🍽️ Hunger heroes

Good morning, Scioto County. A staggering statistic underscores our community challenge: 19% of Lawrence County residents face food insecurity, including nearly a quarter of our children. This Friday brings a meaningful response as Facing Hunger Foodbank hosts a drive-thru distribution at Central Christian Church, aiming to serve over 150 households with essential food supplies. The first-come, first-served event runs from 11 a.m. to noon, highlighting how neighbors continue supporting neighbors through difficult times.

Meanwhile, creativity flourishes at the Grayson Gallery's Summer Arts Celebration on July 25, where regional artists will showcase their work alongside live music by Redefyned. As visitors browse art and enjoy refreshments, Kentucky families are receiving welcome support through the revived Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program—a vital initiative recognizing the unique challenges faced by those who've stepped up to raise a second generation.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Portsmouth

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Wheelersberg

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New Boston

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Minford

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South Webster

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🍲 Free food giveaway to help hungry families in Ironton. Facing Hunger Foodbank will distribute food this Friday at Central Christian Church from 11 a.m. to noon. The drive-thru event aims to serve over 150 households on a first-come, first-served basis. A staggering 19% of Lawrence County residents face food insecurity, including 24% of children. The distribution will continue until all food supplies are gone.

🎨 Grayson Gallery's Summer Arts Celebration heats up July 25. The free event will showcase regional artists' work for sale alongside live music by Redefyned from 6-9 p.m. Visitors can enjoy refreshments from Catering by Laura while browsing art displays and special discount sales at the GGAC Artist Market. Four $50 cash prizes will be awarded during the 7:45 p.m. ceremony, including People's Choice and Brandon Click Art Memorial categories. The nonprofit gallery serves as the official Arts & Entertainment venue for Grayson Main Street.

👵 Kentucky revives crucial Grandparents Raising Grandchildren program. Victoria Eldridge, Director of Kentucky's Department of Aging and Independent Living, announced the program's return during a FIVCO Area Development District meeting. The initiative supports grandparents who have stepped up to raise their grandchildren, with Eldridge emphasizing "when we say y'all, we mean all y'all." She provided county-specific data on various support services, including meals, SNAP benefits, and Medicaid, while also advocating for Free Pre-K for All. Eldridge urged communities to evaluate program effectiveness to ensure tax dollars are making maximum impact.

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎆 Jul. 24 - Fireworks Art Creation: Spark your creativity at the Chillicothe Library with "Fireworks Painting" on July 24! Transform simple cardboard tubes into vibrant, explosive artwork in this colorful, family-friendly workshop at 140 S Paint St.

🎒 Jul. 25 - Back to School Bash: Kick off the school year with a bang at ASCEND's Back to School Bash! Join the community fun on July 25 at Tracy Park in Portsmouth, where families can connect and get ready for fall.

🎵 Jul. 25 - Name That 1-Hit Wonder: Test your musical memory at The Landing's "Name That 1-Hit Wonder" night! Join fellow music lovers on July 25 at 603 2nd St in Portsmouth to celebrate those talented artists who briefly rocked our world.

🎸 Jul. 26 - Bought By Blood Concert: Experience "Bought By Blood" at South Webster High School's Homecoming celebration on July 26! Join the community at 12:00 PM for this special summer event at 10529 Main St.

🎮 Jul. 26 - Minecraft Movie Adventure: Join YS staff at Scioto County Public Library on July 26 for "A Minecraft Movie," where four misfits journey through a cubic wonderland of imagination as they search for a way home.

🎵 Jul. 26 - Stargazer Cannabis Festival: Groove to funky beats at the Stargazer Cannabis Festival! Austin & The Syd Experience brings their signature ASYD funk to Adventures on the River in Waverly on July 26. Catch the vibes under the stars!

🙏 Jul. 26 - Sunday Worship at Stockdale: Join Pastor Rick Evans for uplifting worship at Stockdale Baptist Church on July 26. Bring your family and friends to 286 Dewey Extension Rd in Lucasville for a warm, welcoming service.

🎵 Jul. 26 - A.D.A.M. Music Collaboration: Groove to collaborative sounds at the A.D.A.M. Music Project, where musical magic happens through artistic partnerships. Join the melodic experience July 26 at Columbia Music Arena in Portsmouth.

🙏 In Remembrance

Gary Lee Meade

Gary Lee Meade, 70, of West Portsmouth, passed away on July 21, 2025, after a lifelong residency in Scioto County. He devoted nearly 50 years to the funeral industry, serving 7,000 individuals with dignity as a self-titled "Thanatological Transportation Specialist" at Roger W. Davis Funeral Home. Beyond his career, Gary was active in his community as founder of The Thunder Returns and Vice President of the West Portsmouth Athletic Boosters. Known for his larger-than-life personality, quick wit, and unwavering loyalty, Gary leaves behind his brother, extended family, and his devoted work family who considered him more than just a colleague.

Clara M Craft

Clara Craft, 62, of Portsmouth, Ohio, passed away on July 14, 2025, after living a life characterized by determination and resilience. She is survived by her daughter, siblings, nine grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, her close friend Diane, and her beloved dog Brutus. Clara was predeceased by her sister Gail, brothers Johnny and Mark, and her parents. Despite facing many challenges throughout her life, Clara enjoyed simple pleasures like watching TV, swimming, and spending time with her dog, and a private memorial will be held at a later date to celebrate her life.