Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Vinton County / March 18, 2025

🎖️ Heritage heartbeat

Vinton County • March 18, 2025

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Good morning, Vinton County. Spring is traditionally a time of renewal, but it also brings moments to honor those we've lost. John K. Smart, an 86-year-old Navy veteran with a fascinating career that spanned military communications and CIA service, has left behind a rich legacy. While his family prepares for Friday's military graveside service, another local institution is celebrating growth from its past – Petland's impressive $1.2 million headquarters expansion in 1997 stands as a reminder of how local businesses can put down deep roots in our communities.

History comes alive this weekend as the Ross County Historical Society launches its 2025 Speaker Series with a remarkable portrayal of Victoria Woodhull – the first woman to run for U.S. president. Historian Robin Schuricht will bring this pioneering suffragist, journalist, and financial advisor to life Saturday evening at the free community event. It's a perfect opportunity to connect with the extraordinary figures who shaped our nation while breaking barriers that once seemed impenetrable.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🪦 Navy veteran John K. Smart leaves behind a legacy of service. The 86-year-old Chillicothe resident passed away on March 15 after a life dedicated to military communications and work with the CIA. A proud HAM radio operator and outdoor enthusiast, Smart enjoyed fishing and hunting for mushrooms each spring. He was preceded in death by his wife Virginia and son John, but is survived by his daughter, longtime companion Nancy Light, six grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. A military graveside service will be held Friday at Twin Township Cemetery.

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🐾 Petland's million-dollar makeover transforms Chillicothe headquarters. In February 1997, the pet retailer completed a substantial $1.2 million expansion of its corporate facility on Riverside Street. Construction crews from Ingle Barr, including workers Denny Peterson, Jim Armstrong, and Mike Moss, were photographed putting finishing touches on the building's new entrance. The archive photos capture this significant moment in the local company's growth, showcasing the investment Petland made in its Ohio hometown.

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🗣️ Victoria Woodhull comes alive in Ross County's historical speaker series. The Ross County Historical Society kicks off its 2025 Speaker Series on March 22nd with historian Robin Schuricht portraying the remarkable 19th century figure. Woodhull, the first woman to run for U.S. president, was also a spiritualist, suffragist, journalist, and financial advisor. The free event runs from 6-7pm, offering the community a chance to experience how this groundbreaking woman might have viewed her own extraordinary life. Attendees seeking more information can contact the society directly at (740) 772-1936.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Fixer with detached guest house: This HUD property listed at $91,000 features a one-story home with two bedrooms, one bath, a carport, and a separate one-room building with bath. Property is sold AS-IS with potential FHA insurability.
Real estate listing image Rustic paradise needs finishing touches: This $550,000 Hocking Hills property offers 27 acres with two cabins, camper hookups, garage, and pond. Both cabins need finishing work, with 25 wooded acres providing multiple building sites just 15 minutes from Old Man's Cave.
Real estate listing image Luxurious woodland retreat awaits: This $1,199,999 custom-built log cabin offers a turnkey investment on 20 private acres in Hocking Hills, featuring 3 beds/baths, modern amenities, and rustic charm just minutes from regional attractions.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🤝 Mar. 22 - Southeast Regional Meeting: Connect with fellow history enthusiasts at the 2025 Region 9 Regional Meeting at Jackson's Lillian Jones Museum on March 22. Perfect for organizations across ten Southeast Ohio counties—register by March 14!
🙏 Mar. 23 - Sunday Morning Worship: Join us for Sunday morning worship at 37139 Kelly Rd in Ray, OH on March 23. Gather with your community for an uplifting service where all are welcome to connect and celebrate together.
🏠 Mar. 30 - Virtual Property Tour: Step inside Twin Maples Home Health virtually! Join their online tour from 9am-7pm on March 30, exploring features and amenities from the comfort of your home. Located at 63044 US-50, McArthur, OH.
🏭 Mar. 30 - On-Site Tour: Explore the services of Silk | In-Home Care during their all-day Open House! Drop by 828 Jim Lackey Rd in Vinton on March 30 anytime between 9am and 7pm for a personal tour.

🍞 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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