Hocking County • June 27, 2025
Good morning, Hocking County. Education that transforms lives isn't just a tagline at Hocking College—it's now nationally recognized. The institution recently joined an elite circle as one of only 60 community colleges nationwide to earn the prestigious 2025 Opportunity College designation, standing alone as Ohio's sole community college honoree. This Carnegie Foundation recognition spotlights what many local families already know: Hocking delivers both accessible education and impressive post-graduation earnings, proving that hometown education can lead to remarkable futures.
From academic excellence to angling achievements, our community celebrates success in many forms. Nearly 200 young fishing enthusiasts cast their lines at Perry County's "Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs" derby, with seven-year-old Payton Wallborn landing the day's biggest catch. Meanwhile, Nelsonville residents face an unusual electoral puzzle as the city transitions between governance systems, with voters potentially needing to sharpen their pencils for write-in candidates this November.
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🎓 Ohio's Hocking College earns elite national recognition for student success. The institution has been designated as a 2025 Opportunity College, one of only 60 community colleges nationwide and the sole Ohio community college to receive this honor. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, in partnership with the American Council on Education, awarded this distinction to institutions providing both broad educational access and strong post-graduation earnings outcomes. Of nearly 4,000 institutions reviewed, only 479 received this recognition, highlighting Hocking's commitment to delivering education that is both accessible and economically transformative for students.
🗳️ Nelsonville faces electoral chaos amid charter expiration confusion. Voters may need to rely on write-in candidates this November as the city navigates an unusual transition from charter to statutory government. Both charter and statutory city councils will appear on ballots, with charter positions serving just one month before the January 2026 charter expiration. City Law Director Jonathan Robe highlighted a key complication: Nelsonville's charter prohibits partisan primaries, potentially invalidating candidate filings for the statutory positions. The Athens County Board of Elections is being asked to clarify whether Issue 23 implicitly authorized partisan elections despite the charter's restrictions.
🎣 Perry County youth fishing derby hooks 189 young anglers. The annual "Hooked on Fishing, Not on Drugs" event at Gun Club Lake provided kids with free fishing gear, shirts, bait, and lunch. Seven-year-old Payton Wallborn was the day's big winner, catching both the longest fish and biggest bass with her 1.78-pound largemouth. Young competitors were divided into four age groups, with winners receiving plaques, fishing gear, and prize-filled buckets. Sheriff William Barker's office organized the successful family event with support from numerous volunteers, deputies, and local agencies.
Spacious countryside retreat near recreation: Just $309,999 buys this charming 3-bedroom home on nearly 6 acres near Hocking Hills, offering rural tranquility with convenient access to outdoor recreation.
Modern ranch dream acres Ohio: For $579,900, this remodeled 3-bed ranch offers 5 private acres in Hocking Hills with modern charm and a versatile bank barn—ideal for a home, retreat, or investment in Ohio's iconic countryside.
Epic Hocking Hills adventure estate: Priced at $3,295,000, this 70-acre Hocking Hills property features a spacious four-bedroom home, inground pool, multiple garages, and established attractions including commercial bathrooms, a stage, horse barn, and 15 miles of ATV trails.Review your subscriptions and recurring payments regularly; you might be surprised at how many services you’re paying for but no longer use, freeing up funds for savings or investments without putting in extra effort.
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Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
-Joshua 1:9
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