Good morning, Hocking County. A startling statistic has emerged from our region: Southeast Ohio's hunger crisis has reached a 10-year high. Today's national #ChipInChipAway giving day offers a timely opportunity for community members to make a difference, with the SE Ohio Foodbank stretching every donated dollar to support over 60 food pantries across ten counties. While policy changes have reduced resources, local generosity at hapcap.org/ChipIn can help ensure vulnerable neighbors—from children to veterans—don't go without essential nutrition.
Meanwhile, the spotlight turns to tourism dollars as the Ohio Auditor's Office prepares to investigate how the Hocking Hills Tourism Association manages nearly $3 million in public lodging tax revenue. At issue: whether requiring businesses to purchase memberships to access tax-funded promotional activities represents appropriate stewardship of these public resources. The review won't happen immediately, though—it's scheduled during the association's next audit approximately 18 months from now.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🍽️ Southeast Ohio hunger crisis hits 10-year high. The SE Ohio Foodbank is participating in today's #ChipInChipAway national giving day, urging people to donate any amount to combat growing food insecurity. Policy changes and government funding cuts have reduced resources while demand increases across ten counties. The foodbank serves over 60 food pantries, provides Mobile Markets in rural areas, and helps vulnerable populations including children, seniors, and veterans. Donations can be made at hapcap.org/ChipIn to support these critical food assistance programs.
🏨 Ohio tourism group faces scrutiny over tax dollar use. The Ohio Auditor's Office will investigate concerns about the Hocking Hills Tourism Association requiring paid memberships to access services funded by public lodging taxes. Former board member Michael Nihiser complained that the private organization receives nearly $3 million in tax money while requiring businesses to purchase memberships to participate in promotional activities. The review will occur during the association's next scheduled audit in approximately 18 months. A previous audit found no impropriety, noting that lodging tax can be used for regional promotion beyond the home county.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Wooded escape near metro park: $149,900 for a rare 5.37-acre wooded lot near Clear Creek Metro Park and Hocking Hills, with private road access and cleared paths perfect for your private getaway or rental overlooking a ravine.
Renovated rustic cabin with amenities: Priced at $295,000, this renovated cabin in Hide-A-Way Hills offers rustic charm with modern updates, featuring two bedrooms, an open-concept living area, and access to community amenities like lakes, golf, and a pool.
Modern renovated home investment ready: For $350,000, this fully renovated 3-bedroom home offers 1,400 sq ft on nearly an acre with modern kitchen upgrades, new HVAC, and energy efficient features—perfect for either a permanent residence or an Airbnb investment.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Consider creating a budget based on the 50/30/20 rule, which allocates 50% of your income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and debt repayment; this simple guideline can help you balance your spending while ensuring you stay on track with your financial goals.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
-2 Timothy 1:7
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