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A surprising reminder of our hometown spirit

“Home for the holidays” — it’s a song, a movie and a sentiment that people everywhere hold dear. And while I definitely enjoyed the holiday season this year, it was a simple council meeting that most recently reminded me what “home” is all about here in Eastern Ohio. Barnesville Village Council typically meets every other Monday evening. Last week, though, New Year’s Day fell on Monday, so the first meeting of 2024 was moved to Tuesday. That meant that our correspondent who usually covers those meetings, Lenny Wittenbrook, was not available. So, around 5:30 p.m. ...

In a world filled with war, it is time to find ways to peace

One of the biggest changes this past year at Shale Crescent USA is the number of international companies we are working with. Last week we had a call with a company in India. The week before Christmas we had a call with Germany. SCUSA is averaging an international call a week. We have made friends all over the world. When Lynnda had breast cancer surgery, prayers for her came from India, Pakistan, Turkey, Israel, Europe and around the USA. We are blessed. When Corey, our oldest, son was in the Navy and deployed in the Middle East we payed attention to conflicts in the region. If ...

People head off the beaten path to Belmont County

2023 was a year to remember in Belmont County! From the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival to the Belmont County Fair, to historic landmarks and museums, to our beautiful outdoor recreation areas, we welcomed thousands of visitors into Belmont County this past year. The tourism office is funded through the bed tax collected by Belmont County and in 2023 saw an increase in collections over the past year, returning to pre-pandemic levels. We use the collected bed tax to reinvest into our area by attracting and bringing more visitors to Belmont County and supporting local businesses and ...

Resolving not to really resolve anything at all

According to Merriam-Webster, the noun “resolution” means: “the act or process of resolving.” To “resolve” means: “to deal with successfully” or “to reach a firm decision about,” among other fine points of the strict definition of the word. New Year’s resolutions are something I have never been very good at. It’s not that I don’t have room to improve —far from it, actually. I can think of all sorts of things that I could do better, from eating healthier foods to exercising more, reducing the size of my clothing collection, recording expenses more faithfully, ...

Set and aim for emotional goals during 2024

Imagine you and I are having a drink at Starbucks a year from today. If 2024 was a great year for you, what will have happened? How are your relationships? Are people happy when they see you coming or happier when you leave? How is your health? Is it better or worse? Are you more fit? How is your job, career or business? What did you do to make it better? How are your finances? Did you save more money? Who have you helped? Did you make a positive difference in people’s lives? Did you go somewhere or do something you have never done? Are you happy? What is your dream(s)? How is your ...

Powering up consumer savings with natural gas

Natural gas consumers can expect a 40% drop in home heating bills this winter, the West Virginia Public Service Commission recently confirmed. This, in its own right, is something worth celebrating, but it also speaks to the many ways local natural gas and oil development deliver for our state and all who live here — especially in today’s inflationary market. “It is gratifying to see the wholesale prices coming down this year,” PSC Chair Charlotte Lane said. “I know this will make a big difference to West Virginia families this winter, and that means a lot.” No stranger ...