Good morning, Athens.

A new farmers market has started at the Federal Valley Resource Center in Stewart where residents can buy and sell homemade and homegrown goods every Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. until fall; it opened on July 7 with 11 vendors and grew to 14 by July 21 — organizers plan to move the market indoors over winter.

Athens High School alum Rhys Carr is touring on Broadway in the musical Moulin Rouge!—after building skills at local theater and dance programs—and credits that training with preparing them for the demanding role.

Their journey shows how community arts experiences can help open major doors in live performance.

Federal Hocking Local Schools paid former superintendent Jason Spencer $70,000 after a year of conflicts—issues included cancelled field trips and poor communication among staff.

The district now faces a lawsuit from former principal Jake Amlin, and the board will meet on July 31 to interview candidates for an interim superintendent.

On July 21, the Trimble District Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution of necessity to begin the process for a proposed 1% earned income tax levy on the November ballot.

The measure is expected to raise $655,000 over five years to help close a $3 million deficit by taxing only earned income.

Former Nelsonville City Council member Greg Smith filed a countersuit against the city on July 24 alleging that officials retaliated when he exercised his First Amendment rights—Smith argues the city took adverse actions after he supported Issue 23, while the city claims he violated a December 2023 settlement agreement by not submitting required paperwork for his continued service.

An appeals court ruled on July 16 that Athens’ ordinance banning plastic bags is unconstitutional because it conflicts with state law that permits their use—upholding an earlier county decision.

The city now must decide whether to accept the ruling or seek further appeal to the Ohio Supreme Court.

As summer heat raises dehydration risks, Dr. D-B from OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital advises residents to drink at least 2 liters of water daily—since dehydration can cause gut issues like constipation and diarrhea—and to seek care if bowel changes persist.

She warns that caffeinated and alcoholic drinks worsen dehydration and can make digestive problems uncomfortable.

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.