending through the Fawcett Oliver Glass and Palmer Funeral Home.

Michael G. Fannin Michael G. Fannin, 63, of Canal Winchester, passed away on March 9, 2025, at Buckeye Care and Rehabilitation. Born on November 5, 1961, in Columbus to the late William and Laura Fannin, he is survived by his brother Richard, sisters Lora, Janet, Joyce, and Lorna, along with many nieces and nephews. Known as a caring and loving person with strong faith, Michael was predeceased by his parents and brother John. Funeral services will be held on March 13, 2025, at Camelin Hill Church, followed by burial at Twin Township Cemetery.

Donald R. Schofield Donald R. Schofield, 86, of Chillicothe, passed away on March 10, 2025, and was preceded in death by his wife Sharon, his parents, a son, and a sister-in-law. A 1956 CHS graduate and Army veteran, Don worked in banking and insurance for over 50 years while also serving as Clerk of City Council, an Auxiliary City Firefighter, and secretary for the Phoenix Fire Company. He is survived by two daughters, a son, a sister-in-law, and his cat Millie, with funeral services scheduled for March 14, 2025, at the Fawcett Oliver Glass and Palmer Funeral Home.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

-Isaiah 40:31