Hocking County • June 19, 2025
Good morning, Hocking County. A green wave of opportunity is washing over Appalachian Ohio with $125,000 in environmental funding now up for grabs. The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio's initiative—backed by a substantial $5 million investment from regional partners—is seeking local champions ready to preserve our natural treasures through conservation projects, research, and innovation. Last year's recipients transformed the region with $160,000 in environmental restorations and groundbreaking research, and the July 15 application deadline offers a fresh chance to leave a lasting ecological legacy.
Meanwhile, Austin Powder is extending olive branches to Zaleski residents affected by the June 11 nitrogen oxide release, offering reimbursements and assurances that no water or soil contamination occurred. Just across county lines, Perry County's Board of Developmental Disabilities welcomes Kim Foreman as its new finance director, bringing her Ohio University education and leadership experience to support the 500+ individuals served by the agency. The financial expertise arrives at a crucial time as the board implements its succession planning.
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🌿 $125,000 available for environmental champions in Appalachian Ohio. The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio is offering funding for conservation projects, fellowships, research and innovation across the region. Made possible by a $5 million investment from the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District and other partners, the initiative supports locally-led efforts to preserve natural resources. Last year's funding round distributed over $160,000 regionwide, supporting everything from environmental restorations to cutting-edge research. Applications must be submitted by July 15 for this opportunity to create lasting environmental impact.
🧪 Chemical leak at Austin Powder plant forced Ohio evacuations. The company is offering reimbursements to affected Zaleski residents following a nitrogen oxide release on June 11. President and CEO John Rathbun issued an apology, emphasizing that safety systems functioned as designed and the situation was quickly stabilized. Austin Powder confirmed no contamination of drinking water or soil occurred and is conducting internal investigations. The plant is expected to resume operations as early as June 16, pending regulatory approval.
💼 Perry County welcomes new finance director to lead developmental disabilities board. Kim Foreman has been appointed as the new finance director at the Perry County Board of Developmental Disabilities (PCBDD), succeeding Caley Boyden who is transitioning to assistant superintendent. Foreman, a two-time Ohio University graduate with degrees in health services administration and public administration, brings extensive leadership experience to her new role. She will focus on improving operational efficiencies, managing emergency funding and waivers, and addressing service needs for the agency that supports over 500 people with disabilities. Boyden will work closely with Foreman in the coming months to ensure a seamless transition as part of the board's long-term succession planning.
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Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed; for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
-Isaiah 41:10
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