🐵 Kombucha queen conquers

Good morning, Athens County. The internet's favorite kombucha-reaction queen has turned our corner of Ohio into monkey-noise central. Brittany Broski's sold-out appearance at Ohio University had fans literally shaking with excitement as the TikTok sensation brought her trademark authenticity to the Templeton-Blackburn stage. Her journey from fired bank employee to seven-million-follower phenom proves that sometimes, the best career move is the unexpected one.

Meanwhile, the future is taking concrete shape as Athens County Children Services breaks ground on their much-needed $13.6 million facility. The 27,500-square-foot building represents more than just new walls and conference rooms—it's a physical manifestation of how our community's approach to child welfare has evolved. Across campus, a different kind of construction is happening as students rally together, demonstrating that in Athens County, building communities and standing for principles remains as much a local tradition as our beloved brick streets.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Athens

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Nelsonville

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The Plains

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Albany

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Chauncey

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🎭 Brittany Broski turns Athens into monkey-noise madness with sold-out show. The internet comedian and former viral kombucha-taster delighted fans at Ohio University's packed Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium during a conversation moderated by journalism professor Elizabeth Hendrickson. Broski, who has amassed over seven million TikTok followers since being fired from her bank job in 2019, covered topics ranging from body positivity to politics while showcasing her trademark authenticity and humor. Fans responded enthusiastically throughout the event, with one attendee admitting she was "still shaking" after being selected to ask Broski a question directly.

🏗️ Athens County Children Services breaks ground on long-awaited new facility. The 27,500-square-foot building will replace four smaller structures built in 1972, reflecting a shift from residential group homes to foster care and kinship placements. With construction beginning in March and completion expected by fall 2026, the $13.6 million facility features improved security, multiple conference rooms, and a dedicated visitation center. The building's residential-inspired design—featuring sloped roofs and wood-like siding—aims to create a welcoming environment while accommodating the agency's growing needs, as staff has increased from 72 to 95 positions since 2008.

🏛️ Ohio students protest bill threatening campus diversity programs. Senate Bill 1 would eliminate all diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at state-funded universities, affecting centers supporting LGBTQ+, multicultural, and women's communities. Hundreds of Ohio University students staged a walkout against the legislation, which has passed the Senate and is now in the House. Critics argue the bill violates First and Fourteenth Amendment rights through vague language, while supporters claim it enhances free speech by eliminating perceived liberal bias. Legal experts predict court challenges if the bill becomes law.

Guaranteed Income Near Ohio University: Priced at $189,900, this Athens investment property comes with updated interiors, a vacant lot, and a guaranteed $1,500 monthly income through 2026 thanks to a tenant lease near Ohio University.

Wooded homesite awaits your vision: This wooded 6-acre lot is listed at $60,000 with utilities available at the site. The property is ready for construction once hookups are installed.

Historic Dairy With Barn: For $280,000, this historic Radford Dairy property offers 4 beds, 2 baths, a 2-car garage, and comes with an original barn on an extra lot that falls outside HOA jurisdiction.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏖️ Mar. 5 - Safe Spring Break Mocktails: Kick off spring break safely at Baker University Center's Atrium on March 5! Mix and mingle while enjoying delicious mocktails at this refreshing alcohol-free celebration.

🎲 Mar. 6 - Teen RPG Gaming Afternoon: Roll for adventure at The Plains Public Library! Teens and young adults (grade 7+) gather March 6 to explore exciting tabletop role-playing games—a perfect way to connect with fellow gamers.

🚀 Mar. 6 - Prep for Career Fair: Get career-fair ready at Baker University Center on March 6! Career Services and Student Senate team up to boost your confidence and preparation for the Spring Career & Internship Fair—perfect for first-timers and seasoned attendees alike.

🎤 Mar. 7 - BTD Shelly's Hip Hop Shop: Hip-hop heats up The Side Bar on March 7 when BTD Shelly presents The Hip Hop Shop featuring NWM Cee Murdaa. Catch these Brothers Till Death artists for just $5 at the door!

🌽 Mar. 8 - Athens Farmers Market: Stock up on winter goodies at the Athens Farmers Market this Saturday! Browse local produce and crafts under the solar panels at Athens Community Center from 9am-12pm on March 8.

🙏 In Remembrance

Paula G. Norman

Paula G. Norman, 84, of Athens, OH, passed away on March 1, 2025, at O'Bleness Memorial Hospital. Born on June 3, 1940, to the late Lester and Naomi Weatherby, Paula was a member of South Canaan Baptist Church who enjoyed photography and shopping. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Leland, as well as her eight children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on March 5, 2025, at White Funeral Home in Coolville, with burial following at Clark's Chapel Cemetery.

Howard Fokes

Athens Clifford "Howard" Fokes, 69, of Athens, Ohio, passed away on February 22, 2025, at Riverside Methodist Hospital after a brief illness. Born in Uvalde, Texas to Jack and Joann Fokes, Howard is survived by his wife of 27 years, Schuyler Cone, his sister Jacquelyn, and numerous extended family members. A graduate of Athens High School and Ohio University, Howard worked in Facilities Management at Ohio University before dedicating his time to Stuart's Opera House and the Nelsonville Music Festival. He enjoyed working on his river house, motorcycles, and sports cars, but most of all, he cherished his family and friends.

Paul Edwin Jameson

Paul Edwin Jameson, 62, of Nelsonville, passed away on February 28, 2025 at Majestic Care of New Lexington. Born in 1963 to Archie and Theda Jameson, he was married to Doris Jameson for 40 years. Paul, who taught at Ohio University, enjoyed family activities, especially taking his children to the Parade of the Hills Festival each summer. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, six grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, one brother, and two sisters, while being preceded in death by his parents, two grandsons, and a son-in-law.

Lena Pullins

Lena Belle Pullins, 88, of Reedsville, OH, passed away on Sunday, known for her exceptional cooking and baking talents that brought joy to family and friends. Born March 10, 1936, she was preceded in death by her husband Edgar, daughter Diana, sister Marilyn, and three brothers. She is survived by her daughter Kathy, two grandsons, five great-grandchildren, and numerous other family members who cherished her. A memorial service will be held on March 6, 2025, at South Bethel Community Church in Reedsville.

Joan Luann Brown

Joan Luann Brown, 71, of Tuppers Plains, OH, passed away on March 2, 2025, at Arcadia Nursing Center in Coolville. An avid horse enthusiast, she was a member of multiple riding clubs and the Ohio Horse Council Meigs Chapter, while also being a farmer alongside her husband since 1984. Luann was also a member of the Hickory Hills Church of Christ, enjoyed cooking, canning, and shopping. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Alan Brown, three children, eight grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and numerous siblings and extended family members.