February 17, 2026

US Headlines

Trump tariffs policy, Measles vaccine encouraged

FINN SMITH FOR THE POST

9 Mon ____________________

Health officials urge Americans to get the measles vaccine

Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, recommended all Americans get vaccinated for measles, according to The Associated Press. The call comes as measles outbreaks appear across multiple states nationwide.

While the Trump administration and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, expressed skepticism around vaccinations, the message to receive the measles vaccine seemed to be clear. Oz claimed Kennedy agrees on the measles vaccine, and said it is one vaccine people should get, the AP reported.

The outbreaks, such as one in South Carolina and one on the Utah-Arizona border, are mainly impacting children and could be spreading fast due to public districts of vaccines pushed by public health officials, infectious disease experts claim.

10 Tue __________________

‘Walk for Peace’ led by Buddhist monks concludes in Washington

“Walk for Peace,” a movement led by Buddhist monks, was cultivating attention for the last couple of months. The monks began their procession through the southeastern states in late October, according to the AP.

The monks’ procession came to a close on Tuesday in Washington, with thousands gathering to witness the quiet march. The mission of the Buddhist endeavor was to spread a message advocating for peace.

Ohio eyes data center impact

FIONA PETTICREW HUMAN INTEREST STAFF WRITER

New legislation in Ohio could create a nonpartisan council to examine the growing footprint of data centers. If the bill is passed, the subsequent council would review data centers’ environmental impact, electricity and water use, light and noise pollution and local economic effects.

Data centers are large facilities that store computing equipment and power much of today’s digital infrastructure. As artificial intelligence becomes more prominent, their role is expanding and so are the resources they consume. The facilities require significant amounts of electricity and water, often driving up local utility costs and raising concerns about pollution.

State Reps. Gary Click (R-88) and Kellie Deeter (D-54) introduced House Bill 646 as the number of data centers continues to rise. Ohio is home to 194 data centers, 113 of them in central Ohio, according to Data Center Map. The rapid expansion has prompted hesitancy in some communities; municipalities including Washington Township, the Village of Ashville and Jerome Township have enacted temporary pauses on data-center development over local concerns, and others are considering similar measures.

“We have heard the concerns of our communities and taken time to speak with those in the industry,” Click said in a press release announcing the bill. “We feel that this is the best approach to ensure that every voice is heard.”

Deeter said residents in her rural district have raised alarms about greenfield development and the loss of productive farmland. She said the commission could help Ohio take a more thoughtful approach that prioritizes redeveloping brownfields

and existing industrial sites before expanding into rural green space.

“The proliferation of data centers is necessary and inevitable, but the growth should be smart, balanced and respectful of local communities,” Deeter said in a press release.

Randi Pokladnik, who has a Ph.D. in environmental studies and serves on the board of Ohio Valley Environmental Activists, said many Ohioans share concerns about the energy demands and environmental impacts of data centers.

“I’m on a lot of Facebook pages of people that have had to form their own little groups to push back,” Pokladnik said. “They want to know, what is the use for this? How is it going to help us in these local communities that are being forced, in most cases, to be the host for these data centers?”

Ohio residents saw electric supply prices rise 10-35% in June 2025, according to the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel. Connecting data centers to the grid often requires upgraded transmission infrastructure, which can increase costs for consumers.

Pokladnik said many permits indicate data centers will rely on fracked gas. As a resident of Harrison County, one of the most heavily fracked counties in Ohio, she feels communities are already feeling the environmental strain.

“People do not want their parks fracked,” Pokladnik said. “You can see it, you can smell it. They still take the water out of the streams and the rivers and the lake.”

Bobcats battle but can’t topple unbeaten Miami

Students balance romance, busy schedules on Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air, and many people throughout Athens had something to be excited about this Valentine’s Day, whether it be the break from 20° weather or the presence of a loved one. Leading up to Saturday, many were seen walking with a bouquet of flowers or an armful of presents.

The origins of Valentine’s Day is a topic of debate for many experts, due to conflicting opinions and a lack of concrete evidence.

The day was believed to come from the ancient Roman festival, Lupercalia, which occurred in midFebruary, according to History. Pope Gelasius wanted to stop the

“debauchery” of these festivals and declared Feb. 14 a celebratory feast day for Saint Valentine, who was martyred 200 years before.

Once the day was created, it soon caught the attention of large companies in England looking to make a profit, offering decorative stationery and pre-made cards in stores. In 1840, the Penny Post was put into effect, pricing letter delivery at one penny, according to the British Pilgrimage Trust.

People were more likely to send a love letter for Valentine’s Day, due to the

continued, pg. 11

CHARLIE FADEL SPORTS EDITOR

Few mid-major teams have the opportunity that Ohio (1313 overall, 7-6 Mid-American Conference) had Friday night in Millett Hall.

With a win against its rivals in No. 23 Miami (25-0 overall, 13-0 MAC), Ohio would be playing spoiler for an undefeated MAC team that has been the talk of college basketball. The win would have been one of the biggest for the program since the 2021 NCAA tournament, when the Bobcats were able to pull off a huge upset against the defending champion, the Virginia Cavaliers.

Unfortunately for Ohio, the magic needed did not travel with the team to Oxford on Friday night, as the Bobcats fell to their rival RedHawks with a score of 90-74.

Forward Aidan Hadaway (13) passes the ball during the Bobcats game against Northern Illinois, Jan. 20, 2025. The Bobcats beat NIU 80-77 in The Convo. (JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST)

FIONA PETTICREW HUMAN INTEREST STAFF WRITER

ABBY DOENCH | ASST. DESIGN DIRECTOR

Ohio takes 3rd consecutive conference win against Kent State / pg. 6

Hemlocke Springs stands out with debut album / pg. 11

Pokladnik also said data-center companies often use greenwashing tactics to win public support. Greenwashing refers to corporations using misleading claims or selective statistics to appear environmentally responsible. Pokladnik pointed to carbon capture as an example; although often marketed as a climate solution, a 2021 study found the process produced a 3.5% methane emission rate and had a greenhouse gas footprint 20% higher than burning natural gas or coal.

Stephan Scanlan, sociology and anthropology chair at Ohio University, has written extensively on greenwashing, environmental justice and sustainability. He said companies often highlight the benefits of data centers while downplaying or omitting their environmental costs.

“Oftentimes there’s little or no mention of things like the water impact, land use or the negative impacts related to the environment,” Scanlan said. “If they do mention that, they may make claims that are either outright lies or cannot be justified, or they don’t have data for or can’t account for the energy and other issues.”

Scanlan said renewable energy could offset some impacts, but the physical footprint of data centers, including large buildings, paved surfaces and dense computer infrastructure, presents its own sustainability challenges.

“We can’t greenwash our way into saying this is sustainable,” Scanlan said. “It has to be true and factual.” He added community pushback might be lower if data centers were placed on hazardous or unused industrial sites, such as the Ironton data center under construction at the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant. A recent press release about that project drew dozens of Facebook comments from Portsmouth residents, many of whom questioned the facility’s 75% property tax abatement for 15 years.

Liam Syrvalin, a senior studying journalism, visited “data center alley” in Northern Virginia, the largest concentration of data centers in the U.S. He said residents there reported electric bills spiking by about 450%.

He also noted that while data centers create construction jobs, they require only a small number of permanent workers once operational.

“They won’t put it in their neighborhood,” Syrvalin said. “They’ll put it in ours. That’s the big thing. I hope that if they start building these data centers, they first look at Gov. (Mike) DeWine’s neighborhood. Start there. Then you can start worrying about communities like ours, and worrying about communities where we make three times less on average than the person in Columbus.”

The Constitution Still Applies

On January 20, 2026, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained Liam Conejo Ramos, a five-year-old boy, and his father in their driveway as they returned from Liam’s preschool in Minnesota. Federal judge Fred Biari ordered their release, calling their treatment unconstitutional. Below is his ruling: OPINION AND ORDER OF THE COURT

Before the Court is the petition of asylum seeker Adrian Conejo Arias and his fiveyear-old son for protection of the Great Writ […] of habeas corpus. They seek nothing more than some modicum of due process and the rule of law. The government has responded.

The case has its genesis in the ill-conceived and incompetently-implemented government pursuit of daily deportation quotas, apparently even if it requires traumatizing children. This Court and others regularly send undocumented people to prison and orders them deported but do so by proper legal procedures. Apparent also is the government’s ignorance of an American historical document called the Declaration of Independence. Thirty-three-year-old Thomas Jefferson enumerated grievances against a would-be authoritarian king over our nascent nation. Among others were:

1. “He has sent hither Swarms of Officers to harass our People.”

2. “He has excited domestic Insurrection among us.”

3. “For quartering large Bodies of Armed Troops among us.”

4. “He has kept among us, in Times of Peace, Standing Armies without the consent of our Legislatures.”

“We the people” are hearing echos of that history.

And then there is that pesky inconvenience called the Fourth Amendment: The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and persons or things to be seized. U.S. CONST. amend. IV.

Civics lesson to the government: Administrative warrants issued by the executive branch to itself do not pass probable cause muster. That is called the fox guarding the henhouse. The Constitution requires an independent judicial officer. Accordingly, the Court finds that the Constitution of these United States trumps this administration’s detention of petitioner Adrian Conejo Arias and his minor son, L.C.R. The Great Writ and release from detention are GRANTED pursuant to the attached Judgment.

Observing human behavior confirms that for some among us, the perfidious lust for unbridled power and the imposition of cruelty in its quest know no bounds and are bereft of human decency. And the rule of law be damned.

Ultimately, Petitioners may, because of the arcane United States immigration system, return to their home country, involuntarily or by self-deportation. But that result should occur through a more orderly and humane policy than currently in place.

Philadelphia, September 17, 1787: “Well, Dr. Franklin, what do we have?” “A republic, if you can keep it.”

With a judicial finger in the constitutional dike, It is so ORDERED.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED VIEWING:

New SNAP work requirements put pressure on Southeast Ohioans

Changes to work requirements for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) went into effect in early February. These changes pose many problems for those living in rural Ohio, specifically the Southeast region

New guidelines for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program went into effect at the beginning of the month.

The changes adhere to the work requirements for those receiving SNAP benefits.

The work requirements have been expanded to multiple groups that were previously exempt, including adults aged 55 to 64, parents of children aged 14 to 18, children aging out of the foster care system, veterans and those experiencing homelessness, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The current general work requirement includes registering to work, participating in SNAP Employment and Training and taking a suitable job if offered. The requirement also states that someone receiving SNAP benefits may not voluntarily quit a job or reduce their hours below 30 per week without good reason, according to the UDA.

Those currently receiving SNAP benefits and subject to the change can meet the requirement by working 80 hours per month, or by participating in a job program or community service.

Those who receive SNAP benefits have to provide proof of meeting these new requirements by March 1, or they risk losing them, according to the Ohio Department of Family Services.

If someone fails to provide proof of meeting the guidelines, SNAP benefits will be canceled for at least a month until that person can prove they meet the requirements. If they fail again, that person is disqualified and could be disqualified forever, according to the UDA.

For recipients living in more rural parts of the state, meeting these requirements comes with its own set of challenges.

Leslie Schaller, director of programs at the Appalachian Center for Economic Networks, pointed out that those living in cities have it much differently than those living in Southeast Ohio.

“We don’t have the same level of public transportation that folks have in more urban and suburban places,” Schaller said. “80 hours a month now is definitely going to be a big climb.”

LegalEagle: “Judge Saves 5-Year-Old From ICE” ICE kidnapped Liam Ramos and his father and sent them to a Texas immigrant camp before a Judge intervened. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hybL-GJov7M

U.S.

Transportation barriers, job availability and job type all play crucial roles in the lives of people living in Southeast Ohio who rely on SNAP benefits. Some recipients who are already working and were not previously required to meet the 80-hour goal have more pressure on them than others.

“How do parents, particularly, or caregivers navigate some of the new

eligibility and still make sure their kids are getting taken care of?” Schaller said. “It’s the confluence of a lot of these factors that make it rougher and rougher for a lot of these households that have been relying on SNAP benefits.”

Another group speculated to be heavily affected is those within the higher end of the age range expansion. The new requirements include adults who are 55 to 64 years old.

Karin Bright, president emeritus of the Athens County Food Pantry, expects those within that group to be hit hard by the recent changes.

“You’re talking to people who may be retired, who may have disabilities, who are not able to work,” Bright said. “A lot of the people that are able to work already are working.”

According to a 2025 Pew Research study, roughly 22.4 million households in America receive SNAP benefits. While not every recipient solely relies on these benefits for their day-to-day food, the necessity for these benefits is expected to increase.

“Anytime there’s a change to a program like this, people worry, and they wonder what’s coming next,” Bright said. “Sometimes there’s almost a preemptive kind of planning, ‘I’m eligible to get food at the food pantry. I typically don’t, but maybe if we go for the next two or three months, we can get a little bit ahead.’”

Bright said the recent changes are not only putting pressure on recipients but also on the resources. With demands expected to take a high jump in the coming months, food banks are preparing now.

“As our numbers jumped so high, we were going outside our normal procurement,” Bright said. She also added the recent cuts to food banks, which are only making matters worse.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, plans to reduce spending for SNAP by $187 billion over the next 10 years, according to the U.S. Congress. Although this will be a long-term effect, changes are starting to be seen now, with small funding cuts occurring on the state level.

For people living in Southeast Ohio, the Athens County Food Pantry and the Appalachian Center for Economic Networks will continue to provide help and resources for those relying on SNAP as changes get put into place.

LIV JACOBS FOR THE POST

entrance of Family Dollar on East Carpenter St. showcasing a SNAP-authorized retailer sign, Feb. 12, 2026, in Athens. (ALLIE STEVENS | FOR THE POST)

The Hocking River, Feb. 12, 2026, in Athens (ALLIE STEVENS | FOR THE POST)

Police Blotter: Ice fishing, ‘missing’ kids, arrests made

KAITLIN HOGG NEWS STAFF WRITER

6 Fri ________________________

Missing kid?

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Dean Road after receiving a report of a potentially missing juvenile.

The juvenile was located at a friend’s house and was returned home.

Complaining about parking, really?

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Ridge Road in Coolville after receiving a parking complaint.

Deputies patrolled the area, but nothing was located.

Harassment complaint

Deputies from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Vore Ridge Road in Athens regarding a harassment complaint.

Deputies on the scene spoke with an involved party and tagged a vehicle for a four-hour removal.

7 Sat ________________________

Impaired driving

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Dutch Creek Road in Athens regarding a suspicious individual. Deputies were provided with a description of the person and located an individual matching the description inside a vehicle.

The individual appeared to be intoxicated, so the Ohio State Patrol was requested. The OSP then arrested the individual for operating a vehicle while impaired.

Help a friend out

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Wolfe Bennett Road to help the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies gave all collected information to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

8 Sun ________________________

Arrested!

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Hooper Ridge Road in Millfield regarding a domestic dispute report.

Deputies on the scene spoke with all involved parties and determined that a physical dispute harmed the victim. Hayden Kropf was arrested and charged with a fourth-degree domestic violence felony.

Give me my package!

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to Chauncey following a stolen package complaint.

Once on the scene, it was determined the package had not been stolen. It was delivered to the wrong address. The package was returned, and patrol was resumed.

Ice fishing

Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Russell’s Campground in Hocking Port following a parking complaint.

Deputies on the scene determined the vehicle belonged to a man ice fishing on the Ohio River. Deputies spoke with the man, and patrol resumed.

9 Mon ________________________

Warrants of the week

The Athens County Sheriff’s Office has warrants of arrest out for Andrew Haning and Colt Neiderhiser.

Haning is wanted for two counts of domestic violence, vandalism, possession of drugs and obstructing official business. Neiderhiser is wanted for possession of drugs.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of either individual is to contact the Sheriff’s Office immediately.

Threatened

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to Fox Lake Road after receiving a call about a threat.

The caller told deputies on the scene that her ex-boyfriend had threatened to burn her house down. Deputies took a report, and at the time the media report was released, the case was under investigation.

10 Tue ________________________

Vandal!

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Strouds Run after receiving a report of vandalism.

Deputies on the scene spoke with the caller and took a report.

Please be careful Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to state Route 56 in Albany regarding a car crash involving a deer.

Deputies took a report on the scene.

Sound the alarms

Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s office responded to Fisher Road following an alarm activation.

Deputies at the scene ensured the residence was secure. Patrol was then resumed.

11 Wed ________________________

K9 Cody on the case

The Athens County Prosecutors’ Office contacted the Athens County Sheriff’s Office to deploy K9 Cody after investigators located a man driving and smoking from a glass bubble pipe.

Units were able to make contact with the individuals, and criminal activity was located. K9 Cody conducted a free air sniff and indicated narcotics in the vehicle. Suspected methamphetamines were located in the car, as well as the paraphernalia to accompany the meth. Officers took the drugs, and charges will be made.

Arrest made

Deputies provided aid to the Adult Parole Authority in the arrest of Scott Stepp. Stepp was arrested and moved to the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail.

Bitcoin crime A man made contact with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office regarding an over-the-phone scam that occurred.

The man had taken money from his bank account and subsequently bought Bitcoin. At the time the media report was released, the case was still under investigation.

12 Thur ________________________

Stuck for a while

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Brown Road in Millfield regarding a suspicious car in a driveway.

At the scene, it was determined the car was stuck in the caller’s icy driveway, and it would have to stay until the next day, when it could be properly removed.

Suspicious lady

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Old State Route 78 in Glouster after receiving a report of a suspicious woman in the area.

Deputies searched the location, but such a woman was not found.

Property battle Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to state Route 550 regarding a property dispute.

Deputies spoke with all involved individuals on the scene, and an agreement was met.

@KATE_H1105 KH303123@OHIO.EDU

The monks processed the streets of the nation’s capital in single file, giving silent nods and smiles to enthusiastic viewers. According to the AP, the monks were joined by dozens of faith leaders spanning many religious sects.

11 Wed _________________________

AP review finds pattern of abuse in ICE agents

The AP found that since 2020, at least two dozen U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have been charged with crimes. The AP indicated those crimes, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, corruption and other abuses of authority, display a pattern of wrongdoing.

The Trump administration has given ICE little oversight and argued agents maintain “absolute immunity” for actions committed on duty. In 2025, Congress voted to give ICE $75 billion for the purpose of hiring more agents, the AP reported.

The AP review argues the growth of ICE and the continued mission of increasing deportations could lead to further abuses. ICE’s employee count doubled in size in less than a year to 22,000 total employees, according to the AP.

12 Thur _________________________

House votes to challenge Trump’s tariff policy

The Republican controlled U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution Wednesday that would end the national emergency Trump declared to enact tariffs on foreign nations, the AP reported.

The vote had six Republican lawmakers reach across party lines to challenge the Trump administration, with the final tally being 219-211.

President Donald Trump is utilizing tariffs to ensure prices are lowered for Americans, but many individuals and businesses are arguing the tariffs are not doing so. Trump informed Republican lawmakers who vote for the resolution will struggle in the upcoming reelections.

House Speaker Mike Johnson argued against the legislation, asking lawmakers to wait for the decision in the pending Supreme Court case about the tariffs, according to the AP. Trump informed

Republican lawmakers who vote for the resolution that they will struggle in upcoming reelections

13 Fri _________________________

Trump claims to have over $1.5B in political funds

According to the AP, Trump has revealed he holds over $1.5 billion in political funds. Trump has said the money was collected since election day in 2024.

Trump’s current war chest is supposedly somewhat equal to the money spent on his 2024 reelection campaign, the AP reported. While Trump has been reluctant to use money in other politicians’ campaigns, there is speculation about whether the president will use the funds to shape the midterms coming up in November.

Trump has been known to throw support behind Republican opponents of sitting lawmakers who oppose him. The money is of specific interest due to Trump’s warning that Republicans who voted for a House resolution to upend his tariff policy will face consequences in the midterm elections, according to the AP.

15 Sun _________________________

Trump administration fires criticism at EU, officials react

The European Union responded to recent claims made by U.S. officials at the Munich Security Conference, as reported by the AP. Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, addressed European allies at the conference, signaling a firm viewpoint on U.S. policy priorities within the trans-Atlantic alliance.

Kaja Kallas, EU foreign policy chief, reacted to the U.S. national security strategy released in December, which alleged economic stagnation in Europe could lead to civilizational erasure.

The policy critiqued many of Europe’s policies on immigration, political opposition, free speech and more.

Kallas staunchly denied the claims, and said Europe is pushing humanity forward and defending human rights. In his speech, Rubio reaffirmed the U.S.’ intent to remain in the trans-Atlantic alliance, according to the AP.

Road salt shortages sweep Ohio, residents forced indoors

A road salt shortage across Ohio during the late-January winter storms pushed Athens’ supply to low levels before a 500-ton shipment arrived Feb. 12. The snowstorms the week of Jan. 25 closed schools, businesses and roads, leaving people stuck in their houses for days. One of the main issues during the storms was the roadways, which stayed slick and icy with near-constant snowfall.

However, because the storm came quickly, some towns were unprepared for road maintenance. Across the state, demand surged for salt supplied by two underground mines beneath Lake Erie that also serve surrounding states, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

The shortage mainly affected cities in Northeastern Ohio, where they are also faced with lake effect snow, but

southern Ohio cities like Athens were affected as well.

Jarod Balderson, Athens city engineer and director of public works, said the city was not in danger of running out of salt during the Jan. 26 storms, but the supply dwindled.

“The way the city works is we go into a process with ODOT, where you get a bid price, and we order so much salt,” Balderson said. “We try to anticipate what we’re going to need for the next year. We were close with this last storm. I think we got below 50 tons, but we had an order in place, and were just waiting for that to be delivered.”

The city had been waiting on the latest shipment of road salt to arrive, and on Feb. 12, 500 tons were delivered.

Balderson also said the city of Athens and Ohio University use the same salt supply, so when salt is ordered, the city also has to take into account what the university will need.

“Ohio University does not maintain our own stock of road salt, as our supply comes from the City of Athens,”

Steve Mack, the executive director of facilities management, wrote in an email. “To ensure safety for the most recent event, we coordinated with the local ODOT district and secured the necessary salt required for the winter weather.”

ODOT has a regional branch in Athens but did not provide a response.

The total snowfall accumulation across Athens County was six to nine inches, according to an Ohio University article. Ryan Fogt, a professor of meteorology, said sleet totals of 0.4 to 0.6 inches melted and refroze into about an inch of ice atop the snow, worsening road conditions.

“For sidewalks, we used bagged products and had sufficient supply to manage the conditions,” Mack wrote. “Salt application depends on the

specifics of each event. Typically, we wait to treat roads until after plowing is complete to avoid removing salt that has already been spread. Depending on weather conditions following an event, additional treatment may be necessary.”

There is no more snow in the foreseeable forecast, but if another storm were to occur, Balderson said the city is ready.

“There would be enough (salt) and then we also work with ODOT, so if we were to run out, they would help us,” Balderson said.

The White House and General Andrew Jackson statue as seen from Lafayette Square on March 15, 2024, in Washington, D.C.

KAITLIN HOGG NEWS STAFF WRITER

Athens City Schools prepares staff for potential ICE interactions

BRIDGET THOMAS

FOR THE POST

The Athens City School District is training staff on how to respond if Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents conduct operations near schools, following questions raised at the January school board meeting.

During the meeting, Superintendent Chad Springer was asked whether the district could provide training for teachers in the event they encounter ICE agents. Springer said the district has received questions over the past year about how schools should respond to ICE activity, concerns that intensified following Operation Buckeye in Columbus, ICE activity in Minneapolis and a recent statement from the Ohio Education Association.

The Ohio Education Association issued a press release Jan. 15 titled “Keep ICE away from public schools,” in which OEA President Jeff Wensing wrote the organization “strongly opposes any presence or enforcement actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in or around Ohio’s public schools.”

The statement followed ICE activity in Minnesota, where attendance dropped significantly at some Minneapolis schools as families feared enforcement actions, according to the Associated Press. Reports of detained students, including 5-year-old Liam Ramos, heightened concerns.

The OEA statement was also released less than three weeks before the temporary protected status of Haitian immigrants was initially set to end. According to the American Immigration Council, between 12,000 and 20,000 Haitian immigrants live in Springfield, Ohio, where the community expressed concern that ICE would increase enforcement once TPS expired.

A federal judge has since extended TPS indefinitely, though the Trump administration has said it plans to appeal the decision, the AP reported. Gov. Mike DeWine, who opposes

THE POST EDITORIAL BOARD

Nancy Guthrie, the 84-yearold mother of “Today” show host Savannah Guthrie is believed to have been abducted from her home in Tucson, Arizona, on Feb. 1, according to authorities. Nancy Guthrie has limited mobility, a pacemaker and relies on daily medication for a heart condition. The vulnerability that comes with living alone impacts the safety of older people.

At 1:47 a.m. Feb. 1, Nancy Guthrie’s doorbell camera, a Google Nest, disconnected, according to police.

At 2:12 a.m., the doorbell software detected a person on the camera, who authorities said was masked and armed. Unfortunately, investigators couldn’t retrieve the footage initially because Nancy Guthrie didn’t have a subscription to store the doorbell feed, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos said.

Luckily, authorities had help from “private sector partners” who recovered doorbell footage from “residual data located in backend systems,” FBI director Kash Patel said on X.

The measures the FBI took to obtain the lost doorbell footage are out of the ordinary. While the FBI has means far beyond the average person’s, it’s groundbreaking they were able to recover such vital footage and provide an enormous amount of information that pushed the case forward.

Former criminal investigators say it’s almost certain authorities began to build a physical and psychological profile of the suspect using the footage, according to the Associated Press.

The recovery of Nancy Guthrie’s doorbell camera footage proves it should be essential for older people to have security camera systems, providing essential safety and tracking of daily activities, as well as providing

ending TPS for Haitian immigrants, said the Department of Homeland Security would provide a 24-hour notice if there were a significant increase in ICE activity in Springfield, as reported by the Springfield NewsSun.

Concerns were further heightened in Ohio following December ICE raids in Columbus, known as Operation Buckeye, according to a previous report by The Post.

Concerns about ICE activity have also affected Ohio University students. Abby Haffke, a freshman studying political science, said international students were afraid to leave their residences during rumors of ICE presence on campus last semester.

“All students deserve the right to study here, regardless of where they’re from,” Haffke said.

In response, Springer emailed district staff outlining school policies for interactions with law enforcement, including ICE. The guidance states Springer is the district’s primary point of contact for ICE officers, and student records cannot be released without written parent permission, a judicial subpoena or a judicial search warrant.

The email also explains the reverse evacuation procedure, which directs students back into school buildings

Editorial

peace of mind to family members.

Jamie Siminoff, the chief inventor and founder of Ring doorbell cameras, said video evidence from doorbell cameras has become a crucial piece to investigations.

“I just think we’re seeing that video footage is the most important thing in solving these crimes,” Siminoff said.

It’s been proven that video surveillance footage was very successful in locating the Brown University shooting suspect.

A study by the National Library of Medicine found that ambient assisted living, a system used for healthcare monitoring consisting of smart devices, medical sensors, wireless networks and software applications, can be used to cure diseases, improve health and prevent difficulties for older adults.

The study found AAL to increase safety for older people using mobile emergency alert systems, fall detection systems and video surveillance systems. One of the technologies included in the study was “mobile and wearable sensors.”

Nancy Guthrie’s pacemaker, a device typically implanted under the skin to regulate heartbeat, disconnected from its monitoring app on her phone the night she went missing before 2:30 a.m.

Investigators found the disconnect of her pacemaker to be out of the ordinary, helping hone in on the time of her disappearance in correlation to the time of her doorbell camera disconnecting.

Nancy Guthrie’s abduction should deeply startle and serve as a wakeup call, not to scare older people and their families, but to bring awareness to the risks older people have living alone. Technological advancements, such as medical devices and video surveillance, can enhance safety

without initiating a lockdown. The measure is used to protect students from potential threats and unsafe situations outside.

Springer is meeting with staff at individual schools to review the procedures and answer questions. He also plans to meet with custodial staff and bus drivers to review the policies.

“When we do safety training, we always train with teachers, and not necessarily with custodians, who play a very vital role in this,” Springer said. “That’s my process so far, and I’ll finish those meetings over the course of the next week and a half.”

The guidance includes procedures for bus drivers who may encounter ICE activity while on routes. Springer said meetings with custodial staff and bus drivers are scheduled for Monday.

After meeting with all district staff, Springer plans to notify families about the district’s procedures.

“What if I’m at dismissal, and a police officer or immigration officer says, ‘Hey, I need to talk to that kid?’ Those are the conversations we’re having,” Springer said.

BT037924@OHIO.EDU

through real-time monitoring of routines and emergencies.

The Catalina Foothills community, where Nancy Guthrie lives, has “been on the edge for nearly two weeks,” according to NBC News.

“My mom lives here in town. She lives alone — now I’m worried as heck about her,” an Arizona neighbor, Nicollete Daly said. “I’m scared to be alone.”

However, a constant surveillance state can foster negative impacts by eroding and eliminating the expectation of privacy in private spaces, like a home. Constant monitoring can cause high-stress, *paranoia and a climate of suspicion, according to the Oxford Academic.

Surveillance within private living spaces should be consented to, always.

Senior Watch Programs are utilized in communities and are often run by local police or sheriff’s departments, providing free safety check-ins, wellbeing visits and emergency alerts for older people living alone.

In Athens County, the United Seniors of Athens County serves to provide “essential programs and services for older adults in our community.”

Outside News 4 Tucson is a banner reading, “Bring her home.” A testimony from Tucson to rally around one another for Nancy Guthrie, the community has shown up in support of her children and her family.

For older people living alone, it’s not about taking away the freedom of living independently; it’s about raising awareness by initiating safety precautions for physical and emotional well-being.

The outside of Athens High School in The Plains, March 16, 2025. (ALAINA DACKERMAN | ART DIRECTOR)

Adam’s Anecdote

Queer voices have always existed

ADAM GERBER FOR THE POST

On June 28th, 1969, the New York Police Department raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City. The initial raid sparked a six-day protest in which LGBTQIA+ individuals fought back against decades of oppression that had been enforced socially and institutionally. After the events of Stonewall, the modern LGBTQIA+ movement took off and allowed for more recognition for the previously frowned-upon lifestyle.

On June 28th, 1970, the first Pride march was organized, and an estimated 5,000 people participated. During the event, same-sex couples embraced each other freely on the streets of New York for the first time without the threat of violence.

According to the Pew Research Center, 7% of the U.S. is made up of LGBTQIA+ individuals, a substantial and influential number of people.

Last week, President Donald Trump’s administration removed the large Pride flag displayed in front of the Stonewall National Monument in New York City. The removal of the rainbow flag comes after various other moves from Trump’s administration to silence the LGBTQIA+ community.

The flag represents the diversity and complexity of the LGBTQIA+ movement, and removing it damages the entire group.

On Feb. 10th, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani wrote on the social media platform X, “I am outraged by the removal of the Rainbow Pride Flag from Stonewall National Monument. New York is the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, and no act of erasure will ever change, or silence, that history.”

The flag has since been replaced; however, the initial removal insinuates a harmful message.

In late January, Trump signed an executive order titled “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.”

The order rigorously explains, “‘Sex’ shall refer to an individual’s immutable biological classification as either male or female.”

The order later states, “‘Gender identity’ reflects a fully internal and subjective sense of self, disconnected from biological reality and sex and existing on an infinite continuum, that does not provide a meaningful basis for identification and cannot be recognized as a replacement for sex.”

This order essentially strips individuals of their sense of self that many people use to define their identity.

The executive order seeks to limit an individual’s ability to choose an identity they are comfortable with and restricts personal freedom, even though the community itself is “immutable,” with

identities that are deeply personal and historically rooted.

Homosexuality dates back to 2400 BCE when two men, Khnumhotep and Niankhkhnum, were displayed embracing each other, noses touching, on the outside of their shared tomb. This intimate pose was typically reserved for married women and men; however, the tomb disregards all societal expectations. The two thrived in Egyptian society, broke social norms and exhibited their affection to the world.

In 1924, Henry Gerber founded The Society for Human Rights in Chicago. The organization focused on publishing scientific research regarding homosexuality. Gerber published the first known newsletter that addressed homosexuality, titled “Friendship and Freedom.” Later, he was arrested for the newsletter, and the organization was disbanded shortly after.

These instances are just one of many where the LGBTQIA+ community has made itself known. Further representation of the community is essential to keep the often-suppressed group thriving. It’s important now, more than ever, to support local organizations and businesses that make LGBTQIA+ rights a priority.

The Southeastern Ohio Rainbow Alliance was founded in 2016 and focuses on spreading awareness for the LGBTQIA+ community. In 2018, SEORA held its first annual Pride Fest in Athens, a week-long event honoring the community as a whole. SEORA has given $4,000 to gender affirming surgeries and has awarded $1,000 in scholarships to LGBTQIA+ individuals. Kindred Market is a local organic grocery store that is an active supporter of LGBTQIA+ rights. In-store, you can find over a dozen different businesses owned by LGBTQIA+ individuals and support them. Having local organizations in support of the LGBTQIA+ community is what encourages them to thrive in an environment where they are not widely accepted.

Using your voice, resources and community is essential for maintaining traction and growth in a group that is actively being suppressed. The LGBTQIA+ movement wasn’t created to adapt to the world; it was created so the world would adapt to it and open up representation and equality for all members.

Adam Gerber is a freshman 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

BudPost | Am I doing this right?

BUDPOST STAFF WRITER FOR THE

Budpost is a cannabis opinion column that may include mentions of weed and other drugs. Reader discretion is advised. Please use responsibly.

Marijuana used to be simple. You either smoked it, got hungry and fell asleep, or you didn’t. Now, weed has turned into an entire menu of options, and somehow everyone became an expert overnight.

From joints to gummies to vape pens that never seem to leave someone’s hand, the way people consume marijuana has become almost as important as the high itself.

Let’s be honest: people act like weed is some casual hobby, like knitting or journaling. But marijuana isn’t just weed anymore; it’s basically a full-on lifestyle industry. The problem is, some people are treating THC like it’s a vitamin supplement.

There’s flower, the most notable form of indulgence, as well as carts, edibles, concentrates, drinks and whatever else the dispensary

Michael’s Mic Drop

TikTok avoided the ban, Americans didn’t escape

MICHAEL DORWALDT STAFF VIDEOGRAPHER

As of February 2026, TikTok finalized a deal with U.S investors Oracle, Silver Lake and MGX, creating a new entity that gives a 15% stake to each American-based company, according to Yahoo Finance. However, TikTok’s parent company ByteDance still holds a 19.9% stake in the business.

This officially means TikTok has avoided a federal ban in the U.S., and on paper, it looks like a major victory for American users. The newly introduced structure is designed to isolate U.S. user data and TikTok’s algorithm from Chinese control.

For the 200 million Americans who use TikTok, including myself, this new ownership deal feels like a solution. It is a clean compromise that keeps the app running while addressing national security concerns, right?

The truth is far less comforting. TikTok might have changed ownership, but the company’s privacy practices reveal the app remains deeply rooted in surveillance. The problem was never the fact that TikTok was owned by a China-based company, it’s that the platform is fundamentally built to track, analyze and monetize its users.

TikTok’s updated privacy policy states the platform is now operated by TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, a U.S.-based joint venture. This is meant to reassure Americans their data is no longer in foreign hands. Yet this is where the concern grows.

The app is no longer just a foreignowned platform; it is now embedded in the U.S. corporate ecosystem.

Historically, it is an ecosystem known as surveillance capitalism, and has long profited from personal data collection and had close relations with political power.

If TikTok was truly too dangerous to exist under Chinese ownership, it is concerning that it suddenly became acceptable once U.S. investors profit from it.

Oh, maybe it’s because President Donald Trump has strong ties with Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle and a massive donor to Republican candidates and causes.

This only seems to set up a takeover of TikTok, using users’ information for possible political gain. The new policy openly admits TikTok collects information far beyond what users voluntarily provide.

“We collect your information in three ways,” TikTok’s privacy policy states. “Information that you provide, automatically collected information and information from other sources.”

In other words, TikTok is not simply gathering what you upload, it is gathering what it can observe, infer and obtain through external partners. What is more troubling is how TikTok can collect content that users may not have

ever intended to put on the platform.

The policy reveals a system where even your drafts, unfinished videos and unsent creations might still become a part of TikTok’s data pipeline. They also admit to collecting highly invasive technical information like keystroke patterns and rhythms, which suggest behavioral tracking that goes beyond standard app usage.

The policy also said it can use this information to identify activity across devices. This means even if users switch devices or accounts, TikTok is still capable of connecting the dots.

Location tracking is another central concern, which is especially alarming considering TikTok’s updated terms of service in January 2026 reportedly expanded its ability to track precise geolocation and personal data.

“We may also collect precise location data,” TikTok’s updated policy said. Location tracking is not just about showing local restaurant recommendations; it is one of the most sensitive forms of surveillance available. Precise location data can reveal where people work, where they live, who they associate with and what they do in their private lives.

TikTok even goes as far as collecting biometric information such as faceprints and voiceprints taken directly from videos, posted or not, and private messages. It highlights how far social media has moved beyond entertainment and into surveillance technology.

What I will never understand is that the Trump administration and the seven-member, majority American board of directors of TikTok U.S. will not bat an eye at collecting every piece of information that makes us who we are, but won’t be transparent about the deal itself.

The Trump administration created this deal in almost total secrecy. However, the Adversary Controlled Applications Act, or Public Law 118-50, does not require disclosure, meaning the Trump administration, nor any involved parties, have to share any data or information regarding the deal. To me, this seems ironic.

“We are not going to talk about the commercial terms of the deal,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. “It’s between two private parties.” This is a serious issue. Americans are being told their privacy is “protected,” yet the full details of the arrangement remain unclear. The lack of transparency surrounding the deal itself seems to suggest that the terms will never be made public.

TikTok may have gone “American,” but Americans should not mistake that for safety. TikTok did not stop being a surveillance platform. It simply changed hands.

made up in the back room to make people feel like productive members of society.

I’m not judging, really, I’m not, I’m just saying we should probably admit the way you consume weed says a lot about you. Like, a lot.

Let’s start with the tried and true: flower. Smoking a joint or packing a bowl is the old reliable. It’s the “I don’t need anything fancy” option when it comes to marijuana. You light up, you get high in a few minutes, you vibe, you snack, then you stare at your ceiling fan for an hour like it’s giving you life advice.

A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on marijuana use concluded that of the 138,625 respondents, 79.4% cited smoking as their most prevalent use of marijuana. Don’t get me wrong, smoking flower is iconic, and my preferred method, but it comes at a cost.

Though offering a rapid high due to direct absorption into the bloodstream, taking just minutes, the effects peak quickly and don’t last as long as other intake methods. This

makes the complementary skunk perfume often not worth it.

Although smell can be a turnoff, bigger issues can emerge from choosing to smoke marijuana. If you are smoking daily, your lungs are definitely clocking your actions.

The coughing, the throat burn and the wheezing when you laugh too hard, it’s not just “a part of the experience,” that’s your body begging you to chill. No one should be hacking their soul out of their body every time they take a hit.

If coughing up your lungs doesn’t sound like fun to you, there is a new wave of devices that have taken over the market. Don’t worry, though, it still makes you cough, but you can play games on them, so it makes up for it.

Vape carts are the new modern menace taking over the smokers’ lifestyle, and are made for people who want to get high the way that they check their phone, constantly and without thinking.

The “pen” is always in the pocket, always within reach and always getting hit like it

owes you money. What makes carts so dangerous is the fact that marijuana grown for THC distillation uses up to 66 pesticides and thousands of other unauthorized chemicals.

Carts also mess up your tolerance, or at least mine does. One minute you are taking a hit and giggling with your friends, the next minute you are hitting it ten times in a row just to feel something. The high from carts can be weird too. Instead of relaxing, I just feel mentally scrambled. The use of THC in carts and weed vapes can lead to increased feelings of anxiety and depression when all you wanted was a high with your five friends.

Carts are like that toxic situationship. Convenient? Yes. Worth it? Depends on how much you like suffering.

Then we have the chaos queen of marijuana: edibles. Edibles are either for people who have self-control or absolutely don’t: there is no in-between.

Suddenly, you’re sweating, your heartbeat feels like you’re standing under the speakers in Red Brick’s basement and you’re convinced that your friends hate you. Congratulations, you have entered the edible dimension.

The problem with edibles is that they don’t just get you high; they get you so high to the point you question if gravity has a personal vendetta against you. But once you are there, you’re stuck for hours. Smoking gives you a quick rise and fall, an enjoyable high, but edibles lock you in and there is nowhere to go.

It’s never just “let’s take an edible and chill,” it’s always “pop this and let’s go out into the world and interact with people.” Some people can handle it, but others end up in the bathroom at Bob’s Bar, having a spiritual crisis.

I’m not saying weed is automatically a good or a bad thing; it’s just not as innocent as people act like it is. The culture surrounding marijuana used to be simple: you smoked, you got high and you went on with your life.

But now it feels like there is a product for every personality type, every mood and every occasion. People are indulging as part of their routine.

If you want to indulge, then indulge. But at least know what you are signing up for because weed isn’t just weed anymore. It’s a menu, and some of you are ordering as if you’ve never heard of moderation.

Despite the final score, Ohio came out of the gates looking prepared for the bright lights of a standalone, nationally televised game on ESPN.

A bunch of different Bobcats scored early, with freshman guard JJ Kelly starting things off with a nice pull-up free-throw line jumper. Veterans Jackson

Paveletzke and Javan Simmons followed that up with some nice scores of their own.

The RedHawks elite offense was able to answer, though, with Eian Elmer knocking down a 3 and guard Luke Skaljac giving Miami back-to-back buckets to earn the lead.

Paveletzke, the engine of the Ohio offense, showed up big again on Friday, as he answered with a big 3.

He had yet another great game, going for a team-high 22 points on 7-16 shooting from the floor. Despite making just one of his five 3s, he was able to get to the line and convert, hitting seven of his eight free throws.

The two squads spent most of the first half trading blows, with Miami being able to keep a steady 4 or 5-point lead throughout.

The RedHawks shooting began to heat up to end the first half, as Elmer and guard Peter Suder delivered with some more nice layups and pull-up jumpers to stretch the lead to double digits.

Senior guard Ajay Sheldon came through at the end of the half for the Bobcats, though, drilling his first triple of the first half to cut the Miami lead to just 8 at the half.

Keeping the halftime lead short was huge for the chances of getting a win for the Bobcats.

If the shooting could begin to heat up after Sheldon’s 3, they would have a real shot to take the undefeated RedHawks down to the wire.

That hot start did not materialize for the Bobcats, as Ohio got into early foul trouble, fouling Miami three times within the first two minutes of the second half.

That lull of a start did no good for the momentum that the Bobcats needed, as Miami was able to regain a double-digit lead.

Simmons and Paveletzke would continue to battle, as Simmons was able to use his size all night on the low block

On Valentine’s Day in The Convo, Ohio (15-9, 9-4 MAC) held off a late surge from Kent State (11-13, 5-7 MAC), sealing a 71-61 win that felt as sweet as a box of chocolates. The victory marked the Bobcats’ third straight conference win and kept their February momentum alive.

“Not taking anyone lightly, and trusting our work each and every day,” forward Elli Garnett said when asked about the key to this win streak. “Any game is winnable, so we just go in with a chip on our shoulder every game and want to come out with the win.”

Garnett had a phenomenal game on Saturday. She recorded five 3-pointers, 19 points and four rebounds.

The first quarter started fast as both teams were shooting very well to begin. The Bobcats’ very good offensive rebounding helps them capitalize on most of their possessions, which allows them to jump to an early lead.

Ohio added on to that lead significantly due to superb shooting, specifically from Garnett, who had a trio of 3-pointers and 11 points through the first half of the first quarter to start her fantastic day and give Ohio a 12-point lead.

“I’m going into my games more confident in my shot,” Garnett said. “I don’t let a missed shot stick with me, and my teammates have been finding me.”

Kent State tried to stay pace with Ohio throughout the rest of the quarter. However, the Bobcats’ shooting and rebounding were absolutely suffocating the Golden Flashes. Ohio’s defense also tightened up, which helped it maintain an early 12-point lead to end the quarter with a score of 27-15.

The second quarter started a lot slower than the first, as both defenses started

to get looks under the rim.

He finished with 12 points and four boards, but he was only able to make four of his seven attempts from the free throw line.

The depth of Miami’s offense kept coming through, however, as guys like Justin Kirby and Almar Atlason were able to hit shots, just adding to the threat of an offense that ran through guys like Suder and Brant Byers.

Throughout the second half, it felt like Miami was just a few steps ahead at all times, playing free and flowing on offense, opening up chances for 3s as it shot 5-8 from deep compared to Ohio’s 2-10.

Once Miami got the lead to around 20, Ohio was never able to bring it back to a more manageable single-digit lead.

The Redhawks offense was again able to reach 90 points,

the twelth time they have reached that number this season. Ohio was just not able to keep up, and it resulted in a disappointing loss on a night that yielded so much opportunity.

playing better. Ohio’s perimeter offense wasn’t working as well to start this quarter, so they switched to playing in the paint, where they saw a lot of success, extending the lead.

Ohio’s stellar defense and rebounding helped it slowly keep building a bigger and bigger lead. Garnnet continued her phenomenal game with another three this quarter to put her at four 3-pointers and 14 points. Not only was she doing a great job scoring, but she was also able to rack up three rebounds and an assist in the first half.

Phenomenal shooting and rebounding, plus a very strong defense, led to Ohio absolutely dominating this quarter and extending their lead to a whopping 23 points with a score of 44-21.

Kent State came out of the half strong with five straight points, but Garnett ended that small run with her fifth

3-pointer of the game. After that, it became a back-and-forth game with both teams shooting well while also playing good defense.

The Bobcats easily maintained their large lead throughout the first half of the third quarter. Kent State played very aggressive defense to the end of the quarter in an attempt to dig out of its large pit.

Kent State started the final quarter how it ended the last one, by slowly chipping away at its deficit as it brought it down to just 14 points, which caused Ohio to use a timeout early in the quarter.

The Golden Flashes came out of that timeout and kept lowering Ohio’s lead, which caused head coach Bob Bolden to use another timeout.

“Just stay composed, and do your job,” coach Bolden said to his team when Kent State was rallying back.

Kent State continued to fight, and it brought the game to within six points with five minutes left. Despite a very strong push from the Golden Flashes, the Bobcats were able to hang on due to many clutch shots at the end of the game, helping shift momentum back to Ohio’s favor. Ohio would win this game by 10 with a final score of 71-61.

This three-game MAC win streak for Ohio comes at a vital time in the season, when every game matters as the Bobcats are trying to maintain their spot in the MAC standings.

“We need to maintain this energy and intensity,” coach Bolden said. “The ultimate goal is to play your best basketball at this time of the year, and learn from your past miscues.”

ReRe Jennings (2) during the Bobcats game against ODU, Feb. 7, 2026. The Bobcats lost to the Monarchs 84-76, in The Convo. (

Ohio celebrates senior night, splits series with Liberty

ANNABELLE GRACE

FOR THE POST

Ohio DI Hockey (26-6) won the first game 2-1, but fell to the Liberty University Flames (19-9-1) in a rematch 3-1.

The Bobcats outlasted the Flames in the first contest with discipline and effective defense. The intensified emotions of senior night may have gotten the best of the home team on Saturday night. Opportunistic plays, blocked shots and a calm goalie powered the Flames’ win.

All three goaltenders, Matt Zazon, Scott Bird and Garrett Alderman, are seniors.

Captain Jack Glen, alternate captain Luc Reeve, forward Hollander Thompson, forward Drake Albers and defender Tommy Kloepfer are seniors as well. Although they celebrated along with family and the team, Alderman, Bird, Zazon and Reeve will return next year to play and complete graduate school.

Friday

After Ohio alumni Leo Welsh sang the national anthem, the Bobcats got to work. They created high danger chances and made big hits. Bird protected the net.

“Scott looked confident,” Ohio head coach Barry Schutte said. “Those games are harder when you’re not seeing ten shots in a period. He made two good breakaway saves.”

The Bobcats used passing plays all night. With five minutes to go, one succeeded. Albers finished off a rebound after neat passes from forward freshman Lance Mengel and junior Mathieu Ovaert.

“I joined the rush to beat their guys up the ice,” Albers

said. “Mengel had a lot of poise to get that puck to Ovaert. And the rebound was there. I put it on the net.”

In the second period, Ohio aimed to sustain its momentum as Liberty and Ohio went back and forth with possession. Still, the Bobcats outshot the Flames 12-3. A late scuffle meant the next period would start 4-on-4.

Special teams dominated the rest of the game. Neither team scored on the initial man-down play, but the subsequent penalty kill spelled trouble for Ohio.

Liberty’s Michael Fischer scored an unassisted goal as Ohio’s fifth skater returned to the ice.

Penalties continued to pile up. The Flames were able to block shots but showed fatigue. A collision between teammates displayed how the Bobcats were getting sloppy. Bird made a key save on a breakaway. This set up the winning goal from sophomore

forward Nolan Abraham after Liberty’s goalie was unable to cover the puck and left the net wide open. Defenders junior Donovan Burdette and freshman Brady Gilbert assisted. The breath of relief flooded through the arena as Ohio notched a hard-fought win.

Saturday

Before the puck drop, the team introduced each senior and took photos with family. In addition to the American anthem, the Canadian anthem was played to honor four Canadian seniors.

Emotions ran high. Schutte said teammates always want to play well for their seniors, to give them the respect they deserve.

Ohio pressured Liberty with a consistent forecheck as the game began. Abraham slung a puck past the goalie from a tight angle less than 90 seconds into the game. Ovaert and sophomore defender Blake Dustin assisted

Abraham on his second goal of the weekend.

Like the previous game, tension between the teams led to roughing and other penalties. Ohio defender TJ Richey was ejected from the game for spearing. Ohio received a five-minute major penalty. The Flames only managed six shots during the extended power play, but one found the back of the net.

“It was a hard game to wrap your head around,” Schutte said. “It didn’t have flow … I thought we shot ourselves in the foot.”

The second period started tied 1-1. The Bobcats somewhat lost their composure. A big mistake gave the Flames their gamewinning goal. They scored shorthanded when Alderman skated behind the net to pass the puck to the neutral zone. He didn’t see the Liberty player, who scored on the empty net.

The Bobcats headed to the

locker room disappointed. In the second intermission, the team invited its senior student staff members and volunteers to center ice to recognize their hard work. Fights broke out through the third period. Two sets of offsetting penalties meant more chances for the teams to hone their special teams skills. Unfortunately, the Bobcats could not claw their way to a comeback. They pulled the goalie, and the Flames added a third point with an empty net goal. Still, Schutte praised the senior class.

“They’re great young men,” Schutte said. “Tons of character, lots of resilience. They represent the Ohio Hockey community at a high level every day. Being 21-1 at home, I think that does our home faithful proud. (The seniors) take that responsibility seriously.”

Ohio adds 3 wins at Chattanooga Challenge

CHARLIE

Ohio forward Alex Mazzuca (11) fights for the puck against Canisius University at Bird Arena in Athens, Feb. 6, 2026.(ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)

Graduate student pitcher Skipp Miller

‘Send Help’ is textbook Sam Raimi in various ways

Nearly four years ago, Disney and Marvel released “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” (2022). Unlike its predecessor, the sequel was far more creative with its construction behind the scenes.

It’s not a flawless film by any means, but it does contain a missing special ingredient that Scott Derrickson’s original “Doctor Strange” (2016) was severely lacking. That ingredient was the one and only Sam Raimi. Raimi is known by many in Hollywood for being a director with a visionary style that no one else can replicate.

From making a horror comedy like “Evil Dead II” (1987) to directing three “Spider-Man” films from 2002 to 2007, Raimi has an imaginative mind many artists would die to have. He may not be an Oscar-winning filmmaker, but his work does more often than not please the public.

“Send Help” (2026) starring Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien is Raimi’s newest film. It’s not even close to reaching the lengths of “The Evil Dead” (1981-1992) trilogy or the “Spider-Man” trilogy, but it does succeed in entertaining its audience.

The film follows Linda Liddle (McAdams) and her arrogant CEO boss, Bradley Preston (O’Brien), as they survive after their company plane crashes into the ocean.

Linda and Bradley are the only two survivors of the crash and are stranded together on a deserted island.

“Send Help” is less about having a classic three-act structure and more focused on the psychological battle of wits and shifting power dynamics between Linda, a woman, and Bradley, a man.

More or less, Bradley is the one who struggles to be in a position where he’s not in complete control. He relies on Linda for survival, even if it’s something he resents. As the film unravels, the audience sees who is really in control in an environment outside the office.

The weight of this film rests on the shoulders of McAdams and O’Brien. For the most part, they are the only two people in the film, and keeping audiences engaged with both of these characters is a difficult task, no matter how good the director is.

Screenwriters Damian Shannon and Mark Swift are credited for writing the “Send Help” screenplay, and they do a good job capturing how people try to leverage their power over others despite not being in an official work setting. O’Brien’s performance as Bradley perfectly exemplifies this.

O’Brien has been someone popping in and out of the limelight recently, and for him to star alongside McAdams in this film will potentially catapult his career to more opportunities. McAdams as Linda is obviously the star of the show.

However, while McAdams does a fabulous job playing Linda, there is a missed opportunity with this particular casting decision. McAdams is great, but for the contrast between Linda and Bradley to feel more realistic, the production crew should have cast someone who isn’t a conventionally attractive woman.

O’Brien as Bradley makes sense since he’s supposed to be the snarky, unlikeable CEO, but is incredibly handsome and lives a lavish lifestyle. Choosing someone who isn’t the epitome of Western beauty standards, like McAdams, would’ve been a better choice. As it stands,

McAdams is still terrific as Linda. The film’s cinematography wasn’t a highlight either. For someone who is unfamiliar with Raimi’s filmography, almost all of his works have a distinct visual style. “Send Help” has the same color grading and lighting as most advertisements nowadays.

Raimi can fuse as much of his magic into this film. If it didn’t have his presence behind the camera, then it would easily be far worse.

Raimi has a great knack for using the camera in ways so many other filmmakers would neither attempt

nor even think about. It’s still early in 2026, and “Send Help” likely will not be one of the best releases this year. But it does have that Raimi flare plus some great lead performances from McAdams and O’Brien.

Rating: 3.5/5

James Van Der Beek: ‘90s Hollywood heartthrob’s legacy

American actor James Van Der Beek died on Wednesday at age 48 after a battle with Stage 3 colorectal cancer, a journey he openly chronicled on social media throughout his treatment.

“Millennials are saying goodbye to one of their first heartthrobs, an actor who, while slated to be a handsome leading man, found something lasting in the ironic and silly,” Elizabeth Donnelly of BAZAAR said.

Van Der Beek, a father of six, made his professional acting debut in 1993 in the off-Broadway production of “Finding the Sun” as Fergus. The play features dramatic themes of death and destruction.

His 1998 breakout role as Dawson Leery in “Dawson’s Creek” led him to become one of the late ‘90s biggest Hollywood names.

The American teen drama show featured a group of friends living in

the fictional town of Capeside, Mass.

“Dawson’s Creek” explored coming-ofage themes of love, addiction and more.

He began his role as Leery at age 21, portraying the 15-year-old, filmobsessed protagonist of the show. For six seasons, Van Der Beek starred alongside Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson.

During its 5-year run, “Dawson’s Creek” produced 128 episodes, following the characters from high school to college.

The drama received various award nominations over its production cycle, including a Teen Choice and a Television Critics Association.

While filming, Van Der Beek also portrayed Jonathon Moxon in the 1999 football drama “Varsity Blues.”

Set in the fictional West Canaan, Texas, quarterback Lance Harbor, portrayed by Paul Walker, becomes injured.

Moxon moves from warming the bench to being expected to lead his team to a

divisional title in place of Harbor.

Moxon faces familial pressure to continue a sport he does not enjoy, and the film navigates the pressures of small-town sports while maintaining comedic undertones.

“Varisty Blues” received award nominations from MTV, Blockbuster Entertainment and Teen Choice.

Specifically, Van Der Beek won the 1999 MTV Best Breakthrough Male Performance and Teen Choice Breakout Performance awards for his portrayal of Moxon.

In 2002, Van Der Beek starred in “The Rules of Attraction,” a romantic comedy about a college-aged love triangle alongside Shannyn Sossamon, Ian Somerhalder and Kip Pardue.

Based on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis, Van Der Beek plays Sean Bateman, a drug dealer with a wealthy background, pretending to be poor.

He develops an attraction toward Lauren Hynde, portrayed by Sossamon, who has an interest in Victor, played by Pardue. All while Hynde’s former boyfriend, Paul, portrayed by Somerhalder, pines after Bateman.

The film is a prequel to “American Psycho,” the 2000 horror comedy starring Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman, Sean’s older brother.

Aside from his leading credits, Van Der Beek held multiple guest-starring and minor roles throughout his career.

In 2007, he guest-starred in season two, episode 27 of “Ugly Betty,” a comedy-drama series starring America Ferrera that ran from 2006 to 2010. Van

Der Beek portrayed Luke Carnes, CEO of Atlantic Attire.

Over the course of three years, beginning in 2008, Van Der Beek appeared in “How I Met Your Mother,” a sitcom following main character Ted Mosby’s search for love alongside his friends Barney, Robin, Lily and Marshall. In the three episodes he is in, he portrayed Simon Tremblay, Robin’s first boyfriend.

Tremblay is central to Robin’s backstory as a Canadian popstar and serves as a contradistinction to her current, hardworking and mature lifestyle.

Later in his career, Van Der Beek strayed from his dramatic roles and was a guest on season 28 of “Dancing with the Stars.” Partnered with professional dancer Emma Slater, the pair came in fifth place and were eliminated during the week 10 semi-finals.

Similarly, last year he competed in season 13 of “The Masked Singer,” a singing competition where celebrities perform in costumes to hide their identities, where he was eliminated in episode six.

Van Der Beek’s final role as school superintendent and mayoral candidate Dean Wilson in the series “Elle” premieres in July. The show follows a high school-aged Elle Woods and is a prequel to the 2001 romantic comedy “Legally Blonde.”

In November 2024, he revealed his cancer diagnosis and shared optimism throughout his treatment. In September, he announced he was dropping out of the “Dawson’s Creek” charity reunion event due to health struggles.

Dylan O’Brien as Bradley Preston in 20th Century Studios’ SEND HELP. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Darn it, Daniel

Entertainers don’t need to discuss politics

DANIEL GORBETT FOR THE POST

If there is one thing I am, it’s an entertainer. I make and act in movies, I make a silly internet show on the @ohiofood_ Instagram and I write satirical columns. I love every second of it, too. I make people laugh, and I’m happy to do that.

Even if it means getting stopped on the street by people and getting told, “Tell me a joke.” Only to ask them if they have any “hen weigh” on them, they then reply, “What’s a hen weigh?” and I have to inform them that a hen weighs 4 to 6 pounds. They then don’t get the joke, don’t laugh and I lose a fan. That’s the price I’m willing to pay if it means I get to entertain you all. If I’m feeling really funny that day, I will ask if they want “monkey do.”

On a more serious note, recently, investor and “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary replied to Billie Eilish’s recent speech at the Grammys, telling entertainers, “Shut your mouth, and just entertain.” To O’Leary, I say this. It’s big talk coming from the guy who played a character no different from himself in the movie “Marty Supreme,” then proceeded to go on a press tour talking about his newfound acting career, or let’s think, maybe your 16 years on “Shark Tank.”

You’re not famous for your money, you’re famous for the TV show you star in. You, too, are an entertainer.

On top of this, six months ago, you went on CNN and called the Jeffrey Epstein files “poop on a stick.”

Even if O’Leary isn’t a true entertainer and is more of an investor, the same rules apply: stay in your lane, stay out of politics. Don’t be a hypocrite.

Elvis Presley notoriously remained non-political throughout his career.

“I’m just an entertainer,” Presley said. I don’t believe every entertainer is obligated to make a statement about what is going on in the world. This being said, to tell an entertainer they aren’t allowed to be political is absolutely absurd. Telling entertainers they can’t speak on politics is like telling politicians they can’t make jokes because they might hurt someone’s feelings.

However, what an entertainer says isn’t the end-all be-all. Don’t take whatever your favorite celebrity says as the truth. I recommend taking five minutes to go on Google and research the topic for yourself.

I know most of the time when I write a column, people are clicking on it to get a laugh, and to read some good old-fashioned “gonzo journalism,” and I am grateful for that. Though after watching videos on my phone of Charlie Kirk, Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, three individuals who were murdered in the last six months, it’s hard for me not to act like it doesn’t affect me, I’d also be lying if I said it didn’t affect the way I write. And to that, I’d be lying if I said I don’t try to write more hopeful and thought-inducing articles because of it.

It’s not about whether or not you use your platform to talk about politics; it’s about politics affecting your platform and your use of it. If you have any sort of influence in this world, you should be smart enough and aware of what’s going on in it.

Presley might have said, “I’m just an entertainer,” but he also went on television and sang “If I Can Dream,” a song about civil rights. He might not have talked about politics in interviews, but he was certainly aware of the issues at hand.

Entertainers should absolutely be aware of what’s going on in the world. They should know their audience. Entertainers aren’t just here to make people laugh, not even comedians. That’s the part people get wrong about entertainers.

We don’t do this simply to make people shut off their brains. We are not a theme park. We are telling stories, and we are making people feel emotions. Whether it’s through songs, jokes, movies or books. We are trying to make people feel seen. We are trying to make them feel better and make it so people don’t feel lonely. We are trying to connect with one another.

In times where people are being stripped of their families or are being killed in the street, it’s important to get on stage and tell the people who support you and your art, “I see the struggles you are going through. I support you, and I am here for you.”

Daniel Gorbett is a junior studying General Studies at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. What are your thoughts? Let Daniel know by emailing him at dg371822@ohio. edu.

Weekender

Comedy, recreation and workshops

ETHAN HERX FOR THE POST

Tuesday, Feb. 17

The Ohio University Choral Union and University Singers are performing at First United Methodist Church, 2 S. College St.

Admission: Free

Ohio Men’s Basketball plays Ball State in The Convo at 7 p.m.

Admission: $12-56

The Union Bar, 18 W. Union St., is hosting its weekly game night. The downstairs bar opens at 4 p.m., with bingo starting at 6 p.m. and lasting until 8 p.m. Trivia begins at 9 p.m.

Admission: Free

The Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia is hosting a guided hike from 5:30-7:30 p.m. A local environmental interpreter will join to discuss how plants and animals adapt in harsh winter conditions. The hike is free, but attendees must reserve a spot. The hike begins at ChaunceyDover Trailhead Park, 8433 W. Bailey Road.

Admission: Free

Culinary Services is hosting a cajunthemed Mardi Gras hot bar at West 82 in Baker University Center from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Admission: Free

Wednesday, Feb. 18

The Chaddock + Morrow College of Fine Arts is hosting a cello recital from visiting artist Christin Kralik at 6 p.m. in the Glidden Recital Hall, 3 Health Center Drive.

Admission: Free

Comedy Cult Athens is hosting an open mic comedy night at The Union at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30. Each set is 15 minutes long. Anyone interested in performing should message @ comedy_cult_athens on Instagram.

Admission: $5

Housing and Residence Life is hosting returning student room selection information sessions in the Living Learning Center, room 102/104. There are two sessions, 5-6 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.

Admission: Free

The Center for Student Engagement & Leadership is hosting “Rufus Bingo” in the Walter Hall rotunda from 5-7 p.m.

Admission: Free

VANCE | FOR THE

TUESDAY, FEB. 17

The Oliver Awardnominated musical “The Choir of Man” is coming to the TempletonBlackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium, 47 E. Union St., at 7:30 p.m.

Admission: $35

The Athena Cinema, 20 S. Court St., is showing “Christine” as part of its “Enter the Kingdom” series. John Carpenter’s adaptation of this Stephen King novel is showing at 7 p.m.

Admission: $8

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 18

Season one of “Being Gordon Ramsay,” a documentary series following the famed celebrity chef, premieres on Netflix.

The Side Bar, 24 1/2 E. State St., presents an early show with Play The Spaces at 6 p.m.

Admission: Free

POST

THURSDAY, FEB. 19

Folk musician Jake Xerxes Fussell will return to Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, with Dougie Poole opening the show. Doors open at 7 p.m., music begins at 8 p.m.

Admission: Starts at $25 for reserved seats, $35 for box seats

FRIDAY, FEB. 20

“How to Make a Killing,” starring Glen Powell, Margaret Qualley and Topher Grace, hits theaters globally. This is A24’s newest film by John Patton Ford.

Blackout Booking presents night one of The Biggest Cover-Up 2026 at The Union, 18 W. Union St. Both nights are fundraisers for the Athens County Humane Society.

Doors open at 7 p.m., music begins at 8 p.m.

Admission: $12.51 for online advance tickets

Mumford & Sons’ sixth studio album, “Prizefighter,” becomes available for streaming and purchase globally. Four of 14 tracks are already available to listen to.

SATURDAY, FEB. 21

Night two of The Biggest Cover-Up 2026 is on at The Union. Doors open at 7 p.m., music begins at 8 p.m.

Admission: $12.51 for online advance tickets

The Caitlin Kraus Trio with Mark Hellenberg and Matt Box will perform at West End Ciderhouse, 234 W. Washington St., from 7-9 p.m.

Admission: Free

SUNDAY, FEB. 22

A concert by the Ohio University CMDI Ensembles will take place in Glidden Hall, 3 Health Center Drive, at 4 p.m.

Admission: Free

Thursday, Feb. 19

The Asian American/Pacific Islander Student Union is hosting a K-Pop night at The Union from 8 p.m. to midnight.

Admission: $7 for those under 21, $5 for 21+

THRIVE is hosting F45 classes in the F45 studio on the second floor of Ping Recreation Center. Classes occur at 6:30, 7:30 and 10:30 a.m., as well as 12:15, 4 and 6:30 p.m.

Admission: Free

The Kennedy Museum of Art is hosting a live reading of the play “Red,” featuring Evan Bergman and James Walkowski from the School of Theater.

Admission: Free

Bobcats ArtsCare is tabling on the third floor of Baker Center from 1-3 p.m.

Admission: Free

Friday, Feb. 20

The College of Fine Arts is hosting a recital from visiting artist Gaudete Brass Quintet at 8 p.m. in the Glidden Recital Hall.

Admission: Free

The Athena Cinema is screening “Hero” as part of its Heroes in Color series. The film begins at 7 p.m.

Admission: Free, though tickets are required

Saturday, Feb. 21

Ohio Wrestling competes against Buffalo in The Convo at 7 p.m.

Admission: $3-34

Trio Joyeux, a chamber ensemble of faculty from the School of Music, is performing in the large meeting room of the Athens Public Library, 30 Home St., from 3-4 p.m.

Admission: Free

Sunday, Feb. 22

The Kennedy Museum of Art is hosting a block printmaking workshop as part of its Community Open Studio series from 2-4 p.m. No prior experience is needed.

Admission: Free with registration

Comedian Abby Govindan is performing at the Baker Center Theatre from 4-5 p.m.

Admission: $5 for students, $8 for senior citizens, $10 for all others

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CAITLYN

Hot

CLARA LEDER

ASST. OPINION EDITOR

The first solar eclipse of the season comes Tuesday, bringing transformative energy and setting a tone for change for all the signs. This annual eclipse, known as the “ring of fire,” is only visible in Antarctica. With the eclipse coming this week, all signs will experience a time of emotional clarity and may face increased change in friendships, social life and relationships. Buckle up, everyone, the “ring of fire” energy brings a chance to make real, longlasting change.

Aries (March 21-April 19):

Aries, the ring of fire will set flames to your relationships. Sudden changes in friend groups may occur as you begin to find clarity in your close circles. Consider leaving people behind who don’t help you reach your full potential. This eclipse energy is a reminder to ground yourself in your true goals. It may be time to rid the old and welcome in new connections.

Taurus (April 20-May 20):

For you, Taurus, this week is a time to focus on your career. Take the time to reconsider your long-term goals; journaling and vision boarding will be your best friends this week. The eclipse brings a breakthrough opportunity for your professional life, and may usher in a new path toward success.

Gemini (May 21-June 20):

Gemini, this week is a great time to learn something new. The

HOROSCOPE

eclipse energy brings power for you intellectually, as you will find ease in academics and work life. However, the eclipse also warns of massive changes in your long-term plans. A trip may fall through, or a cancelled flight may sneak up on you.

Cancer (June 21-July 22):

Cancer, this week brings a muchneeded connection to the forefront. Expect deeper emotional or intimate relationship moments with friends or partners. Now is a good time to discuss trust with those in your close circle, as your own vulnerability will intensify this week. Take a breath, Cancer, and remember there is only power in speaking what is truly on your heart; lay it all out there.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22):

Leo, this week brings turning points for you in relationships. A long-term partnership may finally meet its demise, or you may feel extra tension in your relationships. Breakthroughs are possible, though, so try to take each ending as a good thing. Ride the wave, Leo. This week will bring relationship resets and tension to your daily life, but it is nothing you can’t handle.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

For you, Virgo, this eclipse season brings changes to your health and wellness routines. Now is a good time to hunker down and check things off your to-do list, as productivity is high for you this week. Slow progress is vital to your goals; don’t worry if you are

CROSSWORD

not moving as fast as you hoped. Take the time to slow down, refocus on your daily habits and remember that your well-being comes first, always.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):

For you, Libra, the eclipse sparks new beginnings in love and creativity. This week is a good time to pick up new creative projects you’ve been putting off. Take time to craft instead of scrolling and tap into your artistic energy. Expect extra romance this week, as love also takes center stage during the eclipse.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):

Sweet Scorpio, eclipse energy is pointing you toward hibernation mode this week. Now is a good time to return to your coping mechanisms, curl up with a good book, and focus on your emotional security. The eclipse brings you intense energy toward inner healing, so now is a good time to stay in and focus on yourself.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

Sagittarius, you need to use your voice this week. Speak up about what is important to you; communication and courage are emphasized with the eclipse. New learning opportunities may arise for you; take every chance to learn more, you never know where it will take you.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

The money is going to talk this week, Capricorn. The ring of fire brings financial growth into your life. Your

priorities around money may change this week as you reconsider what to spend on and where to save. Be smart about your personal finances; what you do this week will set the tone for your bank account moving forward.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):

The eclipse will bring intense energy for you, Aquarius, as it occurs in your sign. Celebrity astrologer Kyle Thomas told PEOPLE magazine that this eclipse, “is the most important of the year for Aquarians.” This is a pivotal period for you. Focus on your friendships and community around you, your energy is magnetic this week.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20):

Pisces, last week brought intense energy, but this week the universe is begging you to slow down. The eclipse brings a quiet, reflective period for you. Rest, take a break and focus on finding closure in your daily life. Forgive an enemy, process something that’s been bothering you and take time to heal. Sending you a big virtual hug, Pisces.

CL125221@OHIO.EDU @CLARA_LEDER

SUDOKU

ABBY DOENCH

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Valentine’s Day

continued from pg. 1

affordability. On the first day the Penny Post was made available, 112,000 letters were sent, more than three times the number of postings the year before, according to The Victorian Web.

Many Athens residents looked forward to spending the weekend with their best friends, partners and everyone in between. Many people believe Valentine’s Day is the perfect day for sharing love, and see it as an important way to connect with people they value.

Georgia Conley, a senior studying communications, was working Saturday behind the bar at Broney’s Alumni Grill.

Conley’s boyfriend, Max Cook, a junior studying geographic information systems, was also booked this Valentine’s Day, working a bartending shift at The C.I. Conley said she also worked last Valentine’s Day, which fell on a Friday. She said the shift was fun and was busy throughout the night, and she appreciates the holiday as a whole.

pouring and tending to their guests, Cook and Conley recently stayed in a cabin, and decided it was the perfect time to celebrate their relationship.

Hemlocke

“We were like, ‘If we’re going out to a cabin in the middle of nowhere, that’s pretty perfect to celebrate early,’” Cook said. “I made the fire, she cooked the food. We just had a good quality time.”

Madison Klobucar, a senior studying biological science, said her Valentine’s Day plans were a casual Saturday, as she planned a night out with her friends, which included dinner and a movie.

For the weekend after Valentine’s Day, Klobucar is visiting her boyfriend, who lives in Cleveland. Klobucar is in the pre-optometry club, which has a field trip planned to the Cleveland Psych Center during that time. She said this was convenient for her, and is planning to celebrate with him then.

“Cleveland has Little Italy right there, which is authentic Italian food and all these amazing Italian restaurants,” Klobucar said.

“I get the marketing, gimmicky, grabby stuff about it,” Conley said. “I think it’s a good day to just celebrate a loved one.”

Cook said Valentine’s Day is a good excuse to skip any hangouts, since the day is set aside for Conley. He was careful to state this is never a burden, and he enjoys every day he spends with her.

“It’s a good day to celebrate love for someone else,” Cook said. “But I mean, I express love for everyone, and (Conley) every day. So I think that it’s sort of an interesting holiday, but it’s fun.”

To celebrate their Valentine’s Day, since their night will be full of drink-

“So we’re definitely going to go to one of our favorite restaurants.”

Klobucar expressed her appreciation for this holiday, as it gives her the chance to celebrate the special people in her life and make them feel “loved and appreciated.”

“It’s a good holiday even beyond relationships with spouses and stuff,” Klobucar said. “I think it’s a cute way to make others in your life feel loved, whether it’s your grandma or your friend, I just love it.”

As bedroom pop got its rise in popularity during the mid-2010s, some artists began playing with tools like GarageBand to create quirky, individualistic pieces of music from the comfort of their homes. This is the case for Isimeme “Naomi” Udu, better known under her artist moniker Hemlocke Springs. Hemlocke Springs is an interesting character herself. She grew up in Concord, North Carolina, as the daughter of Nigerian immigrants. Her upbringing was religious, familiarizing her with gospel music. She studied biology at Spelman College and went on to get her master’s at Dartmouth College.

Now 27 years-old, Hemlocke Springs began making music at home, eventually popularizing her tunes on TikTok before releasing her first single, “gimme all ur luv,” in 2022. After going viral on TikTok, she opened for famous artists like Doja Cat, Chapell Roan and Conan Gray. Seemingly continuing on her train of success, she released her debut album “the apple tree under the sea” on Friday.

“The apple tree under the sea” is a self-produced, dramatic alt-pop album released by Hemlocke Springs with AWAL. The 10-track record explores themes of self-expression and discovery, religion and relationships. Each track is a new experience for the listener, as Hemlocke Springs incorporates different styles of music into her 80s synth-pop-inspired songs.

The album’s introductory track, “the red apple,” describes Hemlocke Springs’ feeling of moving outside of her religious upbringing. The track is ethereal and enchanting, as if it could be heard in a cathedral.

Another song that explores religious themes is track five, “moses,” with lyrics like, “I don’t dissolve into pillars of salt” representing the shift in finding an identity outside of religion. This song blends a choral opening with EDM beats throughout the

rest of the song, creating a captivating listening experience.

In “the apple tree under the sea,” religion is not the only lens through which Hemlocke Springs examines her identity.

In the R&B-inspired track “set me free,” Hemlocke Springs sings about sex in a way that is reminiscent of 2000s beats from the likes of Nelly Furtado and Beyoncé.

“Set me free” transitions to the last track on the album, “be the girl!” This song feels like a rebirth for Hemlocke Springs. She sings, “I can’t be the girl I used to know, even though I thought I could.”

Here, she works through growing up and becoming a different person than expected, moving away from our former selves.

A standout track that precedes “be the girl!” but seems to go hand-in-hand musically and thematically is “the beginning of the end.”

The second track of the album and one of three pre-released singles, with “head, shoulders, knees and ankles” and “w-ww-w-w,” this song was written seven years ago. Hemlocke Springs was still in university when she wrote the track, reckoning with her expanding world and searching for a new sense of self.

“Head, shoulders, knees and

ankles” and “w-w-w-w-w” are two of the most intense songs on the album. The former track has heavy, urgent vocals that drop into a ballad ending. It is theatrical, with clever lyrics and a barrage of energy. “W-w-w-w-w” was inspired by the documentary “Father Figures.” It details the story of the filmmaker’s father, a 73-year-old man, who aimed to marry a girl 50 years his junior. Hemlocke Springs’ song is a forceful response to the story, with lyrics like “He’s 73, his soul is astray” being one of the kinder ones on the track. Despite the sharp edge of the track, it is still a fun, stylized piece that listeners can appreciate.

Each song on “the apple tree under the sea” takes listeners through a new journey. Considering the album is self-produced, it is easy to be impressed by the musical fervor of Hemlocke Springs. She is bringing a truly sensory experience to the indie genre.

Fans of independent artists may want to keep an eye on Hemlocke Springs. As her music career continues to grow, it can be expected that she will keep being one of the most exciting up-and-coming voices in pop.

Spotify, in addition to Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group, issued a lawsuit against the archival website and activist pirate group, Anna’s Archive. The lawsuit filed on Jan. 2, was subsequently unsealed and made public on Jan. 16. Multiple complaints were made against Anna’s Archive, including direct copyright infringement, breach of contract, violation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act and violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. The lawsuit is for $13 trillion.

This lawsuit is occurring after Anna’s Archive scraped 300 terabytes worth of data from Spotify. The introduction of the lawsuit called it “brazen theft” of “... nearly all of the

world’s commercial sound recordings by a group of anonymous Internet pirates with no regard for the law.”

Anna’s Archive publicly admitted to doing this last December.

In a blog post from Anna’s Archive, it was stated, “This Spotify scrape is our humble attempt to start such a ‘preservation archive’ for music.” The scrape contained 86 million music files and reflected nearly all listeners on Spotify. At the end of the blog, an Anna’s Archive representative wrote, “With your help, humanity’s musical heritage will be forever protected from destruction by natural disasters, wars, budget cuts and other catastrophes.”

Anna’s Archive started from The Pirate Library Mirror. Its goal was to preserve all human knowledge. They did this by blatantly defying copyright laws and “mirroring” existing

libraries. The first library it mirrored was Z-Library, which led to U.S. law enforcement arresting the people allegedly connected to the project and shutting down the domains. In response, Anna’s Archive was launched and essentially was a search engine for pirated content.

Anna’s Archive is mainly known amongst college students as a website that has access to millions of textbooks and required readings that would otherwise be exorbitantly priced. Though piracy is looked down upon, the price of textbooks has always been a complaint for college students.

According to The National Center for Education Data Statistics, the average high school student “spends between $1,212 annually for books and supplies as of the 2022-23 academic year.” Anna’s Archive was one of the

few places on the internet where students were able to cut corners when it came to textbooks and course materials.

Anna’s Archive faced domain suspensions in early January, which sparked confusion amongst users. They lost their “.org” domain, shutting down the website.

Conversation around the lawsuit sparked many perspectives. Music critic and internet personality, Anthony Fantano, pointed out the hypocrisy in Spotify calling out Anna’s Archive for pirating music, given the allegations that Spotify started its platform by pirating music. Many people expressed disappointment and frustration in regard to losing access to the website’s resources, such as textbooks or Kindle books.

This also contributes to a larger conversation about

having to subscribe to everything, as opposed to being able to own things. Most shows, movies and music have subscribed to the streaming subscription model. Many people have become fed up with feeding into this model, which is always subject to price increases or randomly removing content with no explanation or communication to the consumer.

Many streaming services have merged, forcing paying customers to subscribe to the merged platform for access to content they do not want. This is currently happening to Hulu and Disney+. Spotify recently announced price changes for its Premium users, which would increase the price of Premium for subscribers.

Anna’s Archive failed to respond to the lawsuit. This could result in a default judgment, meaning the plaintiff wins automatically.

ALAINA DACKERMANN | DESIGN DIRECTOR

Cooking for Souls fights food insecurity in Athens

LIV JACOBS FOR THE POST

For Ohio University Bobcats looking to get involved in the neighborhood, Cooking for Souls might be a club to explore. OU’s Cooking For Souls chapter, which started this academic year, is student-run and focuses on cooking and delivering meals to underprivileged areas in Athens.

According to a 2023 study by Data USA, 22.1% of Athens residents live below the poverty line. This is almost double the national average from 2023 of 12.4%.

Food insecurity is one of the leading factors of poverty in Athens. According to a 2023 report by the Athens County Foundation, 16% of people in Athens County are food insecure. The U.S. The Department of Agriculture classifies much of Athens as “low-food access areas” due to “proximity to stores, access to transportation and ability to pay.”

Cooking for Souls strives to help those below the poverty line who are experiencing food insecurity. The club delivers homemade meals, hosts philanthropy events and connects with locals through homemade food.

Robert Palmer, a junior studying business pre-law, business analytics and finance, is the president of the organization and said he learned about Cooking for Souls through a friend.

“I was reached out to by a friend of mine from high school who founded this organization entirely at UCLA,” Palmer said. “She was trying to expand to other areas and other colleges.”

Cooking for Souls at the University of California Los Angeles was the first chapter of the organization, founded by Amal Aboumerhi, a student. The organization not only fights food insecurity, but brings people from different walks of life together.

Since its establishment, Cooking for Souls branched to other colleges including the University of Cincinnati and the University of Pittsburgh.

Kate Colan, a freshman studying journalism, is the OU chapter’s marketing chair and said members already had success raising money despite their short time on campus.

During the fall semester, the organization held a Pie the President

fundraiser. Anyone could come to the table on College Green and pay $2 to shove a pie into Palmer’s face. Palmer said the event raised $56 for the club.

“(It was) getting people involved in a fun way and saying, ‘Hey, this is a good cause,’” Colan said. “People did want to donate.”

Colan said some who approached the table did not take the opportunity to pie the president, but instead just donated money toward the organization. A good first sign for the club that people cared about the cause and wanted to help the community.

Cooking for Souls is also working with three other campus organizations, including Cat’s Cupboard. Cat’s Cupboard is an on-campus food pantry available to OU students, faculty and staff, providing access to fresh, frozen, and shelf-stable food options. Cat’s Cupboard provides Cooking for Souls’ donation bins for its upcoming food drives.

Cooking for Souls hosts food drives with Cat’s Cupboard to support other organizations like Good Works, a group dedicated to providing hope to those impoverished and homeless in rural Appalachia. Additionally, food drive

donations are sent to the American Red Cross, Palmer said. Cooking for Souls is also working towards raising money for the American Red Cross, and is already 30% of the way done with its $1,000 goal.

“They do what we do, just professionally,” said Palmer. “So we’re working with them to help them in any way we can.”

As OU’s Cooking for Souls chapter moves forward and grows, Palmer said it is looking to host two events per semester.

“I want to really create a strong relationship where we’re actually running a cooking event and a food drive every single semester, at the very least,” Palmer said.

Palmer hopes that after his term as president finishes, the organization continues to grow and develop. With a desire to have an impact in Athens, Palmer said Cooking for Souls is starting strong with its presence on campus, and hopes to gain more members.

The chapter hosts outreach meetings biweekly on Thursdays at 6 p.m. on Zoom. The chapter’s Instagram page includes an interest form and event information.

Students seek support at Academic Achievement Center

DREW HOFFMASTER FOR THE POST

Ohio University students struggling academically or wanting help with a subject can turn to the Academic Achievement Center.

Some of the services hosted by the AAC include drop-in tutoring, Peer-AssistedLearning sessions, the Writing Commons and the FirstGeneration Student Success support program.

Different parts of the AAC provide support to specific subjects. The Learning Commons, located in Alden Library, aims to support students in their humanities, social sciences and language courses, including accounting and Spanish.

The STEM Academy assists students in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields and is in Morton Hall.

“The Academic Achievement Center is here for every student,” Elizabeth Fallon, the executive director for academic achievement, said. “Our focus is supporting every student. Not just students who are struggling, but certainly struggling students are welcome to join us and use our services.”

The AAC offers services not just to OU’s main campus, but also to all of its satellites. Fallon said about 25-30% of

students use AAC services. Fallon said it has also been found that students who go to PAL sessions receive a full letter grade higher than those who do not.

“I would define any student who uses the AAC as highly motivated,” Fallon said. “Whether they’re struggling or not, we do have a fair number of students who are trying to get into medical school or other graduate school, so they have to have good grades. They’re coming to make sure they’re getting an A on average.”

Every semester, the university reviews each undergraduate student’s cumulative grade point average to see if it is below 2.0. If this is the case, OU puts the student on academic probation.

At the beginning of the Fall 2025 semester, 656 of the 17,079 undergraduate students were placed on academic probation and 70 were academically dismissed, according to an email from Alexander Semancik, a communications specialist for University Communications and Marketing.

“Most students on probation are first-year students,” Fallon said. “Usually, after a student successfully completes a couple semesters, they’re fine.”

Students on academic probation have access to a success advisor and the Academic Probation Help Desk.

With gratitude, 240 E. State St. Letter to Athens

SOPHIA ROOKSBERRY MANAGING EDITOR

ALEXANDRA HOPKINS COMMUNITY STANDARDS

EDITOR

Jan. 30 began like any other day at 240 E. State St. The two of us and our three roommates woke up in the same beds we had slept in for nearly two years, went about our morning routines and left the house expecting to be back that night to celebrate one of the last weekends of our senior year.

But by 6 p.m., the five of us were gathered in our neighbors’ living room watching fire departments from across the region fight a blaze engulfing our house. In a matter of minutes and at no fault of our own, the home we built and shared during our upperclassman years was rendered uninhabitable. We had also lost Mavis, our beloved housecat and softest member of our home.

Almost as quickly as the fire caught, the people of Athens jumped to our aid. Our neighbors showed the first act of kindness by offering their home as our refuge while the fire burned. In the hours that followed, friends, acquaintances and perfect strangers reached out to offer spare rooms, clothes, toiletries and more kinds of support than we could name.

Our parents came to us immediately to hold us through the grief. They leaped in without hesitation to shoulder the burden of our daily needs while we focused on making it through the first few days.

Two fellow students – our friends who knew and loved our home – organized a GoFundMe to help us rebuild, which garnered dozens of donations by the end of the night and nearly 650 donations from people across Athens and our hometowns by the end of two weeks. Ohio University faculty and staff provided needed guidance and rallied at our side.

When students are first placed on probation, they must attend a two-hour Academic Success Workshop where they learn about what it means to be on academic probation.

Fallon said some contributing factors to why students are put on academic probation include personal situations that draw them home, sickness or dropping too many classes.

“I can’t say this is why most people are (on probation), it varies widely across students and their experience,” Fallon said. “There are a lot of reasons why students get that grade, and they’re probably as many unique reasons as there are students at probation.”

Fallon said no one wants to walk in her shoes because of how busy she is working for the AAC. She and the other AAC directors spend most of the summer planning to start offering all of their programs by the second week of school.

“We’re looking at our data from last year, (and asking) what went well?” Fallon said. “Maybe there’s some classes we offered services for that the students didn’t come for, so we didn’t want to repeat that again. It is just fine-tuning our plan for the academic year, and we also want to hire all of our student staff.”

The services through the AAC are typically peer-to-peer; however, if needed, faculty are

always happy to step in.

Maddie Saiter, a sophomore studying marketing, found herself in need of a little help with her accounting and business calculus classes last semester, so she turned to the AAC’s tutoring and PAL sessions.

Each of us had come to know Athens as a warm and communal town during our time as students, but the support we were shown during this unexplainably frightening time was unlike anything we could have expected. The five of us are deeply humbled by the kindness we have been shown and even more grateful to have the support of Athens behind us while we navigate this unfathomable situation.

Our hearts are forever in Athens and forever at 240 E. State St., and there aren’t sufficient words to adequately express our thanks.

With the most heartfelt thanks, Sophia, Alexandra, Grace, Noa and Sofie

“I think the most helpful part of it was just hearing the class material from someone who isn’t the professor,” Saiter said. “Just getting a second voice on a subject really helped me.”

Saiter is part of the honor program and has to maintain a 3.3 GPA to stay in it. Saiter said she knows she is not the best test taker and has to do whatever she can to pass them.

“I attended some tutoring sessions for my accounting class last year and ended with a high B,” Saiter said. “In my accounting class this year, I’m sitting at a 77 right now because I haven’t attended any tutoring sessions, so I would say there’s definitely a difference.”

The services offered through the AAC are free for students to use. Saiter said she wouldn’t have used them if they were not free.

“I’m just speaking for myself, but I don’t have enough money to go out and have someone else teach me the material,”

Saiter said. “I would have had to do that by myself, and that probably would have resulted in a lower grade.”

Fallon said she wishes everyone knew the AAC is available for all students.

“We know sometimes students feel a lot of stigma, like they don’t want to say they need help or they’re struggling, but that shouldn’t be their worry,” Fallon said. “We’re not going to shame anybody. We’re held back here to help everyone be successful.”

Saiter said she never felt embarrassed at a PAL session.

Saiter said the PAL session instructors and people at the AAC are extremely welcoming.

“I probably have a couple more difficult business math classes coming up, and math is not my strongest subject,” Saiter said. “I could definitely see myself going back just because my experience has been so positive so far.”

From left, Kate Colan, marketing chair for Cooking for Souls, Julia Rocco, digital media producer, Sofia Vidalon, cooking advisor, Rob Palmer, president, Patrick Moy, vice president, Ethan Angala, treasurer, and Jack Colan, outreach director, pose for a photo in front of the Class Gateway on College Green, Feb. 12, 2026, in Athens. (ALLIE STEVENS | FOR THE POST)