Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Athens County / January 22, 2025

🏒 Homeward bound

Athens County • January 22, 2025

Good morning, Athens County. There's something poetically fitting about Ohio's hockey team climbing to #1 in national rankings while playing without a home. Like a sports version of a nomadic tribe, these Bobcats have been crisscrossing state lines to practice, proving that home ice advantage is more about heart than location. Now ranked fourth with a stellar 12-3 record, they're finally returning to Bird Arena with the kind of comeback story Hollywood screenwriters dream about.

Speaking of powerful narratives, while our hockey players find their way home, Alden Library is taking us on a global journey through textile traditions. Their new "Wrapped in Culture" exhibit showcases garments that tell stories of protection, celebration, and identity. And as Import House closes its eclectic chapter on Court Street, Athens faces its own story of evolution - debating whether our downtown needs more nightlife or new forms of entertainment.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏒 Ohio hockey team thrives despite having no home arena. The Bobcats adapted to their unusable Bird Ice Arena by practicing in Columbus and West Virginia, starting the season with an impressive 4-0 record. Under new head coach Barry Schutte, the team upset top-ranked Adrian and climbed to #1 in ACHA rankings before a brief setback. Now ranked fourth with a 12-3 record, Ohio's aggressive offense and strong goaltending have kept them competitive despite the challenges. The team finally returned home to Bird Arena for the second semester, with five straight home series ahead and key players soon returning from the Winter World University Games.

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👘 Ancient textiles tell hidden stories in Ohio University's striking new exhibit. "Wrapped in Culture" at Alden Library showcases diverse garments from Africa and Southeast Asia that transcend mere clothing to become powerful tools of communication and cultural expression. The exhibition features pieces like the protective Malian Mud Cloth for hunters and new mothers, and the versatile Thai pha khao ma used for everything from religious ceremonies to daily wear. The display, curated by international librarians drawing from both archives and personal collections, will remain open through spring 2025. In an era of Western fashion dominance, the exhibit highlights how traditional garments serve multiple practical and spiritual purposes while preserving ancient crafting methods.

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🏪 Historic Import House closes, sparking debate over Court Street's future. The Athens, Ohio staple shuttered its doors after nearly 30 years of selling eclectic goods and accessories. Popular bar Stephen's on Court has purchased half the vacant space for expansion, hoping to reduce their notorious wait times that can stretch up to 90 minutes. However, some local business owners argue the space would better serve the community as something other than another bar, suggesting options like an arcade or bowling alley. The debate highlights a broader discussion about maintaining diverse attractions in Athens' downtown area beyond just nightlife establishments.

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🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)

TeamOpponentScore
Athens (11-3)
vs Federal Hocking
L 58-45
Federal Hocking (11-5)
@ Athens
W 58-45

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎨 Jan. 23 - Teen Alternative Photography Club: Unleash your inner artist at the Teen Art Club's alternative photography workshop! Young creatives ages 12-18 can explore unique photo techniques on paper and fabric at the Dairy Barn Arts Center on January 23.
🎲 Jan. 28 - D&D Adventure Night: Embark on an epic adventure at The Plains Public Library, where both novice and experienced players gather for weekly Dungeons & Dragons sessions. Join the quest every Tuesday at 14 S Plains Rd.
📝 Jan. 28 - Athens Poetry Circle: Calling all wordsmiths! Share your verses and connect with fellow poets at the Athens Poetry Group gathering, happening January 28 at Athens Public Library on 30 Home Street.
🏘️ Jan. 30 - Athens Regional Open House: Shape your community's future at the Buckeye Hills Forward Open House! Join local leaders and neighbors at Athens Public Library on January 30 to share your vision for regional development.
🌾 Feb. 01 - Athens Winter Market: Warm up your winter Saturday mornings at the Athens Farmers Market! Local vendors gather under the Community Center's solar panels (701 E State St) every Saturday from 9am-12pm through March 29.
🎓 Feb. 01 - First-Gen Student Support Fund: Support student dreams at a heartwarming fundraiser for Lindsey, a first-generation African American undergraduate pursuing her education. Join the community gathering on February 1st at 35 S Congress St, Athens.
🚲 Feb. 01 - Community Bike Swap & Fix: Roll into the Community Makerspace for a wheel-y good time! Swap your old bike or get expert help fixing your current ride on Feb 1 at 751 W Union St, Athens.
🎲 Feb. 01 - Teen D&D Adventure Night: Roll for initiative at Athens Public Library's weekly Tabletop RPG Club! Join fellow teens for Dungeons & Dragons and other adventures every Thursday in the large conference room at 30 Home St.
🧘 Feb. 02 - Sunday Buddhist Meditation: Find your center at Athens KTC Buddhist Center's Sunday morning meditation sessions, held in the serene yoga studio at Serenity Roots Wellness Center on Lavelle Road. Newcomers welcome to join this peaceful practice.

🙏 In Remembrance

Jim Hayes

Jim Hayes, a simple hero of Guysville, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, at the age of 90 on the family farm where he was born. Known for his hard work and dedication, Jim expanded the farm to 825 acres over his lifetime while nurturing a recognized herd of Jersey cattle. He embodied integrity and perseverance, often reminding his family to "just keep going" during tough times. A private burial took place alongside his beloved wife, Shirley, with plans for a joint Celebration of Life in Summer 2025. Jim's legacy as a hardworking, humble man will be cherished by his family and community.

Jim Hayes

Elza Sapp

Hamilton Elza Sapp, 97, passed away on January 18, 2025, in Hamilton, Ohio. Born on October 14, 1927, he graduated from Ohio University and had a distinguished career in the Hamilton City School District, where he served in various educational roles until his retirement in 1988. He was married to Delores Maxine Carter for 75 years and is survived by two children, two grandchildren, and great-grandsons. A veteran of the Army, he was also actively involved in community service throughout his life. Funeral services will be held on January 25, 2025, with interment at Greenwood Cemetery on January 27.

Elza Sapp

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

-Proverbs 3:5-6

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