🛣 Road hazards ahead

Good morning, Athens County. In an era where fossil fuels and military contracts often fade into the background of investment portfolios, Ohio University students are bringing them sharply into focus. The "Divest from Death" campaign has stormed onto campus with $4.4 million worth of demands, proving that Athens' legendary spirit of activism is alive and well in the next generation.

Meanwhile, Nelsonville's election scene is giving us a masterclass in municipal mayhem, with missed deadlines and partisan confusion turning the May primary into political improv theater. And if that wasn't enough local drama, Mother Nature's been directing her own chaos on our roads, with thirteen drivers learning the hard way that winter in Ohio requires an extra dose of caution - and maybe a heads-up to watch for low-flying geese.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Athens

34°

59°

Nelsonville

34°

59°

The Plains

34°

59°

Albany

34°

59°

Chauncey

34°

59°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

✊ Student activists demand Ohio University dump weapons and oil investments. The Athens Justice Coalition launched its "Divest from Death" campaign, urging the university to withdraw over $4.4 million from companies like Boeing and ExxonMobil. Protestors marched to Cutler Hall to deliver demands for complete divestment from military contractors and fossil fuel producers. The coalition highlighted successful divestment campaigns at other Ohio universities while drawing parallels to OU's history of anti-war activism. Professor Brian Stephens praised the gathering, connecting it to the university's legacy of being "on the right side of history."

🗳️ Nelsonville election chaos: City misses deadline to create voting wards. The Ohio city failed to meet the state-mandated 150-day requirement to establish ward boundaries before the May primary election, forcing all candidates to run at-large. Adding to the confusion, some candidates filed as partisan candidates despite a pending ballot measure that would make all positions non-partisan. The League of Women Voters noted significant population disparities in proposed ward boundaries, which could have triggered legal challenges. The newly elected council, taking office in January 2026, will have 90 days to properly establish wards with community input.

🚔 Winter chaos strikes Ohio roads as thirteen drivers crash in five days. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reported multiple accidents across Washington County between February 13-18, with incidents ranging from hitting ditches to overturning vehicles. Most crashes were attributed to winter weather conditions and loss of vehicle control, with several drivers sustaining minor injuries. Three drivers were specifically charged with operating without reasonable control, while others experienced vehicle damage ranging from minor to disabling. One peculiar incident involved a semi-truck hitting a goose in flight, resulting in minimal damage.

Convenient single-floor condo living: This easy, one-floor living condo in the Villas at High Pointe Village features 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, complete with a master suite, office, and a garage. Conveniently located near Athens and Ohio University, it’s priced at $205,000.

Spacious home on wooded paradise: Nestled on nearly 2 acres of serene, wooded land, this Athens home priced at $389,900 boasts 4 bedrooms, elegant interiors with granite countertops, and a charming gazebo—perfect for nature lovers and outdoor gatherings. The seller also includes $15,000 toward sewer hookup and other upgrades.

Radford Dairy ATO development potential: Listed at $290,000, this charming original Radford Dairy ATO features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, a large yard with mature trees, and an extra lot with potential for development. Enjoy the serenity of nature with convenient access to town and an upgrade allowance at closing.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🧺 Mar. 01 - Athens Winter Market: Fresh local produce and artisanal goods await at the Athens Farmers Market! Stop by the Athens Community Center under the solar panels this Saturday from 9am to noon for winter's finest offerings.

🌳 Mar. 01 - Forest Garden Design Tour: Discover the secrets of forest gardening at Rising Appalachian Warriors! Learn to transform your space into a thriving perennial food system during this hands-on design class and tour in Millfield on March 1st.

🛠️ Mar. 01 - Makers Break Cabin Fever: Shake off winter blues at the Athens Art Guild's creative gathering! Join fellow makers on March 1st at the Community Makerspace (751 W Union St) for hands-on crafting and community fun.

⚽ Mar. 01 - Ohio Soccer ID Camp: Future soccer stars, here's your shot! Ohio University's Winter ID Camp welcomes female players 8th grade and up to showcase their skills at Walter Fieldhouse on March 1. Perfect for aspiring collegiate athletes.

🥬 Mar. 01 - Farmers Market Fun Hunt: Join fellow Bobcats for a fun-filled morning at Athens Farmers Market! Hunt for local treasures during our interactive scavenger hunt, enjoy healthy snacks, and play games on March 1st at 701 E State Street.

💰 Financial Friday

Regularly review and update your financial goals to ensure they align with your current life circumstances and aspirations; this practice not only keeps you motivated but also helps you make informed decisions about your spending and saving strategies.

🙏 In Remembrance

Daniel Jospeh Clark

Daniel Joseph Clark, 66, of New Marshfield, passed away unexpectedly at home on February 22, 2025. Born on February 14, 1959, in Athens, Ohio, he was a graduate of Alexander High School and a passionate outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Daniel is survived by his daughter Carolyn, stepdaughter Amandah, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and several brothers, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Brenda and son Daniel. Funeral services will be held privately for the family, with arrangements by Hughes Funeral Home.

Martha Ellen Platt

Martha Ellen (Campbell) Platt, a cherished sister and aunt, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on November 2, 1933, in Logan, Ohio, she married Lloyd James Platt in 1953 and lived a life devoted to love and kindness. Martha was passionate about sewing, reading, and playing the organ, and she volunteered with Good Shepherd Hospice, providing comfort to others. Preceded in death by her husband and three brothers, she is survived by her brother Donald and many nieces and nephews. In honor of her compassionate spirit, donations can be made to Four Seasons Hospice in Henderson, NC.

Joe Cole

Joe Cole, 90, of Guysville, OH, passed away on February 21, 2025, at his home. Born on November 24, 1934, in Coolville, he was the son of the late Worthy and Anna Reed Cole and retired from the Athens County Engineers Office. An avid hunter and fisherman, Joe is survived by his son Michael, daughters Susan and Joann, and seven grandchildren, along with several great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife June, a brother, and four sisters. A private burial took place at Fairview Cemetery, with arrangements by White Funeral Home.

Richard Dean

Richard "Dick" Dean of Athens passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 24, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on August 31, 1938, in Amesville, Ohio, he had a distinguished academic career, earning degrees from Ohio University and a Ph.D. from Stanford University, before becoming a cherished professor in the Hearing and Speech Department at Ohio University. A former Army First Lieutenant, Dick was actively involved in his community through various roles, including Scout Master, choir member, and volunteer. He is survived by his wife, children, step-daughters, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation and funeral services are scheduled for early March in Athens.

Sandra Spencer

Sandra Spencer, 72, of Reedsville, OH, passed away on February 25, 2025, at her home. Born on April 19, 1953, in Athens, OH, she retired from Ohio University in 2020. She is survived by her husband, Kenny Spencer, their son Michael, two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a brother. Sandra was preceded in death by her parents and three siblings. In accordance with her wishes, there will be no visitation or funeral service.