Hocking County • June 16, 2025
Good morning, Hocking County. A brownish plume hovering over Vinton County has triggered a federal investigation as the U.S. Chemical Safety Board examines what caused an "unknown contaminant" to create nitrogen oxide gas at Austin Powder Company's facility. The June 11 incident prompted a 3-mile evacuation radius and flight restrictions, though thankfully no injuries were reported and air monitoring shows no lingering concerns. The investigation represents a significant regional safety review for our Appalachian communities.
While some neighbors deal with chemical concerns, others are focusing on nourishment and achievement. This Friday brings free food distribution at the Perry County Fairgrounds, where qualifying residents can access fresh produce and proteins without pre-registration. And in a celebration of academic perseverance, New Lexington High School has announced its honor roll, recognizing students who maintained impressive GPAs throughout the fourth grading period of the 2024-2025 school year.
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🧪 Federal probe launched into toxic nitric acid leak in Ohio. The U.S. Chemical Safety Board is investigating the June 11 incident at Austin Powder Company's Red Diamond facility in Vinton County. An "unknown contaminant" entered a 5,000-gallon nitric acid tank, creating nitrogen oxide gas that formed a large brownish plume. Officials evacuated residents within a 3-mile radius and temporarily restricted flights in the area. No injuries were reported from the chemical release, and air monitoring has shown no positive readings for nitrogen oxide.
🥫 Perry County families can access free food this Friday. The SE Ohio Foodbank will distribute fresh produce, proteins, and other food items at the Perry County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to noon on June 13, 2025. This service is available to county residents who qualify for state benefits or have incomes below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. No pre-registration is necessary for the distribution, which is run by Hocking Athens Perry Community Action (HAPCAP). Residents with questions can contact the foodbank directly at 740-385-6813.
🎓 New Lexington High School celebrates academic excellence with honor roll announcement. The school recognized students who achieved high honor roll (3.90+ GPA) or honor roll (2.84+ GPA with no grade below C) for the fourth nine-week grading period. High honor roll recipients maintained straight A's in all their classes, demonstrating exceptional academic achievement. The recognition covers the 2024-2025 school year, highlighting the continued commitment to academic excellence in the New Lexington community.
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-Philippians 4:13
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