Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Hocking County / September 22, 2025

🎭 Festival comeback

Hocking County • September 22, 2025

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Good morning, Hocking County. Sometimes even the most treasured community traditions aren't immune to nature's fury. The Lancaster Festival's staggering $1.5 million in flood damages serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly circumstances can change, with state officials confirming the nonprofit falls outside government disaster assistance eligibility. While the beloved institution turns to community fundraising for its recovery, this challenge highlights the critical importance of community support during unexpected crises.

Meanwhile, green opportunities are sprouting in Logan with next month's free tree training workshop. The November 12 event offers both classroom learning and hands-on field experience for residents interested in proper young tree care. In other local developments, a chapter of Murray City history approaches its final page as commissioners accept a bid to demolish the historic school building – part of ongoing infrastructure changes that include sewer repairs and environmental preservation efforts near Ash Cave.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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💰 State disaster funds can't save Lancaster Festival from flood damage. Fairfield County officials clarified that the nonprofit is ineligible for government assistance despite facing estimated losses of $1.5 million. Emergency Management Director Jon Kochis explained that the State Disaster Relief Program has strict restrictions on fund usage. The Festival's damages include infrastructure at the concert site plus owned and rented equipment. Organizers are launching fundraising efforts and accepting donations through their website to help the beloved community institution recover.

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🌳 Logan offers free tree training for the public next month. The Hocking Soil and Water Conservation District, Logan Tree Commission, and ODNR Division of Forestry are hosting a young tree training event on November 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The session begins with a classroom presentation at Logan City Council Chambers, followed by hands-on field training. Participants should dress for weather conditions as the event will proceed regardless of rain. Registration is required by November 7 by contacting danielle.gill@oh.nacdnet.

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🏫 Contractor wins bid to demolish historic Murray City School building. The Hocking County Commissioners accepted the lowest bid from a Circleville contractor for the demolition project during their September 18 meeting. Other business included updates on sewer extension repairs, a report from HAPCAP on Community Development Block Grant funding, and a presentation from the Appalachia Ohio Alliance about acquiring property near Ash Cave to preserve a riparian corridor. The commissioners also approved the Health Department's agreement with the EPA for water quality maintenance and addressed former commissioner Jessica Dicken's repayment plan for funds owed after her felony conviction.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Wooded retreat near Hocking Hills: Priced at $499,900, this fully furnished 3-bedroom home operates as a profitable short-term rental minutes from Hocking Hills attractions, featuring a wooded backyard with fire pit and hot tub for post-hiking relaxation.
Real estate listing image Upscale woodland cabin income gem: This wooded hideaway is priced at $679,800 and offers an almost-new cabin on 5 private acres near Hocking Hills, featuring upscale furnishings, hot tub, and rental income potential.
Real estate listing image Sprawling Retreat Premium Views Garage: Priced at $599,000, this Hocking County home showcases breathtaking scenic views while offering four bedrooms, premium Samsung appliances, relaxing outdoor spaces, and a massive 64' x 30' detached garage perfect for boats, campers, or a workshop.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.

-Romans 12:10

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