Good morning, Athens.

Ohio University filed an appeal on Thursday of a decision certifying its faculty union—arguing that the process was flawed because members-only meetings limited fair participation and claimed that SERB did not fully investigate its concerns.

Over 70% of the faculty voted in favor of unionization during a five-year campaign, and union organizers say the delay could hinder future organizing efforts.

Dr. Maryam Ahmed is chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at Ohio University and studies how viruses can fight cancer while making science clear for her students and local communities.

She began exploring virology in college and built her career through research and teaching—now reaching out to rural groups with facts on vaccines.

High school students from Waverly and Valley presented their research on environmental monitoring and cleanup efforts at a student expo as part of the 14-year PORTSfuture Program by the Voinovich School, which simplifies DOE reports for the community.

The program also helps students explore future STEM careers at the PORTS site — where ongoing cleanup and redevelopment promise new job opportunities.

Albany Village officials finalized the 2025 comprehensive plan during a hearing on May 14 — the plan lists eight goals and 17 strategies to boost business growth and improve local infrastructure, including developing the Carpenter Road industrial area and a pathway linking Lake Snowden, Alexander High School and downtown. The council held the first reading of the proposed resolution on May 21 at Albany Village Hall and stressed the need for community input as the plan moves forward.

At Monday’s meeting, Athens City Council approved a $1.38 million ordinance for a shared-use path on Columbus Road so that bids could be awarded by June 30 (with over $1 million coming from state funds and $350,000 from the city) to boost pedestrian safety.

Council members also reviewed a rezoning proposal for a 5-acre site at 111 Hooper Street and approved measures for paving and community improvements (supporting ongoing infrastructure projects) during the session.

Cassie, a senior at Ohio University, argued that expensive summer vacations are pushing many locals to try a staycation instead, saving money while exploring new parks, music festivals, and cultural events in the area.

She noted that staying home may also help reduce the ecological damage that heavy tourism can cause.

Joseph and His Ghost Live

7 PM – 1 AM — The Side Bar — $5 — Experience the eclectic sounds of indie rock from Joseph & His Ghost hailing from central and southeast Ohio.

3rd Annual Starbrick Music Festival

3 PM to 11 PM — Hocking College — Ticket prices starting at $12.51 — Enjoy a nostalgic mix of Country and Classic rock music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

UpCycle Fest 2025

12-5 p.m. — Community Makerspace — Free entry — Celebrate creativity and sustainability through art, fashion, and hands-on activities at this vibrant community festival.

2025 Junior Bobcat Basketball Camp

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Charles J. Ping Recreation Center — Registration required — Enhance basketball skills with expert coaching and fun activities over three days.

Ocie Elliott Concert

3:45-7:45 p.m. — Snow Fork Event Center — Cost info unavailable — Experience the heartfelt tunes of Ocie Elliott as they share their life stories through music.