🌱 College Laptop Program + Memorial Health System Adds Beds

Happy Thursday, neighbors! Let's get you all caught up on what's happening locally to start today off on an informed note.

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First, today's weather:

Times of clouds and sun. High: 42 Low: 39.

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Here are the top 3 stories in Marietta today:

1. At Marietta College, a new program is being unveiled for the Fall 2022 semester to help ensure new first-year and transfer students are ready to start accomplishing their academic goals by the time they take their first course. The new laptop program, which is funded by an anonymous donor, takes some of the burden off new students, who may not have a laptop or have an outdated one, and their families. It may also help recruit and retain students. (Marietta Times)
2. Memorial Health System was hit hard earlier this year by the wave of COVID-19 cases from the Delta Variant. So far, that isn't the case with the latest Omicron variant-driven outbreaks. Still, the Marietta-based system plans to increase the number of available hospital beds around the first of 2022, because of an expected rise in non-COVID cases. (WTAP)
3. Hundreds of Marietta residents gathered at Sacra Via Park at 4 p.m. on Tuesday to watch the sun set on the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. Castle Museum officials say the park has historic relevance, as the Native Americans two thousand years ago watched the solstice here as well. Event organizers say that they are pleased with the attendance of people in the area to watch this, especially on a weeknight. (WTAP)

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Today in Marietta:

• Ugly Christmas Sweater Party At Harmar Tavern (8:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• In this season of giving, Marietta Noon Lions gave over $3,500 to state and local charities. (Facebook)
• In honor of Christmas, Visit Marietta Ohio will be closed Dec. 24 to 27. The organization will resume normal business hours on the 28th. (Facebook)
• Looking for a fun, free activity to do with your family during the holidays? Check out the first-ever Merry-Etta Tour of Lights! Houses are on display nightly from 6 to 10 p.m., and you can cast your vote with Visit Marietta Ohio until Dec. 31. (Facebook)

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Alrighty, you're all caught up for today. I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with a new update!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.