Aug. 25, 2006

ATHENS, Ohio - Representatives of Ohio University and the City of Athens gathered Friday to announce the introduction of a new initiative that will focus on promoting pride in the university amongst students, staff, community members and alumni.

The theme "Stand Up and Cheer!" is derived from the school's fight song, and during a press conference at the Baker Center, Mayor Rick Abel declared Fridays throughout the year to be Stand Up and Cheer Fridays in Athens. In an official proclamation, Abel urged all residents, business owners and their employees to wear Ohio Bobcat apparel and/or to showcase Stand Up and Cheer displays.

Dr. Kent Smith, Ohio University Vice President of Student Affairs, encouraged everyone with ties to the school to support the program by displaying their Bobcat pride on Fridays wherever it is appropriate.

"Whether you're on College Green, at one of our regional campuses, or anywhere in the world, show people that you are proud to be an Ohio Bobcat," said Smith. "It might be a shirt, a tie or possibly even jewelry, but let everyone around you know what this institution means to you."

The Ohio Athletics Department will oversee efforts in coming weeks to create further awareness of the campaign, according to Dan Hauser, Associate Athletics Director for Marketing and Promotion. "We plan to make this initiative very visible in the local community as well as through outreach to Ohio Bobcats in other places," said Hauser. "With the help of local merchants and through utilization of the internet, we hope to provide everyone who wants to join us in the Stand Up and Cheer program the opportunity not only to participate, but also to share their spirit with others."

Campaign elements will include stickers, window clings, a website where alumni can post photos and stories of Stand Up and Cheer moments and an official Stand Up and Cheer shirt, according to Hauser.

Office of the Mayor Proclamation

WHEREAS: The Ohio Bobcats represent the City of Athens and the Ohio University; and

WHEREAS: Stand Up and Cheer epitomizes the spirit and energy of the City of Athens and the Ohio University; and

WHEREAS: the City of Athens is proud to be home of the OHIO BOBCATS; and

WHEREAS; the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring STAND UP AND CHEER Friday.

NOW THEREFORE, I Richard Abel, Mayor of the City of Athens, Ohio, do hereby proclaim every Friday to be:

STAND UP AND CHEER FRIDAYS in the City of Athens. All residents, business owners and their employees are urged to wear OHIO BOBCAT apparel and/or showcase STAND UP AND CHEER displays.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have subscribed my name and caused the official seal of the City of Athens to be affixed this 25th day of August, in the year of our Lord, Two-Thousand and Six.

Richard Abel MAYOR