Scioto County • August 29, 2025
Good morning, Scioto County. Riding the Ohio River on a motorcycle might not be possible, but the roar of engines certainly echoed across our waterways last week. Thunder on the River brought an impressive 10,000-15,000 motorcycle enthusiasts to Ironton, drawing visitors from as far as England and Australia. The five-day rally's success has already sparked plans for a 2026 event, cementing its place on our regional calendar.
In less thunderous news, state auditors have demanded $1.3 million back from local addiction services provider HopeSource after identifying improper Medicaid billing practices. Meanwhile, the tri-state dining scene continues its evolution with Kel's Tavern preparing to replace Sergio's on Charleston's West Side, promising "elevated cuisine at affordable prices." Foodies will need to act quickly to enjoy Dem 2 Brothers & A Grill, which announced the closure of both restaurant locations to focus on mobile operations.
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💊 State demands $1.3 million back from Ohio addiction services provider. Auditors found HopeSource in Scioto County improperly billed Medicaid for mental health and addiction services over three years. The state is seeking repayment of nearly $1.5 million including interest after identifying documentation issues, unauthorized services, and unbillable activities. HopeSource, which received about $9.9 million for 102,000 substance use disorder services, disputed some of the audit findings. The Ohio Department of Medicaid or Attorney General's Office will work to recoup the inappropriate payments.
🏍️ Thousands roar into Ironton for Thunder on the River rally. The five-day motorcycle event drew an estimated 10,000-15,000 visitors to the Ohio River town, including international attendees from as far as England and Australia. Organizer Donnie Roberts called the bike rally a success, crediting strong community support for the event's positive outcome. Visitors included YouTubers who rode from California specifically for the gathering. Roberts confirmed plans to make Thunder on the River an annual event, with the 2026 rally already in the works.
🍔 Charleston's restaurant scene buzzes with changes and closures. Kel's Tavern is set to replace Sergio's Cucina Italiana on the West Side, promising "elevated cuisine at affordable prices" with dishes like bourbon-glazed salmon and Buffalo chicken empanadas. Meanwhile, Bar 101 and Ichiban Pan-Asian Cuisine properties are now listed for sale in downtown Charleston. Dem 2 Brothers & A Grill announced it's closing both restaurant locations to focus on food trucks, catering, and retail products after facing economic challenges and family health issues.
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Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.
-Psalm 31:24
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