Almost one year to the day after Jerome Rodio passed away, Oxford Borough mayor Geoff Henry remembered the late business owner and Oxford Area Chamber of Commerce board president by declaring the first Friday in August as Jerome Rodio Day.

Henry issued the proclamation at the July 17 council meeting.

From the time Rodio arrived in Oxford in 2008, he was an ardent supporter of businesses in town, and loved being involved with the popular First Friday events each month. His store was frequently filled with artists and craftspeople for the First Friday events. He also worked on behalf of a number of nonprofit organizations in the community.

When he was issuing the proclamation, Henry explained that Rodio not only opened a business in town, he made friends with a lot of people while he was here and left a lasting legacy. Rodio was a beloved figure in Oxford when he passed away in July of 2016.

Henry encouraged people to visit Oxford during the First Friday event on August 4 as a tribute to Rodio.

It is just one of the events where Rodio will be remembered during the month. On August 19, the Everyday Hero 5K run/walk is taking place at the Nottingham Park in honor of him and other people who serve the community.

Additionally, the community meal that takes place on the last Sunday of the month will be held in Rodio’s memory in August. The meal will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 27 at the Oxford Presbyterian Church.