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🚵 Trail blazers economy

Ross County • May 1, 2025

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Good morning, Ross County. Mother Nature is flexing her muscles as severe storms roll through Chillicothe with thunderstorm warnings in effect. While the skies might be threatening overhead, there's a silver lining in the forecast: Ross County has managed to avoid power outages thus far, unlike many neighboring counties. Still, residents should exercise caution outdoors as more stormy weather is expected to bookend the week.

On brighter terrain, Ross County is transforming into an outdoor recreation destination thanks to "Chillicothe Trails." The nonprofit's mountain biking trail development is bringing both adventure seekers and economic benefits to the area, with visiting bikers spending an average of $416 daily in local businesses. Meanwhile, the historic Pixelle paper mill—with its iconic orange and white smokestack that's defined the skyline for two centuries—has received a reprieve until year-end while the search for a buyer continues.

🌤 Sky Skoop

ChillicotheWeather Icon
55°
81°
rain 84%
FrankfortWeather Icon
55°
81°
rain 84%
KingstonWeather Icon
57°
81°
rain 88%
AdelphiWeather Icon
59°
79°
rain 82%
South SalemWeather Icon
58°
84°
rain 80%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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⛈️ Severe storms strike Chillicothe with more bad weather ahead. Ross County is currently under a thunderstorm warning as strong storms move eastward across the region. The Weather Channel forecasts storms throughout Tuesday night, followed by cloudy conditions Wednesday and Thursday before thunderstorms return Friday. While multiple Ohio counties are experiencing power outages, Ross County has reported none as of Tuesday afternoon. Residents are urged to exercise caution while outside or driving as these storms could cause damage.

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🚵‍♂️ New mountain biking trails transform Ross County into outdoor destination. "Chillicothe Trails," a local nonprofit, is developing trail systems at Ohio University Chillicothe and Great Seal State Park to attract outdoor enthusiasts. The initiative brings significant economic benefits, with visiting mountain bikers spending an average of $416 per day in the community. Beyond mountain biking, the county also features portions of major hiking routes including the 1,440-mile Buckeye Trail, North Country Trail, and Great American Discovery Trail. The group plans upcoming events including a "Funduro" biking event and a partnership with the local Humane Society for pet-friendly hikes.

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🏭 Chillicothe paper mill's closure threatens 800 jobs and a city's identity. Pixelle Specialty Solutions has delayed shutting down the historic facility until year-end while searching for a potential buyer. The mill, with its iconic orange and white smokestack visible from the highway, has been integral to the southern Ohio city's economy for over 200 years. Chamber of Commerce president Mike Throne warns that closure would impact not just mill workers but also logging companies, trucking businesses, restaurants, and retail stores throughout the area. Despite these concerns, Throne remains optimistic about Chillicothe's resilience, noting the community has previously survived "floods and fires and recessions."

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⚾ Baseball Scoreboard

The Unioto Shermans continued their winning ways Tuesday, downing the struggling Paint Valley Bearcats 4-1 in Scioto Valley league action. The victory pushes Unioto to a solid 12-6 record while Paint Valley falls to 1-11 on the season.Huntington's offense went nuclear against River Valley, pounding out a 20-4 non-league victory on Tuesday. The Huntsmen (8-6) flexed their muscles ahead of their upcoming clash with 12-3 Zane Trace, while the Raiders (3-5) limp into their next matchup against winless Federal Hocking.Southeastern Panthers made quick work of Piketon on Tuesday, cruising to a 9-1 league victory over the Redstreaks. The win improves the Panthers to 5-7 as they prepare for a showdown with the 12-6 Unioto Shermans, while Piketon (4-9) looks to regroup against Westfall.

TeamOpponentScore
Huntington (8-6)
@ River Valley
W 20-4
Paint Valley (1-11-1)
vs Unioto
L 4-1
Southeastern (5-7)
@ Piketon
W 9-1
Unioto (12-6)
@ Paint Valley
W 4-1

🥎 Softball Scoreboard

TeamOpponentScore
Southeastern (8-11)
@ Piketon
L 5-4

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

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PRESENTED BY Dwell Real Estate

Real estate listing image Agent-owned with finished basement: This cozy $164,900 one-story home offers move-in ready comfort with a finished basement family room, second bathroom, large screened porch, and privacy fence. Bonus: it's agent-owned.
Real estate listing image Updated home ready now: This $186,500 home offers immediate possession with numerous updates including a refreshed kitchen, bathroom, hardwood floors, and new exterior doors, plus a basement with washer/dryer hookup.
Real estate listing image Rural dream needs updates: Listed at $209,900, this 2-story farmhouse on a 1.5-acre lot features a spacious kitchen, living room, family room, two bedrooms with hardwood floors, and partial basement - a charming property with plenty of rural character.

🚗 Fresh Rides

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2018 Ford F-150

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2019 Chevrolet Corvette

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2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD

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2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Limited

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2019 Ford F-250SD

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🙏 May 01 - National Day of Prayer: Join neighbors in reflection at the National Day of Prayer gathering outside Ross County Courthouse on May 1. This community moment brings Chillicothe residents together for a meaningful pause in the day.
🏠 May 1 - Family Resource Fair: Connect with vital community resources at the SCOJFS Family Resource Fair on May 1 at Chillicothe Library. Local providers will be on hand offering housing assistance, utility help, and more for families in need.
🌞 May 2 - Chillicothe Yellow Day: Downtown Chillicothe transforms into a sea of yellow on May 2nd as 600+ kids spread kindness and joy throughout the community. Join the positivity parade from 10AM-1PM at 6 W Main St!
🏹 May 3 - OH 3D Regional Shoot: Aim for bulls-eye fun at the 2025 OH 3D Regional at Ross County Bowhunters on May 3! Archers gather at 9:30 AM with an 11 AM shotgun start. Register online through April 26.
🎭 May 3 - Comedy Night Fundraiser: Laugh for a cause at Creekside Occasions' Comedy Fundraising Night! Doors open at 5:30pm with showtime at 7:00pm on May 3, hosted by LoriG Comedy in Chillicothe. Prepare for an evening of hilarious entertainment!
🎸 May 3 - Shady Ray @ Austin Mill: Groove to the sounds of the 70s and 80s as Shady Ray kicks off their 2025 season at Austin Mill Brewing Company! Bring a lawn chair and enjoy tasty brews and food truck eats on May 3.
☕ May 3 - Weekend Coffee & Chat: Grab a cup of joe at the Chillicothe Library's Coffee & Chat! Drop in anytime between 10am-noon on May 3 for free coffee, snacks, and friendly conversation. All ages and allies welcome.
🏁 May 4 - Spring Fest Car Show: Rev up your engines for Chillicothe VAMC's Spring Fest Walk/Run/Roll on May 4! Show off your car, truck, or bike while supporting Mental Health Awareness at 17273 OH-104, Chillicothe.

🙏 In Remembrance

Dr. David Lee DePugh

Dr. David Lee DePugh, age 67, died peacefully at his home on April 25th, 2025 in Franklin Furnace, OH. A graduate of The Ohio State University with a Doctorate of Optometry, Dr. DePugh had a 39-year career in optometry and owned The New Boston Vision Center. He is survived by his two sons, Brandon and Jeremy, their spouses, five grandchildren, two brothers, a sister, and numerous nieces and nephews. Dr. DePugh was known for his caring nature and enjoyed music, Ohio State Buckeyes games, go-kart racing with his sons, and attending his grandchildren's sporting events.

Dr. David Lee DePugh

Forrest L. Zinn

Forrest L. Zinn, 87, of Chillicothe, passed away on April 28, 2025, at his home after a brief illness. Born in Jackson, Ohio in 1937, he was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, who died in 2008, as well as his parents and several siblings. Zinn is survived by his three children, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, two brothers, a sister, and his special friend Bea Drummond. A U.S. Army retiree with 20 years of service, Zinn will be honored with a private service including military rites by the Jackson Honor Guard.

Forrest L. Zinn

Reverend Timothy George Wyman

Reverend Timothy George Wyman, 81, passed away unexpectedly on April 28, 2025, in Chillicothe. Born in Florida in 1944, he is survived by his wife Roxanne, five children, 14 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. After retiring from Wendy's, Timothy served as a pastor for over 25 years at Goshen Run Church of God. He was passionate about basketball, supporting his family's activities, and helping others learn about Christ's love, with his funeral service scheduled for May 3, 2025.

Reverend Timothy George Wyman

Timothy Shane Robertson

Timothy "Shane" Robertson, a 51-year-old resident of Yellowbud, passed away on April 28, 2025, following a brief illness at Grant Medical Center in Columbus. He is survived by his wife Shelby, whom he married in 2023, as well as his mother, stepson, siblings, and extended family members. Shane was passionate about playing bass guitar and had performed with numerous bands, most recently with Union North. Following a visitation on May 2, 2025, at the Ware Funeral Home, he will be cremated in accordance with his wishes.

Timothy Shane Robertson

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

-Romans 12:12

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