Good morning, Athens.

On Thursday, children with developmental disabilities aged 8-18 experienced livestock showing at the Swine Arena at the Athens County Fairgrounds when local groups - including 4-H, FFA and Integrate Athens - partnered to award certificates, ribbons and knapsacks, highlighting an inclusive event.

The Ohio University Department of Linguistics will host the Digital Approaches to Language Learning and Teaching Conference on Friday and Saturday, Oct.

16 and 17 in Athens. Scholars, educators, students, and tech developers will share ideas and methods to advance language teaching (with a focus on less commonly taught and Indigenous languages).

Two-time Ohio University alumna Tracy Kelly, executive director of the Fairfield Medical Center Foundation, credits hands-on experience (including time at the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service) for preparing her to serve the community and urges students to embrace every leadership-building opportunity.

Ohio University and the United Academics of Ohio University continue contract talks as union members remain cautiously optimistic.

Bargaining sessions began on Aug. 6 and will continue on Aug. 24 and Aug. 26 — union reps expect further counteroffers on financial issues soon.

Ohio University researcher John Kopchick tested the compound Pegvisomant that stops growth hormone in mice.

His study showed that mice lived up to five years - double the usual span - and had lower rates of diabetes and cancer.