Accent on Business

NBIA helps biz incubators help others

By Megan Workman

The National Business Incubation Association's (NBIA) headquarters have been in Athens for almost 25 years, yet many residents aren't aware of the nonprofit's presence or purpose.

The organization, located on East Circle Drive, provides business professionals with information, education, advocacy and networking resources in the process of assisting early-stage companies, according to the NBIA website.

Accent on Business

Innovation Center continues success story

Facility has gone from three clients to 20 in two years

By Anne Li

Some 20 new businesses are currently in the making at the Innovation Center, a technology incubation center located on West State Street in Athens.

Accent on Business

Local chambers, uptown group use power of organization to benefit their members

by David DeWitt

When it comes to businesses helping businesses, the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce stands out as an invaluable resource for over 400 local shops of all types and stripes.

In Athens, an offshoot of the chamber is the Athens Uptown Business Association, which meets once a month and works to address the concerns, wants and needs of all of the uptown businesses.

Accent on Business

Variety of local businesses thrive thanks to ACEnet

by Jim Phillips

If you know only a little bit about the Appalachian Center for Economic Networks, commonly known as ACEnet, you may associate it mainly with the incubation of food-related businesses.

But while ACEnet's Food Ventures Center on Columbus Road which provides a shared, FDA-approved production facility used currently by 108 local food businesses is a big part of the organization, it's not all of it by any means.

Accent on Business

Want to start or expand a business in Athens Co.? Contact the Economic Development Council

By Anne Li

New businesses and current businesses looking to start or expand in Athens County should take their first step by visiting the Athens County Economic Development Council in the Innovation Center on West State Street.

Accent on Business

New owner hopes to continue and expand on bookstore’s reputation

by Jim Phillips

Jean Stephens, the new owner of Athens' only independent bookstore, admitted Friday that she's got a few changes planned.

Accent on Business

With expanded grocery, eating options growing on Stimson

by Jim Phillips

When Libby Markham and her husband bought what was then called the Market Uptown, a small grocery on Stimson Avenue, in July 2008, the store was still in operation, but not what one might call thriving.

Accent on Business

OU’s Dining Services upgrades services while using local produce

By Alissa Paolella

Ohio University Dining Services soon will begin the second phase of a project that aims to make its food more consistent across campus and utilize more local farmers as suppliers of ingredients in dining hall chow.

Accent on Business

Health-care firm offers choices for area’s low-income residents

By Alissa Paolella

In the first celebration of National Health Center Week since the enactment of the landmark federal health-care reform legislation earlier this year, Family Healthcare Inc. offered an open house and tours of its The Plains facility on Aug. 11.

Accent on Business

Small dairy says it thrives by offering better, healthier milk

by David DeWitt

Five years ago Warren Taylor set out to prove a point to the corporate dairy industry - that he could build his own local, sustainable dairy that produces milk the way it used to be, the freshest and healthiest milk on the shelf. And Taylor has done nothing less.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2012 - Students Only

The "Students Only" category in the 2012 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2012 - Miscellaneous

The "Miscellaneous" category for the 2012 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2012 - Nightlife

The "Nightlife" category in the 2012 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2012 - Commerce

The "Commerce" category in the 2012 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2012 - Dining

The Dining categories for 2012's Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2012 - Places

The "Places" category for the 2012 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2012 - People

The "People" category in the 2012 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards.

Best of Athens

The first round of 2012 Best of Athens results...

We've been doing The Athens NEWS Best of Athens Readers' Choice awards for so many years now that it runs like a tuned-up Ferrari... hot, fast and nimble. Just like we like our... Well, never mind a

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2011 – Students Only

The 2011 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards for the STUDENTS ONLY category.

Best of Athens

The Best of Athens 2011 – Miscellaneous

The 2011 Best of Athens Readers' Choice Awards for the MISCELLANEOUS category.

Bridal Guide

Bridal Checklist

Share your ideas and stories

This handy checklist with a timeline that will help you keep your plans on track toward your goal of a wonderful beginning to a lifetime of memories.

Bridal Guide

Bridal Checklist; also Share Your Ideas & Stories

by Jaine Wyatt

This handy checklist with a timeline that will help you keep your plans on track toward your goal of a wonderful beginning to a lifetime of memories.

Good Health

Vitamin D might help fight symptoms of depression

People experiencing the blues, feelings of depression and other mood disorders might be able to use vitamin D to alleviate symptoms of depression. New studies point to low blood levels of vitamin D as

Good Health

Too much of a good thing?

Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Healthy Statistics found that more than half of all Americans take a vitamin supplement daily.

Good Health

Make fruits fun for kids

Many parents can attest to the challenges in encouraging children to eat healthily, including incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables into their daily diets. 

Good Health

Ways to reduce risks for cataracts

While doctors still don't know what causes cataracts, there might be ways men and women concerned about their eyes can reduce their risk for cataracts. 

Good Health

Minerals may promote a good night’s sleep

It’s 3 a.m. and you’re staring at the ceiling unable to fall asleep. Or, you’ve drifted off restfully only to awaken and not be able to fall back asleep.  If these scenarios sound familiar, you could be experiencing insomnia.

Good Health

How do you eat healthy on a budget?

By Anna Luczkow

Bound by budgets, college students all too often find themselves faced with dilemma over how to stretch their dollar. Balancing out the hefty prices of text books, rent and utilities, and drink specials, students tend to leave little left over for what should have been a main priority of their checkbooks: groceries.

Good Health

Good Health February 2012

The Athens NEWS Good Health Special Section for February, 2012 features tips to eat healthy on a budget. To read the digital edition of this story along with the rest of February's Good Health special section, click here.

Good Health

If you have to sit all the time, at least sit healthily

By Brian Grady

Kids across the United States are flooded with upbeat media campaigns such as "Let's Move" from the White House or "Let's Just Play" from Nickelodeon. The mission is to combat childhood obesity and other health issues that stem directly from a lackadaisical indoors lifestyle.

Good Health

How to take your blood pressure at home

New America Media

By Dr. Erin Marcus

Sometimes, the simplest tools in medicine are the ones that give us the most useful information.

Take the humble blood pressure machine, for example. It’s been around for years, and it’s cheap, compared to a lot of other medical devices.

Good Health

Going electronic:

Federal funding helps rural physicians implement electronic health records

The Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine has received $450,000 in federal stimulus funds to assist 100 primary-care providers in southeast Ohio with implementing electronic health

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity 2011

The Athens NEWS 2011 Special Section on Habitat for Humanity highlights the work of The Ohio University Student Chapter on their first house build. To read the digital edition of this story, along with the rest of 2011's special section. Click on the photo.

Habitat for Humanity

Athens Habitat has almost two decades of building success

by Athens NEWS Staff

Although former President Jimmy Carter is credited with bringing untold attention to the organization, Habitat for Humanity International was actually founded in 1976 on Koinonia Farm in Americus, Ga. by Millard Fuller (see related articles in this special section).

Athens County Habitat for Humanity was founded in 1990 after a group of inspired local citizens heard President Carter speak about Habitat. In 1991, ACHFH renovated its first home. In the 18 years since, the local organization has completed 23 homes in Athens County and is currently working on the 24th.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat Wish List

by Athens NEWS Staff

Athens County Habitat for Humanity is in great need of the items listed below. Here are several ways you can help:

• Directly donate an item. You can purchase an item(s) from the supplier of your choice for delivery to Athens County Habitat for Humanity, or if you have a good working condition used item, please drop by our offices during our working hours.

• Let us purchase an item for you using one of these options:
  Read more

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat founder dies at 74 in February

by Athens NEWS Staff

Millard Fuller, the visionary whose ideas and tireless work created Habitat for Humanity, passed away Feb. 3 at the age of 74.

The idea for Habitat for Humanity was born at Koinonia Farm, a Christian farming community founded in 1942 in rural southwest Georgia to be a "œdemonstration plot for the Kingdom of God." Millard and Linda Fuller made their way to that demonstration plot in 1965.

Habitat for Humanity

On the scene: Habitat family works to build a dream

by Athens NEWS Staff

I'm sitting across the desk from Greg Ross, director of the Athens County Habitat for Humanity, watching his animated face and bright eyes dance as he talks about the latest Habitat project currently underway.

"œWe don't give handouts, we give a hand up," he says emphatically. It is obvious from watching him that he is passionate about the services Habitat for Humanity provides to the Athens community.

"œOur mission is to get families out of substandard housing," he continues. "œFamilies who make 30 to 60 percent of the median income of Athens County qualify."

And the latest housing mission of Habitat is for Darrick and Ashley Wires of Albany. Married for eight years, Darrick, 34 and Ashley, 26, along with their three young daughters "“ Kelly, Joy and Katie "“ have been living in a 30-year-old trailer on Darrick's parents property for most of their married life.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat, AmeriCorps work to rebuild flood-devastated area

by Athens NEWS Staff

Along with NFL quarterback Kurt Warner and his wife, Brenda, 10 members and staff from Ohio AmeriCorp will join more than 500 Habitat for Humanity AmeriCorps, AmeriCorps VISTA members and alumni to help build 20 Habitat for Humanity houses this summer.

The group will travel to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, June 14-20 as part of the annual Habitat for Humanity AmeriCorps Build-a-Thon. The houses will be built in partnership with families affected by the floods that devastated much of Iowa in 2008.

Habitat for Humanity

The Mekong Build: 2009 Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project

by Athens NEWS Staff

In 1984, former President Jimmy Carter donated one day of his carpentry skills on a Habitat work site in Americus, Ga. Thus was born the annual Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project (JRCWP). In the ensuing 24 years, 23 projects have been completed in locations as diverse as Eagle Butte, S.D.; New York City; Manila, Philippines; and Lonavala, India.

Today the annual project has become an internationally recognized event of Habitat for Humanity International. It draws thousands of volunteers to build homes and raises awareness of the critical need for affordable housing all over the globe.

Habitat for Humanity

Women Raise the Roof A brief history

by Athens NEWS Staff

In 1999, two women from Athens developed a novel concept: to get women in Athens working together for a common cause. That was the birth of Athens Women Raise the Roof, a coalition of the Athens County Habitat for Humanity affiliate.

Since that time, the WRTR women have built four houses (located in Glouster and Nelsonville) and are working on the fifth (located in Albany). In addition to building, the women have the responsibility of raising funds for the costs of materials and supplies.

Habitat for Humanity

NEW! Kroger cares program/Kroger gift cards

by Athens NEWS Staff

For more than four years, grocery shoppers have helped to support the build activities of Athens Women Raise the Roof every time they use their Kroger Gift Card to purchase groceries. The 5 percent of people's Kroger bill has been a terrific, passive fund-raising tool for WRTR.

Halloween

A journey through the history of Halloween in Athens

by Athens NEWS Staff

Following is the definitive history of Halloween in Athens — that is, modern Halloween in Athens. We really can’t say what those Ohio Company colonists back in the late 1700s were doing on Halloween night. Who needs a costume when you’ve got a cool tri-corn hat, nifty knee breeches, and a cracking muzzle-loader.

Halloween

Halloween in Athens :: A History

by Athens NEWS Staff

The Athens NEWS Definitive History: A journey through more than 30 Athens Halloweens

Following is the definitive history of Halloween in Athens-that is, modern Halloween in Athens. We really can't say what those Ohio Company colonists back in the late 1700s were doing on Halloween night. Who needs a costume when you've got a cool tricorner hat, nifty knee breeches, and a cracking muzzle-loader.

No, this history begins in 1974, when the street takeovers began in Athens on Halloween, and ends in the present day.

One more note: throughout these articles, you'll see mention of various city officials, local personages and students. Many of these people are no longer in the positions they were in when these articles were written. For example: former Police Chief Ted Jones, quoted as the police chief in the early years of the party, eventually became chief of OU Campus Safety, and Joel Rudy, former Dean of Students at OU, left. From here on out, please enjoy the history:

Humor

Convo roof at top of list of new 8 Fest sites

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

Wal-Mart, Strouds Run and the Convocation Center's roof. What do these places have in common? The founder of 8-Fest, Dom Pizza, announced yesterday new potential locations for this May's edition of the Woodstock-style student concert festival.

Humor

Humor Issue Briefs

Specially designed for those with lower attention spans

Budget cuts announced Ohio University officials announced their newest budget cut yesterday in a letter written by Vice President for Finance and Administration Stephen Silvering.

Humor

With help of booze, OU hopes to up library use

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

Ohio University announced Thursday that it has approved a proposal from Alden Library to add a new option to the Café Bibliotech’s menu: alcohol.

Humor

Barefoot look stirs schism between pro-foot, anti-foot factions

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

The name of the game is denial.

At Ohio University, some students love to play.

Humor

Spanking gains newfound popularity among parents, perverts

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

by David DeWitt

New research out from the Institute on Parenting and Peccadilloes shows that the practice of spanking is on an upward swing amongst parents and perverts nationwide, figuratively and literally.

Humor

Student fees to fund flubber research

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

As Ohio University’s budget woes deepen, OU officials have faced mounting criticism over the use of student general fees to subsidize a mediocre athletics program few students seem to care about. At last week’s Trustee meeting President Roddy McDavell moved decisively to address these concerns, unveiling a plan to radically reshape OU sports through invention of a super-bouncy elastic gel that will make Bobcat teams virtually unstoppable on the playing field.

Humor

Mayor goofs, sells city

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

by David DeWitt

In an unprecedented move over the weekend, Athens Mayor Paul Wiehl mistakenly signed a contract with a major corporation to privatize all government and community services within the city.

Humor

Researcher fears roundabout could generate tornadoes

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

Since Athens’ traffic circle opened last fall at the intersection of Richland Avenue and Ohio Rt. 682, fears that the unfamiliar driving pattern might cause a spike in traffic accidents have proved unfounded. An Ohio University graduate student, however, warned Tuesday that during research for his master’s thesis, he’s come to believe that a much bigger, unsuspected danger may be lurking in the “roundabout” – incredibly powerful mini-tornadoes.

Humor

‘Salmonella outbreak’ actually mom-induced nausea

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

by Jim Phillips

Health officials confirmed yesterday that an outbreak of dizziness, cold sweats and uncontrollable retching that swept Athens last May, though attributed at first to a salmonella infection from a local Mexican restaurant, was actually induced by the spectacle of thousands of middle-aged matrons cavorting like brain-hammered lap-dance girls during Ohio University’s Moms Weekend.

Humor

OU prez deposed; faculty erupts in jubilation

This parody news story appeared in the Athens NEWS 2011 Humor Issue

ATHENS — An 18-day-old revolt led by the faculty of Ohio University ousted President Roddy McDavell Friday, shattering seven years of political stasis here and overturning the established order of the OU and Athens communities.

My Sister's Place

Community to honor shelter’s long-time chief

On Thursday, Jan. 12, community members have been invited to gather and celebrate Kate McGuckin's 26 years of service to My Sister's Place, the shelter for victims of domestic violence serving Athens, Hocking, and Vinton counties.

My Sister's Place

During recession, shelter's needs grows, as does clientele

by Athens NEWS Staff

In fiscal year 2009, with the Great Recession in full swing, the My Sister's Place domestic-violence shelter in Athens had 289 more bed days than in 2008, which is defined as one person per bed per day. Also, the average length of bed days in fiscal year 2009 doubled from 14-17 days to 29 days.

The shelter offers free services to victims of domestic violence, and because of this overload, the shelter turned away more women and children than in 2008.

My Sister's Place

Family, friends of domestic violence victims urged to learn about the issue

by Athens NEWS Staff

You can see your loved one is in trouble.

Maybe you witnessed your friend's partner verbally, emotionally or physically abusing her. It could be that your friend has come to you in confidence to talk about her abusive relationship. Or maybe you only suspect abuse while your friend has distanced herself from her loved ones, including family and friends.

My Sister's Place

My Sister's Place gets timely financial jolt from federal stimulus money

by Athens NEWS Staff

My Sister's Place received about $34,000 in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. It plans to use the funds to hire a coordinating counselor to help build bridges with people in each county the organization supports, said Kate McGuckin, executive director of the Athens shelter for victims of domestic violence.

In fiscal year 2008, the shelter lost $40,000 of Title 20 funds from the Ohio Department of Job and Family services. The stimulus funds, as well as increased support from the community, have helped offset the cuts.

My Sister's Place

Lawmakers have been active lately on the domestic violence prevention front

by David DeWitt

Over the past year, lawmakers at the Ohio Statehouse have introduced a number of items dealing with domestic violence. What follows is a status update on some of those measures. The information comes from the Ohio Domestic Violence Network steering committee, with updates from the Ohio Legislative Service Commission.

My Sister's Place

State gears up to combat workplace domestic violence

by Athens NEWS Staff

An emerging crisis in the state of Ohio is being combated with an executive order signed by Gov. Ted Strickland in April 2008.

According to the state Office of the Governor Web site, domestic violence is an issue of public health, as well as an economic issue and a workplace safety issue.

My Sister's Place

Global difference: Local girls supported by Athens Foundation grant

by Athens NEWS Staff

My Sister's Place, the Athens-based domestic-violence shelter, has worked for more than 30 years to empower women in the surrounding communities, and this year the shelter was the recipient of the first-ever Athens Foundation Women's Fund endowment.

The grant of $2,058 is being used in collaboration with Girl Power, a national campaign that's being conducted in Trimble, Federal Hocking and Amesville elementary and/or middle-school classrooms.

My Sister's Place

Local divorce case at center of ruling to protect DV victims after they're divorced

by Jim Phillips

An appellate court decision recently handed down in a local domestic-violence case should make it easier for battered women to get continued police protection from abusive ex-husbands after they get divorced.

In a ruling issued in May, the 4th District Court of Appeals overturned a decision by the Athens County Common Pleas Court, which had refused a woman's request for a five-year civil protection order against her ex-husband, based at least in part on the view that because the couple was getting divorced, she wouldn't need further protection.

My Sister's Place

Program hopes to teach batterers a better way of living and interacting

by Athens NEWS Staff

In lieu of jail time, men charged with domestic violence can be admitted to the Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP), which is a group-based treatment program overseen by My Sister's Place.

Two groups "“ one run in Athens, and another in Logan "“ are each facilitated by two clinicians with at least a master's degree in counseling or psychology. Topics covered in the 24 sessions include understanding various types of abuse; distinguishing between assertive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive communications; the consequences of abuse on families and children; and understanding male privileges, explained Dr. Paul Castelino, training director at the Carruth Center for Psychological and Psychiatric Services at West Virginia University, in an e-mail. He worked as a staff psychologist for Counseling and Psychological Services at Ohio University until August of this year.

My Sister's Place

1994-2009: Commemorating 15 years of the Violence Against Women Act

by Athens NEWS Staff

Editor's note: This is a letter from Catherine Pierce, acting director of the U.S. Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women.

Dear Friends,

Fifteen years ago, we saw the result of the hard work of dedicated advocates throughout the nation, when landmark legislation, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), was signed into law on Sept. 13, 1994.

Planned Parenthood

PPSEO is about empowering women to control their own futures

by Athens NEWS Staff

Thirty-eight years ago Planned Parenthood began operations in Athens as Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio (PPSEO), serving the nine-county southeast Ohio region (including Athens, Gallia, Hocking, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Ross, Vinton and Washington counties). Since then, many thousands of women (and some men, too!) have received reproductive health care through PPSEO clinics.

Currently, the clinic in Athens offers gynecological exams, birth control, pregnancy testing, pregnancy options education, sexually transmitted infection testing and prevention, HIV testing, male reproductive health services, and education and outreach services. In 2008, 1,136 patients were served at the clinic - 816 received birth control, 703 received annual exams, 359 tests were administered for sexually transmitted infections, and 520 students at five schools received education presentations.

Planned Parenthood

The mission of Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio

by Athens NEWS Web Editor

The mission of Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio is to make every child a wanted child by:

Providing confidential reproductive and complementary health care for women, men and teens;

Offering education that enhances each person's ability to make responsible reproductive health decisions;

Advocating public policies that support comprehensive reproductive health education and guarantee the rights and access of each individual to complete and confidential reproductive health services.

Planned Parenthood

From the medical director of the area's Planned Parenthood

by Athens NEWS Staff

Not your old Athens Planned Parenthood "“ Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio [PPSEO] now offers new services and better care. Since the summer of 2007 and our move to a new location, 1005 E. State St., PPSEO has provided improved access to reproductive health services "“ family planning, contraception, and the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. All services are confidential. Information and education are available for individuals to make responsible reproductive health decisions.

Planned Parenthood

Chocolate-champagne event headlines PPSEO's yearly fundraising calendar

by Athens NEWS Staff

This past year has brought many exciting events for Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio. Most recently was the 21st annual Chocolate and Champagne Affaire held Feb. 21 at the newly renovated Eclipse Company General Store in The Plains.

Some 175 of PPSEO's dedicated supporters enjoyed an evening of decadent desserts, savory hors d'oeuvres, champagne, music and a spirited live auction, silent auction and "œchoice" raffle.

Planned Parenthood

Women's rights veteran continues pro-choice fight, takes part in recent lobbying day in Columbus

by Corey Ryan

Pro-choice activist Lois Whealey's life hangs around her neck and decorates her bright red jacket.

The charms laced around her silver chain include emblems from her three alma maters "“ Stanford, University of Michigan and Ohio University "“ and for each of her three children and three grandchildren.

Below the crowded charm necklace are scattered Whealey's buttons. One button reads "œPro Child, Pro Family, Pro Choice," from her Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice (RCRC) group. Whealey is also active in the American Association of University Women, the League of Women Voters and the Planned Parenthood Affiliates of Ohio.

"œIt has always been important in my family to have strong women," Whealey said. "œThat's why I have always felt so strongly that a woman's political, social and economic rights need protecting."

Planned Parenthood

Local women testify to the benefits of Planned Parenthood

by Athens NEWS Staff

Without Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio, my life would be less than it is today. First, I have been enriched by working with all the amazing volunteers, staff and my fellow Leadership Council members. Through my involvement with Planned Parenthood, I have had the opportunity to participate in a variety of important  activities, such as canvassing Columbus neighborhoods for the Barack Obama campaign and lobbying state representatives for the Ohio Prevention First Act. I have seen these efforts make positive change in my communities, both large and small.

Planned Parenthood

Get yourself tested: Planned Parenthood, MTV, Kaiser Family Foundation use multimedia approach to promote STD testing for young people to reduce alarming STD infection rates

by Athens NEWS Staff

Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio is proud to participate in a nationwide campaign with MTV and the Kaiser Family Foundation and to officially unveil "œGYT: Get Yourself Tested," a campaign to increase testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among those under 25 years of age.

GYT kicks off with a mix of promotions on-air, online and in the real world that will unfold throughout this month in recognition of National STD Awareness Month.

Planned Parenthood

Local artists raise money for PPSEO

by Athens NEWS Staff

Jewelry for Choice (JfC) is a local group of jewelry artists committed to the pro-choice cause. The group began in 2006 with its first show at founder Tara's house. Since then, they have held regular shows around town including at Union Arts, Bella Vino, the Athens Public Library and currently at Moku Espresso and Café.

This group of about a dozen artists make jewelry as individuals and also collaborate on a line called NEVER AGAIN. The NEVER AGAIN line of jewelry makes a political statement using hangers as a reminder that before abortion was made legal, many women tried this method to end a pregnancy, often with serious complications or death.

Each artist has a unique style to his or her jewelry, making the sales a great place to find the perfect piece of jewelry for yourself or a friend. Jewelry for Choice donates 25 percent of their sales to a local pro-choice organization. To date Planned Parenthood of Southeast Ohio has received more than $2,500 in donations from JfC.

The artists feel empowered to raise money for a cause they each believe passionately in, and are grateful to have a way to give back to an organization that has been there for them in various ways. "œThe people who come to our shows really like that they can pick a unique, handmade piece of jewelry that supports local artists and a great cause," says Audrey Yane, jewelry artist and a key organizer for the group. "œIt makes a more meaningful gift for friends and family who support women's health and reproductive rights."

The next Jewelry for Choice show will be May 2 at Moku Espresso and Café located at 540 W. Union St. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can view the artists involved and their work at www.jewelryforchoice.com.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Italian restaurant/ comedy venue making itself known on Athens' east side

by Athens NEWS Staff

Mixing comedians, pizza and pasta, Abrio's Brick Oven is one of the latest additions to East State Street's lunch and dinner offerings.

The restaurant opened Oct. 17, 2008, and created 44 local jobs. Many of its cooks are from Hocking College's culinary arts program, serving handmade pizzas as well as Italian entrees like pasta and homemade lasagna. The restaurant also features comedians from the nationally touring Comedy Caravan every other Saturday, and general manager Nicole Essman said the comedy nights usually sell out.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Full circle of food

by Athens NEWS Staff

New agricultural business hopes to promote a completely local food system

 

In their hit song "œMr. Sluggard," the Jamaican reggae band Culture asks Mr. Sluggard, "œTell me where you get your bread?" Millfield residents Brandon Jaeger and Michelle Ajamian have adopted the phrase as their slogan, and now they are asking the residents of southeast Ohio to consider the same question.

Jaeger and Ajamian are pioneering a local food system based on a traditional idea: staple foods like grains and beans should be processed, milled and consumed in the same area in which they are grown.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Businesses works with some unique crops

by Athens NEWS Staff

Michelle Ajamian and Brandon Jaeger have received two grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program to grow plots of staple crops. They're planning to open the Shagbark Seed and Mill Co. in October to process their seeds and mill flours from the harvest, and are encouraging other staple crop entrepreneurs to start growing and milling with them.

Ajamian and Jaeger have selected some unique staple crops. Here's a look at some examples and why they were selected.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Local brew-pubs expansion carries some green benefits

by Athens NEWS Staff

After a year of negotiations, planning and setbacks, Jackie O's expansion into the space previously occupied by Skippers Bar and Grill is moving forward.

Owner Art Oestrike said that he's hoping the new section can open next month.

"œI really wanted to open in August and have a private, community opening," Oestrike said. "œI did everything in my power to open before students came back, but things are just taking longer than I expected."

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Coffee shop to fill space left formerly occupied by long-time men's shop

by Jim Phillips

Just in case you're worried about running out of places to score caffeine uptown, a local woman and her husband are hard at work putting a new coffee shop in the vacant South Court Street storefront that once held Baron Men's Shop.

"œThis is my encore career," explained Debby Fulks, who has worked as a dental hygienist for the Athens City/County Health Department for years, and is planning partial retirement.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Grocery chain seeks to cut energy use

by David DeWitt

The produce section isn't the only place to go "œgreen" at ALDI Foods these days. The grocery chain has been making a concerted effort to develop new stores that are energy efficient, as well as making some changes to older locations to do the same.

Aldi Foods has a store at 932 E. State St. in Athens, though it lacks some of the "œgreen" innovations of some of the chain's newer stores.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Two local businesses ride the alternative-energy wave

by Athens NEWS Staff

Traditionally when it comes to energy sources, southern Ohio and the Appalachian region have been known for their contributions to coal mining. However, should the Athens Solar Initiative receive necessary "œseed money" from government sources, and then be adopted by Athens City Council, southeast Ohio will have the chance to pave the way for alternative fuel sources and to make an impact on the environment by reducing the impacts of fossil fuels.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Farm op takes organic farming seriously

by Athens NEWS Staff

The staff at Green Edge Organic Gardens, an organic farm in Amesville, consists of individuals who have an innate interest in the techniques and effects of organic farming.

Organic farming is a form of agriculture that relies on techniques that use green manure, compost and crop rotation to maintain soil productivity and control pests, with very little or no use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, plant growth regulators, livestock feed additives, and genetically modified organisms.

Progress/Entrepreneurs

Local green-energy firm helps NASA shoot for the stars

by David DeWitt

When NASA travels into space, Athens has got a hand in it, or at least an engine. The city of Athens is home to a world leader in engine technology and one of only a couple companies that can supply NASA with the engines it needs for missions into space.

Sunpower in Athens was incorporated in 1974 by former Ohio University professor William Beale, who invented the free-piston Stirling engine, now used for those missions and more.

Reflections of the Past

War breaks out in uptown Athens

Plus armed labor-related conflict explodes in Chauncey

by David DeWitt

Athens wasn't always the peacenik enclave that it is today. OK, so maybe it isn't exactly that today either, as evidenced by some much-publicized rowdy behavior around town in recent years. But there sure aren't any gunfights going down on Court Street.

Reflections of the Past

Longtime co-owner recalls 30 years at The Athens NEWS

by Jim Phillips

In 1977, Guy Philips started as a freshman at Ohio University. Coincidentally, that was also the year that The Athens NEWS started publication. While still in college, Philips took a job selling advertising space in The NEWS. Today, 30 years later, he is still an ad salesman for the paper. He is also, however, a part owner of the business, and has been so for many years.

Reflections of the Past

Mainstay uptown business to close after owner's death

By Austin Verrilli

An Athens business that's been a constant for over 50 years will soon disappear from the city. It's a small, utilitarian place. It was open later than most bars. It had wall-to-wall merchandise, cheap cigarettes and a calm, weary dog. A half-lucid voice at the counter never failed to ask, "You want matches?" If you haven't already guessed, it's the Campus Sundry on West Union Street, and by 2012 it will be a memory.

Reflections of the Past

Two books revisit local hippies, Varmits

By Eric Sagonowsky

Two locally situated books have been published in this year, both unique stories of counterculture, plenty of drugs, and vivid scenery.

Reflections of the Past

The original 'Occupy Ohio'

OU closes down in 1970 amidst anti-war rioting

By Alec G. Bojalad

There is a photo on the final page of the 1969-1970 edition of the Ohio University Athena yearbook that features a group of Ohio National Guard troops marching single-file past the Athena Cinema like armed ducklings below a marquee that reads simply "Z."

Reflections of the Past

Why do we call it ‘Radar Hill’?

By Megan Workman

Despite its name, Radar Hill may seem like just another place to hike, enjoy nature and observe an impressive view of Athens. Located on Ohio University’s Ridges property, Radar Hill has a unique past.

Reflections of the Past

College Green landmark was a magnet for lovers

By Megan Workman

In the 1940s and into the ’60s, Ohio University’s College Green accommodated more than studying and hurrying students. The Kissing Circle tradition began and evolved through the years.

Reflections of the Past

Rechanneling river discouraged yearly floods

By Alexander Marietta

Athens and Ohio University have come to expect a variety of floods, even welcoming some of them at times. Whether it’s the yearly influx of thousands of people for the Halloween celebration, the numerous beer-laden musical festivals that draw large crowds, or just the annual back-to-school deluges, the area handles floods well.

Reflections of the Past

Did giants roam Athens County back in the day

by David DeWitt

To hear it from some sources, giants once roamed these parts. That’s right, giants. Giant Indians. Whole tribes of them. Seven to eight feet tall.

Reflections of the Past

Popular swing era band rooted in Athens, OU

by Jim Phillips

Over the years at Ohio University, countless students have formed bands. Often these outfits break up at graduation; sometimes, they stick together and try to make it in the music business.

Rental Guide

Tips to organize your space and eliminate clutter

The prospect of organizing your home can be an intimidating one. Who doesn’t get disheartened in the face of overflowing closets, jumbled filing “systems” and messy garages?

Rental Guide

Prevent home break-ins any time of the year

Home break-ins during the holidays are an all-too common reality of the season. But the holidays aren’t the only times that home break-ins take place. 

Rental Guide

Top 10 things to know before signing a lease

by Dennis Powell

For many students moving out of the dorms, finding a place to live off-campus in Athens can feel like a daunting task. Find out the top 10 things to know before signing that lease.

Rental Guide

Rental Guide January 2012

The Athens NEWS Rental Guide for January, 2012 features the top 10 things to know before signing a lease. To read the digital edition of this story along with the rest of January's Rental Guide special section, click here.

Rental Guide

Rental Guide November 2011

The Athens NEWS Rental Guide for November, 2011 features the choice between living in a dorm room, apartment or house. To read the digital edition click here.

Rental Guide

Rental Guide October 2011

The Athens NEWS Rental Guide for October, 2011 features adding Feng Shui to your living space, whether it's a dorm room or an apartment. To read the digital edition, click here.

Rental Guide

Make the most of your apartment's cramped quarters

Renting an apartment has its advantages. When something goes awry, such as a leaky faucet or a hole in the roof, tenants aren't responsible for addressing the situation. Nor are they required to pay for it.

Rental Guide

Maintain proper humidity for comfort and safety

Humidity can affect how comfortable a person may feel outdoors. However, humidity also affects indoor comfort and the condition of items inside the house. Maintaining proper humidity levels is important.

Rental Guide

Loveseats offer many options for living spaces

When purchasing furniture for a living room or family room, many consumers think they have to have a sofa "set". But oftentimes these pieces of furniture do not fit well, especially if rooms are on the small side.

Rental Guide

Say good riddance, to bed bugs

Over the last half-decade, many homes have been plagued by uninvited and unwelcome guests. Much to the chagrin of renters and homeowners alike, bed bugs have come back with a vengeance in many locales. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development noted that, in the fiscal year 2010, city residents filed nearly 13,000 bed bug complaints. That's a significant increase from 2004, when the city received less than 600 complaints.

Revitalizing Athens

Should Athens revive tax breaks to beautify uptown?

by Jim Phillips

Way back in the day – to be a bit more exact, we're talking about pre-2006 – a local civic group in Athens was working to achieve a uniform, attractive look for uptown Athens buildings.

Revitalizing Athens

City looks at updating 33-year-old architecture plan

by David DeWitt

In 1978, the city of Athens adopted a plan outlining revitalization guidelines meant to maintain the historical integrity of the buildings uptown and encourage restoration.

Spotlight on Kids

Grandparents might be able to help pay for college

In the 2010-11 school year, the average cost of a college education continued to rise. According to the College Board, annual in-state tuition for a four-year public university was $7,605, which marked a nearly 8 percent increase from the previous school year. At private four-year institutions, the average cost was slightly more than $27,000, which was less than a 5 percent increase from a year earlier.

Spotlight on Kids

Be aware of car safety when you have kids in tow

Ensuring the safety of their children is of the utmost priority for parents. One of the leading causes of injuries to children are motor-vehicle crashes.

The National Center for Statistics and Analysis says nearly 250,000 children are injured every year in car accidents. Many of these injuries can be attributed to improper restraint systems used on children.

Spotlight on Kids

Encourage your kids to live a more active lifestyle

Unlike their parents, today's kids often forgo sandlot baseball or games of tag for much more sedentary fare like video games or surfing the Internet. While video games and Internet access aren't lacking in value, many parents would prefer their kids be more active.

Spotlight on Kids

Common household poisons

Many items around the house may seem relatively harmless, but have the potential to be quite dangerous if consumed or if they enter the eyes, nose or get on the skin.

Spotlight on Kids

Safety first when building backyard playground for kids

Few things are as enjoyable for parents and grandparents as watching their children and grandchildren play. As cherished as such playtime can be, it can quickly turn into a memory adults and children alike would prefer to forget if an injury occurs.

Spotlight on Kids

Is your child eating enough?

With childhood obesity epidemics on the rise, many parents and health-care providers are concerned about the dietary habits of children. However, many parents of toddlers or even school-aged children may wonder if their children are eating enough.

Tax Guide

Plan now to get full benefit of saver’s credit

Low- and moderate-income workers can take steps now to save for retirement and earn a special tax credit in 2011 and the years ahead, according to the Internal Revenue Service. 

Tax Guide

Tax Guide Part 1 of 5

The Athens NEWS Tax Guide Series features tax resources and articles to help with tax season. To read the digital edition of the first in the five part series of Tax Guide special sections, click

Tax Guide

Filing Deadline Extended for Some Tax-Exempt Organizations

Tax-exempt organizations with January and February filing due dates will have until March 30 to file their annual returns, the Internal Revenue Service has announced.

Tax Guide

Six Important Facts about Dependents and Exemptions

Some tax rules affect every person who may have to file a federal income tax return – these rules include dependents and exemptions. Here are six important facts the IRS wants you to know about dependents and exemptions that will help you file your 2010 tax return.

Tax Guide

Be aware of Affordable Care Act Tax provisions

The Affordable Care Act was enacted on March 23, 2010. It contains some tax provisions that take effect this year and more that will be implemented during the next several years. The following is a list of provisions now in effect.

Tax Guide

IRS kicks off 2011 tax season with deadline extended to April 18

The Internal Revenue Service recently opened the 2011 tax filing season by announcing that taxpayers have until April 18 to file their tax returns.

Tax Guide

2010 changes offer expanded tax benefits

Three Extra Days to File and Pay

Taxpayers, nationwide, will have until Monday, April 18, 2011, to file their 2010 returns and pay any taxes due. Taxpayers get the extra time because Emancipation Day, a holiday in the District of Columbia, is observed this year on Friday, April 15. By law, D.C. holidays impact tax deadlines in the same way that federal holidays do. The April 18 deadline applies to any return or payment normally due on April 15. It also applies to the deadline for requesting a tax-filing extension and for making 2010 IRA contributions.

Tax Guide

Choose the Simplest Tax Form for Your Situation

To file your 2010 individual tax return, you’ll have to decide which form to use… unless you e-file. This year, choosing which form to file will be even more important since the IRS will no longer be mailing paper tax packages. The IRS is taking this step because of the continued growth in electronic filing, the availability of free options to taxpayers and to help reduce costs. Taxpayers can still get forms and instructions online at http://www.irs.gov, at local IRS offices or from participating community outlets like many libraries and post offices.

Tax Guide

Top 10 tax-time tips

It’s that time of the year again. The income tax filing season has begun, and important tax documents should be arriving in the mail. Even though your return is not due until April, getting an early start will make filing easier. Here are the Internal Revenue Service’s top 10 tips that will help your tax filing process run smoother than ever this year.

Women in Athens

Women in Athens County 2011

Women in Athens

Questions for next year

"In what ways do you believe that being a women has impacted you negatively/positively? If you could give other women one piece of advice, what would it be?"
--Erin Hyman, 28, an office manager/delivery driver from Athens

Women in Athens

What traits in a man turn you off more than any other?

"Men vary, just like women. Some are chauvinists or are proud of ignoring women, while others are not. I am glad to have men friends who generally treat women, including me, well (i.e. like sisters and rational human beings). I personally despise the "beefcake" of grossly over-muscled men. I also think shaved heads, buzz cuts or mohawks are bad-looking. Men (or women) who glorify violence and speeding are gross. Too many films have featured (Clint Eastwood in the 1970s was a prime example) victimizing of men by other men and bad women. Then the victim is shown as 'justified' in exacting violent revenge."
--Lois D. Whealey, 78, a citizen activist/independent humanities scholar from Athens

Women in Athens

If your home were on fire, what three things would you save?

"Since my husband and pets are not things, I will assume they are already safe and now I have to grab three objects. 1) my computer, 2) illustrations I am working on for a children's book, 3) the photo album of my children growing up."
--Janice Phelps Williams, 54, a publisher, writer, illustrator from Athens

Women in Athens

Are girls today more concerned about being pretty or being smart? Has that changed in the past three decades?

"A lot of girls I know are more concerned with appearance rather than intelligence, and it scares me. Even when I was growing up admittedly not that long ago and not long enough to cover the scope of the past three decades it seemed that girls would try to dumb themselves down in order to appear cooler or to become more socially accepted. Give me brains over beauty any day of the week, thanks."
--Caitlin Seida, 21, a freelance writer from Nelsonville

Women in Athens

Are young women today more or less likely to stand up for themselves as women than their mothers were 30 years ago? Explain.

"More likely. I'm 60 and I stood up for myself more than my mother did. I can only assume that young women now are following that trend."
--Debbie Williams, 60, a paralegal from Millfield

Women in Athens

If you were chained to your TV set for 48 hours and had to watch it full-time, would you come away with a positive or negative impression of how women are depicted? Explain your answer.

"It would depend on what I got to watch. Am I allowed to channel surf? Seriously, TV's portrayal of women is such a mixed bag. There are strong women there, but they are pretty and sexy before they are smart and capable. I would be left feeling fat, stupid, lazy, and with a horrible sense of style."
--Jessie Daniel, 38, a realtor from Glouster

Women in Athens

Are you concerned about your privacy when you participate in Facebook and other social networking sites? Why?

"For sure! It is definitely important to keep certain things such as your address and phone number off those things. I also think people need to start watching what pictures they post and be more careful when they post status updates when they say exactly where they are going all the time! Makes stalking and finding someone real easy nowadays. You have to be careful because even if you're adding only your friends, they are easy to break into. Someone could always leave their account up on accident, or they could let their friend on it not knowing their intentions!"
--Shana Snyder, 22, graduate student/substitute teacher from Athens

Women in Athens

Has the elevation of Sarah Palin's public persona been good or bad for women in America?

"I believe it's had both effects. She has a somewhat alienating personality and hasn't always been presented well in the media, but the fact that one of the two major parties had a women on the ticket as a vice-presidential candidate has opened the door for women in some ways."
--Erin Hyman, 28, an office manager/delivery driver from Athens

Women in Athens

Do you think gay marriage should be legal in the United States? Why or why not?

"Absolutely. Do we, or do we not, believe that everyone is created equal? If we adhere to that belief, then gay people should be allowed to marry. It doesn't threaten me. I don't understand why it would threaten anyone else."
--Debbie Williams, 60, a paralegal from Millfield