Good morning, Athens County. A quarter of a million dollars is heading toward protecting Appalachian Ohio's environment — and the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio wants local conservationists, researchers, and green energy innovators to come get it. Applications for the Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund are open through August 11, covering everything from community grants to ecology scholarships. That's real money for real impact right here in our backyard.
Meanwhile, Goodwill just opened its biggest Ohio store yet — inside a former Athens movie theater, no less — and it's doing a lot more than selling secondhand finds, including diverting 3.4 million pounds of materials from landfills in 2025 alone. Toss in Ohio Brew Week kicking off July 10, Angela Perley lighting up the weekend, fresh real estate listings, and the latest national headlines, and you've got a full inbox. Dig in.
🌤 Sky Skoop
Athens
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Nelsonville
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The Plains
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Albany
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Chauncey
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☕️ What's Brewing Locally
Funding available for conservation and environmental stewardship initiatives
🌿 $250,000 is up for grabs to protect Appalachian Ohio's environment. The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio is accepting applications for its Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund, supporting conservation projects, fellowships, research, and innovation. Eligible applicants across 32+ counties can apply for community grants, innovation funding, research grants, and scholarships in ecology and green energy fields. Backed by partners including the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District and American Electric Power, the fund has already awarded over $280,000 in its first two years. Applications are due August 11 at AppalachianOhio.org/EnvironmentalStewardship. Read more
Goodwill is more than a store
🛍️ Goodwill's newest Ohio store is so much more than thrift shopping. Goodwill of South Central Ohio opened its largest-ever store in Athens on June 25, housed in a former movie theater, becoming the region's second Goodwill location. Beyond affordable goods for inflation-squeezed families, the organization runs job training programs for people with disabilities and recycled a staggering 3.4 million pounds of materials in 2025 through a partnership with the Athens-Hocking Solid Waste District. A third Athens County location in Nelsonville is already in the works. Read more
6± acres · 1,400ft road frontage · Long Run Creek frontage
Tucked along scenic Long Run Road, this stunning 6-acre Athens County property features creek frontage, mature walnut timber, and a cleared building site — offering the perfect blend of peaceful country living and convenient city access!
2 bed · 2 bath renovated · New deck + garage parking
Nestled near the Athens Country Club, this move-in-ready condo at Woodmere Dr shines with fully renovated bathrooms, fresh updates throughout, and a brand-new covered deck perfect for peaceful mornings!
This charming 1907 east-side gem blends timeless craftsmanship with modern updates, featuring gorgeous hardwood floors, original pocket doors, and a screened patio — all just steps from Jackie O's and the bike path!
Raise a glass to craft beer culture at Ohio Brew Week, taking over Ohio University's Athens campus on July 10! This beloved festival celebrates the art of brewing with tastings, events, and great community vibes.
Rock out this summer when Angela Perley & The Howlin' Moons take the stage at Ohio University in Athens, OH on July 10 — a live music experience you won't want to miss!
Unearth the power of YOUR story at The Plains Public Library on July 10! Join Brian Koscho for an exciting overview of Invisible Ground and discover creative ways to share your own stories with the community.
Batter up, Athens! The Sandlot 10u Bash Tourney brings youth baseball action to Athens West State Park July 10-12, 2026, for a weekend of big hits, team spirit, and small-town fun!
Grab your lawn chairs and let the good times roll at the Poston Lake Bluegrass Festival on July 10! Head to Poston Lake Music Park in Stewart, OH for a toe-tapping day of incredible live bluegrass music.
Get ready to boogie and sip brews at Creek Jam 2026! Join Rural Action at Eclipse Company Store on July 11 for live music from The JiMiller Band, family fun, and exclusive handmade merch during Brew Week!
Celebrate 20 years of community care with Athens Birth Circle on July 11! Join the team at 217 Columbus Rd #103 for an open house and a special Blessing Box ribbon cutting ceremony.
Get ready to rock Jackie O's Taproom this summer! Heather Redman & The Reputation take the stage July 11 at 25 Campbell St, Athens, as part of Blackout & Jackie O's electrifying Summer Concert Series.
🌎 What Else Is Brewing
United States launched dozens of retaliatory strikes against Iran after attacks on commercial ships, reimposing sanctions on oil sales in a major escalation.
ICE officer fatally shot a man in Houston during an enforcement operation when the driver attempted to evade arrest in his vehicle.
Graham Platner defended his Senate campaign after a sexual assault allegation, as Democrats across the country withdrew support and pulled endorsements.
Microsoft announced layoffs of 4,800 workers, joining a wave of tech job cuts as companies navigate economic uncertainty and shifting strategies.
Tesla saw sales rise last quarter, suggesting the worst of the Musk backlash might be behind it despite ongoing scrutiny and controversies.
Harriet Tubman Treasury Department put the plan for her $20 bill on ice, canceling the tribute to the anti-slavery crusader for now.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."
— 1 Corinthians 13:13
This verse reminds us that no matter what challenges we face, faith, hope, and love are the enduring qualities that will see us through, with love being the greatest of all. By prioritizing love, we can live more compassionate and meaningful lives.
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Share Local Brew with 5 friends and earn a free MadBatter Cookie. Big cookies, mad flavors, made in Ohio. 🍪
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