🦖 Dino desserts

Good morning, Ross County. Prehistoric creatures roared to life in Chillicothe last week, but don't worry—these dinosaurs came with cookies! The I Heart Cookies dessert truck transformed their May 17 visit into a Jurassic adventure, complete with animatronic dinosaurs and a paleontology sand pit for budding scientists. The unique combination of education and sweet treats proved irresistible to dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages looking for a bite of prehistoric fun.

Meanwhile, the economic impact of tourism in our county is nothing short of remarkable—a $155 million windfall that supports over 2,000 local jobs and saves each household about $608 annually in taxes. On the diamond, softball fans witnessed a pitching masterclass as Sheridan edged Chillicothe 1-0 in their Division III Southeast District showdown, with Ohio University-bound Cora Hall delivering a dominant 14-strikeout performance. The tournament continues Thursday when Sheridan faces top-seeded Dover.

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🦖 Cookies and dinosaurs create prehistoric treat in Chillicothe. The I Heart Cookies dessert truck brought animatronic dinosaurs to life during their visit to Chillicothe on May 17, 2025. Dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages gathered to experience the unique combination of sweet treats and prehistoric creatures. The interactive event included educational elements with the lifelike dinosaur displays bringing learning to life. Children even had the opportunity to become paleontologists by excavating in a special sand pit.

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⚾ Sheridan edges Chillicothe 1-0 in softball pitching masterclass. The Division III Southeast District showdown featured a classic duel between Ohio University-bound senior Cora Hall and sophomore C.J. Rittinger. Hall dominated with 14 strikeouts while allowing just one hit over seven innings. The game's lone run came in the fifth inning when Nova Carpenter's two-strike bunt with two outs allowed Mauri O'Brien to score from second base. Sheridan advances to face top-seeded Dover on Thursday in the tournament's next round.

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💰 Tourism brings $155 million windfall to Ross County's economy. According to a Tourism Economics study, visitor spending supported 2,072 jobs (7.5% of local employment) and saved households approximately $608 annually in taxes. The economic benefits extend beyond direct spending, supporting local businesses and encouraging growth of new establishments throughout the community. Tourism also enhances quality of life through upgraded parks, festivals, and cultural experiences, while the UNESCO-designated Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks and other attractions foster community pride. The Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau funds these initiatives entirely through a 3% lodging tax, not through sales or property taxes.

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🚨 Cuff Notes

• A local individual was arrested for driving under suspension due to multiple infractions and is currently in custody. They also have a probation violation on their record.

• A suspect is in custody after failing to update their address as required and facing a parole violation. Authorities were alerted by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

• A young man faces multiple charges including criminal mischief, public indecency, and disorderly conduct, but he is not in custody at this time.

• An individual was arrested for driving under suspension with further verification needed, but is currently not in custody.

• A serious case involving domestic violence and multiple related charges such as violating a protection order and unlawful restraint has resulted in the suspect’s arrest by an out-of-state agency.

• A local man was taken into custody for disorderly conduct while intoxicated, posing a risk to himself and others.

• A suspect has violated a protection order, but is not currently in custody as the situation develops.

• An individual was arrested for criminal trespass and is currently in custody, reflecting ongoing concerns about property rights in the area.

• Another individual violated a protection order and remains in custody as authorities continue to address this pattern of violations.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🙏 In Remembrance

Michael D. Tomlinson Michael D. Tomlinson, 73, of Chillicothe, passed away on May 17, 2025, following an extended illness. Born in 1952 to Frank and Elmeretta Drake Tomlinson, he is survived by his wife Penny, three sons, three grandchildren, a brother, and numerous nieces and nephews. Michael was a Vietnam War era veteran who enjoyed outdoor activities, particularly fishing and hunting morel mushrooms. A private graveside service with military honors will be conducted for the family under the direction of the Ware Funeral Home.

Danny L. Nunley Danny L. Nunley, 58, of Waverly, passed away on May 17, 2025. Born on May 21, 1966, in Waverly to Albert E. and Holly Mae Holtsclaw Nunley, he was self-employed and preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Sharon Bunkner. He is survived by six sisters, an aunt, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. No public services will be held, and memorial contributions can be made to the Ware Funeral Home in Chillicothe, Ohio.

James E. "Jim" Fornash James E. "Jim" Fornash, a 73-year-old resident of Chillicothe, passed away unexpectedly on May 15, 2025. Born in 1952, he is survived by his two sons, three grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter, while being predeceased by his two wives and a special uncle. Jim worked as a Maintenance Supervisor at the Recording Workshop for 30 years before retiring. Visitation will be held at the Ware Funeral Home on May 21, with a private burial to follow at the family's convenience.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

-Philippians 4:13