Vinton County • July 3, 2025
Good morning, Vinton County. The magic of hand-feeding a giraffe is something few children forget, and our youngest 4-H Cloverbuds just had that extraordinary experience at Rose Valley Animal Park. The Premier Showmen 4-H Club's June 8th adventure gave these budding agriculturalists up-close encounters with everything from zebras to lemurs, combining educational discovery with the pure joy that comes from connecting with animals. After their wildlife exploration, bounce houses and splash pads provided the perfect summer cool-down.
Meanwhile, a tradition nearly as tall as those giraffes continues at the Athens Farmers Market, celebrating over 50 years of farm-to-table connections. With approximately 60 small businesses offering everything from organic greens to freshly baked sourdough, the twice-weekly market makes nutrition accessible to all income levels. And for history buffs, a fascinating glimpse into our community's past reveals how Piketon's firefighters tested their powerful new 750-gallon pumper back in 1975—a reminder of how far our emergency services have come.
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🦒 Young 4-H Cloverbuds go wild at Rose Valley Animal Park. The Premier Showmen 4-H Club's youngest members enjoyed an educational adventure on June 8, getting hands-on experience with a variety of animals. Children had the opportunity to feed and pet mini cows, lemurs, zebras, and even giraffes during their visit. The day was filled with learning and laughter as the Cloverbuds explored the park's attractions. After meeting the animals, the children rounded out their day with bounce houses and cooling off at the splash pad.
🌽 Athens Farmers Market brings fresh local produce to the community twice weekly. Nestled in the Athens Community Center parking lot, the market has been connecting farmers and customers since 1972, featuring vendors who grow or make everything they sell. From Sassafrass Farm's organic greens to Simply Risen Sourdough's fresh-baked loaves, the market showcases approximately 60 small businesses within 150 miles of Athens. Most vendors accept various payment methods including food stamps and SNAP benefits, making fresh nutrition accessible to all. Market manager Tanya Hire encourages more students to experience the Saturday morning markets, complete with live music and the freshest produce around.
🚒 Piketon Fire Department tests powerful new 750-gallon pumper. The fire equipment, delivered last Friday by Sutphen Fire Equipment Company of Amlin, Ohio, is keeping department members busy with testing activities this week. This article from the April 19, 1975 edition of the Pike County News Watchman highlights the new addition to the Piketon-Seal Township fire department's fleet. The historical piece offers a glimpse into the community's past infrastructure improvements.
Rustic woodsy oasis near attractions: This tranquil log cabin retreat, priced at $750,000, offers rustic charm with modern amenities on 5.2 acres, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and an open floor plan just minutes from Hocking Hills attractions.
Dual Airbnb goldmine near park: Priced at $699,000, this dual-cabin investment property in Hocking Hills features two fully renovated Airbnb rentals on 2 acres, offering immediate income potential just minutes from Ohio's most popular state park.
Luxury equestrian estate with income: $850,000 horse farm offers 1,980 sqft home on 16.7 acres with 2 bedrooms, equestrian facilities including 3-stall barn, and a cottage that could generate rental income.I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:13
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