Good morning, Ross County. The historic Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks are celebrating two years as a UNESCO World Heritage site this month, placing our region's 2,000-year-old Native American treasures among just 1,200 protected sites worldwide. Special guided tours and free programs across Licking, Ross, and Warren counties on September 19 will showcase these ancient marvels—Ohio's only entry on the prestigious UNESCO list that literally puts our county on the world map.
Meanwhile, the future of Chillicothe's paper mill remains in limbo as H.I.G. continues searching for potential buyers, with workforce numbers steadily declining to just 50-60 employees currently. On a brighter note, local nonprofits can now apply for United Way's 2026 Community Impact Funding through October 10, with last year's applications exceeding $800,000 in requests. These grants provide critical support for organizations strengthening our community's resilience, youth opportunities, financial stability, and health initiatives.
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏭 Chillicothe paper mill's fate hangs in uncertainty as buyer search continues. The Pixelle Task Force reported no concrete news from mill owner H.I.G. about potential buyers, though JobsOhio mentioned a possible new manufacturing company in consideration. Meanwhile, layoffs continue with only 50-60 employees remaining now, expected to dwindle to less than 20 by September's end. A resource hub for affected workers has been established, with officials planning for potential brownfield remediation while awaiting the owner's decision. County Commissioner David Glass emphasized that all current information remains speculative as the team stands ready to respond once concrete details emerge.
🤝 Ross County nonprofits can now apply for life-changing United Way grants. The United Way of Ross County has opened applications for its 2026 Community Impact Funding, supporting initiatives that strengthen community resiliency, expand youth opportunities, promote financial stability, and build a healthy community. Eligible nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status can apply through October 10 at unitedwayross.org, with funding decisions announced in December. Last year saw over $800,000 in requests as community needs continue to rise, with thorough evaluations conducted by an all-volunteer council. In 2025, the United Way supported 18 partner organizations through both funding and volunteerism to create meaningful community impact.
🏺 Ancient Ohio earthworks celebrate two years as UNESCO World Heritage site. The Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, built by Native Americans 1,600-2,000 years ago, will mark their second anniversary on the prestigious list with special events on September 19. Free guided tours and programs will be offered at multiple sites across Licking, Ross, and Warren counties. The eight monumental sites of landscape architecture represent the only UNESCO World Heritage listing in Ohio and the 25th in the United States. These ancient earthworks join approximately 1,200 protected cultural and natural sites worldwide recognized for their exceptional value.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
-Colossians 3:17
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