Good morning, Vinton County. When fire threatened to consume a half-century of local history this summer, fourteen fire departments answered the call. JC Mullins' beloved McArthur diner—a community cornerstone where generations have gathered—survived thanks to small-town heroism and the owner's unwavering determination. Rather than closing for two months of repairs after the July blaze, Mullins reopened in just four days, living up to his motto: "We don't close."
As one community fixture demonstrates resilience, new opportunities for growth emerge elsewhere. The Chillicothe-Ross Community Foundation has launched its 2025 grant cycle with a special focus on addressing homelessness, while seniors can boost their balance and well-being through free Tai Chi classes starting September 8th at the Gallia County Senior Center. These gentle movements offer more than physical benefits—they create new connections in a region where taking care of neighbors remains a cherished tradition.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
0%
☕️ What's Brewing Locally
💰 Chillicothe-Ross Community Foundation opens 2025 grant cycle with new focus. The foundation is now accepting applications from qualified non-profit organizations serving Ross County until October 3, 2025. This year's cycle features a special priority on initiatives addressing homelessness within the county. Grant categories include arts and culture, children, health and human services, community development, and more. The foundation aims to support projects demonstrating broad community impact and solutions to local needs.
🧘♀️ Free Tai Chi classes offer seniors a path to better balance. Starting September 8th at the Gallia County Senior Center, adults 60+ can join "Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention" sessions every Monday and Wednesday through October 29th. The program incorporates gentle movements, controlled breathing, and mindful postures to improve strength, flexibility, and reduce pain. Participants may experience fewer falls, better immunity, and increased socialization opportunities. Classes are free but limited, with reservations available by calling AAA7 at 1-800-582-7277.
🔥 Small-town heroes saved a historic diner after neighboring hotel fire. JC Mullins' 50-year-old restaurant in McArthur, Ohio survived thanks to 14 fire departments, including Athens Fire Department's crucial ladder truck that arrived first at the scene. Rather than closing for eight weeks of repairs as suggested, Mullins reopened just four days after the July 8 blaze that threatened the entire block. "We don't close," declared the determined owner, who's been feeding local families for generations in a community where his parents originally opened a pizza shop because children had nowhere to eat lunch except bars.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Upgraded gem with outdoor oasis: This spacious 4-bedroom 2-bath home is listed for $174,500, featuring a renovated kitchen, multiple outdoor living spaces including a fenced backyard with firepit, and operates on county water and septic.
Rural Hocking Hills acreage awaits: For $89,900, experience Hocking Hills paradise with these spacious 2-5 acre lots featuring natural privacy, quick highway access, and prime location just minutes from iconic caves and under an hour from Columbus.
Rustic retreat on six acres: Priced at $275,000, this log cabin sits on over 6 acres with a welcoming porch, pond fountains, outdoor entertainment areas, and additional structures including a 2-car garage and sheds.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
-Ephesians 4:29
|
|