Vinton County • July 25, 2025
Good morning, Vinton County. A stark reminder of motorcycle safety echoed through our region this week as 30-year-old Joseph Leeth lost his life in a Ross County crash. The tragic accident, which occurred when his Yamaha veered off Maple Grove Road, underscores the critical importance of protective gear—especially helmets—during these summer riding months. The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues investigating the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking loss.
In the justice system, two major fentanyl dealers received significant news as the Fourth District Court of Appeals upheld their convictions, keeping these drug traffickers behind bars until at least 2029. Meanwhile, a more cheerful competition is brewing as fifteen local teens prepare to vie for Ross County Fair royalty this August, representing various 4-H clubs and FFA chapters. The coronation event on August 3rd kicks off the fair's week-long celebration of our agricultural heritage.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|

🏍️ Deadly motorcycle crash claims 30-year-old man in Ross County. Joseph Leeth was killed Wednesday afternoon when his Yamaha motorcycle veered off Maple Grove Road, struck a fence post and guy wire before overturning in a field. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Leeth was not wearing a helmet at the time of the 3:20 p.m. accident in Union Township. He was airlifted to Grant Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead from his injuries. The crash, which closed Maple Grove Road for approximately two hours, remains under investigation.
💊 Appeals court slams door on Ohio fentanyl dealers' appeals. Two major drug traffickers will remain behind bars after the Fourth District Court of Appeals upheld their convictions in Gallia County. Vandonte Duncan, 50, of Columbus, had challenged evidence suppression in his case involving over 40 grams of fentanyl, for which he's serving 6-9 years. Similarly, Jose Miguel Myers, 27, from Charleston, failed in his appeal of a 7-10½ year sentence for trafficking nearly 18 grams of fentanyl. Prosecutor Jason Holdren praised the decisions, noting they keep significant fentanyl traffickers incarcerated until at least 2029.
👑 Fifteen teens compete for Ross County Fair royalty this August. The 2025 fair will feature nine queen candidates and six king candidates vying for the crown during a free grandstand event on August 3rd. Candidates range from 16 to 19 years old, representing various 4-H clubs and FFA chapters across the county. Most contestants are high school seniors or recent graduates heading to college, with years of experience in agricultural programs. The fair runs from August 2nd through 9th, with preliminary interviews already completed.
Prime Woodland Retreat: For just $109,900, this 18-acre hunting paradise in Vinton County offers multiple build sites, a gated gravel drive, spring-fed brook, and abundant wildlife, with easy access to nearby state forests and Hocking Hills attractions.
Wilderness developer's dream hideaway: Listed at $729,000, this 100-acre former game preserve in Hocking Hills offers endless development potential with its tillable acreage, road system, lodges, butcher shop, and stunning ridge-top views, all just 25 minutes from world-class hiking.
Country ranch fresh updates ready: Priced at $189,000, this 3-bedroom ranch on a half-acre lot offers move-in readiness with fresh updates including new flooring, metal roof, and central air on a peaceful country road.Consider setting up a dedicated savings account for specific financial goals, such as a vacation or a new gadget; this way, you can visually track your progress and stay motivated to reach your targets while keeping your spending in check.
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.
-Ephesians 4:2
|
|