🎓 Bootcamp to Boardroom - Scioto County

Good morning, Scioto County. In an era when "real-world experience" usually means binge-watching workplace sitcoms, Ohio's taking a bold leap forward. Four universities, including our own Shawnee State, are launching teacher bootcamps that'll send 667 educators straight into the business world - think "The Office" meets "Dead Poets Society," but with actual career preparation at stake.

If all this workplace talk has you yearning for an escape, Shawnee State Park's Nature Wellness Weekend is serving up the perfect digital detox. While the Ironton Rotary Club preps for their legendary pancake breakfast (featuring griddle master Darwin Haynes' 21st year of flipping flapjacks), nature enthusiasts are already booking their spots among "Ohio's Little Smokies" for a weekend of trail-blazing, creek-wading serenity. Sometimes the best reset button comes with a side of maple syrup.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Portsmouth

31°

45°

72%

Wheelersberg

31°

45°

72%

New Boston

31°

45°

72%

Minford

31°

45°

72%

South Webster

32°

42°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🎓 Ohio picks four universities to bridge classroom-business gap with teacher bootcamps. Governor Mike DeWine announced a groundbreaking program that will give 667 educators real-world business experience to enhance their teaching. Shawnee State, Ashland, Malone, and Lake Erie College will offer these specialized bootcamps where teachers tour local businesses and complete related coursework. The initiative aims to better prepare students for high-demand careers in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Participating educators will receive tuition reimbursement for graduate credits and continuing education units earned through the program.

🌲 Escape screens and stress at Ohio's Nature Wellness Weekend retreat. Shawnee State Park's third annual event, running May 16-18, offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and relaxation in "Ohio's Little Smokies." The weekend features guided hikes, creek play, nature art, and wild edible plant identification among the park's 60 miles of trails. Visitors can choose between an all-inclusive lodge package ($536-$582) or camping options ($50) for the three-day experience. With only 40 spots available, this nature-focused getaway promises a peaceful reset in the stunning Appalachian foothills.

🥞 Local pancake breakfast flips goodwill into college scholarships for 48 years. The Ironton Rotary Club's annual tradition returns this Saturday at the Knights of Columbus hall, with proceeds funding nursing education in Lawrence County. Darwin Haynes, the event's legendary griddle master, will continue his 21-year streak of pancake-flipping excellence. Local nursing students and Boy Scouts will help serve and clean up at the community gathering. Beyond pancakes, the Rotary Club supports various causes, from local children's programs to international development in Guatemala.

🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)

In a nail-biter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Symmes Valley Vikings edged out Northwest Mohawks 58-52 in a crucial league matchup. The Vikings (13-5) continue their impressive season, while Northwest (10-8) will look to bounce back against Oak Hill in what's shaping up to be a can't-miss Friday night showdown.

Team	Opponent	Score
Northwest (10-8)
	vs Symmes Valley	L 58-52

🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)

Team	Opponent	Score
Green (18-1)
	@ Eastern	W 58-38
Northwest (10-11)
	vs East	W 60-20
East (3-12)
	@ Northwest	L 60-20

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Ranch home with guest cabin: This charming ranch home, listed at $305,000, features an open floor plan, three bedrooms, a guest cabin, and an impressive four-car pole barn, all on 1.71 acres near local conveniences.

Spacious home with convenient features: This charming 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home on a desirable corner lot in Wheelersburg, listed for $259,000, offers spacious living areas, a main floor primary suite, and outdoor enjoyment with a front porch and cozy back patio. The oversized detached garage and separate outbuilding provide ample storage for all your needs.

Stunning colonial with spacious layout: A stunning colonial two-story home is available for $515,000, featuring a spacious layout with a finished lower level, multiple garages, and an inviting outdoor space, all in move-in condition.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎸 Feb. 07 - Columbia Music Arena Live: Rock out at the historic Columbia Music Arena in Portsmouth! Local and touring bands take the stage on February 7th for an unforgettable night of live music at 832 Gallia Street.

🏀 Feb. 07 - Flyers vs Titans Basketball: Crosstown rivals face off as the St. Joseph Flyers battle the Notre Dame Titans in a high-stakes varsity basketball showdown at Notre Dame High School. Catch the action February 7th at 4:15 pm.

❤️ Feb. 07 - Wear Red Save Hearts: Paint the town red at The Happy Pot! Sport your favorite crimson attire on February 7th and score 10% off while supporting women's heart health at this festive 11am-7pm event on 2nd Street.

🍫 Feb. 08 - Downtown Chocolate Walk: Chocolate lovers, rejoice! Stroll through Downtown Portsmouth for the Ellen Vetter Memorial Chocolate Walk, where $12 lets you sample sweet treats at over 30 locations this Valentine's season. Begins at Port City Pub.

🌾 Feb. 08 - Chillicothe Winter Market: Fresh local flavors await at the Chillicothe Farmers Market, where winter and spring vendors gather every Saturday morning from 10AM-12PM at the Ross County Service Center parking lot on Western Avenue.

👯 Feb. 08 - Women's Circle: Connect and recharge at our monthly Women's Circle gathering at Serendipity in Minford. Join fellow women for an evening of meaningful conversation and community on February 8th.

🎨 Feb. 08 - Watercolor Basics Workshop: Unleash your inner artist at Bennett Hall's beginner-friendly watercolor workshop! Create your own masterpiece in this two-hour class at Ohio University Chillicothe on February 8th.

🌶️ Feb. 08 - Church Chili Fundraiser Dinner: Warm up with multiple varieties of homemade chili at McDermott Christian Church's cozy fundraising dinner! Sample different flavors and enjoy toasted cheese sandwiches at the USPS location on Barker Street, February 8th.

💰 Financial Friday

Exploring the world of credit cards can be beneficial, as choosing one with rewards tailored to your spending habits can earn you cashback, travel points, or discounts that enhance your purchasing power. Just be sure to pay off the balance each month to avoid interest charges that can quickly diminish those rewards.

🙏 In Remembrance

Richard F. Mittendorf

Richard "Dick" F. Mittendorf, 89, passed away at his home on January 29, 2025, in Greensboro, Georgia. Born on April 2, 1935, in Portsmouth, OH, he served as a Marine drill sergeant after attending The Ohio State University and enjoyed a successful career with Coca Cola. He was married to Nancy Ellen Karr for many years until her passing in 2022, and they shared a love for animals and golf in their retirement. Dick is survived by his brothers-in-law and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held in Portsmouth this summer, with his ashes to be interred beside Nancy in Greenlawn Cemetery.

Roma June Hiles

Roma June Shinkle Hiles, 94, of McDermott, passed away on February 3, 2025. Born on November 4, 1930, she was a graduate of McDermott High School and a dedicated member of the Rush Township Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. June had a diverse career, including roles at the Scioto County Courthouse and as a long-time cook at Rest Haven Nursing Home. She was preceded in death by her two husbands, and children's names include Lisa Adams and Rick Shinkle. She is survived by four sons, a daughter, nine grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. Services will be held on February 7, 2025, with burial at Rushtown Cemetery.

Garris James Sirek

Garris James "Gary" Sirek, 81, of Wheelersburg, passed away on January 30, 2025, at The Chillicothe V.A. Hospital. His arrangements are managed by the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth. Gary's legacy will be remembered fondly by his family and friends.

Roy Edward HorsleyRoy Edward Horsley

Roy Edward Horsley, 78, of Stout, passed away on February 4, 2025, at Hospice of Hope in Maysville, Kentucky. Born on June 27, 1946, he was the son of the late Cecil and Lora Blevins Horsley and was preceded in death by his wife, Rebecca, and three brothers. Roy served as a Township Trustee in Green Township for 24 years and worked in the logging business alongside his brother. He is survived by two sons, a sister, three brothers, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a special friend. Graveside services will be held on February 10, 2025, at Jamison Cemetery in Lewis County, Kentucky.

Eloise Doddridge

Eloise Ione Doddridge, 93, of Lucasville, OH, passed away on January 30, 2025, at her son's home. Born on January 15, 1932, in Portsmouth, she had a long career at the Social Security office and was an active member of the Alpha Iota Sorority. Eloise was married for 64 years to Stanley Doddridge Sr., who preceded her in death, along with two brothers and two sisters. She is survived by her son, granddaughters, and great-grandsons, and was known for her fervent support of her family's sports activities. Services will be held at McKinley Funeral Home, with burial at Memorial Burial Park.

John L. R. Mitchell

John Landon Ray Mitchell, 74, passed away on January 30, 2025. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to FC Daehler Mortuary in Portsmouth, OH. Friends and relatives are invited to share memories and condolences online at the mortuary's website.

Lola Mae Brown

Lola Mae Adkins Brown, 96, of the Beech Fork Community in Otway, passed away on January 27, 2025. Born on March 21, 1928, in McDermott, she was the daughter of the late Everett and Thelma Gillette Adkins and the widow of James Ray Brown. Lola was a devoted member of Beech Fork Church for over 75 years, where she was known for her singing and ministry to the sick. She is survived by two sons, two daughters, seven grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren and family members. Funeral services took place on February 4, 2025, at Beech Fork Church, followed by burial in Beech Fork Cemetery.

Nancy A. Imm

Nancy A. Imm, 90, of Wheelersburg, passed away on January 31, 2025. Her arrangements are being handled by D.W. Swick Funeral Home at the Wolfe-Nelson Chapel in Sciotoville. She is remembered for her life and contributions to the community. Further details about her life and memorial services may be provided by the funeral home.

Delores DixonDelores Dixon

Delores MK Bivens Dixon, 98, of Parsons, TN, passed away on February 2, 2025. Born December 28, 1926, in Quincy, KY, she was the daughter of James and Bessie Bivens and was the second youngest of 13 siblings. Delores was a devoted wife to Joseph R. Dixon for 71 years until his passing in July 2017, and she was known for her skills as a mother, housekeeper, cook, and seamstress. She is survived by her two children, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for February 8, 2025, at Melcher Hammer Funeral Home in Portsmouth, KY.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

-Joshua 1:9

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