Hocking County • April 21, 2025
Good morning, Hocking County. The forests of Wayne National Forest may see a significant shift as a new executive order calls for a 25% increase in logging on federal lands. While the timber industry prepares for expansion, environmental groups have raised concerns about the long-term impact on our natural resources and wildfire resilience.
Meanwhile, brainpower is booming locally as Fisher Catholic's Quiz Team secured second place at regionals, sending five talented students to compete among Ohio's intellectual elite at the state tournament on May 3. And for those already dreaming of summer escapes, Hocking Hills Canoe Livery is rolling out luxurious "River Recliner Tubes" and tandem kayaks—perfect for lazy days floating down the Hocking River when the mercury rises. Paradise might be closer than you think.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🪓 Trump orders 25% increase in logging on federal lands. The executive orders aim to reduce America's reliance on imported lumber by ramping up timber harvesting on national forests, including Wayne National Forest. Environmental groups like Sierra Club and Ohio Environmental Council criticize the move, arguing it prioritizes logging over conservation, recreation, and climate goals. Critics also question the administration's claim that increased timber production would reduce wildfire risks, noting that removing the largest trees—the most profitable for logging—actually decreases forest fire resilience. The orders could impact up to 161,752 acres of Wayne National Forest's 238,053 total acres.
🧠 Fisher Catholic Quiz Team aces regionals, heads to state competition. The team secured second place at the Ohio Academic Competition Regionals on April 12, earning a spot among Ohio's top 12 quiz teams. Five students—Brody Imes, Ziynat Sodikov, Colin Michaelis, Luke Ohwofahworaye, and Eve Ohwofahworaye—will represent their school at the state tournament on May 3. Fisher Catholic has a strong competition history, including state titles in 2004 and 2006. The quiz bowl-style matches test students on literature, science, math, history, and current events.
🛶 Summer bliss awaits on Hocking River's floating paradise. Hocking Hills Canoe Livery in Logan, Ohio has kicked off its season with an exciting lineup of water adventures. The veteran-owned business is introducing luxurious "River Recliner Tubes" starting Memorial Day weekend, designed with higher backs for maximum lounging comfort as you drift downstream. Tandem kayaks are also joining the fleet in early June, perfect for couples, families with children, or friends wanting to share the paddling experience. With affordable pricing starting at $30 for tubes and camping cabins available for weekend getaways, this 27-year-old river outfitter offers everything needed for the perfect summer escape.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Logan (3-10) | ||
@ Berne Union | L 6-0 |
Luxury lake home retreat ready: For $1,799,999, this custom lakefront retreat in Hideaway Hills Private Resort offers 3,500 square feet of upscale living space with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and a detached mother-in-law suite, all with premium finishes and resort-like amenities.
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-Galatians 6:9
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