Good morning, Athens.

Jericka Duncan, a former WOUB host and Ohio University alumna, was honored by NAACP Cleveland with the President's Award last month and named a 2025 inductee to the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame with an induction scheduled for September.

She has worked at CBS since 2013 and reported on major stories including the #MeToo movement and high-profile trials.

Data from the FBI shows that crime rates in southeast Ohio counties dropped over the past ten years with Athens County down 35.2% and Washington, Vinton, Meigs and Hocking counties nearly halved—actions credited to proactive drug enforcement and community education.

A state appeals court ruled that Athens’ plastic bag ban is unconstitutional because it conflicts with state law that lets people choose which bag to use.

The city is now deciding whether to appeal the ruling to the Ohio Supreme Court.

County engineer Jeff Maiden said funding is needed to design and construct roads and maintain 335 bridges in Athens County+ he urged officials to consider a new sales tax to support these projects.

County leaders will review the proposal in the coming weeks.

Athens Gravel Challenge

1-7 p.m. — Baileys' Chauncey-Dover Park — Race entry required — Experience the thrill of gravel racing with multiple courses and categories across scenic Ohio terrain.

Athens Community Arts and Music Festival 2025

5:00–11:00 p.m. — Union Street Market — Ticket info pending — Experience a vibrant community celebration of art and music.

Beat the Heat: Song of the Sea

3-5 p.m. — The Athena Cinema — Ticket prices vary — Dive into the enchanting world of Irish folklore with a captivating animated tale of family and magic.

August Prospect Camp

10 a.m.–4 p.m. — Ohio Softball Field — Check website for cost — Enhance your skills with fun drills and live games at this elite youth softball event.

A.S. Coomer Music Gathering

9 PM – 1 AM — Near Athens, OH — Camping available — Experience original music in a forest setting with a taco enthusiast.