🤠 Roy's roundup

Good morning, Scioto County. The King of Cowboys might soon get his own special day in Ohio. The state House just passed a bill to designate November 5th as "Roy Rogers Day," honoring Portsmouth's homegrown Western legend who lassoed his way from humble beginnings to Hollywood stardom. It's a fitting tribute to a man whose cowboy boots left deep impressions in our local heritage, including decades of festivals and a dedicated museum that once drew visitors from across the country.

While we celebrate our past, the present shines just as brightly. Jackson's "Evening At The Oscars" gala brought red-carpet glamour to the Markay Cultural Arts Center, while Russell students are demonstrating that true stardom comes from the heart through their UNIFIED Club's work supporting peers with special needs. From silver screen celebrations to classroom compassion, our community continues to honor both its icons and its everyday heroes.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Portsmouth

29°

40°

Wheelersberg

29°

40°

New Boston

29°

40°

Minford

29°

40°

South Webster

29°

39°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🤠 Ohio moves to honor "King of Cowboys" with special day. The Ohio House passed a bill designating November 5th as "Roy Rogers Day," celebrating the Portsmouth-born Western star's legacy. Sponsored by Republican Representative Justin Pizzulli, the legislation aims to inspire young Ohioans from rural communities while commemorating Rogers, who was born in 1911 and became an iconic singer, actor, and rodeo performer. Portsmouth previously hosted a Roy Rogers Museum and held annual festivals celebrating him for over 40 years. The bill now awaits Senate approval before becoming law.

🎬 Jackson's Oscars gala dazzles with artistic elegance. "Evening At The Oscars," hosted by the Southern Hills Arts Council, brought glamour to the Markay Cultural Arts Center on March 1. The event, held at ParksEdge Event Center, mirrored the popular "Evening With The Arts" series of past years. Strong community support for cultural arts was evident throughout the gala, showcasing Jackson's commitment to fostering artistic expression and cultural enrichment.

🤝 Russell students unite to support special needs peers. The UNIFIED Club at Russell Independent School District observed National Spread the Word Day on Wednesday, focusing on inclusion. Club members work to provide support for children with special needs throughout the district. The initiative is part of a broader movement to create more inclusive educational environments for students of all abilities. This student-led effort highlights the importance of peer support in fostering a welcoming school community.

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 Mar. 7 - OMEA District Band Contest:

📚 Mar. 7 - Family Story Time Fun:

🚶 Mar. 7 - Walk for Awareness: Step up for change at the Walk for Awareness, starting at Ross County Courthouse on March 7. Join your neighbors for this community-minded event that brings attention to important local issues.

🎭 Mar. 8 - Dinner & Comedy Night: Laugh while you dine at The Portsmouth Brewing Co.'s Dinner and Comedy Show on March 8! Treat yourself to delicious food and side-splitting comedy for a perfect night out on 2nd Street.

🔮 Mar. 8 - Sand Scrying Workshop: Unlock the ancient art of sand scrying at Serendipity on March 8! This beginner-friendly workshop provides all starter materials for your journey into mystical divination. Perfect for curious souls seeking new spiritual practices.

🫧 Mar. 8 - Bubble Painting Shamrock Plates: Bubble up your creativity at The Happy Pot! Create a shamrock salad plate using bubbles for just $17 plus tax on Saturday, March 8 at 1pm. No reservation needed—just pop in!

🎬 Mar. 8 - Neon Pool Movie Matinee: Dive into winter movie magic at Scioto County Library's neon-themed Movie Matinee! Lounge on vibrant pool floats in our indoor "pool" while enjoying a captivating film. March 8 at 1220 Gallia St, Portsmouth.

🏍️ Mar. 8 - Motorcycle Instructor Recruitment: Rev up your riding skills at the Motorcycle Ohio Instructor Open House! Join fellow motorcycle enthusiasts at SSU Kricker Innovation Hub on March 8 for an informative session and riding evaluation. No experience necessary.

🙏 In Remembrance

Jerry A. "Grizz" Mann

Jerry "Grizz" Mann, 79, passed away peacefully at home on March 3, 2025. Born on March 23, 1945, Jerry was a U.S. Army veteran who lived a life dedicated to his passions, including Ohio State University, NASCAR, and his farm where he taught children in the 4-H program. He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Sandy, along with numerous children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends who cherished his companionship. A memorial service will be held on March 8, 2025, at the Roger W Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth to honor his legacy of love, loyalty, and service.

Cheryl Anne Burns

Cheryl Simon Burns, 68, of Portsmouth, passed away on February 27, 2025, at SOMC. Born in 1956, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who is survived by her father, seven siblings, three children, twelve grandchildren, a great-granddaughter, and her dog Bobbie. Cheryl's greatest joy was caring for her loved ones, always offering kindness, support, and making sure no one felt alone. Her funeral service will be held on March 6th at Melcher Hammer Funeral Home, with visitation preceding the service.

Aaron Michael Borders

Aaron Michael Borders, 35, of Otway, Ohio, passed away on February 28, 2025, leaving behind his wife Leah, son Jace, parents, siblings, and extended family. As a boxing coach affiliated with US Boxing and the West Virginia LBC, Aaron was known for his passion for helping others. His funeral service will be held on March 7, 2025, at Botkin Hornback Funeral Home, followed by burial on the family farm. Aaron's kind spirit and dedication to coaching will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.