Athens County • April 9, 2025
Good morning, Athens County. Talk about a seventh-inning stretch that didn't go as planned. The Lady Vikings softball team saw their hopes dashed Wednesday when Athens Lady Bulldogs rallied with three runs in the final inning, breaking a 4-4 tie to claim victory in the Tri-Valley Conference opener. The dramatic finish turned what had been an evenly matched contest into a disappointing conference start for Vinton County.
In brighter news, Ohio University's Giving Day shattered records with an impressive $1.5 million raised from over 3,100 donors across all 50 states. While the university celebrates this philanthropic achievement, a concerning trend continues as many eligible OU students miss out on crucial SNAP benefits despite facing food insecurity. Qualifying students can receive between $23 and $300 monthlyβfinancial support that could make a significant difference for those balancing academic demands with basic needs.
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π₯ Lady Vikings fall to Athens in dramatic seventh-inning showdown. The Athens Lady Bulldogs broke a 4-4 tie with a three-run rally in the final inning to defeat Vinton County 7-4. Wednesday's Tri-Valley Conference Ohio Division opener had been a back-and-forth battle until Athens' Olivia Dowler sparked the decisive seventh-inning surge with a single. The loss marks a disappointing conference start for the Lady Vikings softball team in what had been an evenly matched contest.
π College students missing out on crucial food assistance benefits. Many Ohio University students eligible for SNAP benefits never apply, despite food insecurity affecting millions of college students nationwide. Qualifying students must meet requirements like working 20 hours weekly or participating in work-study programs, with benefits ranging from $23 to $300 monthly. The application process takes about 30-45 days and requires basic personal information and income verification. On-campus options include using benefits at Jefferson Market or accessing Cat's Cupboard, which provides free food to students twice monthly.
π° Bobcats shatter records with $1.5 million raised on Giving Day. The annual Ohio University fundraising event saw 3,136 donors contribute to scholarships and programs, with gifts coming from all 50 states. The Foundation Board of Trustees provided $52,000 in matching funds during a special "Power Hour," while President Gonzalez and her husband offered a triple-impact matching opportunity. Students participated in themed activities like "OHIO Through the Eras" with Squirrel Games and friendship bracelet kits, learning about philanthropy while celebrating. The Barbara Geralds Institute for Storytelling and Social Impact received the most gifts with 170 donations totaling over $25,000.
Amanda-Clearcreek survived a wild one against Athens, hanging on for a 14-13 victory in a game that had more runs than a marathon training schedule. The Aces improved to 2-3 in this Monday slugfest that apparently decided defense was optional for both squads. Athens heads back to The Plains with their first season blemish at 2-1, likely wondering where all those runs will hide when they face Meigs next time out.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Athens (2-1) | ||
vs Amanda-Clearcreek | L 14-13 |
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I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:13
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