Pike County • September 24, 2025
Good morning, Pike County. As autumn's chill settles in, Scioto County's roads are heating up with activity. Shelly Co. crews will be paving Hiles Road on September 26th, while local emergency officials are reminding residents to prepare for the seasonal shift by checking smoke detectors, inspecting heating systems, and updating emergency kits. Meanwhile, the historic Otway Covered Bridge—a 150-year-old landmark preserved in 2014—is ready to welcome visitors for its annual festival and car show this weekend.
For families feeling the financial squeeze of childcare costs, a ray of hope has emerged through Ohio's new $10 million Child Care Cred Program. The initiative aims to make quality childcare more accessible while strengthening the state's workforce, with applications open until May 2026. This partnership between families and businesses couldn't come at a better time, offering Pike County parents potential relief from one of household budgeting's most significant challenges.
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🛣️ Scioto County road work and fall safety alerts dominate local news. Shelly Co. will be paving Hiles Rd. in Morgan Township on September 26th, maintaining one lane with flaggers. The Bloom-Vernon Board of Education meeting has been rescheduled from October 20th to October 6th. As autumn begins, Scioto EMA urges residents to prepare for cooler weather by testing smoke detectors, inspecting heating systems, ensuring road safety, getting flu vaccines, and updating emergency kits with seasonal items.
🌉 Historic Otway Covered Bridge Festival revs up this weekend. The township's historical society is finalizing plans for the annual festival and car show at Scioto County's last remaining covered bridge. Built in 1874 by the Righter Company of Columbus, the historic structure was preserved in 2014 thanks to a U.S. Department of Transportation grant. The bridge stands as a significant landmark on the Scioto Heritage Trail, drawing visitors to this small but vibrant community celebration.
👶 Ohio launches $10 million program to make childcare more affordable. State Representative Mark Johnson announced the Child Care Cred Program, designed to expand access to affordable childcare while strengthening Ohio's workforce. The initiative, included in the state's 2026-27 budget, aims to ease financial strain on families and help employers retain workers. Ohio families and in-state businesses can apply for the program until May 1, 2026. Johnson called the program an "opportunity to build stronger partnerships between families and businesses" amid rising childcare costs.
Rural foreclosure auction opportunity: A foreclosure auction property with no interior access and a minimum bid of $183,333 offers a 3 bed, 2 bath home on 11 acres in Rarden, OH, with a 5% buyer's premium on top of the winning bid.
Rustic retreat near state forest: A tiny Amish-built cabin on 5 wooded acres bordering Pike State Forest is now available for $128,500, featuring a front deck, full bathroom with washer/dryer, mini-split system, and mini barn for storage.
Country paradise on 13 acres: Priced at $375,000, this charming, recently renovated country home on 13 acres in Piketon features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, an in-law suite, outdoor amenities including a barn with electricity, and scenic views.I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
-Philippians 4:13
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