Good morning, Scioto County. Second chances are taking physical form on Center Street in Ironton, where The Counseling Center has transformed its location into a 16-bed sober living facility for men. This newly renovated space—complete with recreation areas, kitchen, and therapy rooms—represents more than just housing; it offers a bridge between treatment and independent living for those who've completed recovery programs, with staff focused on building employment skills and stability.
In stark contrast to these steps toward rehabilitation, Carter County saw twenty-five individuals arrested last week on charges ranging from serious sexual abuse to drug possession. Meanwhile, our community marks the passing of a matriarch as Wanda Bender, a 94-year-old Portsmouth mother of four who witnessed nearly a century of local history, leaves behind generations of family who will gather to honor her memory in the coming days.
☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏠 Counseling Center transforms Ironton location into men's sober living facility. The Center Street building reopened Thursday with 16 beds designed for men who have completed treatment programs like those at STAR Community Justice Center. Site director Amy Morris explained the facility will focus on transitional living, providing counseling and helping residents with job placement and employment skills. The renovated space includes a recreation room, kitchen, and group therapy area to support recovery. The Portsmouth-based company, which opened this location in 2022, operates multiple facilities across southern Ohio.
🚨 Twenty-five individuals landed behind bars in Carter County last week. Brandon Bowen faces serious charges of first-degree sexual abuse of a victim under 12 years and three counts of criminal abuse. Other arrests included charges ranging from theft, probation violations, and domestic violence to drug possession and public intoxication. Notable bookings involved Charles Buckler for distributing obscene matter to minors and Scott Timperio for possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine. The arrests were made by various agencies including Kentucky State Police, Carter County Sheriff, and local police departments.
🕊️ Beloved Portsmouth mother of four passes away at 94. Wanda F. Bender died on July 24, 2025, at Rosemount Pavilion Nursing Home after a long life that began in 1931. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph, one son, two grandchildren, and three siblings. Wanda leaves behind four sons, three grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren who will cherish her memory. The family plans to hold a memorial service at a later date, with arrangements under the care of Roberson Funeral Home.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Renovated Home Near School Ready: Refreshed 3-bed, 2-bath home with covered porch, open living space, and fenced yard asking $150,000. Located minutes from Portsmouth West K-12, this recently renovated property offers immediate possession and convenient living.
Split-level gem with pool: Priced at $315,000, this split-level home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and modern kitchen, complemented by an all-season room, heated inground pool, and flexible space suitable for guests or a home office.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🙏 In Remembrance
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🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
-Galatians 6:9
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