Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Athens County / August 20, 2025

🐟 Creek comeback

Athens County • August 20, 2025

Local Brew Logo
​

Good morning, Athens County. From the depths of polluted waterways to the return of vibrant aquatic life, Rural Action's environmental triumph in Monday Creek represents one of Ohio's most remarkable ecological comebacks. Their limestone treatment systems have transformed what was once the state's third most polluted stream into a thriving habitat for 37 fish species—a testament to persistence in a region shaped by generations of resource extraction.

The political waters are equally stirring as Andrea Nicole Thompson-Hashman fights to remain on November's ballot amid a heated dispute over Nelsonville's governmental structure. Meanwhile, Ohio volleyball fans have reason for optimism as former assistant coach Brinkman steps into the head coaching position with returning star Torre Kildow and a deep roster ready to face powerhouse opponents like Penn State and Ohio State before MAC conference play begins in September.

🌤 Sky Skoop

AthensWeather Icon
68°
82°
rain 0%
NelsonvilleWeather Icon
68°
82°
rain 0%
The PlainsWeather Icon
68°
82°
rain 0%
AlbanyWeather Icon
68°
82°
rain 0%
ChaunceyWeather Icon
68°
82°
rain 0%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

Brewing Locally Image

💧 Rural Action breathes life back into Ohio's "dead" streams. The environmental organization has transformed Monday Creek, once ranked Ohio's third most polluted waterway due to acid mine drainage from pre-regulated coal mining. Through limestone treatment systems and weekly maintenance, they've helped 37 fish species return to waters that were lifeless for nearly a century. The watershed program has improved approximately 74 stream miles across southeastern Ohio, though many tributaries still struggle with severe contamination. Clean water restoration efforts continue in a region historically shaped by extensive coal, clay, and timber extraction.

Read more

🗳️ Nelsonville candidate fights to stay on ballot amid government dispute. Andrea Nicole Thompson-Hashman is challenging the City Council's request to remove her and other candidates running under Issue 23 from November's election. The controversy stems from Council's recent vote to repeal Issue 23, a citizen initiative that would change Nelsonville's form of government by abolishing its charter. Thompson-Hashman argues Council lacks authority to repeal the measure, citing a similar 1970s Zanesville case where courts ruled such repeals unconstitutional. With election deadlines approaching, the Ohio Supreme Court is expected to rule quickly on this municipal power struggle.

Read more

🏐 Brinkman steps up as Ohio volleyball's new head coach. The former assistant since 2022 takes over from retired Geoff Carslton, fulfilling her Division One coaching aspirations. With returning star Torre Kildow and Oakland transfer Gentry Brown leading a deep roster, Brinkman is excited about the team's speed and competitiveness. The Bobcats will begin their season with a community open practice on August 21, followed by tournaments against tough opponents including nationally ranked Penn State and Ohio State before entering MAC conference play in September.

Read more

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Athens bargain spacious townhome: This spacious Athens townhome at $270,000 offers four bedrooms across multiple levels, featuring a deck, two-car garage, and fresh paint in a quiet cul-de-sac with Athens City Schools.
Real estate listing image Grand Athens retreat spacious luxury: Priced at $494,500, this family-centered 5-bedroom home offers a warm open floor plan with maple and granite kitchen, spa-like owner's suite, and bonus spaces in a desirable Athens neighborhood.
Real estate listing image Bright versatile home near university: The Athens, OH home listed at $182,000 offers single-floor living with 3 bedrooms, 3 baths on 0.76 acres, featuring natural light, a covered deck, and potential for commercial usage near Ohio University.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🌽 Aug. 20 - Athens Farmers Market: Fresh, local goodness awaits at the Athens Farmers Market! Browse seasonal produce and handcrafted items every Wednesday from 9am-12pm at the Athens Community Center, 701 East State Street.
👩‍🦽 Aug. 20 - Disabilities Commission Meeting: Join the Athens City Commission on Disabilities for their open public meeting on August 20 at the Athens Community Center. Share your voice and learn about accessibility initiatives in our community.
🎵 Aug. 21 - Town Mountain Concert: Stomp your feet to bluegrass beats at Town Mountain's Creekside Concert Series! Join the fun at Stuart's Opera House in Nelsonville on August 21 at 7:30 PM for an unforgettable evening of mountain music.
🌽 Aug. 23 - Athens Farmers Market: Fresh local produce awaits at the Athens Farmers Market! Stop by the Athens Community Center every Saturday from 9am-12pm to browse seasonal offerings from area farmers and artisans. Don't miss it on August 23!
🎉 Aug. 23 - Welcome Week Party @ Ping: Kick off Welcome Week with a bang at Party At Ping! Dance to live music by Aroc Entertainment on the Ping Center's front lawn, August 23 from 6-9 p.m. Fun, free, and festive!
🏞️ Aug. 24 - Church at the Lake: Worship by the water at Church at the Lake! Join the community for songs, testimony, and breaking bread together on August 24th at Strouds Run Lakeview Shelter House (12301 Strouds Run Rd, Athens).

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

-Ephesians 4:2

{% if subscriber.rh_reflink != blank %}

Share with friends, get cool stuff, grow local!

Have friends who'd love our newsletter too? Give them your unique referral link (below) and get an awesome local reward when they subscribe.

{{subscriber.rh_reflink}}

PS: You have referred {{subscriber.rh_totref}} people so far

{% endif %}
Instagram

Interested in advertising? Get in touch.

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up here.

Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here

← Previous
🚨 Crisis ready
Next →
💰 Billion dollar boost