Good morning, Athens County. A thousand dollars might not change the world, but in the hands of passionate Appalachian changemakers, it can spark something magical. The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio is proving this point with their latest round of Donald R. Myers Legacy Fund grants, turning modest investments into powerful community transformations - from creating calm spaces in schools to supporting youth affected by the opioid crisis.
Meanwhile, Walter Hall Rotunda recently pulsed with the energy of progress during OU's Forward We March celebration, where Black excellence took center stage through poetry, performance, and powerful voices of change. And speaking of change, Nelsonville's political landscape just took another unexpected turn as a headline-making lawsuit over charter amendments exits stage left - though something tells us this particular story isn't quite finished yet.
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0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
💰 Ohio nonprofit fund offers $1,000 grants to uplift Appalachian communities. The Foundation for Appalachian Ohio is accepting applications for the Donald R. Myers Legacy Fund, supporting projects that enhance education, regional networking, and basic needs. The fund, named after a passionate regional advocate, serves 32 counties through partnerships with 15 affiliate foundations. Recent grants have supported initiatives like school calm spaces, youth workshops, and assistance for children affected by the opioid crisis. Applications are open until March 18, with details available at AppalachianOhio.org/Myers.
⚖️ Nelsonville resident drops lawsuit against City Council in government reform battle. The withdrawal comes just six days after Greg Smith filed the case challenging a proposed charter amendment for the May ballot. The amendment seeks to repeal Issue 23, a voter-approved measure that would restore the city's 30-year-old government structure with an elected mayor. Smith's attorney says the brief lawsuit served its purpose by establishing timely legal action, while keeping options open for future challenges. Rather than pursuing an expensive legal fight, Smith now plans to focus on defeating the amendment at the ballot box.
✊ Ohio University's Black History Month celebration amplifies voices of change. The second annual Forward We March event transformed Walter Hall Rotunda into a vibrant celebration of Black excellence, featuring performances, poetry, and powerful speeches. Micah McCarey, director of OU's Pride Center and potential first Black Athens City Council president, delivered an inspiring keynote address about diversity and inclusion. The event honored both historical figures like MLK and Rosa Parks alongside modern leaders such as Ketanji Brown Jackson. Student organizers emphasized that Black students continue making history daily at Ohio University through their achievements and contributions.
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)
Athens showed no mercy in a 71-38 demolition of Chillicothe, proving that Bulldogs bite harder than Cavaliers gallop. The win moves Athens to an impressive 18-5 while Chillicothe continues to search for answers in a tough 1-22 campaign.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Athens (18-5) | ||
vs Chillicothe** | W 71-38 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Spacious gem on 5.44 acres: Discover a hidden gem at 14110 Mansfield Road in Athens, Ohio, listed at $259,000. This spacious 3,000+ sq. ft. home on 5.44 acres features three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and ample potential to customize your dream space.
Ranch home with stunning views: Charming ranch home with stunning views of Athens City listed at $269,000. This single-story gem features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and an all-season sunroom, perfect for a relaxed lifestyle.
Cozy family home with deck: This charming 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home, listed at $245,900, features a spacious kitchen, cozy dining area, and a large deck overlooking the yard, perfect for family gatherings. The master suite boasts an ensuite bathroom, while the lower level includes a family room with a wood burner, ensuring comfort year-round.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Think about the long-term impact of your financial decisions by focusing on compound interest; even small contributions to a retirement account can grow significantly over time, helping you build a secure future with less stress.
🙏 In Remembrance
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🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
-Isaiah 40:31
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