Good morning, Athens.

Community groups led by the Racial Equity Coalition of Appalachia organized Black Alumni Weekend—scheduled for April 10—12 to honor the legacy of Black and Brown excellence at OU after the university cancelled its reunion due to SB 1.

Local partners, including Tony’s hosting a special event today from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and the Athens County Foundation’s $8,000 grant have shown strong support for the celebration.

Vibrancy Theater is presenting Bootycandy—a play about the Black and gay experience—at Elizabeth Evans Baker Auditorium on S.

College Street; shows began on April 10 and will run until April 18.

Kennedy Museum of Art at Ohio University presents 'Through a New Lens,' its annual Museum Studies exhibition featuring objects such as a dinosaur skull, a Victorian wedding dress, and artist books — curated by students.

The free opening reception is held today from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with a gallery talk on April 16th from 2 to 3 p.m. and a panel discussion on April 23rd from 2 to 3 p.m. scheduled thereafter.

The Ohio University Student Enhancement Awards program granted 25 students a total of $145,121 for their research, scholarship and creative work this spring—selecting from 64 proposals—and is funded by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Creative Activity with awards of up to $6,000 per project.

Ohio University filed an objection with the State Employee Relations Board on April 3 to overturn a faculty vote in which over 70% supported unionization—citing mail-in ballot issues and members-only meetings—while the union works to file a response by April 14.

More than 90 Ohio University faculty signed an open letter urging OU leaders to let professors decide if issues of diversity, equity and inclusion belong in the curriculum.

The signatories warned that limiting academic freedom risks quality learning+ academic expertise.

The City of Athens is appealing a lower court decision that struck down its ban on giving plastic bags—saying its home rule power lets it set local rules—and will present its case at 10 a.m. on April 17 at Ross County Common Pleas Court.

This appeal could affect how other cities manage similar ordinances.

At its Monday meeting, Athens City Council debated adding Boogie on the Bricks to the street closures and approved construction projects such as a roundabout with a new sidewalk on SR 682.

Council member Alan Swank raised concerns that Ohio Brew Week Fall Fest scheduled for Sept. 6—its date overlapping a large football game—might strain city services, but his suggestion to postpone did not gain enough support.

Sunday Meditation Session

2-3 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Join the Athens KTC Buddhist Center for a peaceful meditation experience tailored for all levels.

Jazz Night at Rhapsody Restaurant

6-8 p.m. — Rhapsody Restaurant — Enjoy drinks and food while listening to Kay Carter and the Bernie Nau Quartet play great jazz.

My Morning Jacket & Grace Cummings Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the soulful sounds of My Morning Jacket and Grace Cummings during this captivating live show.

Athens Art Guild Art Market

9 AM – 12 PM — Athens Community Center — Free admission — Discover unique handcrafted arts and crafts from local artisans.

Sunday Meditation Sessions

10-11 a.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Find tranquility each Sunday with guided meditation at Athens KTC Buddhist Center.

OhioHealth Race For A Reason

5:30 p.m. — Ohio University — Check the website for registration fees — Participate in this annual race benefitting local causes and promoting wellness.

Sunday Meditation Class

2-3 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Experience mindfulness and meditation in a welcoming community setting.

First Saturday at the Pantry

5-7 p.m. — Food Pantry — Free entry — Learn about fighting hunger and receive a special recipes booklet while volunteering opportunities await.

Weekly Meditation Sessions

2-3 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Join Athens KTC for a calming meditation experience suitable for all levels.

Weekly Meditation at Athens KTC

10-11 a.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — No cost — Experience mindfulness and community through guided meditation sessions every Sunday morning.