🚀 Ohio's Tech Takeoff - Scioto County

Good morning, Scioto County. Move over, Silicon Valley - the Buckeye State is flexing its tech muscles in a major way. Anduril Industries' breathtaking $1 billion investment isn't just bringing 4,000 drone-manufacturing jobs to Ohio; it's cementing our region's position as a powerhouse in America's defense technology future. When tech pioneer Palmer Luckey and Governor DeWine shared the stage, they weren't just announcing a factory - they were unveiling the next chapter of Ohio's industrial evolution.

While this groundbreaking news takes flight, our neighbors in Boyd County are finally getting back to terra firma after an epic 27-day winter break that would make even Elsa jealous. As students trade their snow boots for school books, the justice system in our community grapples with its own delicate challenges, reminding us that even the biggest developments come with their share of earthbound concerns.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏭 Defense tech giant brings 4,000 drone-making jobs to Ohio. Anduril Industries announced a massive $1 billion investment to build a military drone factory in Pickaway County, marking one of the state's largest defense investments. The announcement event brought together company leaders including founder Palmer Luckey and CEO Brian Schimpf with Ohio officials including Governor Mike DeWine. The facility represents a major expansion of America's domestic defense manufacturing capabilities. This strategic investment highlights Ohio's growing importance in the military technology sector.

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Renovated country home with space

Charming 1-story home listing at $155,000 in a serene country setting. This fully renovated residence features three bedrooms, two baths, and an improved floor plan that boasts 1,256 sq ft. With a half-acre lot, vinyl siding, a durable metal roof, and a covered front porch, it offers comfortable living with a touch of countryside charm.

Hunting retreat with cozy home

This turnkey whitetail hunting property, priced at $420,000, is a hunter's paradise featuring five food plots, three watering sites, and a well-established trail system for easy access. Complete with a nearly finished two-bedroom home and a spacious barn, this property offers exceptional habitat management for targeting big Ohio whitetails, all set against picturesque rolling terrain and a serene creek backdrop.

Cozy home with stunning pool

This inviting 2 bedroom, 1 bath home, priced at $205,000, features beautiful laminate and hardwood floors, a cozy gas fireplace, and a kitchen equipped with appliances. Outdoors, you can enjoy a stunning in-ground pool surrounded by a large patio, perfect for entertaining, along with a durable metal roof and four additional parcels for extra projects.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

💼 Jan. 21 - Business Basics Boot Camp: Ready to launch your dream business? Join us at SSU Kricker Innovation Hub (221 Chillicothe St, Portsmouth) on January 21 to master the essentials of business formation and set yourself up for entrepreneurial success.

💃 Jan. 21 - Pretty Woman Musical: Fall in love all over again as "Pretty Woman The Musical" brings the beloved romantic comedy to life on stage at Portsmouth's Vern Riffe Center for the Arts on January 21.

🐝 Jan. 21 - The Bee at Northside: Buzz on over to see the Northside Branch's special guest - The Bee is making an appearance outside the library at 140 S Paint St while renovations are underway on January 21.

⚾ Jan. 22 - Portsmouth Baseball Banquet: Baseball fans, step up to plate for a special evening at the Portsmouth Murals Baseball Banquet! Join fellow enthusiasts at Morris University Center on January 22nd for a celebration of America's favorite pastime.

💼 Jan. 23 - Ohio Business Overview: Get the inside scoop on Ohio's business landscape at Dock At Water in downtown Chillicothe. Join local entrepreneurs and leaders for an informative evening of networking on January 23rd. Free admission.

🏀 Jan. 23 - Panthers vs Titans Basketball: Crosstown rivals face off as the Clay Panthers take on the Notre Dame Titans in girls' varsity basketball action! Catch the hoops showdown at Notre Dame High School on January 23rd at 4:00 pm.

🏀 Jan. 24 - Titans vs. Tartans Basketball: Hoops action heats up as the Sciotoville East Tartans face off against the Notre Dame Titans in a thrilling varsity basketball showdown. Catch the game at Notre Dame High School on January 24th at 4:15 pm.

🎭 Jan. 25 - Winter Wonderland Gala: Dress to impress at SOMC's elegant Winter Gala! Enjoy a magical evening of cocktails, chef-prepared dinner and dancing at Marting's in Portsmouth on January 25. Black tie optional.

🌾 Jan. 25 - Chillicothe Winter Market: Fresh local flavors await at the Chillicothe Winter Farmers Market! Stock up on seasonal goods and meet your favorite vendors every Saturday from 10AM-12PM at the Ross County Service Center parking lot.

🏫 Jan. 25 - D16 High School SE: High school athletes take to the court at Unioto High School for exciting district tournament action on January 25. Join the community at 14193 Pleasant Valley Road in Chillicothe to cheer on local teams.

💰 Financial Friday

Evaluate your insurance policies regularly to ensure you have adequate coverage without overpaying; shopping around for better rates or policies can lead to significant savings and peace of mind.

🙏 In Remembrance

David Newell Lander Sr.

David Newell Lander Sr., 73, of Portsmouth, OH, passed away on New Year's Day. He is remembered by family and friends, and the community is invited to share memories or condolences on his memorial website.

Trecia Lynn Ashley

Trecia Lynn Ashley, 67, of Portsmouth, passed away on January 12, 2025. Her funeral arrangements are being handled by the D.W. Swick Funeral Home in Wheelersburg.

Norma Jean Lawhorn

Norma Jean Lawhorn, 81, of Wheelersburg, passed away on January 7, 2025, at her home, surrounded by family. Born on September 3, 1943, she was the daughter of Raymond and Louise Gammon and a devoted homemaker who also worked at Harts and Wal-Mart. Norma is survived by her three children, three grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and several siblings. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Brant Lawhorn, and a brother. Funeral services are scheduled for January 10, 2025, at Erwin-Dodson-Allen Funeral Home.

Kortney Leeane Jewell

Kortney Leeane Jewell, 34, of New Boston, passed away on January 11, 2025. She is remembered for her spirit and was welcomed into the presence of the Lord. Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth.

Mary Elizabeth Flanagan

Mary Elizabeth Flanagan, 98, of Sciotoville, passed away on January 10, 2025, at Concord in Wheelersburg. A retired secretary for the City Solicitor, her Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Peter's Catholic Church at 1 p.m. on January 15, 2025, preceded by a rosary service. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Cemetery, with guest visitation occurring two hours prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice, and condolences can be shared at www.brantfuneralservice.com.

Billy Fair

Billy Fair, a resident of Lucasville and formerly from Kentucky, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 77. His family invites those who knew him to share their memories and condolences at www.fcdaehlermortuary.com. Billy's life and legacy will be remembered by all who loved him.

Everett Glenn Jewell

Everett Glenn Jewell, 62, of West Portsmouth, passed away on January 9, 2025, at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati. Funeral arrangements are currently being made at the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth. Further details will be announced soon.

Lynn Mills Michael

Michael Lynn Mills, 68, of Lucasville, passed away on January 7, 2025. In accordance with his wishes, cremation will be performed. A Celebration of Life is scheduled for January 18, 2025, at 2 PM at the Lucasville Church of Christ and Christian Union. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories or condolences on the funeral home website.

Babbette Louise Bays

Babbette Louise Bays, 64, of Vanceburg, Kentucky, passed away on November 26, 2024. Born on October 16, 1960, in Portsmouth, Ohio, she was known for her humor and honesty, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved daughter, mother, sister, and friend. Babbette is survived by her daughter, Miranda Rae Jarvis, and brothers Douglas and Kevin Bays, while she was preceded in death by her parents and brother. A celebration of her life will be held on January 25 at The Carter House in Vanceburg.

Sandra Kay Packard

Sandra Kay Packard, 61, of Sciotoville, passed away on January 12, 2025, at the SOMC Hospice Center. She was the widow of James Dean "Otto" Packard. A service is scheduled for January 16 at 6 p.m. at Brant Funeral Home, with visitation from 4 to 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to SOMC Hospice.

Norman Luther Gross

Norman Luther Gross, 76, of Portsmouth, passed away on January 9, 2025, at the Pavilion of Piketon. His arrangements are being managed by the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth.

Ruth Virginia Walter

Ruth Virginia (Long) Walter, 97, of Wheelersburg, OH, passed away on January 9, 2025. Her life and legacy are remembered by family and friends. Condolences and special messages can be left at www.fcdaehlermortuary.com.

Bonnie Jean Adkins Perdue

Bonnie Jean Adkins Perdue, 97, passed away on January 7, 2025, at Tranquility Hospice in Marietta, GA. Born on October 13, 1927, in Sciotoville, Ohio, she was the daughter of Harry and Dorothy Adkins. Bonnie was predeceased by her husband Roy Perdue, son Roy David Perdue, and several siblings. A devoted community member, she actively served as the Director of Volunteer Services at St. Francis Medical Center in Missouri and was involved in various organizations. She is survived by her daughter Deborah, son John, a sister, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many relatives. Funeral services will be held on January 17, 2025, in Portsmouth, Ohio.

Beverly Jane Entler

Beverly Jane Entler, 81, of Portsmouth, passed away on January 11, 2025, at Buckeye Forest at Rosemount Pavilion. Born on September 2, 1943, she graduated from Portsmouth West High School in 1961 and worked nearly 20 years as a home health aide. Beverly was married to James W. Entler Jr. from November 11, 1961, until his passing in 2000, and is survived by her son, Tony, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Clyde Owen Entler, and several siblings. Funeral services are scheduled for January 18, 2025, at Ralph F. Scott Funeral Home.

Nancy Lee Jarrells

Nancy Lee Jarrells, 84, of Friendship, OH, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2025. Born on August 7, 1941, she was a distinguished graduate of West Portsmouth High School and Ohio University, dedicating 30 years to teaching in the Washington Local School District. Nancy was known for her academic excellence, love for her family, and vibrant hobbies, including sports and travel. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandsons, and was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Walter Jarrells. Funeral services will be held on January 17, 2025, with interment on January 18, and donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

-Romans 12:2