Rising from the Ashes: Anniversary of Union Street Fire, Nov. 14

By Austin Collins

The Ohio University Center for Entrepreneurship hosts Rising from the Ashes on the second anniversary of the Union Street Fire, on Nov. 14, from 4-6 p.m. at Jackie O’s Public House, 22 W. Union St., Athens.

This event is open to the public.

This event kicks off Global Entrepreneurship Week and is specifically meant to show the community support for the businesses affected by this 2014 tragedy, as well as how they bounced back better than ever. This event also brings to light the strength, resilience, and determination of these owners, as some had to completely rebuild their entire businesses from the ground up. A key idea that this event focuses on is the difference between rebuilding a startup and the original creation of a startup. It also serves to teach young entrepreneurs the importance of being prepared for any given situation.

Global Entrepreneurship Week is a celebration of the entrepreneurs who launch startups, drive economies, and bring innovation to the world. Every year, the week inspires individuals to partake in local, national, and global activities to explore their potential as entrepreneurs. These activities can range from large competitions to small social gatherings.

As part of the week, the center also presents Jane Grote Abell of Donatos Pizza discussing “The Missing Piece: Doing Business the Donatos Way” on Tuesday, Nov. 15, at 5 p.m. in Baker 240-242. This event is open to the public, and the reception features free Donatos Pizza.

Business Owners Speaking at Rising from the Ashes

The following individuals will be present at the event to speak on behalf of their businesses:

• Eric Gunn—Union Bar and Grill
• Art Oestrike—Jackie O’s Pub and Brewery
• Natasha Neal—Jack Neal Floral
• Patrick Daughtery—Bobcat Rentals
• Meredith Thompson—Honey (Former manager of Kismet-now closed)
• Mary Cheadle—Uptown Dogs T-Shirts

Make sure you come by to show your support for this community. Feel free to bring some questions with you, especially regarding how these owners coped with a disaster such as the fire.