August 24, 2026

Letter from the Editor ... PG 5 Get to know Ohio’s defensive backs ... PG 6 ‘Lost Weekend’ album breakdown ... PG 9

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

AUGUST 25, 2026

VOLUME 117, ISSUE 2

US Headlines Colorado River reservoir depletes, developments in Iran war

Flash flooding hits Athens, Southeast Ohio

LAYNEE ESLICH FOR THE POST 9 Sun _________________

Lake Powell reaches record low The U.S’ second-largest reservoir on the Colorado River, Lake Powell, measured at 3,519.91 feet above sea level last Saturday, a record low.

Plummeting water levels are a threat to the Colorado River Basin, an important resource for wildlife, hydropower and energy for 40 million people.

Federal and state governments struggle to agree on how to manage the river, which has been heavily impacted by overuse, high temperature and a dry winter, according to The Associated Press.

The reservoir is now 30 feet away from the point at which turbines would stop producing hydroelectric power. Federal officials warned that major intervention will be necessary to avoid reaching that low by the end of this year.

KAITLIN HOGG FOR THE POST The Southeast Ohio region, including both Athens city and county, are still recovering from the heavy flooding that occurred Aug. 11. According to a report from the iAlert website issued by NWS Charleston, West Virginia, the city was met with approximately three to five inches of rainfall.

Andy Stone, the service-safety director for the city of Athens, discussed the impact the flooding had on the city.

“There was debris in streets, several different places,” Stone said. “We had clogged storm drains after the fact as sediments and woody material washed into storm drains, and we had some instances of manhole covers that blew off, and so we had to cover those and get them put back in place.”

10 Mon __________________

Flooding risks move from the Midwest to the MidAtlantic While the south is experiencing extreme high temperatures, states in the Midwest are recovering from days of severe flooding and dangerous storms.

Heavy storms in Indiana have left at least seven people dead and many homes and roads flooded, as over 90,000 homes lost power across the state.

Meanwhile, West Virginia experienced over four inches of rain over the weekend, causing mudslides, poor road conditions, prompting water rescues and contributing to at least one death. Eight southern states have also issued extreme heat warnings as temperatures rise, according to the AP. 11 Tue __________________ Trump insists Strait of Hormuz is open, threatens Oman Despite a lack of negotiations between Iran and the U.S., Trump insisted Tuesday that the Strait of Hormuz is open.

Trump also threatened to bomb Oman due to their negotiations with Iran over management of the strait, the AP reported.

Trump posted to social media, claiming that while the blockade of the strait is in full effect, all mines have been removed. However, traffic in the strait has significantly declined, with only three vessels making it through the waterway Sunday, according to the AP An unidentified projectile also damaged a ship in the strait, causing one casualty, and Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis attacked a Saudi Arabian oil refinery. continued pg 2

around the Richland Avenue corridor.

According to Stone, the most intense flooding was centralized

According to the Athens City website, the Hocking River, Margaret Creek and Coates Run are the main points of flooding in the city of Athens.

“We had clogged storm drains after the fact, as sediments and woody material washed into storm drains,” Stone said.

“And we had some instances of manhole covers that blew off, and so we had to cover those and get them put back in place.”

The day of the floods, the city posted a warning on Facebook, telling residents to avoid roadways, specifically Richland Avenue as well as East State Street, between Stimson Avenue and May Avenue. The Athens County Sheriff’s Office also posted a warning, saying the Glouster area was most impacted and urging people to not drive through the floods.

Department posted Aug. 11 that the flooding was also impacting East State Street. The report also said the Hocking River had a projected crest of flooding at 21.5 feet, which would flood the Athens Community Center parking lot and tennis courts.

Stone said the severity of the floods likely resulted in water damage to some basements in areas that were heavily impacted.

Ohio University students were also impacted by the Aug. 11 flooding. Avery Fain, a sophomore studying nursing, said she was not near Richland Avenue, but her residential area was still affected.

Fain said the flooding impacted her day-to-day activities, as well as her work commute “a little bit, just because the place where I was at, my parking lot did flood.”

The Athens City Police

continued pg 2

Health concerns arise from upcoming Piketon gas plant, data center LAYNEE ESLICH FOR THE POST The Ohio Department of Energy and Commerce announced that it will be using land in Piketon to implement a 9.2-gigawatt natural gas generation facility that will power a 10-gigawatt data center, one of the largest in the world, according to a previous report by The Post.

Softbank, a Japanese investment management company, is financing the operation, but

holds no equity of the plant due to a U.S.-Japan deal made in 2025 that focused on development of “strategic U.S. sectors,” including energy and artificial intelligence.

SoftBank named the project “Portsmouth Consortium” and said the goal of the facility is to contribute to the largescale power generation and AI infrastructure development going on in Piketon.

continued pg 3

Photo by ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST

Two-week radius clause adopted by Athens venues

Bobcats transition from summer to school

LIV JACOBS FOR THE POST

FIONA PETTICREW FOR THE POST

Earlier this year, two popular music venues in Athens, The Union and Casa Nueva, implemented a two-week radius clause that may affect the local music scene, according to locals involved in the community.

However, event coordinators for the establishments say the clause will help diversify the music scene and promote struggling bands.

FRESH HEADLINES DAILY

The two-week radius clause

requires groups who book a performance to refrain from all other performances in Athens for two weeks before and after the show. This clause includes formal venues as well as house show venues.

The clause went into effect at the beginning of the fall semester and will stay in place for the foreseeable future. As of now, The Union and Casa Nueva are the only venues to enforce it.

continued pg 11

Getting back into the swing of things is not easy for some students who enjoy a long break away from classes and academic routine. Many students spent their time traveling, some worked away at internships and jobs, while some did a little of both.

Some Bobcats are arriving on campus for the first time, settling in and mingling with those in their learning

community and classes. Many must learn how to find their own routine, study strategies and friends, but one must first get into an academic mindset.

Ella Neighborgall, a senior studying communication studies, spent her summer interning and enjoyed learning every day.

Now beginning her final year as a Bobcat, Neighborgall is eager to graduate but is nervous to become a “real adult” after leaving Ohio University. continued pg 9

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US Headlines/continued from pg 1

Blotter: Arrests made, K9 units deployed, cows in the road

BEN PENNINGTON | FOR THE POST

KAITLIN HOGG | NEWS STAFF WRITER 14 Fri ___________________ Goats at large Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Vore Ridge Road following an animal complaint.

The caller stated their neighbor’s goats were eating the vegetables in their garden. Deputies told the goats’ owners to keep them on their property.

More threats The Athens County Sheriff’s Office received a call from an individual saying they were being threatened.

Deputies, after speaking to the individual, determined they were being targeted by scammers and told the individual not to pay or send any money.

15 Sat __________________ Verbal disputes Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Inman Road in Stewart following reports of a verbal dispute. The sheriff’s office received more than 15 calls from the residence over the past couple of months. Deputies were also at the residence three hours prior to the other call. Deputies gave two individuals summonses for their “persistent disorderly conduct.”

12 Wed __________________ The U.S. and Canada strike tariff deal Trump announced Tuesday that he will be delaying a 50% tariff on Canada as the two countries reached a deal hours before the tariffs would take effect on Wednesday, according to the AP. Trump posted to Truth Social that the sanctions will be delayed for three days as the U.S. and Canada negotiate. According to a White House proclamation, Canada committed to removing measures the Trump Administration found discriminatory against U.S. alcohol, dairy and motor vehicle exports.

The U.S. received 72% of Canadian exports last year, persuading both parties to find a compromise, according to the AP. 13 Thur _____________________ Prices for Palestinians soar as smuggling restricted goods booms Smuggling restricted goods, such as medicine and equipment, into the Gaza Strip has boomed since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, increasing costs of many goods, according to a report by the AP. Israel restricts quantities of some goods and bans some outright, including cigarettes and tobacco, which are among the goods that make smugglers the most money. The AP found that

smuggling rings bring in millions of dollars in profit, including to Palestine’s Hamas-led government, which takes a percentage of the price of smuggled goods.

Organizations, including hospitals, government agencies and tribes have had to resort to smuggled goods, as Israel’s process for approving imported goods can be long and difficult. Now, smuggling accounts for much of Gaza’s economy, but high smuggling costs are often passed onto the Palestinian people 14 Fri ___________________ Trump administration announces economic “D-Day” for Iran The Trump administration warns Iran that an “unprecedented” level of economic sanctions will be put into place if Iranian leadership does not end its nuclear production and open the Strait of Hormuz, according to the AP. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded in indifference, as Iran is currently one of the most economically penalized countries in the world.

In a CNBC interview Thursday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatened secondary sanctions on any country that is in business with Iran. The Trump administration argues that it’s only a matter of time until Tehran caves to their demands.

LE211424@OHIO.EDU

Car blocked Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Coal Run Road after reports of an abandoned car blocking a driveway. Deputies tried to contact the owner of the car, but were unable to. The car was tagged and given four hours before it was towed.

16 Sun _________________ Fight in progress?

Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office reported to The Plains for an alleged ongoing fight. Deputies on the scene learned the fight was verbal, as the other involved individual left the scene before deputy arrival.

Stalking Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to Lancaster Street after a stalking complaint. It was determined by deputies the stalking occurred near Stewart Street. At the time of the media report, the case was open and under investigation.

17 Mon __________________ Threatening call Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a man stating he had received a threatening call. Deputies were able to get into contact with the individual who allegedly made the threats and told them to cease any further contact. Deputies also took a report and resumed patrolling.

Copper theft Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Dover Township after receiving a report of a theft. Deputies at the scene

spoke with the caller, who told them roughly 200 pounds of copper were stolen from a utility vehicle over the weekend. Sheriffs took a report and photographed the scene.

18 Tue ____________________ K9 unit engaged The K9 Unit with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop near East Washington Street following traffic violations. Deputies made contact with the driver and saw indications of criminal activity. K9 Cody was deployed and gave positive signs to suspected narcotics and drug paraphernalia. The seized evidence was taken to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation testing lab, and charges will depend on the test results.

Arrested!

The Athens County Sheriff’s Office K9 Unit also assisted the Adult Parole Authority near Carbondale to search for a female they were looking to take into custody. Amber Drake was located and taken into custody following her violations of the APA. John Dearing Sr. was also arrested for an active misdemeanor warrant and taken to the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail.

19 Wed ___________________ Not quite trespassing Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to State Route 377 after receiving a trespassing complaint. Deputies at the scene were told an unknown man had been walking around the property asking if anyone was there. Deputies found the individual, who said he was a neighbor who got his car stuck on the property and needed a tow.

A towing company was contacted to move the car.

Loose cows?

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies received a call from Varner Road in Guysville that there was a herd of cattle blocking the roadway.

Deputies patrolled the area, but did not locate the cattle.

20 Thur ___________________ Fraud!

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded after a business owner claimed a man used a stolen credit card to buy a substantial quantity of items from the business.

At the time of the media report, an investigation was still pending.

Why do you have a knife?!

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to U.S. Route 50, by Dow Lake, after reports of a woman driving and waving a knife out the window. Both the sheriff’s office deputies and the Ohio State Highway Patrol responded to the scene and found the car. The woman told officials that she was no danger to herself or others and was not in need of any assistance.

KH303123@OHIO.EDU

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL DRAG QUEENS. If your community supports Drag Queens, then it supports lots of non-conformists, including maybe you. looking for a show?

SAT/Aug 29: UPC Drag Show Baker Center Ballroom. 7-9 p.m.

FREE, but feel free to bring some tip money.

Ohio University. Athens, Ohio.

Doors open at 6 p.m.

Meet the Queens beginning at 6:15 p.m.

(TALITHA MALOY | FOR THE POST)

BY

Y

AUG. 20, 2026

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Flooding/continued from pg 1 Athens City Council member Michael Wood posted a video on Facebook on Saturday, Aug. 12, walking along East State Street by Kindred Market talking to neighbors about flooding. He said in the video he wanted to be aware of the situation and let people know that flooding is an important issue on the city council’s radar.

In the comments of the video, Wood said there are some solutions being considered to help lessen flood damage.

“We’ve increased our paved nonpermeable surfaces and taken away natural absorbing barriers … I’ve been big on rain gardens and better water catchment from the start,” Wood said.

Stone said there are minimal preventative measures to be taken for floods because it is not “typical or reasonable, and we can’t afford it … the taxpayers wouldn’t stand for overbuilding infrastructure to that level.”

However, Stone did mention some of the ways the city is attempting to resolve the impact of the recent flooding as well as mitigate effects from any future floods.

“We’ll go around and attempt to reopen storm drains that have gotten clogged with debris,” Stone said. “We will try to remove sediment from bridges that go over the top of creeks if it’s built up there.

Cut trees down that block drainage ways.”

Elevated water levels on the Hocking River along the Hockhocking Adena Bike Path in Athens, Aug. 12, 2026. After several heavy rain storms, the river as well as multiple roads including Richland Avenue, flooded under multiple feet of water. The severe flooding was also felt in the northern part of Athens County as well into Morgan and Perry counties.

(ETHAN HERX | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY) Stone also provided some cautionary information in the event of another flood.

He said that the common phrase “turn around, don’t drown” holds true during a flood, as cars are often swept away by flood waters.

He also said that people should avoid

Piketon Data Center/continued from pg 1 The site set for construction was previously used by the DOE as the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant, or PORTS, which was used to enrich uranium for use in nuclear power plants, according to a previous report by The Post.

In 1952, PORTS began construction under the United States Enrichment Corporation and in 2011 the property was returned to DOE for “decontamination and decommissioning,” and is now being cleaned up.

While many are excited about the job growth that the facility will bring, others have raised concerns regarding health issues the PORTS site poses.

Vina Colley, a former electrician at the PORTS facility and president of the Portsmouth/Piketon Residents for Environmental Safety and Security, has led some of those concerns after her experiences working at the site.

Colley began working at PORTS in 1980 with no preexisting health problems. After three years, her hair started falling out and she began experiencing skin rashes.

According to Colley, at the end of her time working at PORTS, she had three tumors, hyperthyroidism, congestive heart failure, neuropathy, beryllium disease, underwent a total hysterectomy and more.

Following that discovery, Colley worked to help PORTS workers gain medical compensation for the health defects they suffered from chemicals present, such as Plutonium.

“In 1999, we were able to take my documents and help the workers get the compensation bill, the EEOICPA in, and so that paid the workers $400,000 a medical card if you worked there between 1953 and 1992,” Colley said.

In addition, a 2022 study by epidemiologist Joseph Mangano found that Pike County had the highest cancer incidence rate of all counties in Ohio and a mortality rate among the highest in the U.S. The study indicated the gap between these rates and control counties used is likely too large to be attributed to socioeconomic factors, but rather proximity to the PORTS plant.

According to Colley, the plant contaminated surrounding groundwater

and soil with dangerous chemicals exposed to the community of Piketon.

driving in general during floods, as roads and bridges can be damaged in a way that isn’t always visible.

“Most of the deaths and injuries from flooding occur with people driving through floodwater,” Stone said. “It’s very easy for a car to lose traction on the

roadway when it’s in water. Number one, number two, when water is moving across the roadway, you don’t necessarily know what’s under it. It’s possible that there was a bridge there, and the bridge is gone.”

KH303123@OHIO.EDU

Check out the latest Multimedia video!

“We were cleaning up contaminated radiation, PCB oil, with trichloroethylene, and then I’d ask my boss, ‘What do we do with this,’” Colley said. “They would say, ‘Dump it down the drains.’ So all the drains go off to Little Beaver Creek, and then they have a pipe that goes straight to the side of the (Scioto) river.”

To improve water quality in Piketon, the Environmental Protection Agency and DOE have built three water treatment plants in Pike County.

EPA Public Information Officer, Anthony Chenault, said in an email that a new water treatment plant should be operating soon, alongside the other run by the EPA, while any questions regarding the third site should go to DOE. According to Colley, the site needs to be cleaned up and victims must be addressed before construction begins for the Portsmouth Consortium.

According to Paul Mobley, a former civil and operating engineer who trained in the U.S. Air Force, the Portsmouth Consortium will use water from the Scioto River for gas generation. Mobley also raised concerns about contamination if it is not properly cleaned up.

“The main issue is that Little Beaver Creek, it flows right into Big Beaver Creek, and Big Beaver Creek flows right into the Scioto River, and the Scioto River flows the entire length of Scioto County,” Mobley said. “So you had chemicals and radioactive particles going in there.”

Ally Copple, head of communications at Softbank, said the company is taking steps to clean up the PORTS location.

“The Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management is leading remediation at the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant,” Copple said in an email. “SB Energy has committed to paying for accelerated cleanup and remediation at the site.”

Copple also said the first phase of construction will begin later this year and further construction of the entire campus is expected to continue through 2032.

LE211424@OHIO.EDU

Ohio University Involvement Fair

BY CAMDEN PAELTZ

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

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Editorial | Local newspapers have a role in Appalachian resilience THE POST EDITORIAL BOARD | FOR THE POST In Athens, newspapers do not just share news. They question how an entire region can be led, from the front cover to our backyard. Local newspapers are necessary components of Appalachia, but The Post’s long-standing legacy cannot last if news coverage does not consistently serve all its readers, including those in the region.

As more people turn to social media to receive their news, it would seem local news stations are less important.

They continue to fall into corporate conglomerates or complete abandonment.

This creates news deserts, which are regions with few newspaper publications and little original news coverage.

The Athens Messenger is the only newspaper not led by students that consistently publishes content in Athens County. The Athens News, a former publication in Athens County, recently shut down after Paul Reynolds, the Adams Multimedia regional president, attributed the paper’s decline

to fewer advertisement sales.

Yet, local newspapers are often critical outlets for local event listings. Many of those papers include local and free events, creating a consistent platform families can rely on for information. Especially as November’s election season approaches, news deserts often leave voters open to misinformation because they turn to unreliable sources online.

Additionally, fewer people are paying attention to surrounding news, especially local newspapers. For example, the percentage of U.S. adults who often or sometimes read a daily newspaper declined from 43% in 2018 to 36% in 2025.

This problem creates fractured frameworks, making it hard to share critical information about issues, local events and resources. It also limits how often people interact, creating entire towns where residents have no obligation to work with each other or build lasting relationships.

In the long run, the absence of newspapers damages the responsibility that we have to better ourselves and our surroundings.

Newspapers create an ample environment to tie people across geographic areas, especially since the Appalachian region’s steep hills and low valleys make it difficult to create a consistent high-speed internet connection. By preserving physical, shareable media, local newspapers offer alternatives to media otherwise hidden behind paywalls or subscriptions.

This is also important with the rise of news appearing on social media. Although about half of U.S. adults said they at least sometimes get news from social media, newspapers like The Post provide something Facebook simply cannot replace: direct involvement and social obligation.

A newspaper is a physical manual for engaging critically with the rest of the world.

Newspapers have ethical

guidelines to meet the needs of its audience.

It is The Post’s mission to provide rapid, professional news coverage free from outside editorial control.

Although we welcome local opinion, no outside interest can control Athens’s access to the truth or trust in reliable access to information.

This is particularly important in the fight to create informed voters, citizens and neighbors.

People require timely and well-researched information in the voting booth, but good information goes much farther.

In a region historically split between students, struggles and survival, Appalachia’s story of resilience deserves to be told with dignity. Local newspapers push us to analyze our surroundings and evaluate how small actions truly have outcomes for others. In short, reading the paper grounds us in a reality that is directly tied to our personal actions.

While geographic and digital challenges split local

collaboration, newspapers act as the glue to bring people together. Within the Appalachian region, print and broadcast journalism can prove to be critical lifelines in the face of adversity.

It would be easy to say that this is a particularly challenging time for newspapers, the First Amendment or journalism in general. Yet, reading this paper and others in the region encourages independent thinking and collective action.

There will always be a challenge to telling the truth when the truth challenges the most powerful. Thank you for reading The Post; we look forward to this year of independent journalism.

The Post editorials are independent of the publication’s news coverage. Have thoughts? The Post can be reached via editor@thepostathens.com.

Metal Mondays | Stop taking Pitchfork seriously JACKSON MCCOY | FOR THE POST Upon the release of Tyga’s newest album, “$TARFACE,” fans and critics alike were quick to (rightfully) berate the album for its blandness and alleged embrace of artificial intelligence in its production.

Among the most prominent of these attacks was digital music publication Pitchfork’s review of the album, which gave it a 0.0 out of 10 score and labeled it “slop-pop.”

Pitchfork’s review hit the nail on the head in many aspects; the album commits the sin of not only being unoriginal, but also abandoning the centuriesold partnership between human innovation and music.

Music, the universal language, should only ever be made by humans. From string instruments to GarageBand, humans have communicated across seas, languages and time with music.

But this one particularly correct take doesn’t validate Pitchfork’s existence. The magazine, founded in 1996 in Minneapolis by journalist *Ryan Schreiber, covered alternative and indie genres at its inception before expanding outward to other genres.

During the 1990s and 2000s, the magazine earned an audience through cruel, pretentious reviews.

It dominated the music journalism sphere, claiming its place as a kingmaker for artists its writers deemed good while ending the careers of artists it deemed bad.

Although Sufjan Stevens and Bon Iver earned frequent high grades, artists and bands including Sonic Youth and Liz Phair have been handed mean-spirited low scores.

The publication’s review for Jet’s 2006 album “Shine On” famously is simply a link to a video of a monkey peeing in its own mouth.

Many musicians have made impressive careers in spite of extremely harsh Pitchfork reviews. Panic! At The Disco’s now-classic debut album, “A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out,” received a 1.5 out of the possible 10. Its review failed to foresee the cultural impact of the album, labeling it a “steaming hot pile of garbage.”

“It’s sad that this is what emo has become,” Cory Byrom, a Pitchfork journalist, wrote in

2005. “The genre’s always had some irritating characteristics, but this newest batch of heartbroken heartthrobs has managed to build their careers solely out of those characteristics. The whining, the emotionally exposed lyrics and the passionate choruses are there, but there’s no sincerity, creativity or originality.”

Pitchfork has had a plethora of similar moments getting reviews wrong. The review of Björk’s “Vespertine,” an album that combined everyday sounds, classical instruments and electronic instrumentation, claimed the album didn’t have as much of an impact as her previous works.

The deeply cynical review of*Nine Inch Nails’ “The Fragile” gave the album a 2.0 upon its release in 1999; the publication retroactively gave it an 8.7 for its 2017 remaster, an unfortunate habit the editorial staff at Pitchfork has developed as they’ve assessed albums unfairly.

These reviews are not earnest or authentic as Pitchfork readers have long claimed they

are. The editorial penchant for provocation over actual criticism is the lifeblood of the magazine’s criticism, even as a changing media landscape has left the publication under new management and behind a paywall.

None of this is to say there isn’t room for negative reviews for music. Criticism is healthy; it keeps artists from delivering lazy albums. Listeners need music journalists who aren’t afraid to say an album by their favorite artist is bad. Although any evaluation of a creative work is inherently subjective, music criticism keeps artists from dishing out albums like Tyga’s “pop-slop.”

However, it all gets to a point. Pitchfork’s emphasis on degrading musicians instead of evaluating them has turned people off to music journalism.

Even when the publication correctly calls out an artist for using generative AI or gives a phenomenal album a high score, the conversation around the review inevitably turns to the magazine’s continued elitism.

Assigning numbers to music implies an objectivism that

asserts the writers behind the score are right and you, the listener, are wrong, a business model that has resulted in an online graveyard of embarrassing reviews.

Pitchfork’s most recognizable editorial trait ultimately makes it impossible to read. Enjoy your music, read about your favorite artists (and think critically about them and their works), but don’t embrace one magazine with a history of ragebait above all else, and don’t let that one publication shape your opinions of music journalism as a whole.

Jackson McCoy is a senior studying journalism and environmental studies at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to share your thoughts? Let Jackson know by emailing him at jm049122@ohio.edu.

Adam’s Anecdote | When the ship sinks, fire the women ADAM GERBER | FOR THE POST On March 3, former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem sat before the Senate Judiciary Committee for a nearly five-hour hearing about the department’s shutdown and murders committed by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

In a letter written by ranking members following Noem’s hearing, they criticized various aspects of the information she prepared.

“After months of evading our Committees’ requests to testify in routine oversight hearings, Secretary Noem made a series of demonstrably false statements in a brazen attempt to undermine critical congressional oversight of the Department of Homeland Security,” members said.

They later wrote, “Making false statements to Congress, and making false statements under oath, are federal crimes.” Just two days after the hearing, President Donald Trump fired Noem. Former Sen. Markwayne Mullin was later sworn in on March 24.

Later that month, reporter Josh Boswell wrote on X, “Kristi Noem’s husband is a secret crossdresser who dons

gigantic fake bre*sts and pink hotpants to chat with online f*tish models.” Boswell later wrote, “The selfies Bryon sent are quite astounding. As is the fact that he opened up his wife to the danger of potential blackmail by foreign powers, intelligence experts told us.”

Kristi Noem faced backlash from the scandal but continues to work for the Shield of the Americas as special envoy in South Dakota.

In just one month, Noem’s career, family and image were disposed of, and as a result, the Trump administration deemed her expendable.

However, it seems that was the purpose of her position to begin with. Noem consistently spread misinformation through the entirety of her tenure to the media and the overall public. She served as a vessel to cause confusion and panic through governmentfunded propaganda.

Once Noem had garnered enough negative attention from the media, she was rendered useless, which later became a consistent pattern for Trump and the women in his cabinet. The cumulation from the controversy

surrounding her husband and the bad press from the hearing allowed Trump to let her go without much backlash.

Furthermore, it also allowed Trump to cut ties with Noem before any information that she shared at the hearing got back to him.

This pattern continued on March 17 when former U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi was subpoenaed by Rep. James Comer, chairman of the House committee on oversight, for the handling of the Epstein Files. On April 2, Bondi was fired by Trump and was later replaced by Todd Blanche.

Blanche began representing Trump as his lawyer in 2023, although the original case was stalled by Blanche until the 2024 election and was later dismissed. That same year, Blanche represented Trump in another trial that ended in 34 felony counts of falsified business records for the president. Now in office, Blanche’s work is heavily based on allowing those previously ineligible to apply for restoration to obtain a firearm.

As of August 17, Blanche has instated a program to allow such individuals access.

Regarding the Epstein Files,

Blanche has done little to bring justice to the victims and families affected. In early August, Blanche blocked a state investigation into Epstein’s New Mexico ranch, and he continues to hinder the overall investigation; however, the media lacks any initiative to report on him in a negative light. Compared to the media attention Bondi amassed, Blanche has faced far less scrutiny, allowing him to perpetuate a system built on political loyalty, rather than accountability.

Bondi and Noem both face similar fates regarding their removal from office, and both have moved from the public light. When questioned by the Senate, they both frequently deflected questions, regardless of what they were asked. Ultimately, they reflected Trump’s political communication patterns by deflecting from the truth and spreading misinformation.

On August 13, Trump announced Karoline Leavitt’s departure from her role as Press Secretary. Leavitt served for nearly two years, during which she faced several controversies herself. No one has been announced to take over her role.

In retrospect, these women always served as scapegoats of the Trump administration.

By allowing these women to receive a majority of the backlash from the controversies created by Trump himself, he can replace them with convenient figures who will not stray too far from his agenda.

This pattern makes it apparent how easily blame can be shifted to other individuals in this administration, especially women. When controversy appeared, these women often became the face of the issue, allowing greater scrutiny to fall on them rather than Trump himself. Their departures mark a consistent practice of redirecting accountability from the source, which continues to protect a corrupt system.

Adam Gerber is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Adam about their column?

Email them at ag967424@ ohio.edu

AUG. 20, 2026

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Letter from the Editor | Use your voice ELIZABETH TALAGA | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF When I stepped on campus as a freshman just a short three years ago, the Ohio University that sat before me then is completely different from the OU staring back at me today.

To those walking the streets of Athens as an OU student for the first time, welcome. If you are a returner, you might find yourself wondering what version of OU awaits you this year.

Students navigated through the 2025-26 academic year in the shadows of Senate Bill 1, which shuttered OU’s Pride, Multicultural and Women’s Centers, leaving many students without resources and support.

Trustees meeting, according to a previous report by The Post. The demonstration was organized to highlight what organizers called a year of inaction from university officials.

Additionally, faculty unionization negotiations continued, and concerns about the university’s investment in Israel bonds and United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement created a clear disconnect between the university and many of its students. This culminated in a campus protest just weeks before spring semester final exams.

The following Board of Trustees meeting was in June in Athens, but August’s Board of Trustees meeting took place in Dublin, Ohio.

The First Amendment, of course, is a guiding light in times of turmoil. No matter how tense and strange things feel, it offers basic freedoms and protections you can use to help make sense of what is happening around you.

The Board of Trustees is the governing body of OU. Meetings are regularly held in January, April, June, August and November in Athens.

In April, two students were taken into custody following a protest at the Board of

I am proud of the education

I’m receiving here and grateful to be a Bobcat, but watching hordes of my peers take to College Green and stick up for what they believe in is a memory I will never forget.

You are afforded these freedoms by law. Use them.

You can’t destroy property or incite violence, but you can make your voice heard.

As the semester unfolds, don’t let yourself get lost in the idea that there is nothing you can do. You are not the governing body of this university, but the choices made by university officials directly impact you. You don’t have to sit around and watch it pass you by. Register to vote

in the November election.

Demonstrate with your peers.

Staying informed on what is happening on campus and in Athens is crucial. This is your home for however long you find yourself here; don’t be afraid to stand up for it.

Elizabeth Talaga is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. Want to share your thoughts? Let Elizabeth know by emailing her at et029322@ ohio.edu

Involvement Fair Gallery

Top Left: Thousands of new students gather for the involvement fair on College Green in Athens, Aug. 23, 2026. (ETHAN HERX | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY) Top RIght: A member of the Active Minds club explains the group to new students the involvement fair on College Green in Athens, Aug. 23, 2026.

(ETHAN HERX | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY) Bottom Left: InvolvementFairGallery_08232026_Stevens_Allie_1: A Ohio University student filling out an interest form at the Involvement Fair on College Green, Aug. 23, 2026, in Athens.

(ALLIE STEVENS | FOR THE POST) Bottom Right: Megan DeAngelis, president of the Interior Design Architecture group, explains the club to a new student the involvement fair on College Green in Athens, Aug. 23, 2026.

(ETHAN HERX | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

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Get to know Ohio’s defensive backs LONDON DEMARCO ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR Last season, the Bobcats defense ended up finishing middle of the pack statistically in the Mid-American Conference. Just like any team, Ohio had its weak points and strong points defensively.

Looking specifically at the defensive back group from last year, it excelled in forcing interceptions, as they were fourth in the MAC with 12. Those 12 interceptions came from eight different players, which was tied for second in the conference for most players to record an interception.

Conversely, the defensive weak spot last season allowed 208.1 passing yards per game, which put them at eighth in the conference. The defense still performed very well, finishing fourth in the MAC in total defense at 352.1 yards allowed per game.

Who’s Back Last year’s very strong safety group lost key pieces in the offseason, but redshirt junior safety and defensive captain DJ Walker is returning as the Bobcats try to build a new safety group centered around him as the new veteran. Walker recorded two interceptions and 61 tackles last season and was selected to the second-team All-MAC in 2024.

from his captain heading into the 2026 campaign.

“I think secondary-wise, like we’re going to be real good, and obviously Kendall Bannister is supposed to be our lockdown corner this year,” Walker said.

“So, I’m looking forward to that group for sure.”

Who Left As talked about earlier, the Bobcats’ safety room took a hit in the offseason.

Ohio specifically lost two valuable safeties. Junior safety Jalen Thomeson transferred to San Diego State after a breakout season last year. Thomeson led Ohio’s defense in tackles with over 80, while also having seven tackles for loss, an interception, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

Losing Thomeson is a big hit to this Bobcats secondary, but it wasn’t their only loss.

Ohio also lost two-time team captain safety Adonis Williams Jr. as he graduated. Williams racked up 80 tackles last season. This veteran loss could potentially really hurt Ohio’s secondary if returning safety DJ Walker isn’t able to fill that veteran role.

Pearson is also a big loss due to graduation.

Pearson led his defense in pass breakups with 11,

The safety room taking a hit allows returning junior safety JT Haskins to compete for a starting job. Haskins was a rotation player last year while recording six tackles. Haskins is no stranger to the field, though, as he had playing time in all 13 games last season.

while also getting two interceptions and making 53 tackles. You could make a case that Pearson was the biggest key to this Ohio secondary last season.

Who’s New In an attempt to fill the hole in the cornerback room that was left by Pearson, Ohio brought in two transfers.

The first transfer was junior cornerback Eli Thompson from Holy Cross.

Thompson was brought in to hopefully be the veteran that the cornerback room is missing after the loss of Pearson.

Thompson has two great seasons under his belt at Holy Cross and is now looking to have his best season yet in year one with the Bobcats.

The other transfer is redshirt freshman cornerback KJ Sejour out of Chattanooga. Similar to Thompson, Sejour had a great season statistically before transferring and is another big addition to the secondary in hopes of adding players with experience.

Overview Due to transfers and graduation, Ohio faced some big holes in its secondary, especially in leadership positions. But new transfers and returning players could fill those gaps and help lead a strong campaign in the 2026 season.

Then there is redshirt junior cornerback Kendall Bannister.

Bannister appeared in 10 games last season and made four starts, recording 13 tackles, one interception and three pass breakups. Bannister sat behind Tank Pearson, whose vacated role as the top corner will fall to Bannister, who has a huge wave of support

Linemen during the Bobcats game against Ohio State, Sept. 13, 2025.

(JOHN FOUSS | PHOTO

LD004224@OHIO.EDU

Ohio volleyball opens 2026 season with pair of exhibition matches JACK MULDOWNEY FOR THE POST

SCHEDULE THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

Pitch Perfect- Movie on the Lawn 8PM | West Green Lawn

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21

Baker Bash

7:30-11PM | Baker Center

SUNDAY, AUGUST 23

Involvement Fair 3-6PM | College Green

MONDAY AUGUST 24

Hypnotist Dale K 7-9PM | Baker Center Ballroom

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25

Petting Zoo

5-8PM | Morton Field, South Green

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27

Comedian- Emily Wilson 7PM | Baker Center Ballroom

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28

Bobcat Block Party & Fireworks Show 5PM | Paw Print Park

OHIO.EDU/WELCOME-WEEK

The Ohio Bobcats women’s volleyball squad is officially ready for regular season play after recently competing in two exhibition games against highlevel opponents. First, they traveled to Lexington, Kentucky on August 8th to take on the third ranked Kentucky Wildcats. This one was a lopsided affair on paper, and that showed in the results.

Kentucky won all four of the sets that were played, and while that is disappointing for Ohio, there are certainly positives that come with facing such a high-powered foe. Most importantly, the result doesn’t go on the Bobcats’ record, and regardless of the score, gaining that level of experience in their first time on the court together will prove extremelyvaluable throughout the season.

Official stats from the match were not released as it was only an exhibition. Four sets were played in the match though, a 3-0 sweep in Kentucky’s favor followed by an extra fourth set agreed-upon by both teams to allow both sides to go deeper into their benches. Therefore, every Bobcat got a taste of the highlevel competition, even furthering the value of that early-season experience.

The Bobcats also took on the Ohio State Buckeyes in a closeddoor scrimmage on August 22nd in Columbus. There are no official scores or stats posted from this matchup, but facing another highmajor opponent in preseason play was certainly a valuable test for Ohio.

These early matchups have prepared Ohio to head into regular season play where they will open the season

against Niagara on August 28th in Huntington, West Virginia at the Marshall Invitational.

No matter the results of either preseason match, coach Kenzie Brinkman was very smart to schedule two high-major opponents to fully prepare her squad for the regular season. Having that experience will pay dividends when the Bobcats take on other high-major opponents during the regular season such as Butler, Penn State and Stanford. These preseason tests will also give Ohio a valuable edge over several of its rivals in the MAC come conference play in late September.

As Ohio heads into the 2026 regular season, one player who projects to be a major contributor after a stellar freshman year is middle blocker Bailey Blair.

Blair’s performances from the two exhibitions are unknown as no stats were released, but she is a shoe-in to hold down the middle for the Bobcats all season long.

Blair came to OU last fall as a freshman from Assumption High School in Louisville, Kentucky. She hit the ground running in her first season of college volleyball, leading the team with 360 kills and also racking up 51 total blocks. Those numbers led her to earn very high honors as only a freshman, being named the 2025 MAC Freshman of the Year and also being part of the All-MAC First Team.

Coach Brinkman and Ohio fans can count on Blair to continue that dominance as she returns for year two, and there is a lot of promise for her to even make another leap this JM760224@ OHIO.EDU

Jackson Paveletzke returns to OU: NCAA’s new “5-in-5” rule JACK MULDOWNEY FOR THE POST Big news hit the MidAmerican Conference basketball league Aug. 16 when Jackson Paveletzke, a senior studying general studies, announced he was granted a fifth year of eligibility and will return to the Ohio Bobcats this coming season.

This was news for head coach Jeff Boals, as he will have his best player back to lead what has become a very well-rounded roster loaded with impactful offseason additions.

Paveletzke’s return to college basketball comes from a rule the NCAA recently passed, allowing athletes to play five seasons in five years. The “5-in-5” rule opposes the previous four seasons in five years format, with the new age-based model allowing players to play five seasons in five years.

The college eligibility window is now tied to high school graduation or the athletes’ 19th birthday.

Meaning, the athlete’s fiveseason tenure begins once they are either enrolled fulltime in college or at the start of the first academic year following their 19th birthday, whichever comes first.

The biggest takeaway from

this new legislation is that it removes redshirt and injury loopholes that might have corrupted collegiate sports. Injuries and bench time will no longer extend an athlete’s eligibility, but there are some exceptions to this rule, including mission trips, maternity leave or military service.

When talks of this new eligibility format ensued, many thought it would not go into effect for this upcoming fall and winter. However, several court rulings in states around the country, and even stipulations from the NCAA itself, have granted hundreds of athletes in all sports the ability to return for their upcoming seasons.

The stipulation created controversy and became an elephant in the room for coaches everywhere. As it is already late August, most rosters have been all-but fully constructed. Now, a load of players are returning to their teams, and even entering the transfer portal, very late into the offseason.

Many of these players are established NCAA stars whose college careers were practically over.

However, they can now return or transfer to schools, earning playing time or even a roster spot, from the other players. This could have

coaches and players across the country feeling uneasy.

Aside from the Ohio Bobcats, one men’s basketball team that has heavily benefitted from this rule is the Texas Tech Red Raiders. Changes made by the Red Raiders since the passing of this rule shows the full extent of what it could mean for college basketball as early as this coming season.

Guard Jackson Paveletzke (13) during the Bobcats game against Arkansas State, Nov. 3, 2025. The Bobcats lost 89-85 to Arkansas State in The Convo. (John Fouss | Photo Editor)

Just two weeks ago, the Red Raiders had an objectively subpar roster heading into the 2026-27 season after losing last season’s star point guard Christian Anderson Jr. to the NBA and standout freshman Jaylen Petty to the transfer portal.

However, since the official passing of the NCAA’s new rule, the team’s expectations have completely flipped. Fifthyear guard Donovan Atwell, one of the best shooters in the country, is now returning. The team also brought back former star Darrion Williams, who spent last year at NC State.

This shows the true power of the ruling, as it has allowed a high-level program that looked like it could be in for a gap year to completely revamp its roster and remain a serious threat in the Big 12.

While this rule comes with a wave of controversy and will not be universally appreciated, it does take care of serious

eligibility loopholes that have been abused for years.

Competition will also be at an all-time high in college sports in 2026-27, with stars now being able to return for one more year.

He will now be alongside Kyler D’Augustino, IU Indy transfer and senior, Kolton Mitchell, Idaho transfer and junior, and Ché Brogan, Australian floor general and freshman.

For basketball fans in Athens, this rule could be seen as a positive and will elevate the Bobcats in a multitude of ways. Paveletzke returning to the Bobcats not only adds an established leader to a roster full of new faces, but also bolsters what is already an electric, high-level backcourt.

Paveletzke also reunites with redshirt senior Javan Simmons, giving one of the best duos in the MAC one last dance. This is the perfect cherry on top of a fruitful @JACKMULDOWNEY1 JM760224@OHIO.EDU

DR. AMY ACTON is running to become Ohio Governor.

https://actonforgovernor.com

SHERROD BROWN

is running to become Ohio Senator. https://www.sherrodbrown.com Ohio University’s football team runs out at the game against Northern Illinois, Oct. 18, 2025, in Peden Stadium, in Athens. (CALEB SMITH | FOR THE POST)

Looking at Nick Poulos led Ohio OWEN LIPSTREU SPORTS EDITOR Ohio will take the field in less than two weeks, and Saturday night the biggest news of the offseason finally came out, and it confirmed what many Bobcat fans were expecting as graduate student Nick Poulos was named the starter for week one in Lincoln, Nebraska, against the Cornhuskers.

Ohio heads into 2026 with high hopes for this squad, and it all starts with first-year head coach John Hauser. He and his staff worked hard this offseason to rebuild a depleted roster while keeping the culture that had brought this program four consecutive seasons of nine or more wins.

“We always tell guys to be who you say you are, Hauser said of the transfers. “I met with all those guys in my office, and they are. We got a lot of team-first guys in that group, so they have really bought into the culture and ran with it.”

The Bobcats will look to keep this streak up this season behind Poulos under center, who looked poised to win the job during camp.

After finally getting the tap on the shoulder from Hauser, Ohio’s success will fall on the quarterback’s shoulders this year.

Poulos, a California native, is in his third year at Ohio after starting his collegiate career at El Camino Community College. In his college career, he has earned valuable experience behind Ohio star Parker Navarro.

He laid the groundwork for

Poulos, but he was always a skilled backup when both missed time in their careers, logging about 300 passing and 200 rushing yards in 12 appearances over the past two years for Ohio, while also being responsible for three touchdowns.

Ohio fans should expect the same grit from the Bobcats this season but may see something that has become unfamiliar in Athens: a pocket passer. Navarro brought dynamic skill to the Ohio offense, allowing offensive coordinator Scott Isphording to build an offensive scheme around a run game that included the quarterback.

Over the past two seasons, Navarro ran for over 1,900 yards and 27 touchdowns.

Poulos will bring a different ideology to the offensive play-calling, relying on junior Duncan Brune to take on the brunt of the running load.

While Poulos can escape the pocket, look for him to look to be pass-first, involving receivers like redshirt freshman Preston Bowman, Brune out of the backfield and his tight ends.

Hauser has been overseeing the defense for the past four seasons, and it has been key to putting together these strong seasons and winning close games late, but now he must coach this team from the top, and that can be challenging but his staff has stepped up around him and Ohio looks poised to compete again, despite a

@OLIPPY17 OL415422@OHIO.EDU

Week 1: AT Nebraska

Week 2: VS Jacksonville State

Amy Leigh Acton (born February 16, 1966, in Youngstown, Ohio) is a USAmerican physician and researcher who is running to become Ohio governor.

MAGA and many Republican politicians are anti-science, but scientists have done an enormous amount of good in the world. We need politicians who understand real science and reject pseudo-science.

Sherrod lives in Columbus with his wife Connie Schultz, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and author. Sherrod and Connie drive Jeeps made by union workers in Toledo, and are blessed with a growing family, including three daughters, a son, eight grandchildren, and their beloved rescue dogs, Franklin and Walter.

Week 3: AT South Alabama

Week 4: VS Stonehill

Week 5: AT Kent State

Week 6: VS Central Michigan (Homecoming) Week 7: AT Sacramento State Week 8: VS Eastern Michigan (Senior Day)

Week 9: AT Akron

PROTECT VOTING RIGHTS & DEMOCRACY The government is not some distant machine. It is us. And in a healthy republic, the people hold the power. That means protecting the right to vote with the seriousness it deserves. We should pass the Voting Rights Act and fully restore the protections that were stripped away after Shelby County v. Holder. When federal oversight was weakened, states were free to pass laws that made it harder for certain communities to vote. An updated framework like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act would reestablish clear guardrails against discrimination and ensure that changes to voting laws are reviewed before harm is done. Protecting democracy means making sure every eligible citizen can cast a ballot without unnecessary barriers and know it will count. The government should answer to the people. And if those in power ever forget that, the ballot box is how we remind them.

Note: This is Jerrad Christian’s position on this issue, but many centrist and progressive politicians hold similar views.

Week 10: AT Miami (OH)

Week 11: VS Ball State

Week 12: VS Toledo

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D23 announces upcoming projects MICAH FENNER ASST. ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR From Aug. 14-16, Disney held its annual D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California. The threeday event featured many reveals for upcoming Disney releases, including projects that had not been announced before the event.

“Incredibles 3,” was officially announced at the event. The film focuses on the eldest children of the superhero family, Violet Parr (Sarah Vowell) and Dash Parr (Huck Milner) as they try to prove they can be capable superheroes like their parents.

Although no trailer was released, a few pieces of promotional art were shown and a tentative theatrical release date of June 2028 was given.

The long-awaited sequel to the 2017 family film “Coco” was announced for release in November 2029. Not much was revealed about the story of “Coco 2” besides the fact that it follows a teenage Miguel facing the vengeful return of Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt).

2027. The film stars Ryan Gosling as Kade Auberon, a mysterious man in possession of the fastest starfighter ever. A trailer was shown at the D23 event, but has yet to be officially released online.

currently set for a late 2027 release date.

A “Kingdom Hearts” series was also announced for Disney+. Not much is known about the project, other than that the creative team will work closely with “Kingdom Hearts” game director Tetsuya Nomura. The series brings a new perspective to the “Kingdom Hearts” universe while staying true to what made fans fall in love with the series in the first place.

The live-action adaptation of “Lilo & Stitch 2 ” was announced and given a release date of May 28, 2028. The film features the first live-action appearance of Angel, Stitch’s pink counterpart.

The teaser trailer for the third season of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” was shown, with the a season premiering Nov. 20. The season tells the story of the third book in Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson” series, “The Titan’s Curse,” as Jackson (Walker Scobell) attempts to rescue his friend Annabeth Chase (Leah Sava Jeffries) and the goddess Artemis (Dafne Keen).

New footage of “Kingdom Hearts IV,” was released, the newest game in Square Enix’s long-running role-playing series centered on Disney and Final Fantasy. The footage showed series protagonist Sora traveling through the Land of the Dead from “Coco,” as well as combat gameplay of Sora, Donald Duck, Goofy and Mickey Mouse all as playable characters. The game is

“Star Wars: Ahsoka ” also released the first trailer for its second season, which is set to premiere Jan. 20, 2027.

The trailer shows Hayden Christensen returning as Anakin Skywalker in what appears to be a flashback, as well as the first look at Rory McCann as Baylan Skoll, who is replacing Ray Stevenson as the character following Stevenson’s death.

A 45-second teaser was shown for the new “Bluey” movie. The film will be 3D animated instead of the series’ usual 2D animation style. The film is set for a theatrical release Aug. 6, 2027.

The first trailer for “VisionQuest ” was also shown. In the trailer, we see Vision (Paul Bettany), trying to piece together memories of his old life before his death in “Avengers: Infinity War.” James Spader is shown in the trailer returning to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ultron, who now lives in Vision’s subconscious. The series will premiere Oct. 14 on Disney+.

“Frozen 3” was announced at the event with a sneak peek trailer. The film follows Elsa (Idina Menzel), Olaf (Josh Gad) and newlyweds Anna (Kristen Bell) and Kristoff (Jonathan Groff) as a mysterious villain appears, one with similar ice powers to Elsa . The film is currently scheduled for a fall 2027 release.

Fans of Disney, Pixar, Marvel and “Star Wars” can look forward to experiencing all of these projects and more in the coming years.

“Zootopia 3 ” was announced to be in production, with Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman returning as Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.

The “Star Wars” franchise gave fans their first look at “Star Wars: Starfighter,” set to be released in May

MF465224@OHIO.EDU

Unpacking the success of the Unicorn Frappuccino KENDALL DAVIS ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR The original Unicorn Frappuccino was released April 19, 2017. This iconic Starbucks drink became a major cultural phenomenon, especially on social platforms like Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

The release of the Unicorn Frappuccino capitalized on the popularity of unicorns in 2017, prevalent in fashion and food trends.

With such a unique name, the Unicorn Frappuccino raised questions about what the drink tasted like and what unicorn-like qualities it had. The frappuccino’s pink creme base featured a mango flavor, with a sour blue drizzle.

When the drizzle was mixed in, the flavor changed from sweet to sour.

Starbucks’ Unicorn Frappuccino was only available in stores for five days.

However, many locations ran out of supplies, creating hype around the drink and cementing its spot in the collective memory on the internet.

Due to the nostalgia many have for

the Unicorn Frappuccino, from Aug. 15-16, the drink returned to Starbucks locations. A combination of internet buzz and sentimentality for the popular beverage led to the great success of the Unicorn Frappuccino.

Starbucks sold over 2 million Unicorn Frappuccinos during its limitedtime re-release. In fact, Aug. 15 was Starbucks’ largest Saturday sales day ever for its North American locations.

Other regions sold lots of these drinks as well, with 75,000 sold in the United Kingdom alone.

When a strange culinary phenomenon such as this occurs, it can lead some to wonder what exactly causes so many people to be so enticed. With the Unicorn Frappuccino, there are several factors that led to its success.

Firstly, the drink’s neon pink and blue coloring is very novel. More importantly, it stands out extremely well on social media feeds. For large corporations like Starbucks, there is perhaps no easier and more effective way to market than to create something so attuned to social media

that customers will promote the product themselves.

blended refreshers and the S’mores Frappuccino, just to name a few.

Baristas have begged customers on social media not to order the Unicorn Frappuccino and other complicated drinks, which may seem to put a damper on the future of unusual food campaigns such as this one.

Additionally, the limited-time nature of both releases created an artificial scarcity of the product. The drink’s divisive sweet and sour flavor built controversy, leading to more social media discussion. All factors considered, it is no wonder that the Unicorn Frappuccino was so popular.

Despite this, it does not seem likely that such marketing tactics are going anywhere. Eye-catching food promotions are nothing new; take 7-Eleven’s Bring Your Own Cup Day, for example. This recurring stunt has been going on since 2015 and does not seem to be at risk of elimination. Similar stunts to the Unicorn Frappuccino occur regularly at many fast food restaurants to promote movie releases, especially children’s movies.

However, many Starbucks baristas took to social media platforms to complain about the difficulty of making such a complex drink and the volume of customers it brought in. These complaints were prevalent both times the Frappuccino was in stores, and raised concerns for the sustainability of fast-food locations running intense short-term marketing campaigns.

So, unfortunately for the fast food employees of the world, it seems that customers can look forward to more quirky marketing schemes for the foreseeable future.

Requiring extra steps and colorful, messy ingredients, the Unicorn Frappuccino has not secured a good reputation among baristas. Aside from this, baristas have also taken issue with the number of new drinks that have been added to the regular menu this summer: the Butterfly Drink,

KD305124@OHIO.EDU

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Students walk across College Green during move-in weekend, Aug. 22, 2026.

(JOHN FOUSS | PHOTO EDITOR)

Back to school/continued from pg 1 Getting back into the swing of things is not easy for some students who enjoy a long break away from classes and academic routine. Many students spent their time traveling, some worked away at internships and jobs, while some did a little of both.

Some Bobcats are arriving on campus for the first time, settling in and mingling with those in their learning community and classes. Many must learn how to find their own routine, study strategies and friends, but one must first get into an academic mindset.

Ella Neighborgall, a senior studying communication studies, spent her summer interning and enjoyed learning every day. Now beginning her final year as a Bobcat, Neighborgall is eager to graduate but is nervous to become a “real adult” after leaving Ohio University.

Neighborgall is on the executive team for Scripps PRSSA and is anticipating her classes, but mentions how summer work is unlike the

routine and responsibilities of a college student.

“I almost feel more pressure coming back, because when you work for a corporate company, you leave work and then you’re done with work, at least when you’re an entrylevel person,” Neighborgall said. “But your homework follows you everywhere.”

To prepare before classes began, Neighborgall made sure to complete her pre-readings for the classes in which she’s a teaching assistant. She also made an effort to memorize her class schedule and got used to walking everywhere once again.

Neighborgall motivates freshmen to write down their tasks and assignments in a planner or enter them into an app to keep track, especially if one plans to get involved in student organizations.

“Once you get involved, it’s not going to be ‘I have to go to the library and do (my) homework,’” Neighborgall said.

“It’s going to be like, ‘I have to

make five social media posts, or go to this new event, or help prepare for this event and also write five essays during finals.”

Some returning students are ready to jump into the school year, eager to complete assignments and show up to class. Skyler Dailey, a sophomore studying anthropology, spent most of her summer practicing guitar, most notably “Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard.

Dailey said she’s ready to get back in the classroom.

“My mindset’s kind of ready to get back to work,” Dailey said. “You know, I’m ready to put in the time and effort to get my GPA up. I’m ready to study, and I’m ready to be back on campus.”

As a member of the trombone section in the Ohio University Marching 110, Dailey is looking forward to performing again at Peden Stadium.

“I’m so excited for the first football game,” Dailey said. “It’s gonna be awesome.”

For freshmen feeling stuck in their summer routine, Dailey said it’s important to be ready and willing to learn a school

mindset once again.

“Understand that you’ve got to study and work really hard to achieve your goals,” Dailey said. “Once you internalize that, ‘It’s time for me to get to work,’ I feel like it’s a little easier to actually do stuff.”

Many students experience a different transition from summer to school, including Ben Zeiders, a junior studying sport management. Zeiders enjoyed his summer golfing about four times a week and said he now must shift his mindset as fall semester begins.

“Because summer, I just had to work, lift and golf, that’s it,” Zeiders said. *“But now I’ve got to worry about my academics.”

Zeiders is eager to hang out with his friends and meet new people, and encourages freshmen to do the same to integrate with college life and get into a Bobcat mindset.

Savannah Pritt, a freshman studying exercise physiology, was recruited to run for OU’s track and field. Pritt said she’s excited to experience her program, as she’s heard good things about it, and spent her

time the week before classes organizing her belongings and school supplies.

“Just trying to get everything figured out because I’ve never lived away from home,” Pritt said. “So I’m trying to get all my stuff, prepare everything that I need to have, especially because I’m a freshman. I don’t really know what all I need to have for class.”

Students can find information on their academic journey through OU’s Degree Audit Reporting System and can find classes needed for graduation by their major.

With any specific questions regarding classes, degree requirements and scheduling, one can find their academic advisor in their student center. For any inquiries about the layout of the campus, culture and general studying tips, incoming freshmen are encouraged to contact their learning community leaders or fellow peers.

@FP074825@OHIO.EDU

“Lost Weekend” album breakdown KENDALL DAVIS ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR On Aug. 14, Phoebe Bridgers’ third album, “Lost Weekend,” was released.

“Lost Weekend” explores many aspects of Bridgers’ life — including family, romantic relationships and fame — and the album provides fans with a much-needed update on Bridgers’ life since the release of her last album, “Punisher,” in 2020.

The release of the album comes a few months after Bridgers announced an arena tour called “The Lost Tour.” Prior to this, Bridgers performed several pop-up, same-day shows, building excitement for both a tour and the new album.

Bridgers kicks off “Lost Weekend” with “The Outside,” a track that takes on a more electronic sound than her typical indie folk feel. “The Outside” is a reflection of Bridgers’ ability to dissociate from traumatic moments, notably abuse at the hands of her recently deceased father, which creates complicated feelings for Bridgers after his passing.

Next up is the album’s lead single, “Lost Boys.” Clearly inspired by “Peter Pan’s” lost boys, a group of young boys who are led by Peter Pan and never grow up to adulthood.

This track appears to be a commentary on a variety of men Bridgers has interacted with throughout her life.

It is unclear which men the song is about, but overall, “Lost Boys” critiques adult men who are immature and, at times, violent. This track may also allude to a larger generational problem of young men who grew up under toxic masculinity.

The third song on “Lost

Weekend” is “Kill Me.” Though somewhat ambiguous, “Kill Me” clearly addresses Bridgers’ emotions about the passing of time and meeting a new partner — her current boyfriend, comedian and musician Bo Burnham.

This song is followed by “The Governor’s Waltz,” which delves into the ways her relationship with her exboyfriend, actor Paul Mescal, fizzled out. In contrast, the fifth track, “Bobby,” is a love song devoted to Burnham.

The album’s namesake, “Lost Weekend,” appears to further reflect on Bridgers’ and Mescal’s relationship, while also processing Bridgers’ grief for her father.

“Haunted” focuses on growing and healing, especially in the context of going on tour with her friends Julien Baker and Lucy Dacus However, it also expresses Bridgers’ qualms about fame and touring.

Mostly an ambient instrumental track, “Panorama” is about the metaphorical knocking of death on one’s door. The song acts as an intermission in the album.

Following this instrumental break, “Still Standing” tackles Bridgers’ complicated relationship with her father.

Though she is grateful for the role he played in her life, she still acknowledges the domestic violence she and others in her family experienced at his hands.

These experiences cause Bridgers to feel uncertain in the wake of her father’s death.

With backing vocals by Burnham, “Liberty Tree” continues to tell the story of Bridgers’ and Burnham’s relationship. Named after the Liberty Tree Mall near Burnham’s childhood home, “Liberty Tree” is a declaration

of Bridgers’ love for Burnham.

In a culmination of the major concepts of “Lost Weekend,” “Never Going Back!” simply repeats that Bridgers is never going back. This phrase could be applied to her father’s passing, her life in fame or her newfound relationship. The track ends with a voicemail from her father, in which he says Bridgers is busy being a rock star.

Next, “Other Plans” is something of an interlude, describing the allencompassing way love can unexpectedly arrive in one’s life. Bridgers has said she wrote the song as a challenge to write a melody with only one note in it.

Using the same melody as “Graceland Too” from Bridgers’ previous album “Punisher,” “Lost Parade” is a short instrumental song that

allows listeners to process the album’s themes..

“I Can’t Wait” demonstrates both the nature of an allconsuming new love and the divide in personality that Bridgers feels, noted by a reference to Jekyll and Hyde.

Following this, “As Above” recounts thoughts Bridgers had while on an airplane about how the past, present and future are all “on top of each other.”

creates intrigue for what is in store for Bridgers’ future music. Bridgers’ deep sense of individuality and personal songwriting are what make her music stand out, and “Lost Weekend” is no exception.

Fans can look forward to “The Lost Tour” beginning Sept. 14.

Finally, “Lost Weekend” concludes with “Lost Weekend (Reprise),” which returns to the grief-related theme of “Lost Weekend,” but with a more peaceful, resolved outlook.

Overall, “Lost Weekend” continues Bridgers’ success in writing thought-provoking albums. “Lost Weekend” takes on a slightly different sound from past albums, with a more electronic feel that

@KENDALL_DAVIS3 KD305124@OHIO.EDU ILLUSTRATION BY ABBY DOENCH DESIGN DIRECTOR

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CASSIDY MCCLURG FOR THE POST Classes have begun at Ohio University, and so have many new friendships and experiences. The lunar eclipse in Pisces occurs this week, causing things to unravel.

Shedding off the summer will free you of bad habits, like procrastinating a big paper, and will help you grow this semester. A hermit crab grows out of their shell to find a new one; it’s OK if your new one is too big. Mercury in Virgo will bring strategy to your shell shopping.

may arrive via landing that internship or chatting with a mentor. Be wary of getting stuck; your dreams are bigger than you think. People believe in you, Taurus; this week you have to believe in yourself.

Gemini Gemini, you work so hard that this week you might feel stale toward your accomplishments.

You’re here at another season; think about which direction to turn. Take a new route to work or class. Pulling back from ambition is not a setback, only a break from success.

Cancer

Aries A rub on the back from your therapist will comfort you as healing begins for you this lunar eclipse, Aries. Make sure you don’t bring too many memories from last semester into this one. Old hookups and family issues may ruin your studies, so make sure all loose ends are tied up before syllabus week.

Taurus

Emotions rule you this week, like always. With the lunar eclipse in your expansion zone, it might be time to assess what you think of others and what you think your dreams are. If memories occur, show some grace and forgive those who have wronged you. Growing from memories doesn't mean you have to stay bitter or sad.

With Venus in Libra, your mind will desire harmony. Cancer, you are a bird they cannot chain.

This week should make you stand up and cheer, Taurus.

Your hopes and dreams

Leo

you’re healthy for the journey.

Going to pay off a debt this week, Leo? This week is a great week to look at your savings and budget for the rest of the year. Don’t let money rule you; you’ll be able to handle it. Deep conversations about life with loved ones will bring extra security outside of money.

Spending a lot during your birthday season is over. It’s time to redesign your spending habits.

Scorpio

Virgo New season, new you, Virgo.

This week could bring the end to a relationship or cycle. Tear up the script and rewrite it.

You’ve survived the worst, and it’s only up from here. The sun is in your sign, and it’s time to shine. Use this week as a compass for where you turn next.

Scorpio, love will overpower you this week, but this has been going on since 2024.

Anger and resentment from rejection leave you unable to forgive. Allow yourself to let go of a grudge so you can tap into your creativity and passions this week. The lunar eclipse will help you let go and direct your heart. Put your energy into a newborn creation.

Sagitarius The lunar eclipse may actually have you plant roots, Sagittarius. Something didn’t feel right when you tried to plant them, but this week you might find something or someone that solidifies your domestic life. Healing will start this week, whether it's you, someone relying on you or both.

Libra Libra, your calendar will change this week. A major setback or shift might occur, leaving you feeling surprisingly free. Don’t start getting sick at the thought of change.

Reaching one end puts you in a new beginning and a new routine. Stick with it and call your doctor to make sure

Capricorn

somewhere different forever.

The Virgo sun will support you through any big change you want to make.

Aquarius No worries about tuition this week, Aquarius. Your self-worth is more than your possessions and savings. Be attentive to your spending this week. The lunar eclipse will show you exactly where to put your focus. You are a fixed sign, which makes you stubborn as can be. This stubbornness may help you this week to stay on top of your goals. You know you, Aquarius; keep it that way.

Pisces This lunar eclipse is big for you, Pisces, and it has been a transition since 2012. Do you feel weird now that Neptune is no longer in your sign? You must be a beautiful butterfly by now, Pisces. You’re ready to discover the newest version of yourself.

The summer let you down, Capricorn. Break free of that and actually talk to someone who gets you. Like-minded individuals will help you get rid of anxieties of unrealistic concerns. Just leap, open your mind and allow your move-in day travel to put you

CROSSWORD

@CASSIEEFSC CM303824@OHIO.EDU

SUDOKU

ANSWER TO DATE PUZZLES

Comics for Friends

ABBY DOENCH DESIGN DIRECTOR

AUG. 20, 2026

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Radius clause/continued from pg 1 The clause has been adopted for multiple reasons, including overperforming and the promotion of newer bands.

Event coordinator for The Union, Myke Linscott, states the clause is also set to promote visibility within the scene.

“We needed to codify something so that we’re being fair and equitable,” Linscott said. “A lot of those opportunities that might go to bands who already have a ton of opportunities are going to go to bands who are struggling to find them.”

With local bands, touring bands and student organizations booking events, overplaying was an underlying problem. Linscott hopes the clause will help newer bands gain traction and encourage a rotation of performances.

Jane Hoover, booking coordinator for Casa Nueva, shares the same stance on the meaning behind the clause. She said it is common for a couple of popular bands to receive most or all of the “good gigs” in Athens.

“This is generally just to try and diversify, give everyone else a shot,” Hoover said.

Exceptions are still expected to be made for specific circumstances. Instances such as Ohio University-affiliated events or shows falling just within the two-week range

are problems that have already been brought up and addressed with both venues.

Hoover said the clause does not come with repercussions, and describes it as more of a guideline at Casa Nueva. Linscott said The Union considers “mitigating circumstances.”

“We want to have this policy, but we don’t want to stop people from playing,” Linscott said.

“This should be something that bands consider when they accept shows.”

The sign on the outside of The Union at 18 W. Union St. in Athens, Aug. 19, 2026.

(ETHAN HERX | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

Linscott added that The Union is open to feedback.

“There’s been some skepticism initially, and everybody who’s wanted to talk about the policy, I have made time to talk about this with them,” Linscott said. “I appreciate them taking time to talk with me about it, and all those conversations have gone really well.”

Artists within the scene have raised concerns about how this will affect shows, traction and the overall scene moving forward. Airbag, a local indie-rock band formed during the previous school year, stands against this clause. Airbag’s main worry is how this will affect the ability of newer bands to gain recognition.

Quinn Carmichael, a junior studying music production, plays guitar and does vocals for Airbag. Carmichael expressed not understanding

why the clause needed to be set in place.

“There’s merit to wanting to get other bands in,” Carmichael said. “There were a lot of times I'm like ‘Man, I’ve seen that band on a lot of posters recently,’ which isn’t necessarily bad considering I don’t have to go to the show.”

Tsujigiri is another band local to Athens. Luke Mcghee, a junior studying music performance, plays bass, guitar and vocals for Tsujigiri. Mcghee stated Tsujigiri has already been granted an exception from the clause for two of their upcoming shows.

“I think right now the enforcement of it is pretty loose, and from what I've heard it hasn’t restricted anyone yet,” Mcghee said.

Weekender Ask a Bobcat, band mixer, Bobcat block party FIONA PETTICREW HUMAN INTEREST EDITOR Tuesday, Aug. 25 The Chaddock and Morrow College of Fine Arts and Ohio School of Music is presenting its Concerts on the Green series with Ohio Brass at 6 p.m. The performance is open to the public and will take place on College Green at the West Portico of the Templeton Blackburn Memorial Alumni Auditorium.

Admission: Free The Dean of Students is hosting an Ask A Bobcat event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for students looking for guidance or a chat. It is located outside the Alumni Gateway and on the fourth floor of Baker University Center.

Admission: Free The Center for Student Engagement and Leadership is setting up a petting zoo on Morton Field between East and South Green, near the bottom of Morton Hill, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Admission: Free Wednesday, Aug. 26 Campus Recreation is hosting a sunrise yoga event from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on West Green.

Admission: Free The 2026 Multicultural Student Expo is in Baker Ballroom from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event is hosted by the Black Student Union and created to welcome first-year students. Bobcats can explore and chat with

over 50 multicultural student organizations.

Admission: Free A field day hosted by the University Program Council student organization is held at Pawprint Park from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The event will include an obstacle course, yard games, a bounce house and more.

Admission: Free Thursday, Aug. 27 The Union is hosting a mixer for musicians looking to start a band at 6 p.m. Students can gain insight from student organizations such as Women in the Music Industry, ACRN, Thread and more. The event also includes performances by Rat Wizard and Swage.

Admission: Free The new golf simulator located at the Golf and Tennis Center is open for the public from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and hosted by Campus Recreation.

Admission: Free Lukas Nelson, Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter is performing from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium. Tickets are available for purchase online.

Admission: $55 for the first 10 rows, $45 for the remainder of the floor and $35 for the balcony.

Friday, Aug. 28 A Bobcat Block Party and Fireworks event is at Pawprint Park from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The event is hosted by the

CSEL, and will include a DJ, food and a battle of the bands contest.

Mcghee said much of the discussions he had regarding the clause with those in the music community have been negative, including conversations with house show bookers.

“I know some other bands who I talked to, they specifically said they don't want to play the big venues anymore,” Mcghee said. “They're going to stick to house shows because they don't agree with the rules.”

The two-week radius clause specifically includes house shows, which has raised heavy concern with the owners of popular house show venues.

One popular venue, The Slab, is worried about how this will affect upcoming shows.

Cayden Anthony, one of the founders of The Slab, has

At 6 p.m., curator Christy Davis of the Canton Museum of Art will give a curator’s perspective on the exhibition.

Admission: Free Saturday, Aug. 29 A welcome week drag show takes place in Baker, presented by the University Program Council. Doors open at 6 p.m., with a meet-and-greet at 6:15 p.m. and the show from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The show will include performances from artists like Rock M. Sakura, Kazma Knights and Evelyn Everything.

Admission: Free Sunday, Aug. 30 The Ohio University Women’s Soccer team plays Mercyhurst University at 1 p.m. at Chessa Field.

Admission: Free

“The Slab is nothing without local talent and local appreciation of music,” Anthony said.

“The Slab is its community, which is why we're so community-forward.”

@FP073825@OHIO.EDU

https://jen4oh2.com JERRAD CHRISTIAN is running to become US Representative for Ohio District 12.

A Tarot Night event with Lacey Jae is hosted at the Big Run Kava Bar from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Big Run Kava encourages guests to receive a deep dive with Jae and enjoy a drink discount with the purchase of a reading.

An exhibition titled “Telluric”

by John Sabraw, professor of Painting and Drawing, opens in the Kennedy Museum of Art at 5:30 p.m. A public reception is held until 7 p.m.

While Anthony acknowledges the clause may help newer bands integrate themselves within the music scene, he said specific mention of house shows is “not right.”

JENNIFER MAZZUCKELLI (mazz-uh-kelly) is running to become US Representative for Ohio District 2.

Admission: Free

Admission: $15 for clarity readings and $25 for in-depth readings

numerous concerns about the clause and said they have already been affected by it. The Slab is set to host Slabstock on Saturday with a lineup of 10 bands. Since the two-week radius clause has gone into effect, one band has already dropped out.

https://www.christianforohio.com

GET MONEY OUT OF POLITICS Money has distorted our politics so badly that people barely recognize the system anymore. When the Supreme Court handed down Citizens United, it opened the floodgates for unlimited corporate spending and told the richest voices in the country they could drown out everyone else. Billionaires should not have a louder voice than a teacher, a mechanic, a nurse or a janitor. If we are serious about self-government, we have to end Citizens United, cap campaign spending, and make it clear that elections are not auctions.

Lobbying as it exists today is legalized bribery with paperwork. Corporate interests and well-funded groups swarm Washington to extract policy that benefits them, not the people. Dark money flows through shell organizations so voters cannot even see who is pulling the strings. And yes, foreign interest groups should not be shaping our laws. That includes banning foreignlinked organizations, including groups like AIPAC, from influencing elected officials through campaign cash or political pressure. If you represent Americans, your loyalty and your funding should come from Americans.

Clean up the money, expose every dollar, and watch how quickly policy starts reflecting working families instead of donor-class wishlists.

Note: This is Jerrad Christian’s position on this issue, but many centrist and progressive politicians hold similar views.

@FP073825@OHIO.EDU

“

“I’m tired of being represented by men who don’t seem to understand how it feels to struggle to make ends meet. I’m tired of being represented by men who care more about serving their campaign donors than they care about us, the people they have taken an oath to serve.” — Jennifer Mazzuckelli (mazz - uh - kelly)

JUSTICE REQUIRES EPSTEIN TRIALS THE ELECTION IS TUE NOVEMBER 3.

(TALITHA MALOY | FOR THE POST)

David Bruce paid for this ad, which is not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s campaign.

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