Good morning, Athens.

Guests gathered at Ohio University’s Baker Center Ballroom on Saturday for a Mardi Gras themed celebration that raised funds for charity.

The event showcased strong community spirit and festive energy.

Athens Sunrise Rotary donated $3,000 to the Child Advocacy Center from its Winter Wonderland New Year's event+ a $250 contribution from Rotary of Marietta brought total support to $3,250.

The funds will be used to restock toys and supply gas and food gift cards for families.

Athens hosts meetings this week — today includes a peer-to-peer recovery support meeting at the City-County Health Department and a group run/walk on the bike path; Wednesday offers chair yoga, Thursday features toddler discovery time and a book club, while Friday and Sunday feature family support and grief sessions.

Athens events span Tuesday through Sunday.

The Global Arts Festival (featuring an international fashion show at Baker Theater) opens Tuesday, followed by film screenings at The Athena and a world music concert on Thursday at Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium while the Athens Jazz Festival wraps up the week Sunday.

Utility companies in Ohio are requesting higher rates to help cover new infrastructure costs (such as upgrading aging equipment), leading to rising electricity bills statewide.

State regulators will review these changes, and local Athens residents may see bill increases in the coming months.

Athens County Public Libraries provide resources for locals and students with programming events such as LEGO building nights scheduled for April 13-16 and Dungeons & Dragons meetings on Tuesdays at Plains Branch.

The libraries offer community collections, a Library of Things, and a Tool Library available without a library card.

Talisa Lemke, the Ohio diving coach at Ohio University, uses her background from Germany to mix technical training + artistic flair for athletes.

She guides divers through structured practices that build confidence before competitions.

Athena Supper Club at Purple Chopstix

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Purple Chopstix — Limited tickets available — Connect with local women for a delightful meal supporting community establishments.

Platinum Disco at The Athens Armory

7-11 p.m. — The Athens Armory — Fundraiser entry — Dance the night away at this retro party featuring hits from the 70s to the 90s while supporting a great cause.

Strong Towns Athens Monthly Gathering

5-6 p.m. — Big Run Kava Bar — Free entry — Collaborate on community-building ideas to enhance life in Athens, Ohio.

Aly & AJ Places to Run Tour

8-11 p.m. — Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium — Tickets from $25 — Catch Aly & AJ as they showcase their evolution from pop sensations to indie darlings.

An Evening with Rainn Wilson

8-11 p.m. — Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium — $45.00 — Experience a night of conversation and laughter with the beloved Dwight from 'The Office'.

The Crane Wives Concert

8-11 p.m. — Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium — $35 — Experience high-energy indie folk with emotional resonance from The Crane Wives and special guest Morgan Hanner.

Lucius Live Concert

7-10 p.m. — Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium — $35 — Experience the enchanting harmonies of Grammy-nominated indie-pop band Lucius as they perform songs from their acclaimed albums.