NEWS BRIEFS
Fire, later deemed arson, closed Walmart
The State Fire Marshal’s office, working in conjunction with the Athens police and fire departments, is seeking help from the public as the agencies continue to investigate an arson that occurred at Walmart, 929 E. State St., on Tuesday.
The fire occurred in the early morning hours, authorities said, and “was intentionally set and caused significant damage to the building, which is now undergoing repairs and restoration,” according to a news release from the state, which also stated that a Walmart employee prevented “more extensive damage by utilizing a nearby fire extinguisher.”
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered by the Blue Ribbon Arson Committee for information leading to the identification of the person or persons responsible.
Anyone with information is asked to call the State Fire Marshal’s Fire & Explosion Investigation Bureau at 1-800-589-2728.
Fulbright program recognized
The Chronicle of Higher Education, in its November issue, named Ohio University one of the top producers of Fulbright scholars.
The Fulbright United States Scholar Program funds graduate students teaching, studying and conducting research abroad. This year, five OU students received a spot in the research program.
“Our dedicated faculty and staff work tirelessly to broaden our students’ horizons through international opportunities,” said OU President Roderick McDavis in a news release. “Programs such as the Fulbright Program strengthen Ohio University’s student-centered learning community and greatly enhance our world class educational experience.”
Prosecutor donates to food banks
Athens County Prosecutor Keller Blackburn’s office donated canned goods to the Southeastern Ohio Foodbank, an organization located in Logan, for the Thanksgiving holiday.
The food going to the Southeast Ohio Foodbank will not only help those in Athens County, but will also aid people in Hocking, Jackson, Meigs and Perry counties, among others, according to a news release from Blackburn’s office.
— Reports compiled by Will Drabold, Kelly Fisher and Joshua Jamerson
