Good morning, Athens County. The sudden loss of $500,000 in federal funding has sent shockwaves through Shagbark Seed and Mill, forcing layoffs and reduced hours at a time when food prices continue to climb. This local organic food business is grappling with the abrupt end of a program many considered a "quadruple win" for farmers, businesses, local economies, and food-insecure residents – a stark reminder of how policy decisions in Washington ripple through our community.
Meanwhile, contrasting stories of persistence are unfolding locally. Rita Nguyen's not-guilty verdict following her arrest at a Nelsonville City Council meeting marks what she calls "a huge step forward" for citizen participation. And bibliophiles have reason for excitement as plans advance for a "Paper, Print and Book" Museum under Don Adleta's vision – a hands-on celebration of the printed word that could transform how we experience these traditional crafts while creating sustainable local products.
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0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🌾 Federal cuts slash $500,000 from Athens organic food business. Shagbark Seed and Mill lost massive contracts with Ohio food banks after the Local Food Purchase Cooperative Agreement Program ended in June with just two months' notice. The company has already laid off one worker and reduced hours for others, with more cuts possibly coming. The program was considered a "quadruple win" that helped farmers, businesses, local economies, and food-insecure people. These cuts come amid rising food inflation and are part of broader agricultural program reductions affecting thousands of farmers nationwide.
⚖️ Justice prevails for woman arrested at city council meeting. Rita Nguyen was found not guilty of disturbing a lawful meeting after being arrested for speaking up at a Nelsonville City Council session. Nguyen, who believes she was wrongfully removed from the council last year, refused to stop speaking about vacant council seat appointments. Her defense successfully argued she reasonably believed she had a right to speak, supported by a former city law director's opinion. While celebrating this verdict as "a huge step forward" for Nelsonville citizens, Nguyen continues fighting in appeals court to reclaim her council seat.
📚 Athens awaits museum celebrating the printed word in innovative ways. Don Adleta, professor emeritus at Ohio University, plans to create a "Paper, Print and Book" Museum that would unite resources from multiple institutions including OU's letterpress facility and Alden Library. The proposed museum would offer hands-on workshops in papermaking, typesetting, and bookbinding for diverse audiences from preschoolers to seniors. Beyond educational experiences, Adleta envisions producing and selling locally-sourced paper products to help make the museum self-sustaining. While the location remains uncertain, Adleta hopes to secure OU's Lasher Hall, with a public announcement expected later this year.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Central bargain with backyard: This affordable modern home on Central Avenue, listed at $250,000, offers 5 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, an open concept main floor, and a backyard with concrete patio and parking for three vehicles.
Affordable green retreat two ensuites: For $165,000, this rare single-floor condo at University Estates offers two en suite bedrooms, all appliances, and a covered porch overlooking green space, plus access to a clubhouse with pool and fitness center.
Ranch Paradise Four Bedrooms: Priced at $435,000, this move-in ready ranch home offers a versatile in-law suite, freshly painted interiors, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and recent upgrades including new garage doors and an updated HVAC system on a desirable street.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 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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