September 1, 2026

Editorial: Big buisness on court street... PG 5 Get to know 2026 Ohio Football Captains ... PG 7 Women in the Music Industry builds connections... PG 11

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

VOLUME 117, ISSUE 3

US Headlines The Nations top stories sourced from The AP.

US tariffs on Canada, declining drug prices, Lake Ontario name change BRIDGET THOMAS FOR THE POST 9 Sun _________________

U.S. tariffs raised on Canadian goods President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Canadian goods beginning Aug. 22 after trade negotiations failed with Canada. Mark Carney, Canada’s prime minister, announced Canada will retaliate with tariffs beginning on Sept. 8, according to the Associated Press.

These tariffs will impact about 5% of Canada’s yearly exports to the U.S., roughly $20 billion worth of goods.

Premier of Ontario Doug Ford told the AP his province is ready to cut off electricity and critical minerals to the U.S. if the trade war escalates.

Additionally, Trump has threatened adding tariffs to Canadian automobiles, according to the AP. Tariffs, which are paid by the importers or businesses buying goods from abroad, often result in higher prices for consumers. Rising tariffs have contributed to higher inflation and a rising cost of living, according to the AP.

24 Mon __________________

Trump administration takes credit for declining drug prices New federal data shows drug prices dropped in July, with a 3.1% decrease from last year, the largest year-over-year drop since 1963. Trump credits his “most favored nation” drug deals and the TrumpRx website for the decline, but experts claim the reasons behind the drop are more complicated, according to the AP. Another reason behind the drop in drug prices is a law from former President Joe Biden, which allowed Medicare to haggle drug prices with drug manufacturers. Additionally, more availability of generic medication has driven up competition, lowering drug prices, according to the AP. Despite the data showing a decrease in prices, many Americans are still facing high drug prices because the consumer price index measures what drug companies are paid by both insurers and consumers, not just what consumers pay, according to the AP. 25 Tue __________________ Supreme Court sides with Trump’s executive order on mail-in ballots continued pg 2

New SB 1 syllabus mandates raise concern among professors LIV JACOBS FOR THE POST Senate Bill 1, also known as the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act, was signed

by Governor Mike DeWine on March 28, 2025, and took effect on June 27, 2025.

The bill has led to many changes within Ohio’s public universities including the requirement of a mandatory civics course, as well as a review of faculty post-tenure.

While many of the changes were already implemented, the 2026-27 school year is the first to take place with a new major change, the mandated posting of course syllabi.

Ohio University adhered to those changes with the

use of Concourse Syllabus, a public course syllabus search engine enabling access to undergraduate course syllabi.

According to Samantha Pelham, media relations manager for OU’s University Communications and Marketing, the university provided training, workshops, consultations and other resources to support the new implementation.

Senate Bill 1 requires each posted syllabus to include the instructor’s name, their professional qualifications, an outlined course calendar and any required or recommended readings. OU also requires the syllabus to have a religious accommodations statement.

TOP: ETHAN HERX DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPH MIDDLE: ALLIE STEVENS FOR THE POST BOTTOM: EMMA REED FOR THE POST

continued pg 2

Potential data center in Chillicothe raises concerns KAITLIN HOGG | FOR THE POST Data centers have recently become a major topic of conversation across the state, especially in Southeast Ohio.

Athens was recently contacted about a potential data center in the area, which led to a yearlong moratorium on data center talks, according to a recent article from The Post.

Chillicothe is now following suit, with the City Council passing a 60 day data center moratorium, blocking the development of any data

Photo by ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST

centers.

The moratorium was introduced by City Council At-Large member, Kathy Dunn, who said it was necessary to put a pause on data center talks to gather more research and public input.

While the moratorium was passed on Aug. 24, the city council meeting held on Aug. 10 showed citizens in support of it. continued pg 3

True North Sanctuary works to Local businesses show support strengthen Athens animal care for UAOU amid negotiations LIV JACOBS FOR THE POST Matthew Schultz, founder and executive director at True North Sanctuary, is working to provide Athens with a place of refuge, support and care for animals.

True North Sanctuary, located at 6711 Ervin Road, is a 501c3 nonprofit sanctuary rooted in compassion. Since officially opening in June, True North is still getting established in the

community as they care for their first furry clients. Their mission is to be a place where animals can heal, live peacefully and be treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. Shultz’s vision to found a sanctuary stemmed from a close love of his, Tucker.

Tucker, a Labrador owned by Shultz, passed away at the early age of four years old.

continued pg 11

Google Gemini 10X3

KAITLIN HOGG FOR THE POST As negotiations continue between Ohio University and the United Academics of Ohio University, some Athens businesses, including Minuteman Press, The Little Professor Book Center, Court Street Coffee, Donkey Coffee and Brenen’s Coffee Cafe, began expressing their support for the UAOU with red posters in their windows.

The UAOU is involved with ongoing university negotiations regarding compensation and better working conditions, according to a previous report by The Post.

As of Aug. 20, the university has not responded to the UAOU’s compensation proposal, which was submitted in October.

continued pg 9

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

A/2

SB1 Syllabus Check/continued from pg 1 Some professors have grown concerned with the new requirement.

Brian Stephens, assistant professor of African American Studies at OU, has worries regarding the intention of the mandate.

“I think the intent of this legislation is to create a culture of intimidation and fear,” Stephens said. “It’s intended to have faculty self-police their work.”

Stephens added that along with an intention to intimidate, the mandate promotes surveillance among departments and courses that cover what some may deem as controversial material.

“Everything that educators and intellectuals do within the university is an articulation of an ideology,” Stephens said. “What I’m concerned about is those in power pretending that what they advocate is not an ideology.”

According to Stephens, he has not redesigned or revised his syllabus since the implementation of the mandate.

He did so because he believes being transparent and unapologetic about

your teachings is the best way to confront the state’s surveillance.

John O’Keefe, associate professor of history at OU’s Chillicothe campus, faced similar struggles when working to comply with the syllabi mandate, stating it has become harder to teach while being threatened by the state government.

“As a professor, I’ve had less time to review everything carefully,” O’Keefe said. “So I think on a practical level it means more time and resources taken away from the teaching” Professors at OU have also voiced concerns regarding the proposed Senate Bill 461, which has been introduced in the Senate.

The legislation would strengthen the state’s power on college campuses as well as increase the power within intellectual diversity centers that are currently at five universities in Ohio.

Those universities include, The Ohio State University, University of Toledo, Cleveland State University, Wright State University and Miami University.

The five intellectual diversity centers are state-mandated academic units established in 2023.

a minimum three credit hour civics course, starting with the graduating class of 2030.

According to a press release from the Ohio Senate, the centers were created to “embrace the mission of civics, government and open debate without fear of being labeled an outcast by what has become a campus cancel culture of group think.”

Those civics courses are required to teach subject matter such as capitalism and the American economic system.

Course readings are outlined by legislation including materials like the U.S. Constitution, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address and more.

Proposed Senate Bill 461 would expand the mandated intellectual diversity centers into colleges of their own at their assigned universities.

Professor Stephens believes the bill is another example of governmental oversight.

The subject matter being dictated by legislation has posed additional concerns among faculty.

“It’s creating a culture of silence, intimidation, fear; forcing people to be potentially dishonest about the work that they do,” Stephens said.

“If every student in the university has to read this,” O’Keefe said. “We need to ensure adequate background and preparation…it can be a challenge to do that when you’re mandated something that does not fit in with the context of the other documents.”

Although OU is not one of the universities that hosts an intellectual diversity center, it has complied with previously stated requirements under SB 1, mandating all students enroll in

@LIVVJACOBSS LJ934424@OHIO.EDU

UAOU/continued from pg 1 The University Communications and Marketing team was asked via email how the university feels about support from businesses and if public support would sway the university’s decisions.

Dan Pittman, the senior director of communication for UCM, wrote, “OHIO respects the right of all local businesses and community members to freely express their views.”

Pittman went on to write how the university continues to make efforts in collective bargaining negotiations.

“University leadership looks forward to building on the positive momentum in collective bargaining negotiations with the United Academics of Ohio University,” Pittman said in an email.

“We remain focused on reaching an agreement that supports our faculty while advancing OHIO’s academic mission and long-term institutional success.”

Chris Pyle, owner of Donkey Coffee at 17 W. Washington St., said he is a longtime supporter of the union, and when he was approached about putting up a UAOU support poster, it was an easy decision.

“We want to help the ‘little guy,’ and

so that’s always been our thing here,” Pyle said. “We’re really into justice and charity.”

Pyle also said he was disappointed by how the university is handling negotiations with the UAOU. “I was kind of upset, too, reading about the president just kicking the can down the road and not showing up at meetings and all these things … it’s been over a year now, and nothing’s happened, and it’s not the union’s fault,” Pyle said. “So I just feel like it’s pretty lame. I expected more from this president and more from just the administration, at least taking it seriously.”

Nicholas Polsinelli, owner of Little Professor Book Center at 65 S. Court St., said by putting up the poster at Little Professor, he hopes to see more of a connection between the university and the city.

“There’s always been a stark divide between Ohio University and Athens, and I think that’s absurd,” Polsinelli said. “I would like to get back to a point when there was a union of Athens and the university, and this is our way of saying the professors are the people that interact with the town more often

… and that the city of Athens and the people in it care a lot about that.”

Polsinelli also said he is passionate about the UAOU support and unions in general.

“Unions are, in many ways, representative of the foundation of our entire country,” Polsinelli said. “They’re about rights, and they’re about making sure that people have rights. And when we don’t have unions, people are being taken advantage of because they don’t have rights. It’s just simply antithetical to the foundation of our entire culture.”

Polsinelli said he does not think local support will change the university’s mind, however, he hopes public support will help the UAOU’s cause.

“I would hope that they care about the opinions, not only of the people that work at their establishment, but also of the people that surround their establishment and encourage a lot of cross-pollination of ideas and workforce and culture,” Polsinelli said.

“So, I hope they pay attention and realize this means something to us.”

The UAOU’s next steps include a rally Sep. 9 at noon on College Green.

KH303123@OHIO.EDU

Photo by ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST

Want to get laid?

See us first.

Things can move quickly on campus, and you need to be prepared when things get heavy. Luckily, your local Planned Parenthood is only six minutes away. We handle all things sexual health and protection for all kinds of patients. And if going to the doctor feels like just another hill to climb, good news: we do telehealth too.

Make an appointment today so you’re ready when the big moment comes.

Planned Parenthood | Birth Control | STI Testing | Wellness Exams Virtual appointments available |

416 W Union St., Athens

ppgoh.org

SEPT. 1, 2026

A/3

US Headlines/continued from pg 1

Blotter: A Money theft, tool theft, warrants of the week

BEN PENNINGTON | FOR THE POST

KAITLIN HOGG | NEWS STAFF WRITER 21 Fri ___________________

Don’t spend my money!

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a woman stating that a business had charged her card without her approval. Deputies spoke with all involved parties and told them it was a civil issue they needed to resolve on their own..

Loose car seat?

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a church in Albany after a caller reported seeing a car seat in the parking lot. Deputies at the scene spoke with a member of the church who said they had just thrown it out.

Maybe not gunshots?

Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded near Mine Road in Athens after reports of gunshots in the area. Deputies patrolled the area but did not hear anything.

The Supreme Court decision Monday gave Trump’s executive order to restrict mail-in ballots an easier path.

However, with midterm elections in November, it is unclear how much can be done before then, according to the AP. The Supreme Court’s decision was not on the legality of Trump’s executive order. Rather, it decided states who sued did not have a legal right to challenge the order, according to the AP. 26 Wed __________________ Darline Graham wins GOP nomination in South Carolina Primary Darline Graham, sister to the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, won the South Carolina Republican primary for U.S. Senate on Tuesday. Graham defeated U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman in a special primary runoff after the two were the top finishers in the 10-person primary two weeks prior, according to the AP. Graham was appointed to finish out her late brother’s senate term

by Gov. Henry McMaster following Lindsey Graham’s death in July. Graham joined the senate race following an endorsement by Trump and support by MAGA Inc., a super PAC contributing to Trump and his allies, the AP reported.

While some voters expressed support for Graham because of Trump’s endorsement, others expressed worry about her lack of political experience.

27 Thur _____________________ Judge blocks Minnesota request to compel the extradition of ICE officer from Texas U.S. District Judge Fernado Rodriguez Jr. decided against blocking the release of Christian Castro, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer charged with shooting a man and lying about it during the Minneapolis immigration crackdown. The order did not prevent Castro from being released or Texas Gov. Greg Abbott from signing Castro’s extradition warrant, according to the

AP. Castro is being held in a facility in Texas near the Mexico border. Under Texas state law, Castro is to be released after 90 days of detention, which ends Thursday, according to the AP. Abbott has not blocked the extradition of Castro, but is waiting for the outcome of an internal investigation which will decide if Castro was legally a fugitive under the Extradition Clause. Minnesota is hoping to keep Castro in custody under the claim he is a flight risk who has mentioned fleeing to Mexico once released, according to the AP. 28 Fri ___________________ Trump signs order renaming Lake Ontario to Lake America Trump signed an executive order Thursday, renaming Lake Ontario to “Lake America,” amid an ongoing trade war with Canada, according to the AP. The order directed the Interior Department to officially change the name in the U.S. geographic naming service. Canadian officials responded to the name change by announcing the lake will remain named Lake Ontario to them and highlighted the Native American origins of the name, according to the AP. 30 Sun __________________ Trump announces US stake in Venezuelan oil reserve Via social media, Trump announced Friday night that the U.S. made a deal to get a stake in Venezuelan oil reserves, according to the AP. The deal is said to give the U.S. stake in the development of 17 fields, which are estimated to produce 65 billion barrels of oil. The deal will give the U.S. ownership stake and a right to buy oil at cost, according to the AP. Gas prices in the U.S. are not expected to drop any time soon, but the deal is expected to help lower gas prices in the future, according to the AP. BT037924@OHIO.EDU

22 Sat __________________

Doggie drop-off Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the Athens County Dog Shelter. A woman wanted to drop off a dog, but it was outside business hours, so deputies aided the situation. Deputies took a report, then resumed patrol.

Verbal fights Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to state Route 550 in Athens following a verbal dispute report. Deputies at the scene made contact with both parties, who agreed to separate for the night.

23 Sun _________________

Drug bust?

The Athens County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to Albany after receiving a report of potential narcotics being made. Deputies on the scene spoke with the involved party, who told deputies they had just finished cleaning their house with bleach, which was causing the smell.

Deputies also determined that no criminal activity had occurred.

Domestic violence Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Jetstar Drive in Coolville after a domestic violence report. Deputies spoke with all involved parties and determined no acts of violence had taken place. .

24 Mon __________________

Warrants of the week The Athens County Sheriff’s Office has warrants of arrest out for Jessica Anderson and Alyssa Parker.

Parker was wanted for possession of drugs, but she has been located and transported to the Southeastern Ohio Regional Jail. Anderson is wanted for the illegal conveyance of drugs and possession of drugs. Anyone with information on her whereabouts should contact the Athens County Sheriff’s Office immediately.

False Alarm Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Stewart after reports of a female

having a mental health crisis.

Deputies at the scene spoke with the woman and involved individuals and determined that the woman was not having a crisis and was in a stable condition.

Unknown substances Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the Bassett House Treatment Center after an unknown substance was located in a bedroom. The individual in question maintained that it was not theirs and they did not know where it came from. The substance was taken into evidence.

25 Tue ____________________

Trespassing Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to The Plains following a trespassing report. Deputies on the scene located a tent on the property, later observing the two people residing in the tent.

The people were removed from the tent and served with a trespassing complaint.

More news about goats?

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Vore Ridge Road in Athens after reports of goats in the street. Deputies on the scene made contact with the goats’ owner.

Since the report came after multiple warnings and the owner failed to comply, the owner was given a citation for animals at large.

Theft complaint Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Greens Run Road in Glouster following a complaint of theft. Deputies at the scene were told multiple tools were stolen out of a vehicle. At the time the media report was published, a report was taken and an investigation was pending.

26 Wed ___________________

Suspicious person report Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Sams Road in Athens after receiving a suspicious persons and vehicle report.

When deputies arrived on scene, they spoke with the individuals, who said their car ran out of gas. A closer investigation revealed that one individual, Bradley Gill, was found to have multiple arrest warrants in Washington County. Deputies took Gill to the county line, where he was taken by Washington County law enforcement.

Gas theft Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to EZ Mart in Glouster following a report of a theft. Reportedly, a woman pumped $50 worth of gas into her car and left without paying. At the time the media report was released, criminal charges were pending.

Gas theft Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Front Street in Glouster to conduct a well-being check. It was determined that the juvenile in question was fine and there were no issues.

KH303123@OHIO.EDU

Data Center/continued from pg 1 According to the Aug. 10 Chillicothe city council meeting minutes, two individuals attending the meeting voiced concerns regarding the proposed data center and two other individuals expressed support for a moratorium on data centers.

Gunner Barnes, Chillicothe Third Ward council member, said the city government was caught off guard by the news of the potential data center because they learned about the plans the same time the citizens did.

“Myself, the mayor, most of city council, we had no idea,” Barnes said. “So, we were just as shocked as the citizens, but then, of course, some citizens thought we did know because a lot of people think that we know about every single business that comes into town, and we just don’t.”

The area where the data center would be built is the former Chillicothe Paper Mill.

The paper mill, previously owned by Pixelle Specialty Solutions, was sold to U.S.

Paper Mill Company LLC, a subsidiary of U.S Medical Glove, in October 2025, according to the Chillicothe Chamber of Commerce.

U.S. Paper Mill has been developing nitrile medical gloves since taking over the space.

The U.S. Paper Mill Company now plans to transform the site into a multi-purpose campus, with one part dedicated to glove making, another dedicated to building airplane parts and data center parts and a third area dedicated to housing the actual data center, according to Barnes.

The U.S. Paper Mill Company announced the news in a press release through the Chillicothe Chamber of Commerce.

“Through strategic partnerships with Amphibian Aerospace Industries, Inc. (AAI), U.S. Medical Glove Company, Aligned, and U.S. Box Company, the campus is positioned to become a national model for repurposing legacy infrastructure into a dynamic economic growth

corridor, paving the path for new industries, high-skilled employment, domestic supplychain resilience and long-term prosperity,” according to the press release.

The glove-making expansion is expected to bring 150 onsite jobs, while the airplane manufacturer is expected to bring “between 150 and 200 direct advanced manufacturing jobs, more than 500 indirect jobs.”

Barnes said people were surprised to hear about the proposed data center facility.

According to Dunn, there was not much publicity regarding the data center, and if it was announced, it was overlooked.

She also said a moratorium was vital to a greater understanding of the situation as a whole.

“I felt like the only way that we could make a good decision that worked for the people we serve, and the whole issue was to just pause and have more time to learn more about it and understand what it is that this or any other company might want to do,” said Dunn.

The moratorium is in place, as of right now, for 60 days. In that time, Dunn hopes to look into the data center’s potential impact on Chillicothe citizens as well as reach out to workers at the plant to understand the infrastructure.

“One of the things I’m going to do is go to a one-day information conference that’s up in Newark,” Dunn said.

“I wanted time to go to that where I could also learn more about what other cities were doing in the state and what other communities have done or were planning on doing when it came to any kind of legislation affecting data centers.”

Even though the moratorium will expire on Oct. 23, Dunn said it is possible to amend the legislation and lengthen the moratorium if the council deems it necessary.

Some of the main concerns with the data center, according to Barnes, include water intake, impact on utility bills and property values.

He said that he hopes the moratorium will allow council

members to understand more about the data center and any impact it will have on citizens.

“We don’t know how big it’s going to be,” Barnes said.

“We don’t know anything, and certain people on council have been talking to the owners and such, but there’s just information out there.

Some people are getting fed different information.

Nothing’s just linear across the board. So those are times where we all need to be on the same page here.”

Nothing with the data center has been officially determined or decided, as both Barnes and Dunn said there are still many avenues to consider and more aspects of it to look into. However, Dunn did say that the council will make a decision that works best for the people it serves.

“There’s just a lot that has to go into it, and I think that we need to really study it for the benefit of the people we serve,” Dunn said.

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

A/4

For the Record | Anti-intellectualism is killing craftsmanship NYLA GILBERT | COMMUNITY STANDARDS EDITOR Anti-intellectualism is defined as “opposing or hostile to intellectuals or to an intellectual view or approach.”

In recent years, the decline in critical thinking and cognitive abilities has left the future of America in a downhill battle to create a generation of thinkers.

Since the creation of public education in the 1630s, it has seen many iterations. Yet, the literacy crisis is undoing hundreds of years of education reform and student rights.

This includes higher education, with the National Assessment of Educational Progress reporting in 2024 that 12th graders had the lowest reading scores in the assessment’s history.

With scores in 2025 not changing significantly, society is now seeing college professors change the structure of their curriculum because students do not have the skills to digest 20-page readings.

reporting, retro technology, and embroidered and lively fashion are all vanishing as convenience rises.

This disappearance largely has to do with both the rise of artificial intelligence and the growing literacy crisis. On top of that, people don’t know how to make things. You can take a fashion class or a retail design class and learn the difference, but what are now skills attributed to higher education courses or remedial high school fashion classes were once a part of daily life.

An article by Edward S. Cooke Jr. for the Princeton University Press titled “The Need for Material Literacy” makes a great point about how people today lack the true understanding and ability to perform sensory analysis.

It isn’t only impacting education but our quality of life as a whole, as adults are lacking the skill set to be proficient in areas requiring patience and time investment.

“We take labels or written descriptions of objects at face value and lack the ability to assess them for ourselves through knowledge of materials or processes,” Cooke wrote.

“Nor do we recognize how objects can tell us a great deal about the creative impulses and lived experiences of different times that have not been recorded in written or visual records.”

Craftsmanship and attention to detail have defined generations of cultural phenomena. Detailed investigative

The death of trades comes at a sad loss for the United States. The country is in major need of plumbers,

electricians, masons and metal workers. The decline of skilled labor in America is creating skill gaps, shifting modern corporate workplaces.

pandemic in 2020. This cost the global economy an estimated $10 trillion in lost productivity or 9% of GDP in the last year.

People are not thinking, choosing instead to avoid engaging in topics or work seen as too difficult. Forbes contributor Jasmine Browley wrote, “The Rise Of Anti-Intellectualism: Everyone Has The Answer Now. Fewer Workers Can Explain It,” which details how declining critical thinking skills are creating a noticeable shift in hiring practices, compliance failures, training gaps and productivity breakdowns.

Workers are leaning heavily on A.I. to solve their problems without understanding how they come to conclusions or if those conclusions are logical.

This anti-critical-thinking culture is leaving important trades without successors. A report from the U.S. Department of Education estimates an estimated 2.1 million trade jobs may go unfilled by 2030, with an annual loss of $1 trillion for the U.S. economy.

AI is becoming the solution for many people’s logic-based issues, yet AI depends on human intellect to train itself on such matters. This means AI is only as smart as the humans it’s learning from. With the decline of American education, it’s like cheating off the test of a straight-F student and expecting to get an A-plus.

According to Gallup’s 2026 “State of the Global Workplace” report, only 20% of workers reported being engaged at work, the lowest rate since the

The lack of people fulfilling those important roles in society will not only tank the U.S. economy but harm the quality of life for Americans. If the world forgot about trades for 24 hours, we would be in apocalyptic scenarios. If they didn’t exist at all, we wouldn’t have the resources to make cave drawings.

Society needs craftsmanship. Yet, it seems the world is gearing up to depend on AI to be humanity’s saving grace. AI should not shoulder the weight of being the savior of the U.S. economy because it simultaneously poisons the population of workers that could use these jobs the most.

We need a future of thinkers to create a future of competent workers.

NG972522@OHIO.EDU.

Abby’s Angle | Cleveland wants Watson out, Browns not listening ABBY SHRIVER | FOR THE POST After the Cleveland Browns’ second preseason game, head coach Todd Monken declared Deshaun Watson won the starting quarterback competition and will start Week One, beating out Shedeur Sanders for the spot. Monken claims this decision was simply because Watson was ahead of Sanders, able to “move the ball and score points” more efficiently.

On paper, this sounds like a straightforward football decision. In reality, the Browns’ front office and Monken are prioritizing salvaging their failed investment in Watson over the fans who are fed up with the Watson era and begging to move on.

Watson was traded to Cleveland from the Houston Texans in spring of 2022, and spirits were high. He was nearing star quarterback status, and despite 22 women accusing him of sexual misconduct, the Browns took a chance on him and wrote him a massive check: Five years, $230 million guaranteed.

Since then, Watson has only appeared in 19 games. He was suspended 11 games due to his sexual misconduct settlement in 2022 and had seasonending injuries in 2023, 2024 and early 2025. Browns Owner Jimmy Haslam even publicly called the Watson trade a “big swing and miss.” After Watson missed the entire 2025 season and Shedeur Sanders showed glimmers of hope, it felt like the Watson era might finally be in the past.

Now, weeks before the 2026 season begins, we’re right back where we started.

The trade singlehandedly dug the Browns into a hole they haven’t climbed out of, between the loss of six draft picks and guaranteeing Watson $230 million. As he continues to perform at such a low level, both the front office’s choices and Watson’s attitude are indefensible.

Financially, it’s not possible for the Browns to cut Watson, as they owe him $46 million for this season; however, there is a clause in Watson’s reconstructed contract basically saying, “Watson also has a base salary of $200 million in 2029 that’s not guaranteed, but it becomes fully guaranteed if he’s still on the roster by the third day of the league year in 2027.” If the Browns do not want to keep Watson and pay him $200 million, he has to be gone by March 13. This makes starting him even more frustrating; Watson has no future here.

The Browns gave somebody with a sordid past a chance and have continued to give him more chances despite his lack of production and toxic attitude with fans. The front office acting as if this decision would come without backlash is ignorant.

During the Browns’ 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week Two of the preseason, Watson went 5/12 passing with 74 total yards and one interception and was booed relentlessly. During his postgame press conference, Watson still had the audacity to say, “It has nothing to do about the performance.

It’s a little bit personal. It’s a disrespectful thing.”

Watson has two luxuries many NFL hopefuls will never experience: a seemingly infinite number of chances and a $230 million paycheck for nothing valuable performance-wise.

Watson claims this is some unfair personal grudge fans hold against him, but that misses the point. Fans are ready to move on.

Shedeur Sanders appeared in eight games for the Browns last year as a rookie, and while he wasn’t incredible, he was something fun to watch on an otherwise flat team. Sanders threw for 1,400 yards, with a 56.6% completion percentage and seven total touchdowns. Sanders may not be the future, but he’s still a “young quarterback with some fun upside” and is definitely a fan favorite.

Sanders won’t guarantee immediate success, but he gives fans what Watson has taken away: hope and excitement to watch the Browns on Sundays.

Sanders represents the future, while Watson represents the past.

After Watson’s disrespectful comments about fans, former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky suggested, “Browns fans should boycott Browns games this season in the wake of this decision to start Watson.” Fans seem to agree, as the statue of Browns Hall of Famer Jim Brown was vandalized with hateful messages directed toward Watson and the Haslams. One sign notes they are a “permanent damage to the city and franchise.”

While Orlovsky’s take is harsh, he has

Metal Mondays | Dolly Parton saw what America could be JACKSON MCCOY | FOR THE POST There were few things as easy to agree on as the inherent goodness of Dolly Parton. When she died on Aug. 25 at 80 years old after a brief battle with cancer, the collective grief felt across the world stretched from the tops of skyscrapers to the bottoms of valleys.

Parton’s legacy, not only as a musician and entertainer but as a life-changing philanthropist, will continue to shape America for years to come.

What will ultimately be remembered about Parton, however, is her kindness and hope. Her discography is full of stories of resilience, often sounding like a love letter to her family, to her home in Appalachian Tennessee and to the insurmountable compassion she saw in humanity.

Popular songs such as “Coat of Many Colors” exemplify this; the 1974 folk ballad about Parton’s impoverished childhood does not dwell on false stereotypes of backwards customs in the Appalachian mountains. Instead, she sang about how her mother’s love for her and her family made them rich.

This theme of love being wealth flows throughout Parton’s music. In “Poor Folks Town,” she builds on the autobiographical “Coat of Many Colors” by emphasizing her hometown’s richness, a wealth she defines as happiness, family and community. In other songs, like “God’s Coloring Book,” she defines richness in both the natural world and in the blessings of the small details in life.

Parton’s musical landscape, rolling hills of radiant kindness, is a vision of America that feels deeply alien to the America we live in now. For Parton, though, this America never stopped existing. The world her songs create is not a utopian mirror dimension, but is instead a clear depiction of the America we should be.

the Imagination Library, she made the Dollywood Foundation, which sought to improve education in her home county of Sevier County, Tennessee.

Her “Buddy Program,” which offered $500 to paired up students if they both graduated, brought high school dropout rates down from 35% to just 6% in the county.

Luckily for millions, Parton’s love for humanity and faith in America never waned. Despite increasing polarization and continuous enactment of fascist policies, Parton continued to advocate for education, equality and Appalachia.

Parton also raised money for natural disaster relief. In 1994, she donated her song “You Gotta Be My Baby” to a charity album, raising money for HIV/ AIDS research. She invested royalties she earned from Whitney Houston’s 1992 cover of “I Will Always Love You” to economic development projects in a Black neighborhood in Nashville, something she didn’t reveal until 2021.

Parton’s father, Robert Lee Parton, who could never read or write but she nevertheless considered of him as the smartest man she knew, inspired her to create Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The Imagination Library is an international nonprofit program that sends a free book to any child every month until their fifth birthday, and it has distributed over 300 million books to children.

This program has been heralded as life changing. It not only has increased literacy, but also builds emotional connection between family members.

According to FOX 10, “As of 2026, 1 in 6 children under the age of 5 in the U.S. is enrolled in the program.”

Before the launching of the Imagination Library in 1995, Parton was dedicated to making a better world.

Just seven years before the creation of

Parton leveraged her rhinestonestudded career to make the world a much better place than it was before she had to leave. She made people realize their worth, whether it was through her music or through her philanthropy. You didn’t have to have financial riches to be worth something to Parton; your riches came from the life you lived and the people you surrounded yourself with. On top of that, her philanthropy ensured people had a better chance of making what she defined as riches.

In a world constantly in turmoil, be a Dolly and find the motivation to make a better world.

JM049122@OHIO.EDU.

a point. The fans don’t like Watson, yet he is wrapped up in a protective cocoon by Monken and the front office to keep his job, play badly and insult the fans.

Cleveland.com said, “the Browns don’t care what you think.” This franchise knows losing, bad coaches and bad quarterbacks – you name it. The fans want to see Sanders and move on from the Watson era, not put him back on a pedestal. The Browns have been the butt of jokes and camped at the bottom of standings since they returned to the league in 1999, and when they had a chance to not divide and alienate their fanbase again, they ignored it.

AS064024@OHIO.EDU

The Post Editor-in-Chief | Elizabeth Talaga Managing Editor | Gina Napoli Community Standards Editor | Nyla Gilbert Director of Business Strategy | Lulu McGhee

EDITORIAL Local & Campus News Editor | Zoe Weyand Regional News Editor | Finn Smith News Staff Writer | Laynee Eslich Human Interest Editor | Fiona Petticrew Asst. Human Interest Editor | Caitlyn Vance Humam Interest Staff Writer | Libby Shoemaker Sports Editor | Owen Lipstreu Asst. Sports Editor | London DeMarco Sports Staff Writers | Annabelle Grace, Jack Muldowney Opinion Editor | Aiden Ryan Asst. Opinion Editor | Dawnelle Blake Entertainment Editor | Kendall Davis Asst. Entertainment Editor | Micah Fenner Copy Chief | Natalie Saddler Slot Editors | Abby Shriver, Carly DeLuca, Emile Stark, Ruby Johnson ART Art Director | Abby Doench Asst. Art Director | Annabelle Thomas Director of Photography | Ethan Herx Photo Editor | John Fouss DIGITAL Audience Engagement Editor | Taylor Murray Social Media Editor | Drew Hoffmaster Director of Multimedia | Michael Dorwaldt Asst. Director of Multimedia | Sophie Thimmes Videographer | Camden Paeltz BUSINESS Sales Associates | Kennedy Barrell Business Office Associate | Vivian Hockenberry

Advertisement Policies The Post will not print advertising that violates local, state or federal laws. The Post will not run advertisements that violate the Fair Housing Act, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission policies. The Post reserves the right to reject advertising deemed to adversely affect the integrity and credibility of the publication or be in conflict with the educational mission of the university or community it serves. The Post retains the right, at its discretion, to approve or reject an advertisement that negatively affects the relationship with our readers or that promotes content, services, or activities that violate our advertising policy.

If an error occurs, and an advertisement is published not as ordered, please notify The Post by the end of the business day following publication, a corrected advertisement will run without charge in the next print edition.

Cancellation requests for advertising must be received and acknowledged by staff no later than 2:00 pm on Monday for the Tuesday print edition.

Refunds will not be given for ads that have been printed. These advertising policy rules can be changed at any time without prior notification.

IN PERSON Baker Center 325

BY EMAIL letters@thepostathens.com editor@thepostathens.com ONLINE thepostathens.com/letters

Member of the Ohio News Media Association, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Associated Collegiate Press.

SEPT. 1, 2026

A/5

Editorial: Big businesses on Court Street disrupt social responsibility to Athens County

THE POST EDITORIAL BOARD | FOR THE POST Athens is known for its collection of small businesses, local restaurants and charming venues. On Court Street, however, the balance between local and corporate, small and large, is quickly slipping, creating a worrying dilemma for the Athens landscape.

At a small business, one can often shop with a conscience without having to abandon it at the front door. It’s a relief.

However, On Court Street, it’s becoming a worrying pattern of disappearances.

Despite expected turnover, Court Street has seen a consistent rise in the number of large corporations buying spaces in prime locations.

For example, Keystone’s Mac Shack closed last year while large chains like Raising Cane’s bought new locations near campus.

It’s a worrying choice between convenience and quality. After all, busy schedules on campus prevent student engagement with the broader Athens community,

limiting local investment into small businesses during the week. However, those businesses are the backbone of regional economic support.

Using major economic indicators like job creation and local economic impact, small businesses are the vital heartbeat of cities like Athens.

The United States Chamber of Commerce reports small businesses have accounted for between 43.5% and 50.7% of the US gross domestic product since the 1990s.

Solely crediting major corporations for meeting those standards is not just irresponsible but it ignores the critical work small businesses accomplish. As businesses grow over time, they tend to employ more people, generating higher net job creation than larger businesses. Small businesses are critical engines driving economic output, especially in regions like Appalachia.

Because of their size, small businesses are better equipped

to meet the needs of their employees and customers, notably when it comes to philanthropic support. 91% of small businesses believe they should give back to their local area. According to Oregon State University, a majority of them do.

Public Library.

This creates a system of goodwill and mutual support, drawing disparate groups of people together to support common causes. Whether it’s sponsoring donation drives or donating revenue to places like shelters and hospitals, small businesses connect customer satisfaction with local impact.

Consumers react positively to businesses with stronger local commitments and moral guideposts. It’s shopping with a conscience, and it makes it much easier when customers don’t have to pick between quality products and lasting local impact.

Think about some of Athens’ small businesses. For example, Jackie O’s, a local brewing and food venue, partners with local organizations like the Athens County Humane Society and the Southeast Ohio Foodbank and Regional Kitchen.

Donkey Coffee, another Athens favorite, promotes financial giving by supporting organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the Athens

By occupying spaces closer to Athens residents, many local businesses tap into the beating pulse of activism and public support that so often characterizes on-campus commitments and goes much farther throughout the region.

People tend to support businesses they feel good about. In fact, 77% of consumers are more likely to purchase from companies and businesses with “social responsibility” initiatives.

For decades, local businesses have been a crucial part of the Athens and Ohio University landscape. From late-night bites to quality music venues, there is something for every person who visits and lives

here. Yet, the continued rise of corporate conglomerates on Court Street is a worrying sign local responsibility is being placed into the hands of businesses that do not share or have a financial interest in the needs of Athens residents.

Of course, there’s no need to feel guilty for picking up something quick on the way to class. However, consistency is key to supporting local growth and business. Showing up today for small businesses in Athens means continued local support tomorrow for everyone else. After all, the best meal is one whose benefits are enjoyed by the consumer, the owner and your neighbor.

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

WELCOME WEEK GALLERY

DR. AMY ACTON is running to become Ohio Governor.

https://actonforgovernor.com

SHERROD BROWN

is running to become Ohio Senator. https://www.sherrodbrown.com Amy Leigh Acton (born February 16, 1966, in Youngstown, Ohio) is a USAmerican physician and researcher who is running to become Ohio governor.

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

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

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

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

Top: The Marching 110 leads students down Richland Avenue after the new student convocation to the involvement fair in Athens, Aug. 23, 2026. (CAMDEN PAELTZ | FOR THE POST) Middle left: The OU Drag Collective performs at the UPC Welcome Week drag show in Baker University Center in Athens, Aug. 29, 2026. (ETHAN HERX | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY) Middle Right: Students enjoying a blow up game at Paw Print Park during the University Program Council’s “Welcome Week Field Day,” Aug. 26, 2026, in Athens. (ALLIE STEVENS | FOR THE POST) Bottom Left: Ohio University students at the Welcome Week petting zoo on Morton Field, Aug. 25, 2026, in Athens. (ALLIE STEVENS | FOR THE POST) Bottom Right: The Marching 110 leads students down Richland Avenue after the new student convocation to the involvement fair in Athens, Aug. 23, 2026. (Camden Paeltz | For The Post) 23, 2026.

Y RAC C O EM

.

VE D ER 3 A B S M E NOV E TO TUE VOT S I ON ECTI

EL THE

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

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

A/6

Ohio shuts out Mercyhurst 6-0 on senior day ANNABELLE GRACE FOR THE POST Ohio (2-1-0) celebrated senior day Sunday at their match against the Mercyhurst University Lakers (1-4-0). Ohio won 6-0, and a different player scored each goal. Senior forwards Melia Peer and Jaimason Brooker each scored on their special day. Goalkeepers Bella Wyatt and Ayla Rammel were walls in the net, earning three saves and one save respectively, along with a shutout.

In addition to Peer and Brooker, the Bobcats honored seniors Anna Burchett, Kate Robinson and Rylee Mensel. Family, students, friends and dogs showed up despite the heat.

“They’ve been good servants to this program, and they’re just wonderful people,” head coach Aaron Rodgers said about the seniors. “I’m really proud of the foundation they have laid and what they will continue to build.”

Although Mercyhurst struggled in its first three

games and all of last season, the Lakers travelled to Athens with their first win of the year. Ohio shut down the confidence that win gave Mercyhurst with three firsthalf goals.

Straight from first touch, the Bobcats controlled possession throughout the match. They outshot the Lakers 19-9. Ten of those were shots on goal. The first shot on goal came from a short stint on offense by the Lakers, when Wyatt easily gathered a Mercyhurst free kick.

Redshirt senior defender Ella Deevers scored with Ohio’s first shot on goal. She outmaneuvered Mercyhurst goalkeeper, Adri Lika, and tapped it in. Burchett and Robinson provided the assists.

Freshman midfielder Camille Francis subbed in and then gave the Bobcats their second goal. Junior midfielder Iro Fakinou fought for the ball near the goal line.

She passed to Francis, who buried it. This was Francis’ second goal of the season.

“The depth was our greatest strength,” Rodgers said. “It was hot, and we were able to run all of our players.

We think of them as game changers or enhancers, not just subs.”

Mercyhurst continued to struggle the rest of the half. Ohio earned a corner kick with one minute to go.

Freshman defender Kendal Erbach launched the ball towards the net. Junior midfielder Lillian Weller collected it and scored.

For the second half, Rammel started in goal. The Bobcats set up great plays, and earned a penalty kick.

Burchett missed. Peer’s fancy footwork tallied their fourth goal. She tricked the goalie, giving her a wide open net to

shoot at.

nothing to show for it.

Robinson scored next, but the referees called back the goal due to offsides. Brooker quickly avenged Robinson with a goal of her own. She nearly scored again within a minute.

Next, the Bobcats face two Power Four teams at home.

They play University of Pittsburgh (4-1-1) Thursday at 4 p.m. and Indiana University (2-2-1) Sunday at 1 p.m.

Ohio made five substitutions after the hydration break. The possession was more even than the rest of the match as the clock ran down. After an Ohio corner kick, the Bobcats retained control in the offensive zone.

Sophomore midfielder Noelle Miriello passed to sophomore forward Kiley Bruce for the team’s sixth and final goal.

“There were some things defensively we didn’t do well today that a team at a higher level would take advantage of,” Rodgers said.

“We’ll have to clean those things up for Thursday. We hosted Clemson last year.

We competed well to a top 25 team, and hopefully we’ll do the same this week.”

The Lakers fought until the end but ultimately had

AC309223@OHIO.EDU

Ohio begins 2026 on a high note, dominates Marshall Invitational JACK MULDOWNEY FOR THE POST

set was a repeat of the first, another 25-10 win as Ohio completed another sweep.

Ohio celebrates the opening weekend at the Marshall Invitational with the volleyball team sitting at 3-0 to begin the 2026 campaign.

The Bobcats didn’t lose a single one of their nine sets played, sweeping all three matches against Bucknell, Niagara and Marshall.

That was a lopsided affair from start to finish, as the Bobcats totaled more aces, blocks, assists, digs and 29 more kills than the Purple Eagles. Outside hitter Torre Kildow was a major catalyst of OU’s dominance in that set. She shone on both sides of the ball with 11 kills and seven digs.

The season began Friday morning against Bucknell in a match that saw the Bobcats establish their dominance early on. They started the match and season on a high note, taking the first set 2516. Bucknell countered with some resistance in set two, but the Bobcats still took a 2-0 match lead, winning 25-21. Ohio rolled through set three with a 25-19 win to secure the season-opening sweep defeating Bucknell 3-0.

Opposite hitter Bailey Blair, whose position recently changed from middle blocker, showed out in her first match with her new title. Her 15 kills through the three sets against Bucknell were a significant factor toward the Bobcats’ opening win.

The Bobcats used their momentum from the Bucknell match to come out as the clear aggressor against Niagara later that day. A 25-10 win in set one laid the foundation for Ohio to dominate the entire match.

Set two was a 25-11 win for the Bobcats, and the third

The Bobcats’ most anticipated match of the opening weekend and the one that became the sweetest win pitted them against their rival: the Marshall Thundering Herd.

Marshall was on its home court and started fast, pushing the Bobcats to the wire in an electric first set.

Ohio managed to escape, though, taking the 27-25 win in a set that went the distance.

The wear and tear on the Thundering Herd was evident in set two in which Ohio took a more comfortable 25-16 win. That was followed up by a similar performance in set three where the Bobcats won 25-17 to secure their third and final sweep of the weekend.

Freshman outside hitter Rose Mahin made a loud statement in that set, as her 14 kills and 13 digs contributed greatly to the Bobcats defeating Marshall and getting off to a 3-0 start on the season.

One player who stood out the entire weekend and led

the Bobcats to that hot start was Blair, who began her sophomore season on a high note during the weekend in Huntington, West Virginia.

Between the three matches, Blair tallied the Bobcats’ most points and kills at 43.5 and 38 respectively. She also demonstrated great defensive skills, racking up 16 digs and 7 total blocks.

She was placed under high expectations heading into the current season after winning MAC Freshman of the Year last season, and is already living up to them just three matches in. Fans need not worry about when it comes to Blair showing up and showing out.

Marshall’s Cam Henderson Center may have felt like the Convocation Center for Ohio this past weekend as they made themselves at home and dominated the Marshall Invitational. That 3-0 start is all that coach Kenzie Brinkman could have asked for in her first weekend as permanent head coach, and her team looks poised to compete at a high level all season long.

The Bobcats look to keep the momentum rolling this Thursday and Friday when they travel to Indianapolis, Indiana for the Hampton Inn Invitational to take on IU Indy and Youngstown State.

@JACKMULDOWNEY1 JM760224@OHIO.EDU

Safety DJ Walker (2) celebrates after a forced fumble at the game against UMass, Nov. 18, 2025, at Peden Stadium in Athens. (Jack Tatham | For The Post)

Get to know Ohio’s 2026 football captains offensive lineman Davion Weatherspoon.

LONDON DEMARCO ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR As the 2026 college football season gets closer and closer for the Ohio University football team, the team has finally announced this year’s team captains. This season, the Bobcats will have four captains for the second consecutive year.

This year, the team has a perfect mix of defensive and offensive players to represent the team.

Starting off defensively, the first captain is redshirt junior DJ Walker. The safety is the only returning captain from the previous season. Last year, Walker was selected to be captain along with quarterback Parker Navarro, safety Adonis Williams Jr. and

Walker was selected as captain last season at just 19 years old, as his 20th birthday was a week later.

Being selected as captain at such a young age is a major honor but also comes with high expectations.

Walker lived up to those expectations, as he played all 13 games last season and recorded two interceptions, which was tied for the most on the team. He was also fifth in total tackles with 61, fifth in assists with 24 and fourth in solo tackles with 37.

With Walker already proving himself as a leader and a star player, it was a no-brainer to choose him as a captain for his second straight year. Now, switching over to the offensive side,

Athens Bulldogs 2026 schedule Sept. 4

Oct. 2

Opponent: Marietta Tigers

Opponent: Meigs Marauders

Location: Joe Burrow Stadium

Location: Farmers Banks Stadium

Sept. 11

Oct. 9

Opponent: Alexander Spartans

Opponent: Wellston Rockets

Location: Alexander Spartans Stadium

Location: Joe Burrow Stadium

Sept. 18

Oct. 16

Opponent: Vinton County Vikings

Opponent: River Valley Raiders

Location: Joe Burrow Stadium

Location: Joe Burrow Stadium

Sept. 25

Oct. 23

Opponent: Warren Warriors

Opponent: Nelsonville-York Buckeyes

Location: Joe Burrow Stadium

the most common position for a captain at OU is the starting quarterback.

Just recently, the Bobcats finally announced graduate student Nick Poulos as their starting quarterback. Poulos has been waiting for this moment for years as he has patiently been working and learning behind Navarro.

His work finally paid off as he won the quarterback competition that was fierce over the offseason.

Poulos transferred to OU before the 2024 season. In 2024, Poulos appeared in eight games and threw for 271 yards and two touchdowns. His appearances were more limited in 2025, as he only appeared in four games and threw for 19 yards and no touchdowns.

Poulos’ patience, hard work and discipline made choosing the veteran quarterback as a captain very easy.

Staying on the offensive side, the next captain is junior running back Duncan Brune. The German running back made a name for himself in the backfield last season with 585 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns.

Without Sieh Bangura in the backfield, Brune is set to have a huge season in his first year as a starter. Not only will Brune carry the responsibility of being the starting running back, but he will also serve as a captain.

From what the coaches have seen, Brune is ready for the task.

Lastly, attention turns back to the defense and

specifically the linebacker room, where redshirt junior Jack Fries will serve as the fourth and final team captain. Despite missing time in 2025, Fries was a force to reckon with on defense last season with 54 total tackles, 29 assists and 25 solo tackles in eight games. Fries was second on the team in pass breakups with five and also recorded an interception.

These four players have spent years working hard and patiently waiting for their moment to strike. That hard work has led to all four players being bona fide starters and earning enough trust from the coaches to be named 2026 OU football captains.

LD004224@OHIO.EDU

Bulldogs out on the sidelines watching their teammates. Athens High School, Athens. Oct. 18, 2024.

(RACHEL KLANCHNER | FOR THE POST)

@JACKMULDOWNEY1 JM760224@OHIO.EDU

Explore the Water at Strouds Run State Park OPEN DAILY THIS WEEK Pontoons • Paddleboards • Kayaks Canoes • Swan Pedal Boats

Sep. 1st through 3rd: 11am-7pm Labor Day Weekend (Sep. 4th - 7th) 10am -8pm Visit Us Online for pricing

vessels you paddle or pedal are first-come, first served.

General Group Inquiries call: 740-707-7200  Flexible dates for Student Group events, this fall. Call for availability & pricing

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

A/8

The who’s who of VMA nominations KENDALL DAVIS ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR On Aug. 18, the nominations for the 43rd annual MTV Video Music Awards were announced. Unlike other awards shows honoring musicians, the VMAs honor those who perform the best in the music video genre.

There are a whopping 19 categories musicians can be nominated for, and here’s the lowdown on the biggest categories.

Likely the least familiar artist on this list is Gener8ion, a collaborative project between electronic musician Surkin and film director Romain Garvas.

Both collaborators are French, so this nomination could put them on the map for American listeners.

Artist of the Year Competing for Artist of the Year are Grande, Mars, Madonna, Morgan Wallen, Carpenter and Swift.

Video of the Year Ariana Grande, Bruno Mars Gener8ion, Madonna, Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift are all up for Video of the Year. It’s no shocker to see Grande, Carpenter and Swift competing for such a major category, but it is intriguing to see Madonna in this major category, considering her heyday was in the 1980s.

At the first-ever VMAs, Madonna iconically performed “Like a Virgin,” solidifying her pop stardom. Seeing as the first VMAs were 43 years ago, it is quite an achievement to still be in the running. Even more impressively, Madonna leads with 11 nominations, the most this year.

None of these are unexpected, perhaps with the exception of Madonna. It is also interesting to see Wallen, a country artist, nominated for an award that is so much bigger than just the genre he is known for. Especially seeing as all the other artists nominated in this category are predominantly pop musicians, it would be something of an upset if Wallen was awarded Artist of the Year.

Song of the Year Notably, this category does not bear much similarity to the previous two, with different artists being nominated for outstanding songs.

In the K-pop genre, BTS has been nominated for “Swim,” and HUNTR/X has been

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

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

https://www.christianforohio.com

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

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

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

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

“

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

JUSTICE REQUIRES EPSTEIN TRIALS THE ELECTION IS TUE NOVEMBER 3.

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

nominated for “Golden.” BTS has been in the public eye for years and should come as no surprise to audiences; however, HUNTR/X is a fictional band from the animated movie “KPop Demon Hunters.” HUNTR/X is comprised of the real musicians EJAE, AUDREY NUNA and REI AMI. Still a very unusual situation to have a fictional band be nominated for such a major award.

This year’s rising country star Ella Langley was nominated for “Choosin’ Texas,” unsurprisingly, considering how she has been somewhat at the forefront of the cultural zeitgeist this year.

In terms of pop songs, Madonna appears once again for her collaboration with Carpenter on “Bring Your Love.” In another iconic collab, PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson are nominated for “Stateside.” This specific collab was brought to popularity this year by Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu’s routine with the song.

Rising artist Olivia Dean, who won Best New Artist at The Grammys, is nominated for “Man I Need,” and it is certainly a defining song of this year. Another artist who has been nominated for Best New Artist at The Grammys (but hasn’t won) is RAYE, who was nominated for the catchy “WHERE IS MY HUSBAND!” Best New Artist When it comes to new artists, there are a slew of up-andcoming musicians nominated for this category, some more

ILLUSTRATIONS BY ABBY DOENCH |DESIGN DIRECTOR

recognizable than others. A name that stands out on this list is Malcolm Todd, who has gained some reputation for his music in recent times. Notably, his sister Audrey Hobert has also been a very popular new artist recently (though she is not nominated here).

Indie pop singer-songwriter Bella Kay has been nominated, who is most well-known for her song “The Sick.” K-pop boy band CORTIS was nominated, which is impressive considering they debuted only about a year ago.

Interestingly, Will Ferrell’s son, Magnus Ferrell, has been nominated for this category as well. It seems that performing talent runs in the family, not only comedy. In the acting sphere, Magnus Ferrell has acted in “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues,” “You’re Cordially Invited” and “A Very Jonas Christmas Movie.”

British singer-songwriter Myles Smith, who is most well-known for his 2024 single “Stargazing,” has been nominated following the release of his debut album “My Mess, My Heart, My

Life.” Fellow British singersongwriter SIENNA SPIRO, who rose to fame through viral singing videos on TikTok, has also been nominated.

Known for her viral countrypop single “Boston,” singersongwriter STELLA LEFTY was nominated, but not without controversy. Although it is not a “nepo baby” in the traditional sense, Lefty has faced backlash for her family background. Her father, Eric Lefkofsky, is among the richest men in the world with a net worth of approximately 5 billion. Lefkofsky achieved this by co-founding Groupon and is now the CEO of the health technology company Tempus AI. Lefty has also faced backlash on social media for her inauthentic rise to fame, but it is clear that she is not the only “new artist” who had a little help along the way.

These are just a few of the most notable categories at the VMAs; audiences can tune in on Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Viewers can also vote for their favorites before the show.

‘GTA 6’ Netflix Extended Look proves the wait was worth it ISABELLA ARDETTO FOR THE POST After years of waiting, Rockstar Games finally gave fans an official look at the steadily approaching “Grand Theft Auto VI.” The offering to appease what is nearly an indescribable player base debuted on Aug. 27 on Netflix, a 26-minute “Extended Look*” that was worth the wait for many.

at how switching between protagonists will actually feel in-game. Players will be able to swap between Jason and Lucia mid-mission, switching dynamically within seconds and with an impressive amount of fluidity.

The quickness is a welcome change from GTA 5’s zooming out and back in switching style, instead allowing players to stay grounded in fast-action scenes.

The sneak peek started with what appears to be an early mission, dropping viewers right into the action with dual protagonists Jason Duval and Lucia Caminos in the midst of a botched pickup job. Everything seems to be going smoothly, if not a little awkwardly, but what’s the fun in that, right?

The teaser is quick to pick up the pace, with cops showing up and shots firing from both ends, causing the couple to flee. Nothing new is shown mechanically but visually the trailer starts off incredibly strong. The gaming community has always sung the praises of Rockstar’s graphic prowess, with “Red Dead Redemption 2” being cited as having some of the best graphics in gaming even all these years later, but compared to “GTA 6” there is no competition.

After this brief glimpse, a montage of different scenes and game mechanics is shown.

A better idea of who Jason and Lucia are became clearer throughout the extended look, the duo’s Bonnie-andClyde dynamic coming to the forefront. Their relationship plays a crucial role in grounding the chaos in Vice City, though it was revealed that players can choose a platonic or romantic path for the characters.

Mechanically, the reveal offered the clearest look yet

Another exciting change, though much larger (literally speaking) is the map. As reported by The New York Times, Rockstar revealed that the “GTA 6” map is three times as large as “Red Dead Redemption 2.” For anyone who has played “RDR2” or is at least familiar with it and the game’s map, this size increase is mind-blowing.

The extra scale isn’t just cosmetic either, now feeding into the game’s biggest structural overhaul: a new and improved tracking system.

Gone will be the days of cops magically knowing your exact location the second you sneeze near a crime scene. Now, any offense has to be witnessed by an NPC before the police respond, and once they do, they will now be working off specific descriptions of Jason and Lucia.

The details noted are the weapon used, the clothes Jason and Lucia wore during

the crime and whether the two were seen on CCTV footage, meaning players now have to consider their appearance before, during and after a job. It’s a level of accountability the series has never really had before, allowing for a more realistic mindset for players to adopt.

That philosophy carries into the new Criminal Profile system shown as well, similar to the honor system in “Red Dead Redemption 2.” Where Arthur Morgan’s tracker was about morality, “GTA 6” is more concerned with whether or not the player is a good criminal, not a good person.

For example, getting a job done efficiently and without any hiccups will contribute to a positive Criminal Profile. The extended look also revealed that simple activities like petting dogs will positively affect the profile as well.

Between the tripled map size, consequence systems that actually make players think before pulling a trigger, stunning graphics and more, it’s clear Rockstar* seems intent on evolving the series rather than simply supersizing it. The extended look has left fans more confident that “GTA 6” will deliver what has been promised for over a decade now, though much more is yet to be seen.

“Grand Theft Auto VI” launches on Nov. 19 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. A release date for PC has not yet been announced.

@IARDETTO_08 IA369322@OHIO.EDU

SEPT. 1, 2026

A/9

Remembering Tim Curry, the roles that made him unforgettable ISABELLA ARDETTO FOR THE POST “Don’t dream it, be it.”

Words crooned by the deliciously provocative Dr. Frank-N-Furter, played by the late Tim Curry, who passed away at the age of 80 on Aug. 25, at his home in Los Angeles.

Over his expansive career of nearly 60 years, Curry rooted himself in the psyches of countless viewers across generations. Whether he was terrifying children as a shapeshifting clown or lending his voice to a slimy, sleazy manifestation of pollution and destruction, Curry had a rare gift: he could be genuinely menacing and completely delightful in the very same breath.

of fans a rare mirror and a rallying cry wrapped in glitter and garters.

The role also helped the film’s decades-long life as a midnight-screening staple, a tradition built almost entirely around theater kids, drag performers, and shadowcast troupes acting out the film in packed houses–a community Curry held affection for as a theater buff himself. Few performances have blurred the line between camp and

genuinely disturbing in Pennywise’s playfulness rather than relying on gore or jump scares to unsettle audiences. Long before Bill Skarsgård took over the role, Curry set the bar impossibly high, proving a clown could be more nightmare fuel than birthday party entertainment.

“Clue*” has only grown more into a cult classic.

from horror icon to familyfriendly comic relief.

Long John Silver, “Muppet Treasure Island” (1996)

Mr. Hector, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” (1992)

Sharing the screen with Muppets is no easy feat, but Curry made it look effortless.

His pirate captain was equal parts menacing and charming, striking the same tricky balance Curry brought to so many of his roles. The role has earned Curry the coveted title of honorary Muppet since

Even in a supporting role as the officious hotel concierge tasked with keeping an eye on a wandering Kevin McCallister, Curry made every scene count. Mr. Hector was fussy, easily flustered and endlessly suspicious, the perfect straight-laced foil for a kid running loose through the Plaza Hotel. It’s a smaller part in Curry’s filmography, but it introduced an entirely new generation of holidaymovie watchers to his particular brand of comedic exasperation.

Premier Anatoly Cherdenko, “Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3” (2008)

Perhaps no one summed up that appeal better than Meredith Vieira, who told Curry during a 1997 interview, “If you were the devil, I would pay to go to hell.”

It’s a perfect encapsulation of the Curry effect. Even at his most wicked, audiences couldn’t get enough. With a career built on villains, butlers and everything gleefully in between, here’s a look back at some of Curry’s most memorable roles.

Dr. Frank-N-Furter, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975) Curry’s corseted, redlipped and fishnet-clad mad scientist from “Transsexual, Transylvania” cemented his status as a cult icon and became a cultural touchstone for the LGBTQIA+ community.

At a time when queer and gender-nonconforming identities were rarely given center stage, let alone celebrated, Frank-N-Furter was unapologetic, seductive and impossible to look away from, offering generations

his passing due his unparalleled status as a performer.

courage, and left a lasting mark quite like Frank-N-Furter.

Pennywise, “It” (1990) Curry’s performance as the shapeshifting demon in Stephen King’s “It” turned a red balloon into a lasting source of childhood anxiety and a storm drain into something people still glance at warily when they pass. Curry leaned fully into the character’s unsettling glee, finding something

Wadsworth, “Clue” (1985) Curry’s fast-talking, endlessly patient butler held together one of the most quotable ensemble comedies of the 1980s. Racing through three different endings with breathless precision, Wadsworth gave Curry the chance to show off his comedic timing. In the decades since film’s debut

Nigel Thornberry, “The Wild Thornberrys” (19982004) Curry’s voice work as the eccentric, big-nosed nature documentarian became a fixture of early-2000s kids’ television. “Smashing!*” became a catchphrase known far and wide, and it’s a testament to how far Curry’s range could stretch,

As the theatrical, power-hungry Premier Cherdenko, Curry brought the same larger-thanlife energy to motioncapture performance that he’d spent decades perfecting on screen and stage. It proved his gift for villainy translates just as well to a console as it did to a movie theater.

The role gave Curry one of his most quoted lines among fans, delivered with all the melodrama he could muster: “I’m escaping to the one place that hasn’t been corrupted by capitalism: space!”

Curry’s career was never defined by playing it safe. That willingness to lean into the strange, the villainous and the absurd is exactly what made him so unforgettable, leaving behind a momentous, unforgettable career. @IARDETTO_08 IA369322@OHIO.EDU

Remembering Dolly Parton: Country music legend, beloved icon LUKE REAM FOR THE POST Beloved country music superstar Dolly Parton passed away on Tuesday following a brief battle with cancer, her publicist confirmed. Throughout her seven-decade career, Parton gained the love and adoration of millions of people around the world and improved the lives of millions of others.

Parton’s career began in childhood. By age 10, she was singing on radio and television programs in Tennessee, including an appearance on “The Cas Walker Show.”

Parton’s uncle, Bill Owens, a songwriter himself, recognized the talents of his niece and wanted her to showcase them in the country music capital of Nashville. On her first day in the city, she would meet her husband of 59 years, Carl Dean.

After a stint as a songwriter where she scored multiple top-10 hits, she signed with Monument Records in 1965.

The success of her debut studio album, “Hello, I’m Dolly,” brought her to the television scene, joining “The Porter Wagoner Show.”

Her work with Wagoner

would turn her into a national star. In seven years, the pair recorded 13 studio albums, scoring frequent hits.

In 1969, Parton was officially inducted as a member of the Grand Ole Opry, one of country music’s highest honors. After establishing herself as one of country music’s up-and-coming stars, her solo career blossomed in the 1970s.

In 1971, while still performing as a duet with Wagoner, her solo career was cemented with her first number-one solo hit in “Joshua.” It was the first in a collection of absolute classics that dominated the country music scene in the early 1970s and beyond.

Later that year, Parton* released her signature biographical song, “Coat of Many Colors,” one of many songs in her discography showcasing her deep appreciation for her childhood, despite her poor upbringing. She also reminisced on her childhood and love for Tennessee in her 1973 album and title track, “My Tennessee Mountain Home.”

In late 1973, Parton released her now-permanent country staple, “Jolene.” Inspired by a real red-headed bank teller who flirted with her

husband shortly following their marriage, the classic hit was a desperate plea that has been repeated for decades since.

After finally getting a taste of the solo career that she had been dreaming of since childhood, Parton chose to bid farewell to her mentor and musical collaborator, Wagoner, and expressed her gratitude in what became one of the most iconic songs of all time, “I Will Always Love You.” It went number-one twice on the Billboard Country charts and became a staple in Parton’s discography.

Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” “Rhinestone” and “Steel Magnolias.”

The 1980s were also the start of her expansive charitable work and philanthropy. In 1986, Parton opened Dollywood, a theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, which established a culture hub in the area and created new jobs and opportunities for thousands of people near her hometown.

It was around this time that Parton fully embraced her signature style. Inspired by the local town “tramp” from her childhood, she created a persona decked out in rhinestones, bedazzled outfits, high heels and even higher wigs. “The higher the hair, the closer to God,” Parton would say.

Her dedication to East Tennessee is amplified by The Dollywood Foundation, which she established in 1988. The foundation provides scholarships to thousands of kids in the area to continue their education.

Children’s education and literacy became a huge part of Parton’s* charitable work, eventually founding “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library,” which has donated over 300 million books to children worldwide.

The 1980s would establish her as a movie star as well.

Her lead role in the smash hit comedy film, “9 to 5,” accompanied by a two-time Grammy-winning song of the same name, would make her a permanent staple in popular culture. The film was the start of many on-camera ventures for her, including her other classic films: “The

In 1992, her already iconic song, “I Will Always Love You,” was sent into the stratosphere following “The Bodyguard” soundtrack cover by Whitney Houston.

The cover would spend 14 weeks at number-one on the Billboard Hot 100 and would end up winning a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance, which Parton

presented to Houston.

Her later career throughout the 2000s expanded her accolades and turned her into a top global performer.

In 2011, Parton received The Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2022 she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, leading to the creation of her rock album in 2023, “Rockstar.”

Throughout her sevendecade career, her number of accolades was the only thing comparable to her contributions to society.

Parton sold over 100 million albums worldwide, won 11 Grammy Awards, had 25 number-ones on the Billboard Country charts and donated as much as $600 million throughout her life.

Parton will be forever known as the “Queen of Country,” but she will also be remembered as an icon of fashion, film, hair and most of all, pure kindness.

She will always be one of the most influential singersongwriters of all time.

@REAM_LUKE LR344324@OHIO.EDU

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

A/10

CASSIDY MCCLURG FOR THE POST

After the lunar eclipse in Pisces last week, action and planning will come from your shedding. The sun in Virgo shifts us to focus on the details of our lives, so the added tension from Mercury in Virgo on Tuesday will reveal exactly what makes you uncertain.

This week will be hard, but with a shift in perspective, you can turn the wheel. Everything will be Earth focused, so being grounded is the desire of the week.

Aries (March 21 - April 19) Someone deserves your attention, Aries. Strengthening your connections will have a positive effect on your mental health as well as your career, so don’t stress about your obligations so much. You’ll feel emotionally successful if you grab a friend or classmate to chat with while trying a new fall coffee. Perhaps a coffee will fully heal you.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) This week is a lot of double-checking yourself. You have time to craft the perfect sentence as the universe will give you all the answers to your uncertainties. Everything you do alone pours into your

social life, so don’t neglect your self-care or creativity.

Look inward at how impulsive you are, Taurus.

others. Invite your friends on a walk, but make sure your attitude doesn’t alienate your loved ones.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

Virgo (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22)

You are ready to leap, Gemini.

Fire will give you the idea and Earth will help you execute it. In your confidence, don’t neglect your friends or health.

Drinking is a bad idea this week. Taking big leaps without proper practice can cause you to fall. Gemini, don’t take a leap into a relationship either, you are going to be quite hot and cold. Also, make sure someone isn’t committed to another jump before you ask them to jump with you.

The sun and Mercury are in your sign this week, making you the perfect person to talk to. Your emotional intelligence will help you fix any misunderstandings that arise. Love is definitely at the forefront for you this week, whether it’s a deeper understanding with your current partner or unexpected chemistry with someone new.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22) Your finances will be in order and you might have enough extra to treat yourself this week. However, you might need to talk with your loved ones about what you stand for.

The pressure from relationships can cause you to crack, so sort out your feelings. A fight about politics may cause you to realize you are incompatible with someone.

Leo (July 23 - Aug. 22) People will not shy away from affection if you admit your flaws. Including others in your plans will help you discover where your plans fall short.

Loosen up and connect with

CROSSWORD

Libra (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) You need to find an outlet for your emotions, Libra. Be patient with those around you, even if it feels like you’re doing all the work. Remain calm because an outburst has consequences. If you look into patterns that are hurting you, you might notice that it is time to leave.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) Listen carefully and observe this week, Scorpio. You might believe others are trying to trigger you, so you need to learn to chill out. Conversation is important, but sometimes listening can reveal much more about the other person.

Some words for you this week are “compromise” and “charisma.” They seem odd together,

but this week you might be smooth without having to talk at all.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) Jupiter is in Leo and Saturn is in Aries this week, which will help you balance freedom and commitment. You’ve been thinking a lot about domestic life recently, but your dismissive attitude might have your partner feeling the effects.

Maintain a good relationship with others this week. The right balance between responsibility and passion will keep you from being a stubborn mess.

things or disappear at the first sight of emotional distress.

Use your energy thoughtfully, Aquarius.

Pisces (Feb. 19 - March 20) Something good is on the horizon. You are feeling energized and can tackle anything. Don’t let anyone rain on your parade. Take notice of who shows up or makes you feel emotionally fulfilled.

Some people like to use your consideration for them to their advantage, but you’re allowed to pick and choose who you go out of your way for.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) You know how to show off your abilities, Capricorn.

Your sign is known as being a workaholic, but you just feel so inspired. Making room for leisure time is boosting your levels of excitement. Good job on balancing work and life; however, don’t neglect your loved ones. Keep looking for improvement in your relationships. If you’re single, however, your flirtation has never been better.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) No one is threatening you, Aquarius. Calm down if someone gives you criticism, it is not personal. Don’t let your productivity be ruined by how much you want to change

@CASSIEEFSC CM303824@OHIO.EDU

SUDOKU

SOLUTIONS TO AUG. 25 PUZZLES

SEPT. 1, 2026

A/11

True North/continued from pg 1 Tucker passed away at the early age of four years old. To Shultz, Tucker was a vessel of companionship and love, showing him what it meant to persevere through hard times and find the good in every situation.

“I started thinking about what I can do with all of the love that I still have for him, Tucker, and all of the love he left behind,” Schultz said.

“I’ve always wanted to start an animal sanctuary … now it was like, well what do I have to lose?”

As the sanctuary tries to grow its presence, Schultz is implementing programs of care and partnerships in Athens. The sanctuary took in its first eight animals, including one dog and seven kittens.

True North is looking to

house animals of all breeds.

Growing up on a farm in Wisconsin, Schultz said he is prepared to take in pigs, ducks and other animals.

True North also hopes to find animals permanent homes.

Schultz said he plans to have community Cooperative Adoption Programs, adoption and fostering services available through True North soon.

In order to provide medical care for animals, True North established a partnership with Kroner Animal Care. Since the partnership, services such as vaccinations and deworming for animals under Shultz’s care were provided.

Joseph Crabtree, practice manager at Kroner Animal Care, said the partnership was a “no-brainer” for him.

Crabtree said he is happy with the work so far and is looking

forward to a future with True North.

A shared goal between Shultz and Crabtree is combatting the overpopulation of cats in the Athens area. Shultz said this is a growing problem, stemming from stray kittens having nowhere to go.

“One of those programs we’re hoping to start is being able to catch (stray cats), have them spayed and neutered and then released back to where they reside, if it’s safe to do so,” Schultz said.

Crabtree also said at times, clinics can be overwhelmed or “maxed out.”

“We’re always trying to take in kittens to get those adopted out,” Crabtree said. “We had nine at once at our location on Ervin Road, and six at our Plains location.”

Schultz said True North is not only dedicated to serving animals in Athens, but locals.

With plans to run programs including animal therapy, Shultz wants to provide the city with a remedy that helped him: animals.

“My big refuge wasn’t the people all around me, the support,” Shultz said. “It was actually me spending time with the animals. That’s what I felt was the most healing.”

Looking to the future, partnerships with licensed therapists, yoga instructors and even Reiki, a Japanese stress reduction technique, could be on the table for True North. Other organizations in Athens see True North as a beneficial non-profit.

Photos provided by Matthew Schultz/True North Sanctuary Mary Connolly, executive director for the Athens County Humane Society, believes helping people and animals is a great way to address animal care.

“My personal joy related to this particular organization popping up is truly the involvement of community in animal welfare and considering the human aspect,” Connolly said. “Animal welfare is so challenging and so heartbreaking so often.”

Connolly said the overpopulation of cats in the area is a “tough situation” and even with animal welfare organizations in Athens, people cannot “fully meet the need” for the stray dogs and cats.

Because of this, Connolly said having another organization like True North open in Athens is care in itself.

“There’s nothing worse than feeling like you have to tell somebody, ‘I’m sorry, but I can’t help you’,” Connolly said.

Although the Athens County Humane Society is not an official partner of True North, Schultz said the animal care scene in Athens is grounded in the interconnecting of organizations.

“Every single person can make a difference in the lives of these animals, and I hope that the impact goes just beyond the number of animals that we rescue,” Schultz said.

@LIVVJACOBSS LJ934424@OHIO.EDU

Women In Music Industry builds connection, mentorship LIBBY SHOEMAKER HUMAN INTEREST STAFF WRITER Women In Music Industry features women and nonbinary artists looking to provide opportunities and foster mentorship. Members of the club enjoy coming together and uplifting one another while supporting the music industry.

WIMI provides opportunities such as workshops, guest speakers, open mics in collaboration with The Union and other events. The organization focuses on building a supportive community, inviting non-music majors to join.

Kourtney Gierke, a senior studying music production and recording industry, is the president of WIMI. She mentioned she is mainly in her major because of her ongoing involvement in WIMI, and said she began her journey at Ohio University studying media arts production.

“I felt like I could really grow to be the best version of myself through the club, and very shortly after, I changed my major to music production because I realized that was everything to me,” Gierke said.

“I felt so confident in taking that leap because I knew I had successful women who were doing exactly what I wanted to do in the club.”

Gierke came into the group her freshman year as a member before becoming WIMI’s treasurer last year. Now in her current role, Gierke is excited to see how the year unfolds for WIMI. Throughout her time in WIMI, Gierke also emphasized the importance of the membership of women in a male-dominated music industry. She began holding production workshops last year alongside WIMI’s vice president, Cailin Downer.

“These production workshops help women in production, which only about 5% of producers nationwide are women,” Gierke said. “It’s really important that we have these workshops to help women feel comfortable with production, not feel intimidated or scared by music production because it’s very technological.”

The USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative 2023 study, “Inclu-

sion in the Recording Studio?”

by Stacy L. Smith, Katherine Pieper, Karla Hernandez and Sam Wheeler, found women were excluded within the industry.

The study found the ratio of male to female producers to be 34.1 to 1. Across an eightyear study and 800 songs, 2.8% of all producers were women, while men made up 97.1%.

Following this, Gierke also mentioned how her connections to WIMI alumni gave her the opportunity to live in Nashville this past summer for a music marketing internship.

The organization can help those on campus connect with those with similar interests and career goals. Morgan Dilbone, a senior studying music production and recording industry, shared her experience with WIMI. “Joining WIMI helped introduce me to a lot of other girls in the major that I would not have met otherwise,” Dilbone said. “We tend to share similar struggles with the production classes that the school offers and music opportunities in general.”

Dilbone joined WIMI her freshman year, and encouraged those who are looking into WIMI to give it a chance.

Dilbone added WIMI has connected many members with jobs at “prestigious” record labels.

“I think it’s just really important that you put yourself out there and that you do it because it’s given me a lot of my close female friendships that I have today,” Dilbone said. “It definitely makes me more confident in my major…

I would definitely say go for it, 1000%.”

For Dilbone, being a part of WIMI has changed her experience on campus for the better.

Similarly, other members of the board have found WIMI has given them a supportive and welcoming group.

Jillian Kay, a senior studying music production and recording industry, is the public relations officer for WIMI. Kay shared how WIMI has changed her college experience and provides opportunities for her major.

“Everybody was super welcoming, and I just loved talking

Photo by Brad Cunningham. Photo provided by Women in Music Industry. about music with everybody and getting to talk to some industry professionals,” Kay said.

“We have meetings with some really big role models in the music industry that are women, obviously or nonbinary.”

Kay said everyone in the group is looking to form connections and gain experience and the members will answer any questions about the group or industry.

WIMI hosts easy ways to get involved, including open mic nights starting Sept. 9 at The Union. WIMI meets Mondays bi-weekly at 7 p.m., located in the Radio-Television Communications Building in room 265.

Updates are posted weekly on their Instagram.

With new opportunities throughout the year, WIMI aims to create a safe and welcoming environment for women and nonbinary individuals in the music industry.

Ghana Registers Her Solidarity with the People of the U.S. The current US American President appears to enjoy trying to bully other countries, including Canada, which refuses to be bullied and which used to be the USA’s staunchest friend.

At one time, the USA had many, many friends, not including North Korea and Russia. For example: The United States of America is the world’s richest country; the African country of Ghana has made major economic gains, but still has significant poverty. However, in 2005, when Hurricane Katrina struck the United States, Ghana gave the U.S. what it could: The world’s second-largest producer of cocoa pledged to donate to the victims of Katrina $100,000 of cocoa drinks and chocolates.

The Ghana News Agency (GNA) stated, “By this modest donation, Ghana registers her solidarity with the people of the U.S. as they struggle to deal with the tragedy.” According to an article published by the Deutsche Presse Agentur, “The outpouring of aid for the U.S. disaster victims has included commitments of 5,000 to 100,000 dollars from such struggling countries as Afghanistan, Armenia, Bahamas, Cyprus, Djibouti, Georgia, Hungary, the Maldives, Mongolia, Nepal and Sri Lanka. All told, more than 1 billion dollars has been forthcoming from abroad to the world’s wealthiest country, which has staggered under the shock of finding homes and food for an estimated 1 million people displaced by the storm and subsequent flood waters, particularly in New Orleans.”

Source: “Ghana gives ‘widow’s mite'’ to Katrina victims.” Deutsche Presse Agentur. 13 September 2005

@LIBBYSHOE_ ls299724@ohio.edu

David Bruce paid for this ad.

THEPOSTATHENS.COM

A/12

Weekender Yoga, music, trivia CAITLYN VANCE FOR THE POST

fer St., at 4 p.m. The match will be streamed on ESPN.

Tuesday, Sept. 1

Casa Nueva, located at 6 W. State St., is hosting Mixtape Music Trivia beginning at 8 p.m.

Sunrise yoga is held on East Green. Beginning at 8 a.m., the event is open to all levels of experience.

Admission: Free Ohio University Chillicothe Campus hosts Bagels and Bobcats Syllabus Smash in Bennett Hall Lobby and Art Gallery, located at 101 University Drive. Bobcats can pick up a bagel and get organized for the semester from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Admission: Free Concerts on the Green, a celebration of the arts, kicks off on College Green in the West Portico with a performance from the Marching 110.

Admission: Free Wednesday, Sept. 2 The Ohio Valley Museum of Discovery hosts its weekly Discover Lab. Tweens and teens can visit the tech studio to explore a variety of projects related to robotics, programming and more. The event begins at 4 p.m. and ends at 6 p.m.

Admission: Free with museum entry

Admission: Free Thread Magazine collaborates with the Union Bar to host a 2016 themed night.

With music from the year, there will be a best-dressed competition. Doors open at 9 p.m.

Admission: $9 for ages 1820, $6 for ages 21+ Friday, Sept. 4 Women’s volleyball plays Youngstown State University in the Hampton Inn Invitational at 1 p.m. in Indianapolis.

Saturday, Sept. 5 The Union Bar, 18 W. Union St., hosts performers Reaper on Red, Naked Eye and Marottes. Doors open at 8 p.m., with music starting at 9 p.m.

Admission: $9 for ages 1820, $6 for ages 21+ Sunday, Sept. 6 Ohio women’s field hockey faces Wake Forest University at noon in North Carolina.

Thursday, Sept. 3 Ohio Women’s soccer faces University of Pittsburgh at Chessa Field, 121 S. Sha-

Top: The Marching 110 performing at the Ohio University Involvement Fair, Aug. 23, 2026, in Athens. (ALLIE STEVENS | FOR THE POST)

@CAITLYNVANCE_ CV592923@OHIO.EDU

Bottom: Drag queen “Freak” performs at the UPC Welcome Week drag show in Baker University Center in Athens, Aug. 29, 2026. (ETHAN HERX | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

BROWSE EARLY FOR THE BEST SELECTION

NOW RENTING 27-28

HOUSES APARTMENTS & TOWNHOMES IN EVERY NEIGBORHOOD

197 North Lancaster Street

73 North Congress Street

$475 per month 5 BED • 2 BATH

7 BED • 3 BATH 700 per month off-street parking

$

PRIME

UPTOWN & CAMPUS LOCATIONS CALL & Schedule

OUR AMENITIES • • • •

$

13 Kurtz Street

• 1.5 BATH 650 per month 4 BED pets allowed!

18 North Lancaster Street • Apt B 4 BED • 2 BATH 625 per month off-street parking

$

PET FRIENDLY UNITS CLOSE CAMPUS & UPTOWN LOW SECURITY DEPOSIT FULL-TIME MAINTENANCE

· NO HIDDEN FEES

& MANY MORE EXTRAS

a Viewing TODAY!

740.594.9098 SCAN to view all of our properties

63 West Carpenter Street • Apt A 64 & 64 1/2 West Carpenter Street 4 BED • 1 BATH 600 per month off-street parking

$

OUrentals.com *Security deposits are per person, monthly rates are per person/per month

4 BED • 2 BATH 600 per month off-street parking

$

Do you have housing but still

625

24 Smith Street per month

4 Bed • 2 Bath

front porch + deck

28 Smith Street

4 BED • 2 BATH 600 per month off-street parking

$

(near medical & engineering bldg)

per month

NEED PARKING?

we’ve got you covered CALL to secure your spot $

75

$