Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Athens County / December 25, 2024

🏥 Health Hub Happenings

Athens County • December 25, 2024

Good morning, Athens County. Move over, Silicon Valley - Athens is stepping into the spotlight with a game-changing $16.2M medical research facility that's about to transform West Union Street. Ohio University's ambitious 80,000-square-foot Heritage Translational Research Center isn't just another building project; it's a testament to our community's growing role in advancing public health and medical innovation.

Meanwhile, in a heartwarming twist worthy of a "Fast & Furious" spinoff (minus the explosions), veteran auto engineer Greg Manter has traded his professional toolkit for a teacher's whiteboard at Tri-County Career Center. And if you're wondering what keeps our local law enforcement on their toes, let's just say their latest reports read like a small-town sitcom - complete with wandering cattle and mysterious door-knockers keeping things entertainingly unpredictable.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏥 Ohio University to build groundbreaking $16.2M medical research center. The 80,000-square-foot Heritage Translational Research Center, set to break ground in January 2025, will house both an animal care facility and public health clinic on West Union Street. The four-story building represents a significant consolidation of OU's research facilities and is partially funded by the National Institute of Health. Standing 64 feet tall, the center's design required recent zoning updates but will help preserve surrounding green space. The project coincides with two separate affordable housing developments being proposed in Athens, demonstrating a broader push for community development in the area.

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🔧 Veteran auto engineer shifts gears to inspire next generation of mechanics. Greg Manter, a 47-year-old automotive engineering graduate from Ohio State, has taken the wheel as Tri-County Career Center's newest Auto Service Technology instructor. His passion for the "before and after" process of car repair drives his teaching philosophy, helping students master the fundamentals of automotive maintenance. The position holds special meaning for Manter, whose own son Owen recently graduated from the same program he now teaches. When not in the classroom, this rock music-loving instructor stays current with industry trends through automotive magazines and unwinds with action-packed superhero shows.

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👮 Small-town police blotter reveals quirky mix of rural misadventures. From loose cattle blocking highways to mysterious door-knockers and sleeping drivers, the Athens County Sheriff's Office dealt with an eclectic array of minor incidents. Deputies responded to several vehicle-related cases, including an abandoned car with a note and a traffic stop that led to an arrest for outstanding warrants. The report also included domestic disputes, suspicious vehicles, and a drug-related arrest after finding a man passed out behind the wheel. Most situations were resolved peacefully, with deputies often finding that issues had already sorted themselves out upon arrival.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Radford Dairy ATO with potential

This charming property, listed at $300,000, is the original Radford Dairy ATO, featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a welcoming front porch shaded by large trees. The estate sale includes two enclosed side porches, a 2-car garage with a workspace, access to a nearby pond through neighboring yards, and an extra lot that may offer potential for additional use. Plus, there's an upgrade allowance of up to $10,000 at closing, making this abode a perfect canvas for your personal touch.

Spacious retreat on 2.36 acres

This charming three-bedroom, two-bath home is nestled on 2.36 acres in Athens, OH, listed at $185,000. Just seven miles from E State Street, it features a bright kitchen, spacious living areas, and an owner's suite with a private balcony, all complemented by multiple outdoor decks, two storage sheds, and a chicken coop, making it an ideal retreat for country living with city convenience.

Spacious retreat with nature vibes

Nestled on nearly an acre at 9322 Hooper Rd. in Athens, OH, this charming 2-3 bedroom ranch home is priced at $199,000 and offers a serene retreat with plenty of trees and a deck for outdoor enjoyment. The open concept layout features vaulted ceilings, a spacious master bedroom with a study, and recent upgrades including a new roof and hot water tank, while the rumor of hardwood floors beneath the living room carpet adds an exciting touch to this inviting property.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🥾 Dec. 30 - Winter Wilderness Adventure: Bundle up for winter wonder! Join our invigorating guided nature hike through scenic trails at 8389 W Bailey Rd in Millfield on December 30. Nature's beauty awaits!
📝 Dec. 31 - Athens Poetry Share Circle: Calling all poets! Share your verses and creative spirit at the Athens Poetry Group, where local wordsmiths gather to share and discuss their work. Join us December 31st at Athens Public Library.
🎆 Dec. 31 - New Year's Yoga Retreat: Ring in 2024 with mindful movement at Trauma Sensitive Yoga Project's New Year's Mini Retreat. Join this restorative yoga session from 6:00-7:30pm on December 31 at their peaceful Athens studio.
💝 Dec. 31 - Caregiver Support Circle: Find comfort and connection at the Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Support Group, where trained facilitators create a safe space for dementia caregivers. Join us December 31st at Athens Community Center.

🙏 In Remembrance

Pamlea Harvey

Pamela Faye Vander Ark Harvey, 60, passed away on December 13, 2024, after a courageous battle with breast cancer. She is survived by her husband Aaron J. Harvey, son Colvin Bel Harvey, mother Helen Vander Ark, siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews. Known for her dedication to family and community, Pamela served in various leadership roles with local organizations and acted as a caregiver for her mother. She was celebrated for her love of cooking, sewing, outdoor activities, and her vibrant personality. A celebration of her life will be held on January 3, 2025, with donations suggested for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Pamlea Harvey

Scottie K. Ashcraft

Scottie K. Ashcraft, 72, of Reedsville, OH, passed away on December 21, 2024. Born on December 13, 1952, he was the son of the late Beryl and Edith Faye Barnette Ashcraft and had a passion for hunting, fishing, gardening, and carpentry. He is survived by his son, daughter, five grandchildren, siblings, significant other Linda Ayres, her children, and many friends and relatives. Visitation will be held on December 28, 2024, with no funeral service planned. Donations in his memory can be made to assist with funeral expenses.

Scottie K. Ashcraft

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

-1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

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