Good morning, Athens.

Ohio University Eastern alumnus and Belmont County recorder Jason Garczyk has joined the second season of the Community Connections Podcast as a co-host with student Drake Watson.

The podcast launches September 5th — a platform where Garczyk shares his local experience and promotes community dialogue.

Bontrager Mechanical filed a lien on the Lostro Project property at 63 S.

Court St. in Uptown Athens, seeking over $200,000 for unpaid labor and materials. Miles-McClellan Construction said it replaced the subcontractor after reviewing extra fee requests and delays, while state officials noted building code issues remain under review (by the project architect/engineer).

A report by Policy Matters Ohio found that income inequality widened as lowest-paid workers (adjusted for inflation) took a 24-cent pay cut while the median wage inched up and union membership fell, with the unemployment rate rising from 3.3% to 5.0% by July.

The study noted that business-friendly policies and sluggish job growth are factors that may lead to tougher times for Ohio workers.

Ohio University’s MDIA Masterclass Series gives music production students hands on experience in professional studios—working with famous producers like Jim Eno in Providence and Joel Hamilton in Brooklyn.

The program helps students learn recording and mixing skills that prepare them for future jobs.

Ohio public schools screen students for vision from Kindergarten every other grade until eleventh grade, and a local optometrist said that full eye exams can spot problems that routine screenings may miss—helping students learn better.

Government and community groups announced key updates for the week of Sept.

3—including a blood drive at Athens County Health Department today, a Trimble Local School District audit from August, and road work on U.S. 33, U.S. 50, and Nelsonville’s Canal Street estimated to finish Oct. 31. Other updates include the Village of Chauncey's office closure on Sept. 5 (reopening Sept. 9), Hocking Parkway closures for Hocking College game days, Athens Friends and Newcomers’ fall reception on Sept. 11, and the end of summer energy assistance services on Sept. 30.

Integrated Services for Behavioral Health helped Greg, a man who once camped in Athens woods after personal setbacks, by providing winter supplies and emergency shelter that moved him into a stable apartment in Nelsonville.

He now plans to apply for disability benefits and work part-time (with ISBH support) as concerns over Medicaid cuts affect local care (raising fears over funding).

Edwin, an 8-10-year-old mixed breed dog (19#) found wandering near the Albany airport on July 23rd, was in poor health and received care from a local dog shelter and foster; he is now slowly recovering as he trots around and begs for potato chips.

The Ohio football team is set to host West Virginia in its home opener this weekend — local fans in Athens are expected to fill the streets with gameday energy.

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.