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🌉 Covered curiosities

Scioto County • September 24, 2025

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Good morning, Scioto County. The last remaining covered bridge in our area is ready for its moment in the spotlight this weekend as the township of Otway prepares for its annual Covered Bridge Festival and Car Show. Built in 1874 and preserved through a 2014 transportation grant, this historic structure stands as a living monument to our region's architectural heritage – a rare treasure worth celebrating amid our fast-changing landscape.

While one local landmark takes center stage, another is temporarily vanishing as Lake Vesuvius has been drained to its empty bed following a gate valve malfunction. The dramatic emptying has revealed Christmas trees previously submerged as fish habitats, creating an otherworldly scene. Meanwhile, Portsmouth is buzzing with activities for all ages – from teen suncatcher crafting and planetarium shows to Agatha Christie's theatrical thrills at the Little Theatre, proving our community spirit remains as vibrant as ever.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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📅 Portsmouth buzzes with community events for all ages this week. Fall activities kick off Wednesday with a teen suncatcher craft at New Boston Library, followed by free planetarium shows at Shawnee State University on Thursday. Theatre lovers can catch Agatha Christie's "And Then There Were None" at Portsmouth Little Theatre on Friday and Saturday evenings. Job seekers should note the OMJ Pike County Van will be at Garnet A. Wilson Public Library on Monday offering employment resources and training opportunities. Regular Scioto County Commissioner meetings continue Thursday and Tuesday mornings at the courthouse, with livestream options available.

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🌉 Historic Otway Covered Bridge Festival returns this weekend. The small township of Otway is preparing for its annual Covered Bridge Festival and Car Show, celebrating Scioto County's last remaining covered bridge. Built in 1874 by the Righter Company of Columbus, the historic structure was preserved in 2014 through a U.S. Department of Transportation grant. Local historical society members are coordinating volunteers and finalizing plans to ensure another successful celebration of this important piece of regional heritage.

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💧 Lake Vesuvius drained to empty bed for urgent dam repairs. The Wayne National Forest closed the popular lake on Thursday after a gate valve malfunction prevented proper closure during routine maintenance. Water levels have dropped 31 feet below normal, revealing the lake bed and Christmas trees previously submerged as fish habitats. While the lake itself is closed to visitors, surrounding recreation areas including trails and campgrounds remain accessible. Officials will use this opportunity to conduct infrastructure assessments, dredge the boat launch, and repair storm damage.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Woodsy fireplace home under 140K: This charming 3-bedroom home, listed at $139,900, features a cozy fireplace, wood floors throughout, and an eat-in kitchen ideal for entertaining, all situated on a level fenced lot with off-street parking.
Real estate listing image Farmhouse Ready Modern Updates: For $169,000, this well-maintained home offers modern updates with an open concept design, plus fenced acreage featuring a chicken coop—ideal for a small livestock project or hobby farm.
Real estate listing image Versatile home investment opportunity: This $299,900 property on Connie Ave features spacious bedrooms with two ensuites, a primary suite exceeding 500sqft, double garage, workshop with office and bathrooms, plus a studio apartment previously rented for $600 monthly.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍽️ Sep. 24 - Portsmouth Workers Lunch & Learn: Former Portsmouth A-Plant workers, grab a guest and join our Educational Lunch event at Mr Gatti's Pizza! CNS Cares nurses are hosting this special gathering on September 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
🏃 Sep. 24 - Bear Run 5K: Lace up your running shoes for the Bear Run 5K at Shawnee State University! Join the community dash on September 24 at 6 p.m. - free entry for SSU students and those under 18.
🎭 Sep. 25 - Shades of Bublé Tribute: Sway to the smooth sounds of Shades of Bublé at Vern Riffe Center on September 25! This trio delivers Michael Bublé's greatest hits from "Feeling Good" to "Everything" with perfect harmony and style.
💼 Sep. 25 - Ross County Job Fair: Connect with employers and kickstart your career at the Ross County Employment Expo! Stop by Ohio University Chillicothe on September 25 to explore exciting job opportunities and meet local businesses.
🎵 Sep. 26 - Mitchell's Friday Concert Series: Don't miss Mike Mitchell at Boneyfiddle's Final Friday Concert Series on September 26! Enjoy free live music at 515 2nd St in Portsmouth, OH, courtesy of Robert Black's community concert program.
🎸 Sep. 26 - Batson & Ratcliff Live: Appalachian sensation Justin Ratcliff, often dubbed the "Appalachian Kurt Cobain," brings his unique sound to The Landing in Portsmouth on September 26, sharing the stage with Elijah Batson at 603 2nd Street.
🪕 Sep. 26 - Final Friday Bluegrass Night: Get your bluegrass fix at Final Friday In Boneyfiddle! Tap your toes to Waverly Run, Michael Mitchell Band, and The Kevin Prater Band on September 26 at 55 River Ave, Portsmouth, OH.
🔪 Sep. 26 - Hitchcock's Psycho Classic: Experience Hitchcock's chilling masterpiece "Psycho" at Republic Theatres Portsmouth on Sep 26. The final film in our classic September series invites you to check in at the infamous Bates Motel.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

-Proverbs 3:5-6

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