Meigs County • March 7, 2025
Good morning, Meigs County. After nearly two decades at the helm of Athens County elections, Debbie Quivey is passing the torch to Tony Brooks II in a touching leadership transition. What began as teenage employment for Brooks has culminated in a director's role that would surely make his late mother proud—a reminder that in our small communities, civic responsibility often runs deeper than job descriptions.
Elsewhere, Lenten traditions are getting creative makeovers as local churches continue pandemic-inspired innovations like drive-through ash services, while Court Street flows with emerald beer as Ohio University students embrace their pre-spring break tradition. The Wednesday celebration has seniors raising green-tinted glasses to cherished college memories, even as they dash between bars and classrooms. After all, in southeastern Ohio, we know how to honor both solemn reflection and spirited celebration—sometimes in the very same week.
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🗳️ Athens County election director steps down after almost 20 years. Debbie Quivey is transitioning to deputy director of the Athens County Board of Elections after serving as director since 2006. Tony Brooks II, who began working at the office as a teenager and became deputy director in 2021, was sworn in as her replacement. In an emotional address, Brooks said he believed he had made his late mother proud, as he took over the deputy director position following her death. Both officials pledged to continue working together as a team to ensure Athens County elections remain secure and fair.
✝️ Churches revive Lent traditions with innovative Ash Wednesday services.Pioneer Presbyterian Church in Belpre continued its drive-through Ash Wednesday service, originally created during COVID-19, allowing community members to receive ashes outside traditional evening services. The Belpre Ministerial Alliance Fellowship brought multiple congregations together for shared services, while Crossroads Church and Sand Hill Methodist offered both noon and evening options across Ohio and West Virginia. Pastor Rick Hastings emphasized these services aren't merely for show but opportunities for reflection, with one church member describing Ash Wednesday as "a re-beginning in the year, leading up to Easter." Local churches will continue their collaborative spirit through upcoming Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter services.
🍺 Athens turns shamrock green for beloved college drinking tradition. Green Beer Day, celebrated the Wednesday before Ohio University's spring break, transforms Court Street into a sea of green-clad students enjoying specially colored brews. The all-day celebration has students starting as early as 11 a.m., with many taking brief breaks for academic responsibilities before returning to the festivities. Local bars offer special deals like $2 Leprechaun Shots and green beer on tap, creating a St. Patrick's Day-like atmosphere that seniors particularly cherish as their last hurrah before graduation.
Tug Valley Panthers made light work of the visiting Wahama White Falcons with a comfortable 44-26 victory in Wednesday's non-league matchup. The Panthers' defense proved impenetrable, holding the White Falcons to just 26 points in a game that was never particularly close. Williamson fans can celebrate as their squad continues to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
@ Tug Valley* | L 44-26 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals | |
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TIPS PRESENTED BY Farmers Bank |
Consider establishing an emergency fund that covers three to six months’ worth of living expenses; this safety net can provide peace of mind and financial security during unexpected events like job loss or medical emergencies.
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb |
PRESENTED BY Northbend Church |
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
-Joshua 1:9
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