🌍 Athens Goes Global - Athens County

Good morning, Athens County. From the bustling newsrooms of Seoul to the halls of Ohio University, David DaYeol Lee's journey reads like a masterclass in following your dreams. This WOUB radio alum turned global journalist proves that sometimes the best career moves start right here in Athens - even if that means choosing Seoul over D.C. and trading political science textbooks for a reporter's notebook.

Meanwhile, the winds of change are blowing through Ohio's higher education landscape, with Senate Bill 1 threatening to reshape university policies and programs. As that drama unfolds in Columbus, our local police have their hands full with a rather different kind of campus activity - from Chubb Hall swatting incidents to would-be ice skaters testing their luck at Strouds Run Lake. Just another week in Athens County, where global success stories and small-town chronicles intertwine.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Athens

28°

32°

75%

Nelsonville

28°

32°

75%

The Plains

28°

32°

75%

Albany

28°

32°

75%

Chauncey

28°

32°

75%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🎥 Korean journalist turned radio rookie into global reporting success. David DaYeol Lee's journey from Missouri political science student to freelance reporter in Seoul started with a bold decision to join WOUB radio at Ohio University. During his time there from 2016-2018, he produced podcasts and covered the 2016 presidential election, developing crucial journalism skills outside his comfort zone. After graduating, he chose to follow his instincts and pursue freelance work in Seoul over a prestigious D.C. job offer. Now his work appears in major outlets like Al Jazeera English and Billboard, covering stories from cultural shifts to major disasters.

🎓 Ohio bill threatens to strip $2 billion from universities offering DEI programs. Senate Bill 1, introduced in January, would force Ohio University and other public institutions to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives or lose crucial state funding. The legislation would ban DEI training, offices, and consideration in hiring and admissions decisions. Faculty unions condemn the bill as "blatant government overreach," warning it would undermine collective bargaining rights and job security. While some students view it as promoting intellectual diversity, others fear it will destroy vital support systems for marginalized students.

🚔 Small-town crime wave hits Athens County with shoplifting and threats. Multiple incidents were reported at local businesses including Dollar General and Ohio University campus locations over a four-day period. OUPD responded to several concerning events, including a swatting threat at Chubb Hall and threatening social media messages at Brown Hall. Deputies also dealt with narcotics cases, warrant arrests, and had to warn people to stay off the frozen Strouds Run Lake. Traffic violations and minor accidents rounded out the week's police activity.

🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)

The Golden Rockets finally found their launching pad, stunning Athens 50-35 in a defensive slugfest that had fans checking their programs twice. Wellston (4-14) snapped out of their season-long funk with a masterclass in disruption, holding the usually potent Bulldogs to their lowest scoring output of the year.

Team	Opponent	Score
Athens (8-8)
	@ Wellston	L 50-35

🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)

Alexander's defense proved too much for Nelsonville-York, as the Spartans caged the Buckeyes 52-39 in a convincing road victory. With their 12th win of the season, Alexander is looking more and more like a team nobody wants to face come tournament time.

Team	Opponent	Score
Athens (16-4)
	@ Vinton County	W 62-33
Nelsonville-York (7-13)
	vs Alexander	L 52-39
Alexander (12-7)
	@ Nelsonville-York	W 52-39
Federal Hocking (14-6)
	vs Marietta	L 79-49

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Spacious retreat near Athens: Located just 10 minutes from Athens, this beautiful home on 5.44 acres is listed at $259,000 and features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and plenty of space for customization. With a large great room and private deck, it's a serene retreat ready for your personal touch.

Sprawling versatile property with access: Listed at $875,000, this expansive 60+ acre residential/commercial property offers great access to major routes and excellent visibility, with established trails for convenient viewing.

Spacious ranch with great potential: This charming brick ranch home lists for $599,500 and features 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a spacious 2.2-acre lot, complete with a two-car garage and a versatile barn. Enjoy the comfort of large rooms and potential in the unfinished basement just minutes from uptown.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

💪 Feb. 06 - Bootcamp Power Hour: Kick your fitness into high gear at Athens Community Center's energizing Bootcamp class! Join fellow wellness warriors on February 6th at 701 E State Street for a heart-pumping workout session.

🧘 Feb. 06 - Lunchtime Meditation Break: Find your center during lunch hour at Athens KTC's weekly open meditation sessions. Drop in Thursdays at 8950 Lavelle Rd for 20 minutes of peaceful, non-religious meditation with chair and cushion options.

🌎 Feb. 07 - First Fridays Cultural Mix: Kick off your month with global flavors and friendly faces at First Fridays! Join fellow Bobcats for an evening of cultural celebration at Baker University Center's Multicultural Center on February 7.

🪆 Feb. 07 - Raggedy Ann Musical Magic: Step into a magical world where dolls come to life in "Rag Dolly: The Raggedy Ann Musical" at Putnam Hall. Join Marcella and her beloved rag doll on February 7th for this heartwarming musical adventure.

🥾 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.

🌾 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.

🎤 Feb. 09 - Dustin Lambert Gospel Night: Join gospel singer Dustin Lambert as he lifts spirits at Vore Ridge Church on February 9th. The West Virginia native brings his powerful voice and inspiring ministry to Athens for an unforgettable evening.

🙏 In Remembrance

Henry Todd

Henry Edward Todd, a beloved member of the Nelsonville, Ohio community, passed away on February 1, 2025, at the age of 89. Known for his hard work and dedication, he and his brother Don built over 120 homes and remodeled more than 300 in southeastern Ohio, leaving a significant legacy. He is survived by his wife Diane, son Mike, grandchildren Ty, Jacob, Emma, and Carter, sister Shirley Pittman, and many nieces and nephews. A service celebrating his life will be held on February 5, 2025, at the Nelsonville Wesleyan Church, with a viewing beforehand.

Mary Frank

Mary M. Frank, 91, of Athens, passed away on February 1, 2025. Born on January 24, 1934, in Wilkesville, Ohio, she graduated from Wilton High School and worked for Pure Oil and General Electric. A member of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Bates United Methodist Church, Mary enjoyed reading, jigsaw puzzles, and family time on her farm, Achin' Acres. She is survived by her sister Anna Lewis and many relatives, and was predeceased by her husband James and several siblings. A celebration of life will take place on February 8, 2025, at Hughes Funeral Home, with burial at Radcliff Cemetery.

Stephen M. "Mike Mick" BishopStephen M. "Mike Mick" Bishop

Stephen M. "Mike" "Mick" Bishop, 82, of Nelsonville, Ohio, passed away on February 1, 2025, at O'Bleness Hospital. Born on January 18, 1943, he worked at Goodyear and Kerr Distributing and owned the 33 Carry Out in Nelsonville, gaining a reputation as an avid pool shooter. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, their three sons, 10 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, along with his sister, Pat McCall. Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, David. Funeral services will be held on February 6, 2025, with calling hours prior.

Mary Frank

Mary M. Frank, 91, of Athens, passed away on February 1, 2025, at the Lindley Inn in The Plains, Ohio. She was born on January 24, 1934, in Wilkesville, Ohio, the daughter of William and Mary Lowe Garvin. A dedicated member of the Bates United Methodist Church and the Order of the Eastern Star, Mary enjoyed a long career with Pure Oil and General Electric. She cherished spending time on her farm, Achin' Acres, and was known for her love of reading, puzzles, and family. She is survived by her sister Anna Lewis, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends, and was preceded in death by her husband, three brothers, and four sisters.

Robert "Bob" Eugene RitzRobert "Bob" Eugene Ritz

Robert “Bob” Eugene Ritz, 77, of Buchtel, passed away on February 2, 2025, at Highland Oaks Health Center. Born on October 28, 1947, he was the son of Alva and Violet Ritz and is survived by his beloved wife, Julia “Judy” Ritz, their daughter Debra, son Robert “Andy,” granddaughter Anna, and brother Richard. Bob, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who received a Purple Heart, enjoyed golfing, traveling, and spending time at the beach. Cremation will take place, with a burial at a later date, and the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

-1 Corinthians 13:4-5

← Previous

🌱 Fresh starts abound

🎶 Festival vibes ahead