Good morning, Athens.

Today — the 170th Athens County Fair begins at noon at the 43-acre fairgrounds on West Union Street in Athens, running through Aug.

9. Senior Fair Board Vice President Jeff Cox said the fair will include more rides, monster truck shows, and demolition derbies — events that aim to boost attendance.

ACENet celebrated its 40-year anniversary on July 26 at the Athens Community Center—marking decades of community-building—and hosted an event that brought together local residents to reflect on its history.

Developers have delayed two low-income housing projects in The Plains after concerns arose over potential damage to Adena earthworks near East First Street— the Ohio Housing Finance Agency now requires an archaeological review by the Ohio History Connection before work continues.

Local residents have raised worries about preserving historical sites and managing environmental impacts while recognizing the need for affordable housing.

Nonprofits in southeast Ohio are teaming with schools and local manufacturers to teach students hands-on STEM skills for jobs in manufacturing—programs include internships and training to help fill the shortage of skilled workers.

Their work aims to boost local talent so companies can fill open positions with well-prepared employees.

Ohio University hosted an industry meeting on its Athens campus on June 23 to explore global workforce readiness and build partnerships that benefit local students and businesses.

The meeting ended with plans for pilot internship programs and a follow-up convening scheduled for November—steps aimed at strengthening Ohio’s workforce.

Athens and Perry County law enforcement now use drones with thermal imaging and zoom cameras for emergency searches and crime deterrence, and the ACLU of Ohio warns that such use risks privacy overreach—Ohio lawmakers are considering House Bill 251, which would require warrants and mandate public transparency for drone surveillance. This move comes as departments follow FAA guidelines while expanding drone operations in the region.

Planned Parenthood in Athens said 26% of its patients use Medicaid after a federal judge blocked the rule that would have stopped the clinic from accepting Medicaid funds.

The clinic will follow court orders but cannot take Medicaid for some long-lasting birth control methods — a change that may affect services if policies shift in the future.

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.

Lung Concert

7:30 PM - 1:30 AM — The Union — Ticketed — Experience Lung's fierce, ethereal sound that blends grunge with thunderous cello and drums.