Ross County • May 8, 2025
Good morning, Ross County. Rural healthcare is getting a significant boost in Wellston with Adena Health's $2 million expansion project that will quadruple the size of their primary care clinic. The 8,600-square-foot facility, set to open in early 2026, represents a collaborative effort to address growing healthcare needs in our rural communityβa commitment further demonstrated by Adena's upcoming Festival of Hope concert on June 5, where cancer survivors will be celebrated with live music and a special luminary ceremony.
Meanwhile, the votes are in! Zane Trace School's tax renewal squeaked by with a narrow victory of 589 to 518 in our recent light election night. In lighter news, the "Walking Past My Dog" trend has pet owners everywhere testing whether their furry companions recognize them on walks, while Dr. Variath celebrates 26 years of making a difference in children's mental health after finding his calling in pediatric psychology quite by accident.
π€ Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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π₯ Rural healthcare gets a major upgrade in Wellston. Adena Health is expanding its primary care clinic to a new 8,600-square-foot facility, four times larger than the current one. Opening in early 2026, the renovated clinic will feature expanded waiting areas, additional exam rooms, improved parking, and a drive-thru pharmacy. The $2 million project represents a collaborative effort between Adena Health and local organizations, with funding support from various partners including the Appalachian Regional Commission. Construction is expected to begin this month, addressing growing healthcare needs in the rural community.
π Dogs put owners to the test in viral recognition challenge.The "Walking Past My Dog" trend has dog lovers testing if their pets recognize them on walks. Owners casually stroll by their dogs (being walked by someone else) and film the reactions, which range from immediate recognition to complete obliviousness. Some pups like Teddie the Chihuahua spot their owners instantly, while others like Maya the Pug take longer to notice. The heartwarming challenge has spread across social media, capturing both the sweet and hilarious moments of canine recognition.
π³οΈ Zane Trace School tax renewal squeaks by with narrow victory. The 0.75 percent income tax continuation was approved 589 to 518 in Ross County's light election night featuring only ballot issues. Voters also weighed in on several Sunday alcohol sales options throughout the county. Additionally, Ross County residents strongly supported the statewide Issue 2 infrastructure funding measure, voting 1,945 to 1,004 in favor. All results remain unofficial until certified by the local election board.
π¨ββοΈ Dr. Variath found his calling in child psychology by accident. After noticing many children needing mental health services during his ER rotation in the 1990s, he specialized in pediatric psychology and has served Pike County for 26 years. The rewarding career has allowed him to see former patients grow up and even bring their own children for treatment. Dr. Variath emphasizes the importance of establishing strong doctor-patient relationships and believes in the underrated power of counseling for mental health. He notes that societal understanding of mental health issues has improved significantly over his decades of practice.
π΅ Cancer survivors to be celebrated at free music festival. The Festival of Hope concert on June 5 at Ross County Fairgrounds will feature live music, inspirational speakers, and a luminary ceremony honoring those affected by cancer. From 5 to 10 p.m., attendees can enjoy performances by four bands while food trucks provide refreshments. Organized by Adena Health, the event highlights support resources available through their Cancer Center, which offers advanced treatment options and dedicated care teams for patients and families.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Paint Valley (5-15) | ||
@ McClain | L 6-3 |
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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
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