Pike County • May 20, 2025
Good morning, Pike County. Tassels turning and caps flying marked a milestone moment at Zane Trace High School as the Class of 2025 launched into their futures. The gymnasium buzzed with possibility as six valedictorians shared wisdom with their classmates, each decorated mortarboard telling a unique story before soaring skyward in that timeless tradition symbolizing freedom and achievement.
While graduates embark on new journeys, the local housing market continues its own upward trajectory. Ross County home prices have climbed an impressive 9.3% since last April, with properties moving slightly faster than the national average at 49 days on market. Meanwhile, community resilience shines through as the Chamber of Commerce organizes a June 25th Employment Expo, creating vital connections for the 800 workers affected by the Pixelle closure—a powerful reminder of how our community rallies around neighbors during challenging transitions.
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🎓 Zane Trace seniors toss caps as dreams take flight. The Class of 2025 received their diplomas during a memorable ceremony held May 17 in the high school gymnasium. Six valedictorians addressed their fellow graduates, with speeches from Evan Brower, Kyle Zheng, Garret Mercer, Jasper Kern, Connor Swepston, and Ethan Tackett. The ceremony featured special recognition for student athletes and those entering military service. Many graduates personalized their caps before the traditional tassel-moving and cap-tossing celebration that marked their transition to the next chapter.
🏡 Ross County home prices surge nearly 10% since last April. The median listing price reached $273,700 in April, representing a 3.9% increase from March and a 9.3% jump year-over-year. Homes in the area sold relatively quickly, spending a median of 49 days on the market—slightly faster than the national average of 50 days. About 44 new homes were listed in April, matching the number from the previous year. Across the broader Chillicothe metro area, median prices rose to $267,450, while Ohio's statewide median reached $275,525.
💼 Ross County job fair tackles Pixelle closure impact on 800 workers. The Chillicothe Ross Chamber of Commerce has scheduled an Employment Expo for June 25th at OU-Chillicothe's Shoemaker Center to help affected employees find new opportunities. The event aims to connect skilled workers who have backgrounds in manufacturing, maintenance, logistics, and operations with regional employers. Businesses are encouraged to register and attend to access this talented workforce pool. Local residents are eager to remain employed within the area, making employer participation crucial for the region's economic stability.
Countryside haven with acreage: This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home listed at $234,900 sits on a generous 3.678-acre lot, offering spacious living areas and a detached 2.5-car garage perfect for those seeking country living with nearby conveniences.
Spacious country steal under 130k: This spacious 5-bedroom home on an acre of land costs $129,900. The main floor features a primary en'suite with sunken tub, while the upstairs offers four additional bedrooms and a great room.
Rural retreat needs TLC: This country haven priced at $139,900 offers 6.4 acres of wooded land and pasture, complete with wildlife and a stone-lined stream, plus a spacious fixer-upper house with plenty of potential.The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
-Psalm 27:1
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