Good morning, Athens County. Six out of ten U.S. mayors now rank economic development as their top priority—nearly double last year's figure. This striking shift, highlighted by Athens' own Mayor Patterson in his role as National League of Cities president, reflects the growing pressure on local leaders to nurture business growth amid housing shortages and dwindling federal funds. As communities nationwide prepare for potential changes under the incoming administration, Ohio mayors are getting creative with financing tools to keep momentum going.
Meanwhile, creativity flourishes locally with fall arts opportunities blooming across Athens. The Dairy Barn Arts Center has opened registration for its seasonal pottery, painting, and drawing workshops running through December, while Arts West prepares to host "Elinah of the Heights," a musical play featuring century-old songs written by the author's grandmother. The August 16 performance will channel all proceeds toward humanitarian aid in Gaza.
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85%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏙️ Ohio mayors face mounting pressure to grow local businesses. A National League of Cities report reveals economic development has become the top priority for 62% of U.S. mayors, nearly double last year's figure. Athens Mayor Steve Patterson, who serves as NLC president, highlights how this trend mirrors Ohio's experience, where infrastructure improvements and business incentives are crucial. Housing shortages threaten growth potential, especially with companies like Intel eyeing the state. As federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act winds down next year, mayors are getting creative with financing tools while bracing for potential cuts under the Trump administration.
🎨 Fall arts classes now open at Dairy Barn Arts Center! Registration has begun for pottery, painting, and drawing workshops at the Athens, Ohio venue. Classes have varying start and end dates, with the fall session running from August 11 to December 1, 2025. Interested participants can browse the full course catalog on the Dairy Barn website or call (740) 592-4981 for more information. Prices vary by class, making artistic education accessible for different budgets and interests.
🎭 A musical play fundraises for Gaza humanitarian aid at Arts West. "Elinah of the Heights" tells the story of a woman's journey from lonely child to debutante to military wife, and finally through divorce and old age. The play, scheduled for August 16, features songs written by the author's grandmother Rebecca Land Hooper for her own musicals in the early 1900s. The protagonist clashes with her conservative father as she embraces liberal politics throughout her life. All proceeds will benefit the American Friends Service Committee's work in Gaza.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Compact surprise bigger inside feels: This charming 2BR/1BA cottage ($189,000) appears modest from the curb but surprises inside with beamed ceilings, abundant light, and a vintage claw foot tub—all in a layout that lives larger than its footprint suggests.
Secluded hunting paradise acreage: Priced at $335,900, this 71.4-acre property in Athens County, Ohio offers a secluded homesite with excellent hunting opportunities, including select timber harvest, trail systems, and a camping field, just a short drive from SR 33.
Renovated Beauty Near Campus: Priced at $575,000, this Athens Near Eastside Beauty boasts a fully renovated 3-bed, 2.5-bath on a shady lot with new everything—roof, siding, floors, kitchen, bathrooms—plus it's walking distance to OU campus and local hotspots.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.
-Psalm 55:22
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