Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 29th of August.
Good morning, Athens.
🏘️ Community
Local neighbors in Sharpsburg are working to save a century-old barn on State Route 377 as the Nature Conservancy pauses demolition plans to decide if the historic building can be preserved.
Community members and local officials have shown support with petitions and offers to keep the barn standing—while its future remains uncertain.
🎭 Culture
Little Cities Day, the 31st annual celebration of local history and culture, will take place on Sept.
6 at Stuart’s Opera House in Nelsonville and will feature live music, presentations and an exhibition hall that showcases untold local stories—its theme 'More to Be Told' emphasizes deeper local histories.
🎓 Education
Ohio University submitted its proposal on August 28 to suspend future enrollment in 11 programs and merge 18 programs to comply with Senate Bill 1—rules that close majors with low graduation rates.
Students already declared in affected programs will finish their courses as administrators adjust curricula during the academic year.
Ohio University must reject a 287(g) contract with ICE that would let campus police act as federal immigration officers—supporters say the agreement would harm trust and put international students at risk.
Community members call for a decision that upholds campus safety and immigrant rights.
🌲 Environment
Athens County has reported over 250 dead deer from Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease, which is spread by biting midges even as high rainfall occurs.
Ohio Department of Natural Resources officials advise residents not to touch carcasses—carcasses must be disposed of safely—to help track the outbreak.
🏛️ Government
The Ohio Supreme Court granted Nelsonville's motion for reconsideration on August 27 — reopening the city's case to remove races from the November general election ballot after the suit was dismissed for a missed filing deadline.
The action follows the repeal of Issue 23 on August 11, and responses to Secretary LaRose’s motion were due by 3:30 p.m. on August 28 while public meetings are scheduled on September 3 and 4 at City Hall.
Several write-in candidates submitted declarations of intent by Aug.
25 to run for office in the Nov. 4 general election, covering local roles such as city council and school board positions in communities including Amesville, Albany, Bern Township, and Nelsonville—voters must register by Oct. 6 while the board of elections meets on Sept. 17 at 3:30 p.m.
At Monday night’s meeting, Athens City Council committees discussed forming an ad hoc housing commission subcommittee to review rental code compliance and propose improvements for over 5,800 rental units.
The seven-member team—comprising a student renter, property managers, and housing advocates—will provide quarterly updates until Dec. 1 to address the city’s inspection challenges.
🏈 Sports
Ohio lost 34 to 31 to Rutgers yesterday as quarterback Navarro led a strong effort with his team showing heart in a tight game.
The Bobcats will host West Virginia in Athens next Saturday — they hope to turn the win around at home.
🎉 Athens Events
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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.
Weekly Meditation Session
2-3 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Participate in guided meditation sessions suited for all experience levels.
Happy Hollow Hootenanny Old Time Music Dance Party
6-8 p.m. — Jackie O's Taproom & Production Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live old-time music and dances called for all skill levels.
5K for Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer
8-10 a.m. — Athens Community Center — Registration fees apply — Participate in a 5K run or walk to support breast cancer empowerment initiatives.
Amazing Race with CHAARG
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Baker University Center — Free entry — Participate in a fun scavenger hunt and workout experience.
Sunday Meditation Session
2-3 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Participate in a calming meditation session hosted by the Athens KTC Buddhist Center.
🏠 Athens Real Estate
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💼 Athens Job Board
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📣 Athens Announcements
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