🌊 Soggy situation

Good morning, Ross County. Water is rising faster than spirits as dangerous flash floods sweep across our community, leaving many roads impassable. The National Weather Service's forecast of continued downpours has Sheriff Lavender urging residents to avoid water-covered roadways and limit travel until conditions improve. Meanwhile, bargain hunters have something to celebrate as HomeBuys opens its doors in the former Big Lots building, complete with an appearance by Ohio State football star Jack Sawyer drawing crowds eager for photos with the future Pittsburgh Steeler.

Looking ahead to Independence Day, Mother Nature seems to be in a patriotic mood with the forecast promising perfect fireworks viewing conditions at Yoctangee Park – sunny skies and temperatures near 89 during the day, cooling to a comfortable 67 degrees by evening. In state news, Ohio's unclaimed funds program is making headlines after $600 million was allocated toward Cleveland's new domed stadium, while the average unclaimed amount for regular Ohioans sits at around $4,000 per claim.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Chillicothe

66°

82°

Frankfort

66°

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Kingston

66°

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Adelphi

66°

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South Salem

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🌊 Ross County faces dangerous flash floods after heavy downpours. The National Weather Service predicts more showers and potential thunderstorms throughout Tuesday, with a 90% chance of rain. Many roads across the county are already flooded and impassable, according to the Ross County Sheriff's Office. Sheriff George Lavender has issued warnings to residents, urging drivers not to attempt crossing water-covered roadways. Officials recommend limiting unnecessary travel until conditions improve.

💰 Ohio's unclaimed funds diverted to fund Browns' new stadium. Governor DeWine approved $600 million from the state's unclaimed funds pot for Cleveland's domed stadium project, despite opposition from Democrats and the Attorney General. The budget allocates a total of $1.7 billion in unclaimed funds, with additional money for other stadium projects. Ohioans can check if they have unclaimed money (averaging $4,000 per claim) by visiting missingmoney.com or the Ohio Department of Commerce portal. Claims require proof of identity and address, and can take up to 120 days for review.

🚗 Driver crosses median, slams into semi on Ohio highway. Gabriel Bolander veered off Route 35 in Union Township, crossing into oncoming traffic and striking a Kenworth semi driven by Hassandeep Chahal. Bolander was transported to Adena Medical Center while Chahal and his passenger remained uninjured. The collision forced authorities to close westbound lanes for approximately 2.5 hours as emergency responders worked the scene. Ohio State Highway Patrol is still investigating the June 30 crash.

🛍️ HomeBuys opens doors, bringing bargain hunting to Chillicothe. The discount retailer celebrated its grand opening in the former Big Lots building on Bridge Street, drawing crowds eager to explore its treasure trove of closeout merchandise. Ohio State football star Jack Sawyer made a special appearance, attracting fans who lined up early for photos with the future Pittsburgh Steeler. Store Leader Matthew Triolo, a former Big Lots employee, noted that several staff members were rehired by the new Columbus-based business. Customers can now shop for everything from home goods and food to toys and electronics at 985 North Bridge Street.

🎆 Chillicothe's Fourth of July forecast promises perfect fireworks viewing conditions. The National Weather Service predicts a sunny day with temperatures reaching near 89 degrees for Independence Day celebrations in Ross County. Evening activities, including the fireworks display at Yoctangee Park, will enjoy partly cloudy skies with temperatures cooling to around 67 degrees. Residents planning to attend local festivities can leave their raincoats at home and prepare for warm summer weather throughout the holiday.

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🌍 Jul. 2 - Color Our World: Cultures: Immerse yourself in global traditions at "Color Our World with Cultures" at Chillicothe Library on July 2. Relax on the outdoor patio or bring the little ones to enjoy the children's play area.

🎵 Jul. 2 - Summer Lawn Concert Series: Groove to local talent at CRCPL's Summer Music Series on the Northside Library lawn! Bring your chair and snacks on July 2 for an hour of free musical magic at 140 S Paint St.

📚 Jul. 2 - Budding Bookworms Storytime: Little bookworms unite! Join the Chillicothe Library on July 2 for Budding Bookworms Storytime, where engaging stories and songs help develop literacy skills while fostering a lifelong love of reading.

🤝 Jul. 3 - Family Resource Fair: Connect with vital community resources at the SCOJFS Family Resource Fair on July 3 at Chillicothe Library. Local providers offer housing assistance, utility help, and more during this monthly community-sponsored gathering.

📚 Jul. 5 - Meet Author: Deadly Reach: Dive into the world of "DEADLY REACH" at Wheatberry Books! Chat with the author, snag a signed copy, and discover the story behind the thriller on Saturday, July 5 from 1-3pm in downtown Chillicothe.

🎆 Jul. 5 - Independence Day Carnival & Fireworks: Light up your Independence Day at Walnut Creek Campground's "Under The Big Top" carnival! Enjoy festive activities and stay for the dazzling annual fireworks show after dark on July 5.

🌱 Jul. 5 - Native Garden Planting Workshop: Get your hands dirty at Garden Time! Join the Chillicothe Library and Wild Ones South Central Ohio on July 5 to plant, nurture, and learn about native species for our community garden.

🎆 Jul. 5 - Mulgee Run at Bell Manor: Light up your July 5th at Bell Manor as Mulgee Run takes the stage alongside a dazzling fireworks display! Catch this unforgettable summer night at 739 Musgrove Rd in Chillicothe.

🙏 In Remembrance

John Patrick Core

Master Chief Petty Officer JP Core passed away on June 30, 2025, at his home near Frankfort, Ohio. Born in 1960, he served 20 years in the U.S. Navy as a Nuclear Electronics Technician on multiple submarines before working as a civilian at SPAWAR until 2012. He received a double lung transplant in 2014 and a kidney transplant in 2019, and fought various cancers for nearly two years before his death. JP is survived by his wife of 41 years, Coleen, their son Christopher, his siblings, and extended family, and per his wishes, there will be no funeral service.

Freeman Conley

Adelphi Freeman Conley, 89, passed away on June 28, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in Kentucky in 1935, he is survived by his wife of 71 years, Dorothy, five children, numerous siblings, 23 grandchildren, and 54 great and great-great-grandchildren. Freeman worked at Mohler Greenhouse for 17 years and later retired from Children's Hospital after 27 years as a boiler operator. He also served as pastor of Pike Run Church and was known for his deep love for the Lord and his family.

Philip G. Shoemaker

Philip G. Shoemaker, 82, of Greenfield, passed away on June 29, 2025, after a life dedicated to education. A graduate of Ohio University with a master's in education, he taught for 38 years at various institutions including Bainbridge, Twin, Paint Valley, and the Lighthouse Youth Center. Shoemaker is survived by three sisters, a sister-in-law, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends, including Andy Angelo whom he considered a son. He was an avid sports enthusiast who enjoyed coaching youth baseball and basketball in his early years and was a dedicated Cincinnati Reds fan. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 19, 2025, at the Highland Community Building in Hillsboro.