🚒 Festival crossroads

Good morning, Athens County. Seventy-five years of tradition stands at a crossroads in Amesville, where the diamond anniversary of the beloved Firemen's Festival arrives amid a troubling reality: the volunteer firefighter force has dwindled from 40 to just 10 since the 1980s. This cherished community reunion persists despite the challenges, drawing former residents back home while barely covering expenses that once made it a crucial fundraiser for the department.

Meanwhile, Trimble schools face a watershed moment with their first levy proposal in half a century, seeking to address an $11 million deficit through a 1% earned income tax. On a brighter note, local artist Jerry Johnson invites the community to experience his "Major Art-Cana" exhibition opening July 25 at Jackie O's Brew Pub, showcasing the creative talents that make our local arts scene so vibrant despite the challenges we face.

🌤 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

🔥 Small town celebrates 75-year fire festival amid volunteer shortage crisis. Amesville's annual Firemen Festival marked its 75th anniversary as the Ames-Bern Volunteer Fire Department struggles with declining recruitment and rising costs. Once a primary fundraiser, Chief Brad Maxwell notes the festival now barely covers expenses in today's economy. The department has seen its volunteer force plummet from 40 firefighters in the 1980s to just 10 today, reflecting a national trend of 220,850 fewer volunteers since 1984. Despite these challenges, the festival continues as a cherished community reunion that brings former residents back from across the country.

💰 Trimble schools seek first levy in 50 years amid fiscal emergency. The district's board unanimously approved plans for a November ballot measure that would implement a 1% earned income tax over five years, generating $665,000 annually. Community members expressed concerns about accountability for the district's projected $11 million deficit, with some questioning how the financial crisis developed. Officials emphasized that the tax would only affect earned income, sparing retirees, and warned that if the school closed, residents would end up paying taxes to other districts anyway. Despite initial hesitation, several community members ultimately voiced support for saving their local school district.

🎨 Artist Jerry Johnson unveils "Major Art-Cana" at Jackie O's Brew Pub. The Passion Works Studio artist's exhibition opens with a free reception on July 25 at 6 p.m. in Athens, Ohio. Visitors are invited to experience what organizers call "the artful genius of JJ's works" at the popular local venue. The exhibition will remain on display through August 22, showcasing Johnson's creative talents to the community. This event is part of Passion Works Studio's ongoing efforts to highlight artists with disabilities.

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎨 Jul. 25 - Stained Glass Art Workshop: Transform ordinary glass into dazzling art at the Community Makerspace's Intro to Stained Glass workshop! Create your own colorful masterpiece on July 25 at 751 W Union St, Athens.

🎵 Jul. 26 - Nelsonville Music Festival: Groove into Labor Day weekend at the Nelsonville Music Festival! Enjoy over 40 live performances across multiple stages at the Snow Fork Event Center on July 26. A music lover's paradise.

🏃 Jul. 26 - Mid-Summer Mile Fest: Sprint into summer at the inaugural Mid-Summer Mile Fest! Lace up your running shoes and join Athens Athletics Club on July 26 at Alexander High School track for an evening of exciting mile races.

🧑‍🌾 Jul. 26 - Athens Farmers Market: Fresh local produce awaits at Athens Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday, 9am-12pm! Stop by the Athens Community Center (701 E State St) for the best seasonal offerings from area farmers.

🎸 Jul. 26 - Hello June Live Show: Catch indie rockers Hello June as they bring their dynamic sound to Eclipse Company Store on July 26! Experience their signature blend of intimate songcraft and emotionally-charged rock in this can't-miss summer performance.

💗 Jul. 26 - Michael Starkey Benefit Fundraiser: Rally around Michael Starkey at Jackie O's Taproom on July 26! Show your love for this dedicated mother, educator and children's advocate during an afternoon of community support and giving back.

🎄 Jul. 26 - Christmas in July Market: Get festive in July at Artkinglot's Christmas-themed market at Tavolino! Browse local vendors' treasures and enjoy delicious eats on July 26 at 9 N Shafer St, Athens.

🙏 In Remembrance

John Lee L. Evener

John Lee Evener, Sr., a 75-year-old Athens resident, passed away unexpectedly on July 20, 2025. He was a devoted family man known for his unwavering faith, quick wit, and ability to connect with others. John was a Vietnam War veteran who later worked at Southern Ohio Coal Company and Cantwell Machinery before retirement, and also served as a Parent Mentor for students with disabilities. A graduate of Federal Hocking High School and Ohio University, he is survived by his wife of 56 years, June, his three children, four grandchildren, and several siblings.