Ross County • April 24, 2025
Good morning, Ross County. The sound of softball bats cracking and the cheers of champions echo across the county as Hillsboro's Lady Indians have secured their fifth straight conference title with stunning dominance. Their 34-0 scoring rampage over two mercy-rule games showcased the extraordinary talent of Ball State-bound pitcher Camryn Spruell, who struck out 12 batters in Tuesday's shutout performance, proving why they're just one win away from an undisputed conference crown.
Meanwhile, frequent flyers will need to adjust their travel plans as Shoemaker Airport goes dark from May 4 to July 7 for a comprehensive runway overhaul. The silver lining amid this inconvenience? The project is primarily funded through external grants, minimizing county expenses. In more uplifting news, hundreds gathered in Chillicothe Friday to discuss the Pixelle paper plant's future, a powerful show of community solidarity that has temporarily halted the facility's planned shutdown.
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βΎ Hillsboro dominates Chillicothe to secure fifth straight softball title. The Lady Indians outscored their opponents 34-0 across two mercy-rule games on Monday and Tuesday, clinching at least a share of the 2025 Frontier Athletic Conference championship. Ball State-bound pitcher Camryn Spruell was dominant, striking out 12 batters in Tuesday's two-hit shutout. Offensive stars Isabelle Brunck and Madison Dearmon each scored three runs, with Dearmon going 3-for-4 including a two-run double. Hillsboro (8-0/13-3) needs just one win against McClain to claim the undisputed conference crown.
βοΈ Ross County Airport shuts down for major runway overhaul. The Shoemaker Airport will close from May 4 to July 7, 2025 for significant rehabilitation work and construction of two blast pads. The project, funded primarily through FAA and ODOT grants, aims to enhance the flying experience with minimal county funds. During the closure, aircraft will not be permitted to take off or land, and hangar lessees will be exempt from paying rent. County officials acknowledge the frustration but emphasize the long-term benefits for the aviation community.
π Pixelle paper plant shutdown halted after massive community gathering. Hundreds including officials and employees assembled in Chillicothe Friday to learn about the facility's future. Meanwhile, Berne Union High School prepares to stage "The Addams Family" musical with performances scheduled for late April. In sports news, Logan's track teams impressed at the Granville Invitational, with the boys claiming first place and the girls securing third.
The Unioto Shermans showed no mercy in Tuesday's non-league matchup, overwhelming the Logan Elm Braves 9-3 in a dominant display that pushed their season record to 8-5. The struggling Braves, now 2-10 on the season, will look to regroup against Hamilton Township while Unioto sets their sights on the Huntington Huntsmen in Wednesday's Scioto Valley bout.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Chillicothe (6-6) | ||
vs Hillsboro | W 6-5 | |
Unioto (8-5) | ||
vs Logan Elm | W 9-3 |
The Southeastern Panthers edged out Clay 6-4 in Tuesday's non-league showdown, adding another chapter to the Portsmouth softball chronicles. Clay drops to 11-7 despite a valiant effort, while Southeastern improves to 5-10 and looks to build momentum heading into their next test against Paint Valley.In a display of diamond dominance, Logan Elm Braves blanked the visiting Unioto Shermans 10-0 in Tuesday's non-league matchup. The Braves improved to an impressive 11-2 while sending the Shermans back to Chillicothe with a .500 record at 7-7 and plenty to think about before their upcoming Scioto Valley test.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Chillicothe (12-4) | ||
vs Hillsboro | L 16-0 | |
Southeastern (5-10) | ||
@ Clay | W 6-4 | |
Unioto (7-7) | ||
@ Logan Elm | L 10-0 |
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A local resident was arrested for failing to support dependents and theft without consent, highlighting the seriousness of financial obligations and respect for personal property.
Another individual was taken into custody for multiple violations, including the serious offense of burglary and repeated disregard for a protection order, showing the ongoing challenge of domestic safety.
A third party found themselves in hot water for possession of drug paraphernalia and obstructing official business, reminding us of the lawβs unwavering stance against drug-related offenses.
In a separate incident, a person was arrested for theft without consent, reinforcing the importance of respecting others' belongings in the community.
Tampering with evidence and endangering children were among the charges against an individual, illustrating the gravity of situations that involve the well-being of minors.
Another case involves someone violating a protection order, demonstrating that personal safety and respect for legal boundaries remains a critical issue.
Domestic violence charges were filed against a local resident, alongside possession of drug paraphernalia, underlining the complexities of such situations.
Lastly, an individual was arrested for possessing drug abuse instruments and obstructing official business, a reminder of the ongoing battle against substance abuse and the law's commitment to maintaining order.
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But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
-Matthew 6:33
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