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๐ŸŒฑ Fresh starts abound

Athens County • February 4, 2025

Good morning, Athens County. There's something almost poetic about 328 transfer students choosing Athens each fall as their fresh start. Like modern-day explorers, they're navigating their way to Ohio University's welcoming shores, bringing with them dreams, determination, and occasionally, stories of rising tuition bills elsewhere. Their arrival adds another vibrant thread to our campus tapestry, where second chances and new beginnings are always in season.

Speaking of new beginnings, our community just rang in the Year of the Snake with a celebration that would make any dragon dancer proud. While Walter Hall echoed with traditional performances and red envelopes exchanged hands, across campus the new Bobcat Hangout was welcoming its first wave of gamers and loungers. From cultural bridges to gaming bridges, OU keeps finding fresh ways to bring people together.

๐ŸŒค Sky Skoop

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โ˜•๏ธ What's Brewing Locally

Brewing Locally Image

๐ŸŽ“ Transfer students flock to Ohio University seeking fresh academic starts. The Athens campus welcomes an average of 328 transfers each fall and 115 in spring semesters, with 81% coming from within Ohio. Students cite various reasons for transferring, from rising tuition costs at other institutions to seeking better-fitting academic programs. The university's admissions team works diligently to ensure a smooth credit transfer process, helping students transition confidently. Transfer students report finding a welcoming environment at OU, with many praising the friendly professors and campus culture.

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๐Ÿฎ Ohio University unites cultures in vibrant Lunar New Year celebration. Students and community members gathered at Walter Hall to welcome the Year of the Snake with traditional performances, including the symbolic Dragon Dance and Fan Dance. The event, organized by multiple student organizations, featured authentic cultural elements like red envelope exchanges, calligraphy blessings, and a shared meal of symbolic dishes. International and local students alike found meaningful connections through the festivities, with performances like "Love Song of Kangding" bridging cultural gaps. The celebration emphasized community building while showcasing the rich traditions of East and Southeast Asian cultures.

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๐ŸŽ“ Ohio university unveils new student hangout space and art business summit. Baker University Center's third floor now features the Bobcat Hangout, a free gaming and relaxation area accessible during building hours. Meanwhile, the College of Fine Arts hosted the Ohio ARTreprenuership summit, bringing together creative minds and business professionals. The event aimed to help art students develop entrepreneurial skills across various genres. Both initiatives reflect the university's commitment to enhancing student experiences through recreation and professional development.

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๐Ÿก Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Spacious home on 5.44 acres: This charming home at 14110 Mansfield Road in Athens, Ohio, is listed for $259,000 and features three bedrooms, three baths, a spacious great room, and 5.44 acres of private land ready for your personal touch. With a full basement and potential for expansion, itโ€™s perfect for those looking to create their dream space.
Real estate listing image Modern home near Ohio University: This updated 4-bedroom, 3-bath home is listed at $397,000 and features an airy living area with grand windows, a modern kitchen, and a basement rec room, all just minutes from Ohio University.
Real estate listing image Spacious lodge near scenic trails: Listed at $469,000, this remodeled 3752 sq ft lodge-style home on 2.16 acres offers 4 bedrooms, 5 baths, and a separate efficiency apartment, perfect for versatile living near the Hocking River. Ideal for a family, rental, or personal retreat, it sits just minutes from local shops and scenic bike trails.

๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Happenings & Hoopla

๐ŸŽฒ Feb. 04 - D&D Game Night: Embark on epic quests at The Plains Public Library's weekly D&D gatherings! Roll dice and make new friends every Tuesday afternoon at 14 S Plains Rd - all experience levels warmly welcomed.
๐ŸŽฎ Feb. 04 - Teen Game Night Takeover: Calling all teens! Take over the Athens Public Library for an epic night of gaming, crafts, and hang time. Join the fun February 4th at 30 Home Street - bring your friends and creative spirit!
๐ŸŽฒ Feb. 06 - Teen RPG Gaming Club: Roll for initiative at The Plains Public Library's teen gaming hangout! Join fellow adventurers for tabletop RPG fun on February 6 at 14 S Plains Rd. Open to grades 7 and up.
๐Ÿ’ช Feb. 06 - Bootcamp Fitness Blast: Kick your fitness into high gear at Athens Community Center's energizing Bootcamp class! Join fellow workout warriors on February 6th at 701 E State Street for a total-body challenge.
๐Ÿฅพ Feb. 07 - Baileys Trail Guided Hike: Lace up your hiking boots for a guided winter adventure through the scenic Baileys Trail System! Join local experts for this free monthly trek at 8389 W Bailey Rd, Millfield from 4-6 pm on February 7th.
๐ŸŒŽ Feb. 07 - First Friday Culture Night: Kick off your month with global vibes and new friends at First Fridays! Join fellow Bobcats for an evening of cultural celebration and community connection at Baker University Center's Multicultural Center on February 7.
๐Ÿช† Feb. 07 - Raggedy Ann Musical Magic: Experience the heartwarming magic of "Rag Dolly" at Putnam Hall, where a beloved Raggedy Ann doll springs to life in this touching musical about hope and imagination. Showtime February 7th at 96 E Union St.
๐ŸŒพ Feb. 08 - 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) from 9am-noon, offering fresh produce and handcrafted goods.

๐Ÿ™ In Remembrance

John Metcalf

John Clark Metcalf, 65, of Glouster, passed away on January 31, 2025, at his home. Born on February 17, 1959, in Chesterhill, he worked for Trans Canada Gas Company and owned Metcalf Drilling. A dedicated member of several organizations, including the Glouster Moose Lodge and Trimble Masonic Lodge, he was passionate about hunting, trapping, and coaching baseball in his youth. He is survived by his mother, children, siblings, and numerous relatives and friends. A funeral service will be held on February 6, 2025, at Morrison Funeral Chapel, with interment at Maplewood Cemetery.

John Metcalf

Mark K. SchallMark K. Schall

Mark Kane Schall, born on August 5, 1976, in Athens, Ohio, passed away on January 25, 2025, after battling health complications. He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings, but is survived by four siblings and many nieces and nephews. Mark was cherished by his family and friends for the impact he had on their lives. A service will be held on February 3, 2025, at Bigony-Jordan Funeral Home in Albany, Ohio, with viewing from 12-1 pm, followed by services and burial.

Mark K. SchallMark K. Schall

Jamie Joe SeedsJamie Joe Seeds

Jamie Joe Seeds, 37, of Athens, Ohio, passed away on January 29, 2025, at Marietta Memorial Emergency Room, surrounded by family. Born on July 10, 1987, he was known for his laughter, wisdom, and adventurous spirit, with talents ranging from sewing to car repair. A lover of the outdoors and art, Jamie found happiness by the fire and in restoring vintage pieces. He is survived by his brother Joshua Kornmiller, three children with Brittany Wheeler, two children with Jessica Wogan, and close friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father.

Jamie Joe SeedsJamie Joe Seeds

David "Ross" Roscoe WellsDavid "Ross" Roscoe Wells

David Roscoe Wells, 74, of Coolville, OH, passed away on January 31, 2025, at Ohio State University Hospital. Born on September 11, 1950, in Parkersburg, WV, he was a dedicated carpenter and Honorary Member of the Carpenterโ€™s Local Union 650 for over 50 years. Ross is survived by his wife Juanita, two sons, a daughter, a step-son, 13 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and his siblings. He enjoyed fishing and cherished time with his family. Per his wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service.

David Ross Roscoe WellsDavid Ross Roscoe Wells

John C. MetcalfJohn C. Metcalf

John Clark Metcalf, 65, of Glouster, passed away at home on January 31, 2025. Born on February 17, 1959, in Chesterhill, he worked at Trans Canada Gas Company and owned Metcalf Drilling. John was an active community member, affiliated with the Moose Lodge, Masonic Lodge, and various hunting organizations, and he enjoyed coaching youth baseball. He is survived by his mother, three children, grandchildren, siblings, and numerous extended family and friends. A funeral service will be held on February 6, 2025, at Morrison Funeral Chapel, with interment at Maplewood Cemetery.

John C. MetcalfJohn C. Metcalf

๐Ÿž Daily Bread Crumb

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

-Proverbs 4:23

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