Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Scioto County / December 26, 2024

🌊 Riverfront renaissance

Scioto County • December 26, 2024

Good morning, Scioto County. While big cities might boast about their waterfront developments, something special is happening along our stretch of the Ohio River. Coal Grove is about to transform its riverside with a game-changing $1.25 million makeover, proving that our region knows the value of investing in outdoor recreation spaces that bring communities together.

That same spirit of community investment shines through in the Kiwanis Club's heartwarming $7,000 gift to make local playgrounds more inclusive. At a time when many children spend their days glued to screens, it's inspiring to see our neighbors coming together to ensure every child has a chance to experience the simple joy of playing outdoors. From riverfront improvements to inclusive playgrounds, these projects remind us that the best investments we can make are in spaces that bring people together.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🚤 Coal Grove's rough river access is getting a $1.25 million makeover.The Village of Coal Grove has secured state Capital Budget funding to transform its riverfront dock area, with paving the gravel access road as the top priority. While other nearby communities are also upgrading their riverfronts, Coal Grove is unique in receiving this specific funding source, which comes with fewer restrictions. Mayor Andy Holmes is assembling a steering committee of locals and council members to oversee the improvements, which will begin when weather permits. The upgrades aim to better serve boaters who frequent what's considered the Tri-State area's best boat ramp, making it easier for expensive vessels and vehicles to access the popular launching point.

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🎪 Local Kiwanis Club gifts $7,000 to make playgrounds more inclusive. The donation to Lawrence County Developmental Disabilities Open Door School will fund the first phase of a playground expansion project, adding accessible swing sets and features. Nearly 50 community members gathered at Mailroom Studios for the "Mingle Bells" event, where they learned about Kiwanis' mission to help children. Club president Sean Davis praised the community's enthusiasm for creating spaces where all kids can simply be kids. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Ironton meets weekly and welcomes new members interested in supporting local youth initiatives.

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🏀 Basketball Schedule Slam (Boys)

TeamOpponentDate/Time
Clay Panthers Logo Clay Panthers
@ Miller
12/28 @ 7:00pm
Glenwood Tigers Logo Glenwood Tigers
@ Southern
12/30 @ 7:30pm
Minford Falcons Logo Minford Falcons
@ NHCA
12/28 @ 5:00pm
Northwest Mohawks Logo Northwest Mohawks
@ Wheelersburg
12/27 @ 7:30pm
@ Whiteoak
12/30 @ 7:30pm
Portsmouth Trojans Logo Portsmouth Trojans
@ Notre Dame
12/27 @ 6:00pm
vs Wheelersburg
12/30 @ 7:30pm
Portsmouth West Senators Logo Portsmouth West Senators
@ Nelsonville-York
12/28 @ 12:00pm
South Webster Jeeps Logo South Webster Jeeps
@ Vinton County
12/27 @ 7:30pm
Wheelersburg Pirates Logo Wheelersburg Pirates
vs Northwest
12/27 @ 7:30pm
@ Portsmouth
12/30 @ 7:30pm

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Multiunit investment with character

This well-established multiunit complex, listed for $289,000, features four charming one-bedroom, one-bath units that boast hardwood floors and high ceilings. Each unit enjoys separate utilities for tenant privacy, along with convenient access to laundry facilities in the basement, making this an attractive investment opportunity with additional lot space included in the sale.

Pristine woodland with stunning views

Discover 159 acres of pristine Southern Ohio woodland listed at $295,000, offering breathtaking ridgetop views that extend over six miles to the Kentucky hills. This off-grid haven features two new clearings for food plots, abundant young oak trees, and miles of trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, all located just under 10 minutes from town amenities.

Prime riverfront development opportunity

This prime real estate listing is priced at $4,503,150 and features multiple parcels with direct riverfront access, making it a great opportunity for warehouse development. With the added perk of being adjacent to train infrastructure, this property is perfectly positioned for logistical ease and operational growth.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

❄️ Dec. 30 - Portsmouth Winter Magic: Experience the magic that earned Portsmouth its Hallmark hometown status at Winterfest! Twinkling lights and festive charm fill this enchanting celebration running through December 30 in historic downtown Portsmouth, Ohio.
🎉 Dec. 30 - Noon Year's Party Countdown: Can't make it to midnight? Ring in 2024 early at our family-friendly Noon Year's Eve Party! Join us December 30th at 140 S Paint Street for games, snacks, and a festive countdown to noon.
🐱 Dec. 31 - Hot Cocoa With Coraline: Meet your favorite spooky feline friend at Fifty West Brewing! Snag a drink and a magical 20-minute photo session with Coraline herself at this New Year's Eve meetup in downtown Chillicothe.
👕 Dec. 31 - Kids' Clothing Bank: Help local kids stay warm and stylish at the Children's Clothing Bank, hosted by First Presbyterian Church in the Main Library Annex. Find free clothing for infants through teens at 140 S Paint St.

🙏 In Remembrance

Patricia Sue Burchett

Patricia Sue Burchett, 73, of West Portsmouth, passed away on December 22, 2024, at Southern Ohio Medical Center. Born on June 11, 1951, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ruben Oscar Burchett, and several siblings. Patricia worked as a CNA for 14 years and is survived by her two sons, James and Raymond, along with two grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held on December 27, 2024, at the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home, with visitation on December 26.

Patricia Sue Burchett

Paul Gene Francis

Paul Gene Francis, 57, of Piketon, Ohio, passed away at home on December 24, 2024. Born on November 4, 1967, he was the son of the late Paul Francis and Judy Tackett Conley, who survives him. He is also survived by his son, Jeffrey, and grandchildren Laguna, Arias, and Owen. Paul was a member of the Jehovah Witness faith and will be remembered in a funeral service on December 27, 2024, at Botkin Hornback Funeral Home. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to assist with funeral expenses.

Paul Gene Francis

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.

-Psalm 23:1-3

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