Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Scioto County / September 17, 2025

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Scioto County • September 17, 2025

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Good morning, Scioto County. The landscape of opportunity is literally changing before our eyes as ground breaks on the $3 million Appalachian Career Empowerment Training facility in Piketon. This isn't just another construction project—it represents a fundamental shift in our region's economic potential, with plans to train 720 people over three years in high-demand manufacturing skills. The facility addresses what program director Herman Potter calls our area's critical weakness: the lack of a trained workforce ready for incoming businesses.

Time is ticking for education seekers as Ashland Community and Technical College's October 3rd deadline for fall bi-term classes approaches rapidly. These accelerated eight-week courses offer the same content as semester-long classes but in half the time—perfect for those looking to fast-track their education. Meanwhile, the county continues to navigate leadership challenges following Commissioner Bryan Davis's provisional suspension amid felony charges, with local Republican leaders preparing for a potential temporary replacement.

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏗️ New training facility breaks ground to transform regional workforce opportunities. The Appalachian Career Empowerment Training Program in Piketon, developed by United Steelworkers Local 689 and Southern Ohio Diversification Initiative, will offer industry-driven manufacturing certifications. Funded by a $3 million grant, the state-of-the-art facility will use $890,000 for construction while the remaining funds will support training 720 people over three years. Program Director Herman Potter emphasized the center will address a critical regional weakness—the lack of a trained workforce ready for incoming businesses. The facility will feature advanced technology including computer labs and television screens to deliver multiple training programs.

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📚 College registration deadline looms for fall bi-term classes. Ashland Community and Technical College is accepting applications until October 3 for its second fall bi-term session starting October 20. These eight-week courses cover the same content as full-semester classes but in half the time. Students can take general education requirements or program-specific courses, with new students potentially eligible for financial aid through FAFSA. Interested students should consult with an advisor to determine if bi-term courses align with their program requirements.

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⚖️ Ohio commissioner vanishes after felony indictment. Bryan Davis received a provisional suspension from his duties after being charged with 13 felony counts related to alleged bribes and public contracts. His absence from meetings prompted calls for his resignation from political leaders concerned about the distraction. The suspension, which is paid leave, was voluntarily agreed upon by Davis's legal team and the State of Ohio. Once a three-judge panel makes a final ruling, the local Republican Party can appoint a temporary replacement while legal proceedings continue.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Spacious ranch rural paradise: Listed at $229,000, this remodeled ranch offers 1,482 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms on three private acres, featuring cathedral ceilings, modern updates, and two spacious decks for outdoor enjoyment.
Real estate listing image Vehicular paradise on wooded acres: This Wheelersburg home, listed at $439,000, offers four bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a custom kitchen with granite countertops, and multiple garage spaces on 1.5 wooded acres—perfect for parking enthusiasts with room for 15+ vehicles.
Real estate listing image Poolside ranch school district gem: This brick ranch in Wheelersburg School District offers 3 bedrooms, hardwood floors, a sunroom leading to an inground pool, and two outbuildings for $230,000.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🧘 Sep. 17 - Tai Chi Beginner Class: Find your center at Chillicothe Library's Tai Chi class on September 17! This gentle martial art offers amazing health benefits for beginners—just wear comfy clothes and flat shoes for this low-impact practice.
🌎 Sep. 19 - St. Mary's International Festival: Celebrate global cultures at St. Mary's International Festival on September 19! Experience exciting activities and community fun at 514 Market St, Portsmouth, OH—a world of traditions right in your neighborhood.
🕊️ Sep. 19 - Grand Sentinel Visitation: Join the community in honoring the Grand Sentinel at Scioto Regional Water District on September 19. Stop by 326 Robert Lucas Rd in Lucasville to pay your respects and connect with neighbors.
🍷 Sep. 19 - Wines From Down Under: Sip your way through the southern hemisphere at The Mirage Champagne Bar! Jon Offredo guides you through five Australian and Brazilian wines paired with delicious courses on September 19th at 6PM. $TBD.
💼 Sep. 19 - Workforce Hub Career Fair: Jump-start your career journey at the Workforce Hub! Stop by the Chillicothe Library on Sep 19 for expert help with job searches, resume building, and more to land your next opportunity.
🎵 Sep. 20 - West Band Field Critique: Portsmouth West Marching Band showcases their musical talents on September 20 at the high school's turf field. Stop by to enjoy performances and critique sessions—just leave those electrical devices at home!
🌽 Sep. 20 - Chillicothe Farmers Market: Fresh produce and local treasures await at the Chillicothe Farmers Market! Stop by the Ross County Service Center (475 Western Ave) this Saturday, September 20, from 8am to noon for seasonal delights.
👜 Sep. 21 - Designer Purse Bingo: Grab your daubers for PALS' Designer Purse Bingo at Scioto County Fairgrounds on Sep 21! Just $25 gets you an afternoon of games, door prizes, and the chance to win gorgeous designer bags.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.

-Psalm 28:7

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