Michelle Dillon

Residents and business owners spoke to Marietta City Council Thursday about issues related to homeless encampments.

Alec Tipton and Ethan Thurston, the latest firefighters to earn their black helmets, pose with Fire Chief Paul Findley at a presentation ceremony Wednesday. Michelle Dillon/Jacksonville Progress

Familiar Christmas tunes are sung by First Methodist Church members Wednesday at Country Place Memory Care. Michelle Dillon/Jacksonville Progress

Troup Powersports celebrated their new location at 201 E. Duval Street with a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by the Troup Chamber of Commerce, refreshments and a Christmas shopping event.

The Christmas holiday means as many different things to people. For some, Christmas is a joyous occasion when they gather with family and friends. Others may be struggling with illness or loss. Whatever the holiday season brings, to many, Christmas provides hope as they celebrate the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Messiah.

The inaugural Magical Hometown Christmas, organized by the Jacksonville Community Arts Alliance, was conducted in downtown Jacksonville Saturday. The evening event drew hundreds to the downtown area.

A new bill passed by the Ohio Legislature adds another way for villages throughout the state, including those in Washington County, to possibly be dissolved.

Washington County Sheriff Larry Mincks will be leaving office after 20 years in the position.

An art exhibit, hosted by Davenport Home + Design, was held in conjunction with A Magical Hometown Christmas. Both events were coordinated by the Jacksonville Community Arts Alliance, of which

Mary and Joseph, played by Journey McKinney and Rawson Hamman, lead a candlelit procession as they journey to the manger.