in the 400 block of Jackson Street in Chillicothe According to court records filed in Livingston County Circuit Court Pablo Gomez Jones and Jayce Bryson Gatson each face a class A felony charge of first-degree assault under Section 565.050 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri Prosecutors allege the pair knowingly caused serious physical injury to a man identified as Victim 1 by rendering him unconscious and continuing to strike him while he was on the ground Statements of probable cause submitted by Officer Ethan Corbin of the Chillicothe Police Department indicate officers responded to a report of a fight involving multiple men around 10 a.m A witness at the scene reported seeing the victim rendered unconscious before being repeatedly kicked and punched by two male individuals suffered an anxiety episode and believed the victim might be deceased Officer Corbin noted that Officer Underwood later conducted a traffic stop on a Ford Taurus with a shattered taillight Jones and Gatson were reportedly occupants in the vehicle Both men appeared out of breath and had visible signs of a physical altercation The victim was able to positively identify both Jones and Gatson as his attackers He sustained injuries including facial lacerations Further investigation revealed that when Pablo Jones was arrested at 4:02 p.m he was found to be in possession of a Ziploc bag containing marijuana Prosecutors requested arrest warrants in both cases citing concerns that neither suspect would appear voluntarily for court proceedings Both defendants allegedly fled the scene and were initially uncooperative during questioning Prosecutors also stated the violent nature of the offense poses a continued threat to public safety a class A felony is punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison or life imprisonment Assault in the first degree is categorized as a dangerous felony requiring offenders to serve at least 85 percent of their sentence if incarcerated or until the age of 70 after serving at least 40 percent of the sentence 2025The sides of the issue impacting the homeless in Chillicothe can be partly illustrated by statements by councilman Greg McKeever and the Reverend Terry Williams – but also by Mayor Luke Feeney (Reporter’s note: The next day, other news eclipsed the news from last Monday’s Chillicothe Council and I had to leave coverage of the passage of the “Anti-Camping” ordinance / Chapter 555 on standby Here is the first of two remaining stories from the April 14th event.) In a previous story you can see interviews with McKeever and Williams after the council session both became emotional with statements from their sides Council passed the “Anti-Camping” ordinance The Reverend Terry Williams chastises council during the public address time the Reverend Terry Williams gave a fiery monologue denouncing the inhumanity of the ordinance and violations of the Sunshine Law – and said opponents would work on referendum and initiative efforts and with what appeared to be a tinge of anger Councilman Gregg McKeever read his timeline of the development of the ordinance including what he described as intimidation and doxing of council members “Doxing” or “doxxing” is publishing of private addresses or identification – usually with the intent of intimidation or targeting Chillicothe Mayor Luke Feeney gives his briefing to council Mayor Luke Feeney stated that he was opposed to the “Anti-Camping” ordinance / Chapter 555 Part of his duties are to sign legislation into law He said he had nothing new to offer on the issue In an interview with Mike Smith of Litter Media on Tuesday morning Feeney said he was not sure how he would deal with the legislation Mayor Luke Feeney told me that he had been on vacation and didn’t know if the legislation had arrived at his office…and he still wasn’t sure how he was going to deal with it but council also has the power to override Learn more in “Chillicothe Mayor Not Yet Signed Homeless Camp Ordinance.” (Feeney was finally able to act after returning from vacation on April 24th - by vetoing the ordinance.)  Find more in the article on the Scioto Post Kevin Coleman covers local government and culture for the Scioto Post and iHeart Media Southern Ohio. For stories or questions, contact Kevin Coleman or the iHeart Southern Ohio Newsroom CHILLICOTHE— With no yard signs outside of houses you may have forgotten that there is an election being held in Ross County on May 6 The lack of yard signs stems from the fact that all the candidates running in this primary election are unopposed in their party meaning they will move right to the general election in November Voters will be tasked with voting on several issues throughout the county Statewide voters will be asked to vote on Issue 2 which allows the state to issue $2.5 billion in general obligation bonds or $250 million annually over 10 years to be spent on roads On Election Day, polls will open at 6:30 a.m. and run until 7:30 p.m. on May 6. You can find your polling location on the local Board of Elections website 2025It’s been half a month since the devastating news that the Chillicothe paper mill that dominated the town for a century would be shut down very soon…and then three days later news of a reprieve until the end of the year when I encounter officeholders or community leaders I ask them what they are doing about the situation Find much more in this article on the Scioto Post (Also see my report on the “paper mill response team” with the Ross County Commissioners 1980 aerial photo of “The Mead” paper mill in Chillicothe shows “The Chief” and another facility under construction to the left of the famous smokestack Find this image in the Ohio University Libraries Digital Archival Collections he was and will be in meetings in Columbus and Ross County regarding the paper mill Senator Bernie Moreno again spoke with the private equity company that owns Pixelle and the mill and that there appears to be an interest in selling – if a buyer can be found Wilkin was attending the Ross County Republican Party’s Lincoln Day Dinner His Senate District 17 includes all of Ross County State Representative Bob Peterson was also at the Lincoln Day Dinner on April 21st and said this is about jobs and continuing to have an economic development core in Ross County He said the state will do everything it can to make sure other companies are growing in Ohio and give them every opportunity to succeed at running a paper mill His Ohio House District 91 includes the western third of Ross County Ohio Representative Mark Johnson says the Pixelle paper mill in Chillicothe is viable and profitable and he is optimistic that a buyer will be found He said nothing is wrong with the workforce but there are management issues and a lack of investment The pulping mill and pulping process are viable and profitable but the Number 12 machine needs upgrades – and that should happen with the next owner Johnson said that the state economic development corporation “Jobs Ohio” is funded through the legislature and he told them they need to help the region: “You can save a thousand jobs in Southeast Ohio easier than you can create a thousand good-paying jobs in Southeast Ohio.” He was attending Congressman Dave Taylor’s chat at a Chillicothe & Ross County Chamber gathering on April 21st Johnson is State Representative for the 92nd Ohio house district which includes Ross County from Chillicothe eastward Feeney gives his briefing to the April 28th Chillicothe council I have statements from other officials and community leaders: Mayor Luke Feeney addressed the paper mill situation in his briefing to council on April 28th Feeney said he has been with the city since 2015 and never saw such a response from officials like the rally on Friday April 18th – he had never seen all the officials who appeared there in same room The city relies on the income tax to operate Feeney said that 100% of mill employees pay the city income tax – and that is $1.4M to $1.5M The city must approach on two fronts: Be optimistic…but also be realistic about the city budget if the mill closes after December Feeney has instructed all department heads to consider their budgets The city auditor will have the usual “tax budget” prepared in July to serve as guidance – though that is never the final say The city has financial reserves that should get it through employee attrition to save money but he’s unsure after a closure on January 1st My optimism on Good Friday was way higher than zero.” Feeney believes there is capital out there to keep the mill open He said he will keep council and the community informed Learn more in “Mayor’s Caution to Chillicothe Council on Paper Mill Situation.” In an April 23rd event sponsored by the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce Representative for Ohio David Taylor said he is working closely with U.S Senator Bernie Moreno – who got the reprieve from the private equity firm H.I.G Taylor said Pixelle has not upgraded the mill and that “a million issues” would come up if an inspector walked through has other factories in Ohio where they need to be cooperative with state government and the state probably has the most leverage over H.I.G Taylor said “it would not be unlikely” to find a new mill operator who knows how to operate it at a profit He had said that anyone who has a need because of the paper mill can contact his local office where constituents can get access to federal programs to help a transition to new job Learn more from that event in “Congressman Taylor Chats at Chillicothe & Ross County Chamber Gathering.” the director of “Greater Chillicothe and Ross County Development,” for more context about the situation with the paper mill leadership shows that Chillicothe is important to the state as well and she thanked those who helped them in their hour of need Eallonardo said she is encouraged that they got the reprieve and that it gives time to get their footing and see if they can salvage 830 jobs but they have faith and confidence that the right people are in place to do so Learn more in “Economic Development Leader Gives Insights on Delayed Closure of Chillicothe Paper Mill.“ Eallonardo has helped lead two hour-long ‘paper mill task force’ meetings with the Ross County Commissioners since then When the worst news broke on on April 15th CEO and president of the Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce After making sure the former mill employees have resources Throne said they will need to work on how to fill “a big gaping hole in our community.” and economic development will consider what role each will have in marketing the mill site it’s probably unlikely that another paper mill will go in there.” But Throne said if another paper company is looking for a viable market…he knows of a place Learn more in “Response Coming After Announced Closure of Chillicothe’s Paper Mill.“ This was three days before the reprieve to the end of the year was announced Also see my two stories on the upbeat April 18th news event, starting with “Delayed Closure of Chillicothe Paper Mill Cheers News Conference / Rally.“ I have heard Ohio’s economic development corporation “JobsOhio” mentioned several times as an ally to help save or reuse the paper mill: the state’s unique private economic development corporation acts as a catalyst for high-growth business investments and job creation that are helping propel the state’s ingenuity and ambitions forward nonprofit built with private stable financial resources seasoned professionals with private sector expertise a statewide network of economic development partners and the long-term investment outlook needed to attract and career opportunities across the state.” Will they go the farthest?Chillicothe GazetteChillicothe got the No 1 seed for the upcoming Division 3 Southeast District softball tournament There are only six schools in the Division III district — Athens Sheridan and Unioto — and only one district champion will be crowned More: Female high school athlete of the week: Vote now for the best performance The winner will travel to face Chillicothe at 5 p.m and Waverly — and two district champions will come out of the district 10 seed and will travel to face Warren at 5 p.m 2 seed Jackson on May 21 at Logan High School In Division V there are 23 schools —  Adena Zane Trace — and three district champions will be crowned 16 North Adams on May 21 at Ohio University 7 seed and will host River Valley at 5 p.m 19 West Union on May 19 at Ohio University 1 seed Fairfield on May 20 at Unioto High School Vote now for the Chillicothe Gazette high school male athlete of the weekChillicothe GazetteThis week's poll has athletes from baseball A reminder to coaches/parents: If we do not have stats from games/matches we can't put the athlete up for athlete of the week Stats for any games/matches can be sent to cgosport@nncogannett.com after each event please send complete stats to cgosport@nncogannett.com no later than 5 p.m More: Glory Days: Chip Maxwell and the 1970 Zane Trace Pioneers Last week's winner was Piketon's Wadye Fout 3 seed heading into regional tournamentChillicothe GazetteChillicothe is the highest seed of the local teams in Region 5 according to the regional tournament draw that was released May 4 More: Softball tournament: Chillicothe lands No. 1 seed. Will they go the farthest? 18 seed and will travel to take on Columbus Bishop Watterson at 6 p.m CHILLICOTHE ― Enjoy a walk around Waverly's downtown area with a drink in hand as the city began its Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) program on May 1 The program will be every Thursday and Friday to midnight and Saturday from noon to midnight DORA drinks will be available at a few liquor permit holding establishments Sonora’s Mexican Grill and Beast and Bottle More: Counting down the days till summer? Here's a list of Ross County schools summer breaks the Bridge Street construction project in Ross County will affect traffic Two lanes will be maintained in both directions between North Plaza Boulevard and the Chillicothe Mall Entrance All turn lanes will be available through the intersection the Ohio 32 Intersection Improvement project will install a restricted crossing U-turn at the Ohio 335 and Ohio 32 intersection with at least one lane being maintained throughout the duration of the project The Downtown Redevelopment District will hold its committee meeting at 2 p.m The Board of the Ross County Law Library will hold a meeting at 4 p.m yellow and more yellow is all you saw as a sea of local students gathered at the Ross County Courthouse after marching from the park to celebrate Yellow Day Yellow Day is a day set aside during the year when local students and community members in general are encouraged to spread kindness This can be through random acts of kindness saying thank you or giving someone a compliment Dan Ramey welcomed students from Ross County Christian Academy Bishop Flaget and the Pioneer Center to a party downtown The party featured lunch in front of the courthouse Chillicothe Mayor Luke Feeney also made an appearance encouraging students to be kind not just on Yellow Day but every day of the year He was encouraged by the official mascot of Yellow Day who wore his all-yellow suit and got students screaming with excitement a group of students led others in dancing to the Church Clap getting students moving and smiling as they danced Ramey encouraged students to remember what Yellow Day was all about and spread kindness to others Female high school athlete of the week: Vote now for the best performanceChillicothe GazetteThis week's poll includes athletes who participated in softball and track More: OHSAA lays out pros and cons of changing Ohio High School Football Playoff format Last week's winner was Chillicothe's Sydnee Wade CHILLICOTHE ― As the brutal winter is over and warm weather comes those in Ross County might be searching for a sweet treat to beat the heat Here is the scoop on some of the local ice cream shops in the area: Though the shop announced its closure in February, they are open for business till a buyer is found. The restaurant has a series of different foods, shakes and ice cream. The business is open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. From sundaes to scoops of ice cream, Parkside has something for everyone. The business is open from 12 to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Whit's Frozen Custard2057 N Bridge St., Chillicothe This chain ice cream shop serves frozen custard with a rotating weekly flavor and a variety of toppings. It is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Between sandwiches, sides and plenty of ice cream, Susie Q's has plenty to go around. The business is open 12 to 6 p.m. Sunday through Friday, and 12 to 3:30 p.m. Saturdays. The rainy weather broke just long enough for us to have our most successful and most attended Springfest event to date. "Our goal is to ensure that every veteran receives the highest quality of care and the support they need to lead fulfilling, healthy lives. We are here for you, and we are honored to serve those who have served our nation.” We would also like to thank all our community partners who had a hand in making this event a success. We cannot do what we do without you. See you in 2026 for our 4th annual Springfest. alleging child molestation in the fourth degree in Livingston County who was 18 at the time of the alleged incident is accused of engaging in sexual contact with a juvenile under the age of 17 on or about December 1 An initial court appearance is scheduled for Monday morning when a family member of the juvenile reported to Chillicothe Police that explicit messages and nude photographs had been exchanged between Shoop and the juvenile victim via Snapchat The family provided the victim’s cell phone to law enforcement for a consensual search Detective Sam Wright of the Chillicothe Police Department reviewed the downloaded data from the cell phone Messages showed Shoop asking the victim’s age stating he thought she was at least 15 or 16 with Shoop sending an explicit photograph to the juvenile A search warrant for Shoop’s Snapchat account was granted on March 14 Examination of the account revealed that Shoop had saved explicit images of the juvenile victim and possibly images of seven other juvenile females One of the juveniles was identified as Victim 1 Detective Wright interviewed Victim 1 and her mother The mother identified a blanket and bedroom in several photos as belonging to Victim 1 The investigation confirmed that Victim 1 had sent images to Shoop and engaged in sexual conversations with him Victim 1 reported being alone with Shoop in his car A forensic interview at the North Central Missouri Children’s Advocacy Center was conducted on April 1 Shoop has been charged with child molestation in the fourth degree being more than four years older than the victim subjected her to sexual contact by touching her in a sexual manner under her clothing for the purpose of sexual arousal or gratification The range of punishment for a class E felony in Missouri includes up to four years in the Department of Corrections Shoop has also been charged with possession of child pornography in the first degree Shoop denied having sexual conversations or exchanging photographs with any other underage females besides the victim in the current case Ohio University Chillicothe honored nearly 100 graduates from the area at a Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Thursday 134 students have completed their studies and earned degrees from Ohio University while attending Ohio University Chillicothe Saunders-Adams urged the graduates to embrace their uniqueness and recognize that the world needs exactly what only they can offer Drawing on her personal journey from Ross County to a Ph.D. she reminded students that true success comes from showing up and daring greatly—even in the face of doubt As an associate professor of social work at Ohio University and associate director of Ohio's University Consortium for Child and Adult Services Saunders-Adams combines her expertise with a heartfelt passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of social workers in Social Work and a research certificate from The Ohio State University a master's degree in Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve University and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Ohio University student reflection speakers McKenzie Anderson and Tana Raypole shared perspectives on the challenges they have overcome to achieve their degrees and discussed their hopes for their graduating class Anderson is graduating with a Bachelor of Social Work degree she helped lead the Student Social Work Association She completed her Social Work field placement at National Church Residences Hospice where she enjoyed working with older adults and their families and she is excited to launch her career in social work Raypole is graduating with an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing degree has felt a strong calling to help people from a young age While she started the steps to become a nurse in 2007 she soon chose another path of starting a family and earning a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology Raypole served her community through her work at the Pioneer Center and she currently serves as an Independent Provider for children and adults with developmental disabilities She returned to Ohio University Chillicothe in 2023 to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse She looks forward to making a difference in the lives of patients and their families as a registered nurse in the oncology unit at Riverside Hospital 14 students were named Outstanding Graduates These students were nominated by faculty members and demonstrated academic accomplishments and participation in university activities and community service In a nurse pinning ceremony earlier in the day 21 Bachelor of Science in Nursing and 30 Associate in Applied Science in Nursing graduates received their nurse pins During the graduation recognition ceremony OHIO Chillicothe’s Dean of Campus and Community Relations Dr Roberta Milliken presented alumni awards to two Ohio University Chillicothe alumni Susan Congrove graduated from Ohio University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education She also earned a Master in the Art of Teaching from Marygrove College in 2000 and a Master of Science in Educational Administration from the University of Scranton in 2008 Susan retired in 2024 from Zane Trace Local Schools and elementary principal throughout her thirty-year career She is now an adjunct instructor at OHIO Chillicothe the Ohio University Chillicothe Education Advisory Committee She has also served as a trustee for the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library Susan collaborated with OHIO Chillicothe to host teacher interns and implement tutoring programs with an OHIO Chillicothe grant Josh Walter graduated from Ohio University Chillicothe in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Communication a janitorial distributor with three locations Josh enjoys building relationships with his community and customers especially with EPIC (Empowering Young Professionals in Chillicothe) serving as an ambassador for the organization which promotes a community that attracts and retains young professionals in Chillicothe and Ross County Josh organized the Ruck 22 Fall Food & Music Festival 5K and 22K Charity Run to raise awareness for veteran suicide.  © 2025 Ohio University Adena and Chillicothe competed at the Cole McCafferty Invitational with several individuals taking first place Chillicothe boys took first place with 157.5 points Adena and Chillicothe girls tied for third with 94 points Here are the highlights from Wednesday and Thursday More: OHSAA basketball state tournaments returning to traditional final four 100M: Chillicothe's Carte Ligon was third (11.62) 200M: Adena's Joey Francis was third (23.19) 400M: Chillicothe's Jayden Beverly was first (50.52) 800M: Chillicothe's Jayden Beverly was first (2:04.2) 1600M: Chillicothe's Daniel Hurff was first (4:34.9) 3200M: Chillicothe's Grayson Roberts was third (10:15.6) 110M hurdles: Chillicothe's Kavon Muhammad-Pleasant was third (16.37) 4x100 relay: Chillicothe was first (45.08) 4x200 relay: Chillicothe was second (1:35.76) 4x400 relay: Chillicothe was first (3:24.59) 4x800 relay: Chillicothe was first (8:21.92) High jump: Chillicothe's Karter Williams was first (6-2) Long jump: Adena's Joey Francis was first (20-8.75) and Chillicothe's Ethan Adams was third (19-11.5) Discus: Chillicothe's Trace McAllister was first (137-10) Shot put: Chillicothe's Trace McAllister was third (46-4) 100M: Adena's Jacey Smith was third (13.47) 800M: Chillicothe's Ella Strauch was second (2:30.33) 1600M: Chillicothe's Gabby Maranzana was third (5:25.13) 3200M: Adena's Vanessa Conley was first (12:21.93) and Chillicothe's Ava Hickman-Beck was third (13.21.39) 100M hurdles: Adena's Carsyn Savely was first (17:35) 300M hurdles: Chillicothe's Marisa Stiteler was first (49.50) 4x400 relay: Chillicothe was third (4:20.19) 4x800 relay: Chillicothe was first (10:24.60) High jump: Chillicothe's Taylor Hardiesty was first (5-2) Adena's Katie Burns was second (5-0) and Adena's Jacey Jones was third (4-10) Long jump: Adena's Kamryn Sowers was second (15-1.5) Pole vault: Adena's Kalie Routte was first (9-0) Paint Valley 6: Jolyn Jett hit a homer on a 1-of-4 night with an RBI Adriana Guarnieri went 3-for-3 with two doubles Allie Bossert went 2-of-4 with two RBI and a stolen base Alexis Blankenship went 1-of-2 with three RBI and two stolen bases Sophi Stauffer went 5-for-5 with a double and two runs Kasarah Cantrell went 2-of-4 with a triple Haley Crouche was 3-of-3 with a run and stolen base Zane Trace 5: Savannah Bushatz went 1-of-2 with a run Kenley Smith went 1-of-2 with a run and two stolen bases She was also 2-of-4 at the plate with a run Gracie Slaughter got the run with four innings pitched Haylynn Boggess-Pierce went 2-of-4 with a run and an RBI Southeastern 1: Haylee Hull had a homer on a 3-for-4 night Mackenzie Welch went 2-of-4 with two doubles Kendal Walker picked up the win with a complete game Macie Cox went 3-of-4 with two runs and two RBI Westfall 3: Jaylin Forbes had a grand slam and drove in seven runs on four hits She also had a double and scored three times It helped secure the win for Kyndall Carroll Briar Penwell went 3-of-5 with a run and three RBI Waverly 1: Ava Robertson had one RBI on a 3-for-3 night Josie Huddleston and Vivian Morgan each had a hit Chillicothe 9: The teams went into the fourth inning scoreless when Westfall put up two in the top of the frame but Chillicothe stacked up five runs in the bottom to pull ahead Bri Cousins hit a homer on a 2-of-3 night and had four RBI Cadie Boltenhouse went 2-of-3 with two runs and a double Vivian Morgan and Isabella Witte each scored two runs Kenzie Cook went 1-of-3 with a run and an RBI for Westfall Piketon 3: Jaylin Forbes' sacrifice fly in the bottom of the seventh drove in the winning run Briar Penwell went 2-of-3 with one run and one RBI Aubrey Heath had a triple on a 2-of-4 night with a run Southeastern 4: Logan Perdew went three innings for the win three runs and two RBI.KB Perkins went 2-of-2 with a double Jaxon Zickafoose went 2-of-3 with a double Callaway Ratliff and Caden Cutright each scored a run Gage Cheadle went 1-of-3 with a double and two RBI Huntington 0: Josh Young went the distance in the win giving up four hits and striking out seven in the shutout Landen Jarrell went 2-of-4 with a double and two runs Gunnar McCullough went 2-of-4 with a triple Mason Hartley went 1-of-2 with two runs and an RBI Piketon 2: AJ Pluta went 1-of-2 with two RBI and a stolen base Noah Stonerock for the win with a complete game Buddy Wilson went 2-of-2 with a run and stolen base Adena 4: Bryce Blanton was the winning pitcher giving up no runs or walks and striking out one Owen Donahue went 2-of-3 with two runs and two stolen bases Willy Wheaton went 1-of-4 with two runs and RBI Christian Heath went 0-of-2 with two runs and Marcus Jackson went 0-of-2 with two runs Chillicothe 0: Jack Oyer and Truit McGlone each had a hit Ohio University alumna and associate professor of social work Stacey Saunders-Adams will deliver the keynote address for OHIO Chillicothe’s Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Thursday who received a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Ohio University went on to earn a master's degree in Social Science Administration from Case Western Reserve University and a Ph.D in Social Work from The Ohio State University Saunders-Adams was recognized as the OHIO Chillicothe Woman of Distinction in 2024 She received the ADAMH Prevention Advocate of the Year Award in 2023 Ohio University Chillicothe Dean of Campus and Community Relations Roberta Milliken said that Saunders-Adams is a valued faculty and community member “We are honored that Stacey has agreed to deliver the keynote address for our graduation recognition ceremony,” Dean Milliken said “As a professor of social work at OHIO Chillicothe and associate director of Ohio's University Consortium for Child and Adult Services Stacey combines her expertise with a heartfelt passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of social workers.” Saunders-Adams’ areas of expertise include substance abuse Known for her dedication to evidence-based practices and innovative problem-solving she takes pride in fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment Her love for teaching and her commitment to social justice drive her efforts to address complex social challenges and make a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable populations both in the classroom and throughout the Chillicothe community In addition to her academic and professional achievements Saunders-Adams has an extensive record of community leadership and service She served as a hostage negotiator and earned second place in a national hostage negotiation competition She co-founded the volunteer sexual assault survivor advocacy program at Adena Regional Medical Center which later evolved into Adena Health System’s Advocacy Program She also co-founded a local nonprofit organization that addresses service gaps to help Ross County residents live lives free from substance use She plans and chairs an annual prevention conference for South Central Ohio and organizes Hope Fest an annual recovery celebration held on the last Saturday in August She serves on the board of the Hope Partnership Project and is an active advocate for holistic Beyond her professional and volunteer commitments Saunders-Adams expresses her creativity through painting and dabbling in graphic design “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to speak at OHIO Chillicothe’s Graduation Recognition Ceremony,” Saunders-Adams said activist and academic as an undergraduate at Ohio University and I’m excited to share some perspectives and advice with our graduating class of Bobcats.” Saunders-Adams values family and is the proud mother of 11-year-old twins Balancing her many accomplishments with her dedication to family life she exemplifies the importance of nurturing both personal and professional connections Ohio University Chillicothe’s 2025 Graduation Recognition Ceremony will be held on Thursday in the Shoemaker Center on the Chillicothe Campus For additional information on the undergraduate and graduate ceremonies, please see the Graduation Recognition web page.  When speckles of green and purple crop up alongside the highway dotting the landscape as if Bob Rossdabbed them there himself The carpet of green grass and contrasting blooms reminds methat even when the winter seems long It’s all I can do to get off my couch or out of my bed It makes total sense to me why so manycreatures sleep through winter and skip the whole affair We have to find bright spots to pull us through Anew series to help pass the weeks (so thankful for The White Lotus) bingeable audiobooks on Hoopla(I’m almost always listening) and Tuesday Trivia at Fifty West Brewing Company (I don't go as much as Iwould like When it comes to literal growth,we are bursting with it Visit the little Seed Libraries at all of our locations Take up to five packets at a time for free and get toplanting Donations from harvested seeds or purchased seeds are always accepted to keep our SeedLibrary stocked The Main Library also has a Propagation Station Stop in to find the windowsills full of plant starts thatwill grow your own collection CRCPL is offering a wheelbarrow full of garden-centric programming and resources that willkeep you blooming until the Ross County Fair we invite you to glove up and help plant our Main Library Community Garden a member of the Wild Ones of South Central Ohio will be in theMyers Room at the Northside Branch talking about native plants and the winged creatures who lovethem Not Harder at our Paxton Branch inBainbridge Ever wanted to learn about no dig gardening get your hands dirty with us and Wild Ones of South Central Ohio in theMain Library Garden is the last chance to get gardening with us and Wild Ones of South Central Ohioin the Main Library Garden Wild Ones of South Central Ohio will host garden enthusiasts at theNorthside Branch to share knowledge Our programs can offer some figurative growth you can try your hand at learning to sketch meet us at the Main Library for a guided walk of the downtown murals check out an Adventure Pass for a local attraction or take home aninstrument from our Beyond Books Collection to discover a new hobby or passion To learn more about various kinds of growth visit our website at CRCPL.org/elibrary or come in to anylocation We are happy to help you find what you need to get you growing in no time Sheena Brown is a fan of all positive growth and an Enrichment and Marketing Clerk at the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library (This story has been updated to include new information) Ohio University Chillicothe recognized nearly 100 graduates at a ceremony on May 1 the event celebrated the achievements of 134 students who completed their studies at Ohio University Chillicothe over the past year The ceremony highlighted the accomplishments of outstanding graduates and alumni awards Fifteen students were named Outstanding Graduates nominated by faculty for their academic achievements and community involvement student reflection speakers McKenzie Anderson and Tana Raypole shared perspectives on the challenges they have overcome to achieve their degrees and their hopes for their graduating class also presented alumni awards to two distinguished graduates graduated from Ohio University in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Congrove retired in 2024 from Zane Trace Local Schools after a 30-year career as a teacher curriculum director and elementary principal She now serves as an adjunct instructor at Ohio University Chillicothe Congrove has been actively involved in various community organizations and the Ohio University Chillicothe Education Advisory Committee she collaborated with Ohio University Chillicothe to host teacher interns and implement tutoring programs graduated from Ohio University Chillicothe in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science in Communication He is currently the Regional Manager for DTB Distributors and is dedicated to building relationships within his community Walter is heavily involved with EPIC (Empowering Young Professionals in Chillicothe) where he serves as an ambassador promoting a community that attracts and retains young professionals He organized the Ruck 22 Fall Food & Music Festival 5K and 22K Charity Run to raise awareness for veteran suicide In a nurse pinning event earlier in the day This tradition symbolizes the transition from student to professional nurse Jesus complimented simple language that comes from the “mouths of babes.” After your first day of first grade your loving and inquisitive Grandma Beth connected with you by phone (land line?) with her rapid-fire interrogation: “How was school?” Your answer: “Fine.” “Did you like it?” “Yes.” “What’s your teacher’s name?” “Mrs Smith.” “Is she nice?” “I guess.” “How was lunch?” “Okay.” “What did you study?” Finally you terminated the conversation by declaring assertively: “Grandma are now approaching the podiums where the school administrators will hand over your diplomas You all have not only completed thirteen years of education but have endured two cultural earthquakes: first Being spoiled by your grandparents probably presented the greater risk I hope you remember your early years as idyllic—happy We sat by the culvert pipe chucking stones into the puddle delighted by the “plunk” each rock spoke back to us learned to cook beside me –lemonade first and lately more complicated soups and pies and such We took family trips to the beach where we watched you learn to swim I taught you to ride your two-wheeler in our condo driveway the teen years of you and your colleagues have been much less blissful COVID roughly elbowed its way into your seventh grade life and all the rest endangered your development You looked to adults in the world for guidance What you received instead was conflicting opinions from embittered factions in government and medicine no doubt confusing you about whom you could trust for reliable counsel you have weathered the storm and have not just survived You have succeeded in college level courses while still a high schooler the best is that through it all you have learned to honor God You’ve literally used your beautiful voice to sing His praises You lifted that same voice to speak your testimony before hundreds of your peers and adults at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes convocation When you and your mates have been out 60 years I wish I were wise enough to provide you specific advice with a plan to negotiate those coming decades successfully as I brusquely announced to your parents at their wedding reception: “I have no further plans for you…but I do have many dreams for you.” The old cannot impose plans upon the young The world will change in too many ways to contemplate dream of the great days ahead for the young You’ll have opportunity to figure out your own dreams in due time I celebrate with you and fervently pray that one day you will fulfill all your dreams during your last days of school:: “What now?” “College?” “Job?” “Will you marry?” “Have children?” “Do you plan to travel?” “Where do you think you’ll settle down?” And about now I expect to hear you cut me off with: “Grandpa since the mill supports 800 jobs and many more in industries connected to it Olson's family has always had connections to the paper mill most kids want to be doctors and firefighters you have to add paper mill worker to the list That is how he ended up working for the plant 34 years ago and staying in Chillicothe "This has been my home for my entire life," said Olson of the town he has worked his way up in the plant and is currently a crew chief working with a team of people to run machines oversee the day-to-day operations of the mill and help others on the floor He is tasked with making sure the products produced are of the desired quality he has been able to raise four adult children is currently raising another and spends time with his grandchildren Olson said working at the mill has allowed him to provide his family with a good life which is why the possible closure is especially hard Olson was enjoying a day off when the plant closure was announced he looked at his phone to see a message from a coworker saying the plant was shutting down He said he initially thought it was a "sick joke," but he quickly found out the truth "It's devastating to see everyone lose their jobs," said Olson of the closure though; he has a family to provide for and he wants to be able to give his youngest all the opportunities the others had He also wants to retire from the Chillicothe plant in a couple of years and spend more time with his family Olson and his wife said they both felt "complete shock" at the thought of the plant closing down and what it meant not only for the generations who work there but also for the businesses and industries that will be impacted has also had generations past and current in her family who have worked at the mill to provide a life for the ones they care about Olson said it gave him a little bit of time to breathe and figure out the next steps He is thankful to those who stepped forward and are working to help keep the mill open Olson's goal is to retire from the plant after years of work and he wishes the same for all of the workers from the ones who have been there for decades to the ones who started just a few months ago While the futures of the mill and all who work at it are still in limbo "We have no choice but to wait and see what happens next," said Olson Oldon said he prays for the plant to stay open and for those who would be impacted to keep their jobs said he is also praying that the Lord shows him his next path and provides Blackstock said he tried for years to get on at the mill so he could make good money and support his family He happily took the offer while being a part of the U.S He said he was on vacation with his wife when the news of the closure became public wondering what would happen next with their family pray about it and hope for the best," said Blackstock Blackstock has been able to help provide for his family provide insurance and earn time off to use for vacations he would lose many of his benefits and have to start over somewhere new With the promise of staying open till the end of the year it gives him time to continue working at the place he planned to retire from and save money it just delays the possibility of him having to find a new job has seemingly infected the entire plant full of workers who are now not sure if their job is stable the last few months as good as they can be "I'm thankful for an extra six months of work," said Blackstock "It gives us a little more time to prepare People who don't necessarily work at the mill but are connected to it are also worried about the future A release from the Ohio Forestry Association states that the mill closing will impact all of Ohio since it is the "only substantial market" for timber of low quality in the state and is critical to logging forests will be depleted and habitats will be hurt “The absence of low-quality timber markets leads to high grading the practice of harvesting only high-quality timber and biodiversity as well as enriched wildlife habitat A market for low-quality timber is essential for sustainable and renewable forest management," said Kathryn Downie a consulting forester with Better Meadows & Woodlands said in the release that the day after the closure was announced he had to cancel equipment orders since Pixelle played a huge part in his operation “The mill closing is a total shock,” said Lute “Supplying Pixelle is 90% of what we do; we’ve structured our entire business model around the paper mill’s needs Its closing will devastate our business as well as hundreds of other Master Loggers in southern Ohio.” Lute is still apprehensive about what could happen during the rest of the year and the future Chillicothe Mayor Luke Feeney said he is optimistic that local state and federal representatives will be able to help keep the mill open as it is "no doubt" an asset with the end date currently set for the end of the year the administration is also looking at what the mill closing could do to the city Income tax from the hundreds of mill employees makes up around 8% of the city's budget the city would also lose out on sales tax from workers and auxiliary staff who purchase items while in town He said his goal is to keep the public informed on the effort but he has already encouraged department heads to look at possible attritions should the budget be cut "It's important for us to remain optimistic and put as much energy as we can into keeping this employer in the community," said Feeney The Family Interactive feature enhances An Amazing Life Authorized family members can securely access their loved one's memorial website settings at any time Please enter the name and email details so that we can send your friend a link to the online tribute No names or addresses will be collected by using this service Provide comfort for the family by sending flowers or planting a tree in memory of Shelley Smith Please enter your question or comment below: A receipt has been emailed to the address provided Agreement with Policy and Continued Use of Site Shelley Marie Smith graduated to her Eternal Life with her Savior 2025 after a series of infirmities.  She was born on April 13 Shelley graduated from Unioto High School in 1978 where she played many sports including basketball and softball She went on to graduate from Morehead University in 1982 with three degrees in Special Education.  During her summers she played on the Chillicothe Women’s Softball League.  She worked for 35 years as a teacher at Chillicothe’s Pioneer DD School.  Shelley was passionate about her students and provided lifelong support to past students including her “kid” Zac She was an avid Ohio State fan of football and women’s athletics She was a dedicated animal lover.   throughout the years at Calvary Baptist Church First Wesleyan Church and Centerpoint Church OH.  Two nephews: Jared Smith of Florence Katie Smith and their four children: Peyton OH.  Her best friend and adopted sister: Conchitia “Chitia” Lewis Tyia Lewis and the entire Lewis crew.  Shelley was very fond of her special Uncle Herb and Aunt Shirlee and many cousins and many other people that were special to her.  We must include her long-time softball friends and “dog group”.  Shelley had a special gift of bringing family A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Shelley on Saturday at 3:00 pm at Centerpoint Church at 144 Consumer Center Dr We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of Shelley here so that the family and other loved ones can always see it and can even comment on those shared by others it will also remain on this memorial website in perpetuity PLEASE NOTE: The reproduction of any copyrighted images is forbidden without express written permission from the copyright holder any image in violation of any copyright laws 3 trees were planted in the memory of Shelley Smith you will receive two daily updates containing all new stories one week prior to the anniversary of death The email will only serve as a reminder should you choose to connect with the family at what will no doubt be a difficult time Please select your relationship to the deceased and add your email address before submitting (740) 702-2149