Good morning, Athens.

Gaia, a calico cat (the only one among nine kittens), has quickly become a loving and playful companion available for adoption through Athenshumane.

She will thrive in a home with another friendly cat to share snuggles and active play.

New Era Broadband said that AEP’s smart meters are interfering with its internet signal and have caused a loss of over 100 customers in Athens and Meigs counties since last year — the dispute remains unresolved as both sides work with regulators.

Concert etiquette has declined post-pandemic as fans crowd local shows and disrupt the experience; venues like The Union in Athens report packed spaces and raised safety concerns—causing bands like The Home Team to urge respectful audience conduct.

Today, WOUB Culture’s Suggested Listening series spotlights local music enthusiast Chris Pyle (owner of Donkey Coffee).

He curates tracks from indie rock to country that resonated with regional contributors and artists.

Ohio University held Ramp Up to Instruction workshops on Dec.

2 to give instructors dedicated time to plan enhanced courses for the upcoming semester (the events aimed to offer flexible teaching support).

Young learners will explore coding at the free Hour of Code event on Sunday, Dec.

7, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Athens Meigs Educational Services Center (21 Birge Drive) where hands-on activities will introduce coding, robotics, and digital design.

Ohio University will host its Fall Commencement at the Convocation Center on campus Saturday, Dec.

13 at 2 p.m. Distinguished Professor Dr. Kevin Mattson will deliver the keynote address at the ceremony.

Ohio University honored students and faculty with the John J.

Kopchick Awards on Nov. 15 at the Baker University Center Ballroom, awarding more than $87,456 for innovative biomedical research plus interdisciplinary projects. Recipients ranged from undergraduates to faculty and were recognized for advancing translational biomedical sciences.

Ohio University in Athens has received a five-year, $1.3 million federal grant for its TRIO Student Support Services program — expanding academic advising, mentoring and financial literacy support for about 140 students each year.

Stevens Literacy Center was renamed the Stevens Center for Literacy and STEM Education to show its new focus on research and community work; today at 4 p.m. an open house will be held at the Patton College building.

HUD's new funding rules that cap permanent housing at 30% have forced Integrated Services in Athens to pause new leases for 150 households, and local nonprofits are working with partners (including state and city officials) to secure grants that will close Jan.

14.

Wilson, a 2-year-old neutered boxer/terrier mix found on E.

State St in October, became a shelter favorite after months of creative attempts to catch him — the Athens County Dog Shelter now seeks an adopter or foster with another dog and a fenced yard.

Reindeer Run 5k

9 AM – 12 PM — Eclipse Company Store — Registration fee required — Enjoy a festive 5k with costumes, hot chocolate, and Santa.

December Elite Prospect Camp

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Walter Fieldhouse — Check-in starts at 9:30 a.m. — Develop your softball skills with instruction and live gameplay.

Kenny G Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium — Ticket prices vary — Experience the smooth sounds of Kenny G in a local setting.

Weekly Meditation Session

3-4 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Experience a peaceful meditation practice suitable for all levels at Athens KTC Buddhist Center.

Ohio University Basketball Halftime Show

1:00 p.m. — Convo Center — Free admission — Enjoy an entertaining halftime show featuring high-flying frisbee-catching dogs.

Sunday Meditation Gathering

3-4 p.m. — Serenity Roots Wellness and Yoga Center — Free entry — Join the Athens KTC Buddhist Center for a peaceful Sunday meditation session in a spacious yoga studio.

New Year's Eve Family-Friendly Celebration

5-10 p.m. — Little Fish Brewing Company — Buffet dinner options available — Kick off 2026 early with balloon drops and family fun.