Good morning, Athens.

Government and community organizations released announcements for the week of Aug.

5, 2025—audits for Nelsonville and Canaan Township, surplus bids for Albany and Lodi, and traffic changes including Athens street paving, an East State Street closure, and several Ohio Department of Transportation projects with estimated completions from Aug. 29 to Oct. 31. Additional news covers bus pass refunds, a sales tax holiday through Aug. 14, job openings in Nelsonville and safety updates for Chauncey pools—plus a renovation closure at Casa Nueva Restaurant until Aug. 8.

Gov. Mike DeWine called for changes to Ohio’s sports gambling laws after MLB began investigating Cleveland Guardians pitchers Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase for sports betting.

He urged the Casino Control Commission to remove prop bets from legal wagers — a step to protect the integrity of sports and to start discussions with major leagues and other states.

Athens did not appeal a court ruling that found its plastic bag ban unconstitutional.

City law director Lisa Eliason said (the decision reflects the slim chance of prevailing in the Ohio Supreme Court) and that the city’s goal to cut waste remains unchanged.

After returning from summer recess, Athens City Council debated the costs and benefits of updating the West State Park restroom facility under Project #349 — the council examined the project details to guide future planning.

Photos from the motocross contest at the Athens County Fair show riders competing — the gallery captures key moments from the event — offering a glimpse into the challenging race for local fans.

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.