Good morning, Jackson County. An orange plume drifting over Zaleski last week served as a stark reminder of industrial risks in our communities. The nitric oxide leak from Austin Powder Plant forced evacuations while adding another chapter to Ohio's recent chemical incident history. Federal investigators are now examining what caused the leak at the explosives manufacturer, which has previously faced safety violations including a fatal 2009 explosion.
Closer to home, tensions flared in Ravenswood as City Council unanimously voted to place City Clerk Kim Benson on paid administrative leave amid an insurance investigation. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts have a bright spot to look forward to—the WVDNR is accepting applications until August 15 for special fall waterfowl hunts at McClintic Wildlife Management Area. Selected participants will receive their hunting day assignments for early October, with accommodations available for hunters with disabilities.
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75%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🧪 Chemical leak near Hocking Hills forced evacuation of Ohio village. A tank at Austin Powder Plant in Zaleski leaked nitric oxide last week, creating an orange plume that prompted residents to evacuate. The explosives manufacturer has resumed some operations while federal investigators examine what caused the incident. Austin Powder has faced previous safety violations, including a 2009 explosion that killed one worker. Officials report no injuries from this leak, which adds to Ohio's recent history of chemical incidents following East Palestine and Cincinnati.
🏛️ Ravenswood city clerk suspended amid insurance investigation tensions. Following a lengthy executive session, the Ravenswood City Council voted unanimously to place City Clerk Kim Benson on paid administrative leave pending an investigation into PEIA health insurance coverage issues. The meeting saw both Mayor Miller and City Recorder Bloxton recuse themselves from the vote, while two council members resigned and were replaced by Todd Ritchie and Jeff Koon. Other business included discussions about the fire-damaged McIntosh House, a funding request for addiction treatment transportation, and reports of near-capacity bookings at the Great Bend Campground.
🦆 West Virginia hunters can apply for special fall waterfowl lottery. The WVDNR is accepting applications until August 15 for a controlled hunt at McClintic Wildlife Management Area near Point Pleasant. Selected participants will be assigned specific hunting days during October 4-12, with notification sent by mail in September. Successful applicants may bring one guest, and hunters with disabilities will have access to a dedicated shooting station. Even those not selected through the lottery may still participate by filling unclaimed spots on hunting days.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Auction bargain zero dollars: This foreclosure property has a list price of $0 and is offered on Auction.com, where it may sell below market value, potentially giving bargain hunters a chance to save money.
Affordable Cozy Home Metal Roof: This charming 2-bed, 1-bath on David Avenue offers a spacious interior with a large walk-in closet, metal roof, and fenced backyard with raised flower beds - all for $159,900.
Lucrative cabin rental business opportunity: Priced at $699,500, this 17+ acre cabin rental business offers five fully-equipped cabins with utilities, wooded views, hot tubs, and firepits, currently serving short-term renters and boasting potential as an Airbnb property in Jackson County.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
-Romans 12:12
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