Vinton County • September 24, 2025
Good morning, Vinton County. History unfolds on Ohio University's campus this Friday as the institution honors Roderick J. McDavis, its first Black president, with a building dedication that speaks volumes. The new 591-bed residence hall bearing his name will stand as both the largest dormitory on campus and a testament to McDavis's remarkable legacy, which includes implementing the university's first guaranteed tuition plan and raising over half a billion dollars during his 13-year tenure.
As families juggle rising costs, the state's new $10 million Child Care Cred Program arrives just in time to offer financial relief while helping employers retain valuable workers. And there's no shortage of community events to enjoy this fallβfrom Hope Fest at the Pike County Fairgrounds to free concerts and library fundraisers. Health-conscious residents might want to take advantage of those free heart screenings running through October, proving there's something for everyone as autumn settles across our region.
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π Ohio University honors its first Black president with new residence hall. Roderick J. McDavis, a Dayton native and Ohio University alumnus, will be celebrated Friday with a public lecture and building dedication. The new 591-bed dormitory bearing his name will be the largest on campus when it opens next fall. During his 2004-2017 presidency, McDavis implemented the university's first guaranteed tuition plan and raised over half a billion dollars. The Chaminade High School graduate also earned degrees from the University of Dayton and University of Toledo.
π¨βπ©βπ§βπ¦ Ohio launches $10 million program to make childcare more affordable. The Child Care Cred Program, championed by State Representative Mark Johnson, aims to ease financial burdens on families while helping employers retain workers. Johnson called the initiative an "opportunity to build stronger partnerships between families and businesses" as childcare costs continue to rise across the state. To qualify, families must live in Ohio and employers must be based in the state, with applications open until May 1, 2026. More details about eligibility can be found on the program's official website.
π Pike County buzzes with fall events for the whole community. The Hope Fest, featuring local pastors and worship bands, runs September 25-27 at the Pike County Fairgrounds from 6-8pm. Families can enjoy a free concert by Chester and Isolenia Gaither at Omega Church on September 28, while the Garnet A. Wilson Public Library hosts a fundraiser September 25-27. Health-conscious residents can participate in free heart screenings at UK King's Daughters through October, and parents can register children for Safe Sitter classes on October 13 at the OSU Extension.
Private country oasis near parks: For $129,900, this 12-acre Vinton County property offers a serene escape with a cleared area for development, situated near McArthur, Wayne National Forest, and Hocking Hills with annual taxes of just $37.20.
Woodland creek paradise near town: This 5.72-acre wooded estate in Elk Township, Vinton County, Ohio, priced at $64,900, offers a serene retreat with mature trees, a year-round creek, and wildlife, just minutes from town amenities with minimal restrictions.
Luxurious rustic retreat with guesthouse: Priced at $900,000, this brand new log home offers rustic charm with modern amenities on 10.7 acres, plus a separate tiny home for guestsβall conveniently located near Hocking Hills attractions and wineries.Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
-Matthew 11:28
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