Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Athens County / February 24, 2025

🎭 Local Drama Unfolds

Athens County • February 24, 2025

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Good morning, Athens County. Power struggles worthy of a Netflix drama series are playing out right here in Nelsonville, where two determined council members just landed a Supreme Court victory in their fight to reclaim their seats. It's the kind of local political theater that proves democracy's most riveting episodes often unfold right in our own backyard, complete with disputed resignations and courtroom twists.

Meanwhile, a different kind of transformation is taking shape in our community, led by Ohio University's Ian Klein. His 'Move Better, Do Better' program is turning traditional fitness on its head, proving that building strength doesn't just happen in muscles - it happens in community connections too. With $2,000 raised for charity and countless lives improved, it's a powerful reminder that sometimes the best investments we make are in each other's well-being.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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⚖️ Ohio Supreme Court sides with ousted council members in power struggle. Two Nelsonville women won a crucial legal battle after being physically blocked by police from taking their council seats. The dispute began when council president Margarita Nguyen attempted to rescind her resignation, while simultaneously appointing Carol Powell to a vacant seat. The Supreme Court rejected claims that the women waited too long to file their legal challenge, overturning a lower court's dismissal. While this ruling doesn't guarantee their return to council, it allows their case to proceed in appeals court.

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💪 Ohio professor transforms community wellness through free fitness initiative. Ian Klein, who teaches Human Anatomy at OU, created 'Move Better, Do Better' - a unique fitness class focusing on strength, flexibility, and balance. The program has become more than just a workout, serving as a welcoming space for Athens residents to improve their overall well-being. Members praise the low-impact, high-reward nature of the sessions. Klein's commitment to giving back shines through as class donations have raised $2,000 for various charities.

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📊 Starr Township opens financial books to public inspection. Residents of Starr Township can now review the complete 2024 financial statements by contacting the Township Fiscal Officer. Interested parties should call 740-243-5181 to arrange a viewing of the documents. This transparency initiative allows citizens to examine how their local government manages public funds.

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🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)

The Portsmouth Trojans continued their dominant run, dismantling Alexander 58-24 in a game that was over faster than you can say "mercy rule." Meanwhile, Federal Hocking made a statement with a convincing 50-35 road win over Portsmouth West, proving that sometimes the best offense is a good defense - and also a better offense.

TeamOpponentScore
Alexander (17-8)
vs Portsmouth*
L 58-24
Federal Hocking Logo Federal Hocking (17-7)
vs Portsmouth West*
W 50-35

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Duplex near Uptown Athens: Here's an attractive duplex for $209,000, featuring two 2-bedroom, 1-bath units just a short stroll from Uptown Athens and Ohio University, offering solid rental income potential.
Real estate listing image Spacious commercial site for development: A 6.95-acre commercial site is for sale at $1,300,000, featuring a 4,160 sqft warehouse, excellent highway access, and availability of public utilities, ideal for development with no zoning issues.
Real estate listing image Ranch home with stunning views: Charming Ranch Home on Briarwood Drive is available for $269,000, featuring stunning Athens City views, three spacious bedrooms, a versatile extra room, and a low-maintenance yard for relaxed living.

🙏 In Remembrance

Joe Cole

Joe Cole, 90, of Guysville, OH, passed away on February 21, 2025, at his home. Born on November 24, 1934, in Coolville, he worked as a road worker and retired from the Athens County Engineers Office. An avid hunter and fisherman, Joe is survived by his son Michael, daughters Susan and Joann, seven grandchildren, and one brother, Art. He was preceded in death by his wife June and several siblings. Arrangements are with White Funeral Home in Coolville, OH.

Christopher Michael Beasley

Christopher Michael Beasley, 38, of Athens, Ohio, passed away on February 20, 2025. Born on February 2, 1987, he was the son of Gail Beasley-Angus and the late David Michael Beasley. Christopher, a Federal Hocking High School graduate, worked at The Athens Messenger and is survived by his mother, a grandfather, several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, sister, brother, and grandparents. Arrangements are being handled by White Funeral Home, with a Celebration of Life to be announced later.

Christopher Michael Beasley

Paul "Bill" Gail

Paul William "Bill" Gail, 75, of Perrysburg, passed away unexpectedly on December 29, 2024. Born in Athens, Ohio, he was a standout basketball player at Glouster High School and later worked for over 40 years as a store manager for Kroger before becoming a real estate agent. Bill is survived by his son Chris, grandson Liam, and brothers, along with many nieces, nephews, and his ex-wife, Debra. He dedicated his later years to spending time with Liam, attending his activities, and enjoying OSU sports. Funeral services will be held on March 1, 2025, in Nelsonville, Ohio.

Paul Bill Gail

🍞 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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