Athens County • August 12, 2025
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.
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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.
🦌 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.
🚨 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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-Deuteronomy 31:6
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