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🦌 Deer dilemma

Athens County • August 12, 2025

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Good morning, Athens County. The torch is passing at Ohio University as Julie Cromer, the first woman to lead the Bobcats' athletic program, departs for LSU after a remarkable five-year run. Her tenure brought historic success—three consecutive MAC Championships and the football program's first 11-win season—along with academic excellence that positioned OHIO with the second-highest graduation success rate in the conference. The search for her successor begins immediately, with hopes to name a new director during this academic year.

In less celebratory news, a deadly deer disease has jumped from Athens to Washington County, with officials confirming epizootic hemorrhagic disease in the area. The timing is unusually early for this fatal condition that typically kills deer within three days of infection. Meanwhile, Athens County deputies have been busy responding to diverse cases across multiple townships, from trespassing and theft to wellness checks and harassment complaints.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏆 Ohio University seeks new Athletic Director as Julie Cromer departs. Cromer, the first woman to lead OHIO's athletics program, is leaving for a top position at Louisiana State University after a transformative five-year tenure. Under her leadership, the Bobcats achieved historic athletic success, including three consecutive MAC Championships and the football program's first-ever 11-win season. Student-athletes also excelled academically, with the university achieving the second-highest Graduation Success Rate in the MAC at 94%. A national search for Cromer's successor will begin immediately, with plans to appoint a new Director during the current academic year.

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🦌 Deadly deer disease spreads to Washington County after Athens outbreak. A sample from a dead deer in Washington County tested positive for epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), which is fatal to deer and has no known treatment in wild populations. The disease, transmitted by "biting midges" commonly found near water, causes symptoms including fever, swelling, disorientation, and respiratory distress, typically killing deer within three days. Officials noted it was unusual to see EHD cases this early in summer and are encouraging residents to report dead deer through the online Wildlife Reporting System to help determine the extent of the outbreak.

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🚨 Athens County deputies tackle diverse cases across multiple townships. Reports include trespassing, theft, child abuse, and suicidal ideations throughout Albany, Athens, Coolville and other areas. Deputies took two minors into custody in Coolville for theft and drug possession charges. Several investigations remain pending, including a stolen 4-wheeler case and potential break-ins. The sheriff's office also conducted wellness checks and responded to harassment complaints, providing recommendations to concerned residents.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image University-adjacent investment opportunity awaits: This Franklin Avenue gem, priced at $199,000, offers versatile living as either a charming single-family home with original hardwood floors or a profitable student rental property with valid permits, just steps from Ohio University.
Real estate listing image Country ranch with expansion potential: This $250,000 ranch home in Athens, Ohio offers three bedrooms, two baths, and peaceful country living on 0.72 acres with a walkout basement for storage or expansion possibilities.
Real estate listing image Wooded paradise near Ohio University: This secluded Athens County estate, priced at $949,000, features a spacious main house, modern ADU, large barn, garage, and stocked pond across 70 acres of wooded terrain just minutes from Ohio University.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎡 Aug. 13 - Parade of Hills Festival: Step into summer fun at the Parade of the Hills Festival! Nelsonville's historic Public Square comes alive August 13 with delicious food, exciting rides, and nightly entertainment the whole family will enjoy.
🥎 Aug. 13 - Elite Prospect Camp: Step up your softball game at Ohio's August Prospect Camp! Enhance your offense and defense skills during this fun-filled Elite Prospect day at Ohio Softball Field on August 13. Perfect for passionate players looking to improve.
🍅 Aug. 13 - Athens Farmers Market: Fresh local produce awaits at the Athens Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday, 9am-12pm at the Athens Community Center. Stop by August 13 for the best seasonal offerings from area farmers!
🌲 Aug. 15 - Forest Music Fest: Immerse yourself in musical magic at the Waldbaden Music Festival! Enjoy original performances, camping, and forest jam sessions on August 15 at 6303 Luhrig Rd, Athens, OH.
🎸 Aug. 15 - Forest Music Festival: Join writer and musician A.S. Coomer for an eclectic forest gathering near Athens on August 15! Immerse yourself in original music while camping, performing, and jamming at this unique outdoor experience. 6303 Luhrig Rd.
🌲 Aug. 15 - Todd Elson Forest Jam: Escape to the woods for Todd Elson's eclectic musical gathering! Camp under the stars while enjoying original performances and spontaneous jam sessions on August 15 at 6303 Luhrig Rd, Athens, OH.
🎭 Aug. 16 - Alonzo Weed Festival: Celebrate Amesville's quirky history at the Alonzo Weed Festival in Gifford Park! Enjoy free festivities starting at 5pm with The Plain Gold Band and honor the town's legendary vagabond mayor from 1903.
🌽 Aug. 16 - Athens Farmers Market: Fresh local produce awaits at the Athens Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday, 9am-12pm. Stop by the Athens Community Center to grab seasonal goodies from area farmers and artisans.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

-Deuteronomy 31:6

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