Good morning, Athens.

On March 13th, Cat Cutcher and her adoptive parents, Jasey and Syd Schnaars, appeared on The Anna Jinja Show to share their adoption journey and explain how challenges help build lasting family bonds—values that guide their Ohio home.

The Federal Hocking school board will meet Tuesday at Amesville Elementary to consider teacher layoffs due to rising budget deficits that could reach nearly $1.6 million by the 2028—29 school year.

Some community members have proposed an income tax levy to avoid cuts and keep class sizes low.

Ohio University and local students are preparing for major changes to diversity programs if Senate Bill 1 becomes law—this may include closing the Women’s, Multicultural, and Pride Centers.

The bill passed the Ohio Senate and now awaits House approval while community members in Athens have held protests over the potential impact.

Athens County will open its new 911 and EMA center at 75 Connett Road in The Plains later this month, replacing the outdated facility on West Washington Street that had issues with plumbing, electrical systems, and space.

The center features modern technology, backup generators, training areas, and a break room for dispatchers—while officials work with the board to secure additional funding and prepare for Next Generation 911 on March 18th.

Athens City Council approved plans to build a roundabout at the State Routes 56 & 682 intersection to ease heavy traffic and improve safety, with work set to begin this summer and continue until summer 2026.

They also approved a $6.5 million Uptown streetscape project that will bury utility lines and add street closures for upcoming fairs and festivals.

Nelsonville law director Jonathan Robe said on Monday that council President Gregg Clement should appoint residents Nguyen and Powell—who are suing the city—to fill two council seats left vacant after recent resignations because no other applications were received.

Clement has until March 27 to make the appointments or the council will continue with only five members.

City officials ran a pilot deer archery hunt on 13 city properties from October to February and 16 hunters harvested five deer.

They plan to use the feedback to change property selection, lower fees, and adjust which deer can be taken + these improvements will guide next season's hunt.

A Lancaster-based company plans to build affordable multifamily housing for low-income families in The Plains — the project aims to expand housing options for local residents.

Ohio Men's Basketball ended its season at 16-16 and lost in the MAC quarterfinals—injuries and a poor away record hurt the team that was once a preseason favorite.

Coach Jeff Boals said the squad played together in only nine full games—raising questions about how they will improve next season.

Weekly Meditation Session

The Athens KTC Buddhist Center conducts weekly meditation sessions on Sunday mornings at Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center, welcoming individuals of all experience levels.

Weekly Meditation Session at Athens KTC Buddhist Center

Athens KTC Buddhist Center hosts a weekly meditation session every Sunday morning, offering guidance for participants of all experience levels in a serene setting.

Charles Wesley Godwin Live Concert

Experience an evening of music with Charles Wesley Godwin at the Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium in Athens.

Casual Chess Night for Teens and Young Adults

Chess Night is an open meet-up event at the Athens Public Library that invites teens and young adults of all skill levels to learn, practice, and socialize around chess.

Rebreather Concert

7-11:30 p.m. — The Union — Ticketed event — Experience an exciting night of rock music in Athens.

Weekly Meditation Session

Athens KTC Buddhist Center hosts a weekly meditation session with varying practices and optional instruction at Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center.

AARP Tax Assistance

10 AM – 1 PM | Coolville Public Library | Appointment required | Get help with your 2023 tax returns from trained preparers with limited available walk-ins.

13th World Music and Dance Concert

7:30-9:00 PM — Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium — Purchase Tickets — Experience a vibrant showcase of global music and dance.

Sunday Meditation Session

2-3 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Engage in mindful meditation with the Athens KTC Buddhist Center in a peaceful environment.

Leighann Lord Standup Comedy Show

7-11 p.m. — Baker University Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with seasoned NYC comedian Leighann Lord.