September 9, 2025

Ohio pulls off upset against West Virginia

Ohio head coach Brian Smith just had one sentence to open up his press conference after his team took down West Virginia.

“How about those Bobbies?” Smith said.

It was an appropriate question for the Ohio head coach to ask after pulling off an electric 17-10 upset over a Big 12 opponent at home on Frank Solich Field at Peden Stadium. The crowd inside the stadium was record-setting, as 26,740 fans filled the seats to break the all-time attendance record for the program.

“We take a lot of pride in defending Frank Solich Field at Peden Stadium, and have had a lot of success doing it,” Smith said. “It's nice to get that out of the way and get that first win, but I think it's a great reflection of how much our players have bought into defending the Frank and how hard they're going to play on this field.”

The crowd had a good mix of home fans with the traveling Mountaineer fans, who made the 150-mile trip to witness what was the biggest home win in the history of Ohio football.

There were many factors that went into that huge win, but the defense has to be the biggest, bouncing back in a big way after allowing 34 points on the road against Rutgers last week.

The unit held West Virginia to just 10 points on the day, seven in the first half and three in the second. The defensive line always looked in control and on point, stopping the run and getting home on both of West Virginia’s quarterbacks in Nicco Marchiol and Jaylen Henderson.

“The job our defense did, the plan that they had to knock out the run was awesome,” Smith said. “I think what helped them too was then being able to apply pressure when they did have to throw.”

Ohio tallied four sacks against the West

Virginia quarterbacks and held the team to just 72 rushing yards in the game.

Youngstown State transfer Nehemiah Dukes had a whale of a day in his first game as a Bobcat, going for six tackles with a sack and a tackle for loss as well. He was the engine of a very disruptive Ohio defense.

“I just wanted to play fast and play physical,” Dukes said. “(Coaches were) telling us all week there’s going to be tempo, and we just gotta out-tempo them and just execute the game plan and trust in our coaches and trust in our players, and everything will work out.”

up 236 yards through the first two games of the season.

While the Ohio defense was shutting down the Mountaineers, quarterback Parker Navarro and the offense had an up-and-down day, lighting it up in the first half before getting shutout in the second.

Ohio started the game on offense with a field goal, answering West Virginia’s first and only touchdown of the game before marching down the field on a 12-play drive that ended with Sieh Bangura’s first touchdown of the season.

On a two-minute drill before the half, Navarro and the passing offense did the work this time, driving down the field and ending the drive in style with a wide-open 31-yard Chase Hendricks touchdown catch.

The junior wide receiver Hendricks had 121 yards on eight catches and a touchdown, a career day that he says comes from the preparation.

“Everything we did on the game field today, we did it in practice,” Hendricks said. “So a lot of those plays, a lot of those looks, I did it before.”

The connections between Hendricks and Navarro is clearly growing at a fast rate, as Hendricks has been the go-to guy for Navarro this season, as Hendricks has put

“I think our relationship outside of football helps the connection on the field,” Hendricks said. “He kind of knows where I'm gonna be on certain routes, how I like the tempo and (how I) do certain stuff on the field.”

The second half was a much tougher time for the offense, as Navarro threw three straight picks on the first three drives of the half, and the offense wasn’t able to score a point.

Despite the turnovers, the defense held strong, as linebacker Cam Hollobaugh came up with a crucial interception to give the offense the ball back with under four minutes remaining.

From there, Navarro led the offense just enough to close out the win, coming up with a huge 10-yard scramble on a 3rd and 9 with under three minutes to play to secure a crucial first down. Ohio was able to run the clock down to just 17 seconds remaining for the West Virginia offense. Arkansas Pine-Bluff transfer defensive end Anas Luqman got the sack on Marchiol to end the game and to secure the massive upset in front of a record crowd at Peden Stadium.

“It's a great reflection of the coaching staff that we have, (and) the job that they do mentoring and developing our players,” Smith said. “And then the respect everyone has for the culture here that's been built for a long time. So extremely proud of the group and the staff.”

CHARLIE FADEL | SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTOS BY JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST

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Landmark conservation effort protects Appalachian corridor

a contract that gives an organization the rights to monitor land uses and ensure continued conservation.

The Athens Conservancy and The Nature Conservancy are collaborating to preserve and protect 2,973 acres of land located in the Appalachian corridor. The land was donated by Betty Lowe, whose family owned the parcel of property for a century.

Athens Conservancy is a non-profit organization focused on preserving the lland surrounding Southeast Ohio. The Nature Conservancy is a worldwide environmental organization that works to sustain ecosystems everywhere.

Lowe chose the Athens Conservancy and Nature Conservancy, following about 10 years of discussions with organizations and universities across the state. Lowe wanted to ensure the land would remain protected from future mining operations and development for generations to come.

The Athens Conservancy will own the land, adding the Joy Valley Nature Preserve on the site, while The Nature Conservancy will own a permanent conservation easement on the property,

“It’s all kind of done so there’s a balance between the uses that will continue to go on and the ability for people to enjoy the property, but just not to the point where ultimately, it could be destructive to the natural systems that are there,”

Terry Seidel, director of land protection for the Nature Conservancy, said.

The Nature Conservancy worked with Lowe to plan the terms of the easement, ensuring her interests were honored. The contract contains many terms, including outlined locations that are approved for the construction of trails, picnic benches, shelters and research facilities.

The easement also allows for restoration projects to occur on previously mined areas of the land. The Athens Conservancy is planning to work with the state’s Orphan Well program to plug these wells.

The land resides in the Appalachia, a temperate deciduous forest, of which there are only three large-scale

temperate deciduous forests in the world. According to the press release by the Athens Conservancy, the conserved land is in one of the most biologically diverse, most climate-resistant and carbon-rich landscapes on the planet.

“Large areas of contiguous woodland habitat are really important for protecting those deep forest species that need large areas of land,” Athens Conservancy Board Member Brian Blair said.

The donated land is a vital host for migratory birds, including 26 different species of warblers. It also provides habitat for endangered bats and plant species, according to a press release by the Athens Conservancy.

In alignment with Lowe’s wishes, the Athens Conservancy is establishing the land as a nature preserve, titled the Joy Valley Nature Preserve. The non-profit organization will continue allowing visitors to utilize the land for activities ranging from bird watching to hunting, Blair mentioned.

“We’re not land developers and we’re not timber cutters,” Blair said. “So what

we will be doing with the property is maintaining it as a nature preserve, and that will allow people to visit and enjoy hiking and birding and those kinds of non-consumptive activities on the property.”

Additionally, the conservancies intend to collaborate with local universities for trips and educational research on the wildlife and ecosystems. Blair noted the land contains a multitude of eco-types, allowing for great research potential.

The Athens Conservancy officially obtained the land on Aug. 19 and plans to set up more trails, parking spots and signage for the area. Blair stated these features are important measures to ensure visitors become aware of the land’s geography.

“The local people know it because they’ve been on there for years and years, but for newer visitors, I would encourage them to wait till we have some marked trails on there so they can feel a little more comfortable knowing where they’re going,” Blair said.

The conservancies plan to host an opening event at some time in the future, but do not yet have a date.

Medicaid cuts threaten rural Ohio hospitals

President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law July 4 and includes major cuts to Medicaid, according to a report by The Associated Press. The bill requires Medicaid holders to work 80 hours a week, as well as increasing eligibility checks from once a year to twice a year.

The rollout of these funding cuts varies; however, work requirements and increased eligibility checks are expected to take effect toward the end of 2026, according to the OBBBA.

Though these cuts will take time to fully roll out, many worry about potential hospital closures in the near future. Hospitals in rural areas are specifically at risk.

Ohio University’s Department of Social and Public Health associate professor Cory Cronin spoke on how rural populations are reliant on Medicaid.

“When it comes to the proportion of patients that a hospital serves that are on the Medicaid program, you’re going to see rural hospitals disproportionately serving a Medicaid population compared to the other types of insurance,” Cronin said.

The Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill conducted research and sent a letter informing Senate Democrats of the effects the funding cuts could have on rural hospitals.

The letter compiled financial data from hospitals in the past, analyzing years of unprofitability and hospitals at the highest risk of financial distress.

U.S. Sens. Edward Markey, Ron Wyden, Chuck Schumer and Jeffrey Merkley, who requested this data, sent a letter to Trump, Senate majority leader John Thune and Speaker of the House Mike Johnson.

The letter informed the Republican politicians of the importance of safeguarding rural hospitals, outlining 83 hospitals across the country that are atrisk of closure, including 11 in Ohio.

Two hospitals located in Southeast Ohio, the Holzer Medical Center in Jackson County and Southern Ohio Medical Center in Scioto County, were named on the list.

Counties in Southeast Ohio tend to have higher rates of Medicaid recipients than other regions of the state, according to a 2023 study from Georgetown University.

The Ohio Hospital Association is not aware of any hospitals closing as a result of the OBBBA, according to Director of Media and Public Relations John Palmer.

Political commentator Lisa Parker resides in Jackson County and commented on the impact these cuts will have on the local community.

“A lot of these people, I don’t think, have grasped what’s keeping their family afloat are benefits that are being cut, and

they’re going to feel these cuts next fall,” Parker said.

Around 10 million people are expected to lose their health insurance as a result of this bill, according to The Associated Press.

Marjie Shew, a farmer in Morgan County, said more people will be uninsured, sharing what she thinks the impact of the cuts will be on the local community members who are on Medicaid.

“Those people die sooner,” Shew said. “That’s basically what happens, they don’t get the attention they need until they’re debilitated.”

Cronin mentioned an additional concern for potential closures of rural hospitals. He noted many businesses in local communities can stay open because a hospital is their biggest employer.

“If we lose these hospitals that are anchors to their community, the entire community shifts,” Cronin said. “There

are less job opportunities, there’s less money in the economy. And I really think it’s important to look at the entire community effect when we lose something as important as a hospital.”

Cronin also stated even without closures, many rural hospitals are being forced to eliminate parts of the services they provide. He specifically mentioned the maternity desert crisis in Ohio, a trend where hospitals are suspending labor and delivery operations in order to stay open.

The OBBBA also claims to include a 50% increase in funding for rural hospitals. Some argue the money will not be enough to combat the Medicaid cuts. Cronin spoke on this funding.

“There is concern that that does not match the cuts that rural hospitals are likely to face in the near future,” Cronin said.

FINN SMITH NEWS STAFF WRITER

FINN SMITH NEWS STAFF WRITER

(MEGAN VANVLACK | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

The sun rises above Dow Lake at Strouds Run State Park in Athens, Ohio, March 19, 2025. (ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)

SB 1 could affect classroom discussions, debate

Senate Bill 1 may be narrowing the creative window for classroom debate and discussions, based on the listed “controversial topics” that professors and student community leaders must be neutral about

Classroom discussions at Ohio University may be shifting under Senate Bill 1, which went into effect June 13. The law requires professors to remain neutral when teaching “controversial topics” and to actively encourage multiple perspectives, raising concerns that debates and creative thinking in class could be constrained.

OU agreed to comply with the bill earlier this summer, which also required the university to eliminate its diversity, equity and inclusion programs and centers, including the Pride Center, the Multicultural Center and the Women’s Center.

Under the law, controversial topics include immigration, marriage, electoral politics, foreign policies, abortion, DEI programs and climate policies.

In an online public statement about the law, the university said “faculty and staff shall allow and encourage students to reach their own conclusions about all controversial beliefs or policies and shall not seek to indoctrinate any social, political, or religious point of view.”

However, many of those topics, particularly climate change, are integral to coursework in majors such as environmental studies, geography and environmental geography.

Sarah Davis, an environmental studies professor, shared her view on Senate Bill 1, stating many

professors encouraged discussions and debate before the bill was created.

“Most of us who teach these topics encourage healthy debate already in the classroom, and we’ve always made an effort to represent the different perspectives in the classroom,” Davis said. “(There’s) this idea that we want to engage with different perspectives, yet there are these limits on diversity and inclusion from programming at the same time, which feel like they’re at odds with one another to me.”

Davis added that although the law exempts discussions that are “core to the discipline,” it still risks narrowing the ways professors and students can think critically.

“[The bill] clearly states that it’s not intended to impose restrictions on topics if they are core to the discipline,” Davis said. “But by placing some kind of limit on how these topics can be discussed, it’s sort of narrowing the lane in which we can think creatively and it has the potential to limit the innovation I think that comes out of our academic pursuits.”

Sam Pelham, a university spokesperson, said the bill does not intend to change any classroom material, but rather encourages opinion and diversity.

“The law encourages the development and offering of courses on a wide variety of topics that will

allow for student choice,” Pelham said via email.

Pelham, quoting the bill’s language, said the law allows faculty to exercise “professional judgment about how to accomplish intellectual diversity within an academic discipline.”

The bill allows this unless professional judgment is misused to “constrict intellectual diversity.”

Aoife McLaughlin, a junior environmental studies student in the Honors Tutorial College, said she believes everyone has a place at the table.

“Everyone has different opinions, and people need to learn to work together and hear each other,” McLaughlin said.

McLaughlin said the law complicates discussions on issues like climate change, where politics and economics already loom large.

“I feel like, since America is a

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capitalist society that promotes efficiency and economic growth, and especially since we’re a country dependent on stuff like oil, and oil is something that causes global warming, a lot of politics come into play about who wins and who loses, and usually the environment is the one losing in those situations,” McLaughlin said.

She added she hopes OU President Lori Gonzalez will find ways to listen to students while complying with state law.

“I just hope that Lori Gonzalez will listen to her students when it comes to dealing with SB 1,” McLaughlin said. “I know, since it is the state legislature, she has to comply, or we lose our funding, but I do hope that she finds ways to actually represent her student population and student body.”

FP074825@OHIO.EDU

Strouds Run State Park

FIONA PETTICREW | FOR THE POST

Tour guides lead a group of students and parents through by Alden Library (ZOE CRANFILL | FOR THE POST)

Police Blotter: Stolen pants, lawn mower theft

KAITLIN HOGG NEWS STAFF WRITER

29 Fri _________________________

Lawn mower theft

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call from Columbia Road in Albany regarding the theft of a lawn mower.

Deputies took a report, and as of Friday, the case was still under investigation.

Odor of death?

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from The Plains in regard to the smell of death in the woods.

The caller was concerned the odor was from a human, opposed to an animal, but when deputies arrived at the scene and patrolled the area, they did not find such a smell.

30 Sat _________________________

Figure it out

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Cemetery Road in Coolville regarding a civil dispute over a shared driveway.

Deputies arrived on the scene and made contact with both involved parties, advising them to settle the matter in court and not to have contact with the other.

Protection order violation

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the Marathon in Chauncey after a protection order was violated.

Deputies on the scene spoke with all involved individuals, and later, the male was charged with the violation.

31 Sun ________________________

I’m just a salesman!

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Vore Ridge Road in Athens after reports came through of suspicious activity. The caller told deputies there was a white SUV in the area pulling into driveways, and a man was knocking on doors.

When deputies made contact with the man, he informed them he was a solar panel salesman and deputies returned to patrol.

Not trespassing, just walking

Deputies of the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from state Route 356 in Mineral regarding a trespassing complaint.

On the scene, deputies determined the man was not trespassing and was just walking on the road.

1 Mon________________________

Warrants of the Week

The Athens County Sheriff’s Office posted warrants of arrest for Thomas Carsey and Andrew Mitchell.

Carsey is wanted for robbery, possession of drugs and two counts of aggravated assault. Mitchell is wanted for trafficking of drugs as well as the

two counts of possession of drugs.

Anyone with information on either man is to contact the Sheriff’s Office immediately.

Hay in the road!

While patrolling, Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies noticed a hay bale in the middle of US Route 50.

Deputies moved the bale out of the road, then resumed patrolling.

2 Tue ________________________

Don’t send that video!

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Glouster after a caller stated there was an issue with Facebook and videos of the caller’s family member being sent to strangers.

The deputies on the scene took a report, then resumed patrol.

How loud could it really be?

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call from Mill Street in Chauncey regarding a loud music complaint.

Deputies arrived at the scene and patrolled the area, but did not hear any loud music.

3 Wed ________________________

It’s not that serious

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Valley Drive in The Plains after the caller told deputies there were suspicious vehicles.

The owners of the vehicles had used the caller’s driveway to turn around, as they were unaware it was a private driveway. The drivers were also instructed not to return to the property.

Helping hand

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a traffic stop on U.S. 33 near Columbus Road in Athens to assist the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

All units stayed on the scene, then left once Highway Patrol completed the stop.

4 Thur ________________________

Pound the alarm

Deputies with the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from Pleasant Hill Road in regard to an activated business alarm.

On the scene, deputies determined the alarm had been triggered by the business’s employees.

Honey, where are my pants?

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies spoke to a woman over the phone regarding a pair of her pants being stolen.

Deputies took a report on the incident.

U.S. Weekly Headlines: Chicago v. Trump, RFK Hearing

1 Mon _________________________

Chicago targeted in Trump’s immigration efforts

The city of Chicago, like other major cities in the U.S., has become a target for President Donald Trump’s military crackdown on crime, The Associated Press said. On Aug. 30, Trump announced his plan to send federal officers to Chicago, and Mayor Brandon Johnson has already pushed back.

Johnson signed an executive order stating the Chicago Police Department would not aid these national troops in immigration enforcement or any other executive actions. He also directed city departments to protect the constitutional rights of Chicago citizens over any military action, the AP said.

“Yeah, and I don’t take orders from the federal government,” Johnson said, alluding to a potential showdown between the national government and Chicago. The federal presence in Chicago is estimated to last about 30 days, according to the AP.

2 Tue _________________________

Federal judge rules on Google monopoly

U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta in Washington, D.C., ruled Sept. 2 that Google’s search engine was an illegal monopoly. Mehta’s decision was influenced by some of the multi-billiondollar deals Google has made to secure a spot as the default search engine on smartphones and other devices, the AP reported.

Though Mehta acknowledged Google’s fault, he did not agree with the federal government’s attempt to force Google to sell its Chrome browser, the AP said. However, Mehta ordered Google to give its competitors access to some of its data that helped improve the quality of its search results.

Skeptics of this decision argue it is still a victory for Google, as the company can continue to make those default search engine deals that generate more than $26 billion annually, according to the AP.

The Department of Justice, though, felt the decision was a positive step for the antitrust cause. Gail Slater, the department’s antitrust chief, said the decision was a “major win for the American people,” according to the AP.

3 Wed _________________________

Bipartisan effort to ban stock trading

In a rare display of bipartisan agreement Wednesday, lawmakers in

the U.S. House of Representatives have agreed to support a bill that would ban members of Congress from engaging in stock market trading, the AP reported.

The bill has been positively received by House members on both sides of the aisle and has been popular among voters as well, according to the AP. The legislation, if passed, would prevent members of Congress and their families from owning and trading stock while in office.

This has been an ongoing issue on Capitol Hill due to concerns about lawmakers’ personal stock trading interfering with their ability to create legislation for their constituents, the AP said.

There have also been discussions in the Senate to extend this stock ban to presidents and vice presidents as well. The current legislation does not mention the executive branch, but sponsors are open to revisions if enough support emerges, according to the AP.

4 Thur _________________________

RFK hearing in U.S. Senate

On Thursday, the head of the Department of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., went before the U.S. Senate for an intense three-hour hearing, the AP reported. The Senate Finance Committee questioned Kennedy about his changes to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and his changes to vaccine offerings.

Senators questioned whether Kennedy would make it more difficult for Americans who wanted vaccines to get them, and Kennedy denied this but expressed concerns about vaccine safety and effectiveness, the AP said.

Kennedy also claimed the facts and statistics surrounding COVID-19 were unreliable when asked if he knew how many Americans died from the virus. He said government data about the pandemic is lacking, but the CDC and World Health Organization both reported about 1.2 million Americans have died from the virus, according to the AP. Both Republicans and Democrats were concerned about the future of vaccines under Kennedy. Republican Sen. John Barrasso stated he was “deeply concerned” if Americans would be able to get certain vaccines after Kennedy cut research funding and made attempts to limit access, according to the AP.

AVERY ST. GEORGE | FOR THE POST

Cannabis Museum hosts Tiny Museum Concert

The concert at the Cannabis Museum on Saturday was a resounding success, making for a fun, friendly night of local music.

The Cannabis Museum, located at 16050 Canaanville Rd., is about a 12-minute drive off campus, making it an easy local event to attend.

Tickets to the event were $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers. A ticket came with a seat to enjoy the music, as well as access to beers and THC-infused beverages. Workers encouraged donations via tip jar in exchange for drinks.

The concert opened with singers Karin Carlson and Cory Love playing slow folk songs in the dimly lit museum venue. The audience sat and listened, paying full attention to the music.

They covered some songs from their favorite bands while also playing their own original music. Some of the songs they played were related to personal topics, such as working at an ICU, or a song dedicated to Carlson’s husband.

“I’ve been playing around Athens since I was 16,” Carlson said.

Carlson and Love are close friends, but have only played music together one other time.

“He and I [have been] ICU nurses together for the past 10 years,” Carlson about her performance with Love.

Following the slower, folksier opener, Chris Michael and the Andrews took the stage, bringing the venue to life.

People danced, chatted and swayed, forming a circle up front and holding hands. They started to mingle around the museum as well and could be found grabbing a drink from the fridge or sitting outside on the porch. More people were out of their seats than in them, making for an electric atmosphere.

“All the dancing folks have been inspiring,” said Drew Craig, one of the members of Chris Michael and the Andrews. “When people start dancing, it definitely gets us going.”

Chris Michael and the Andrews began during the COVID-19 pandemic as a passion project. It now performs across Athens, and can be found doing shows at The Union, Casa Nueva and more. The band’s next show will be on Oct. 10 at Skyline Farm.

Most of the attendees were familiar with one another, creating a very welcoming atmosphere. Carlson has known Craig for years, as she and Craig’s wife used to dance together as kids.

“It’s 80% my friends, (and) my kids are here and my husband,” Carlson said.

One attendee, Stephanie, knew Carlson personally as well and was here in support.

“Our good friend is the opener,” she said. “It was wonderful.”

Like many attendants, she had been to other performances that the Cannabis Museum has hosted before.

“I’ve been to one other show,” she said. “I loved the vibe and the environment.”

The Cannabis Museum hosts several tiny museum concerts throughout the year, with September having two. The next concert is Sept. 20, featuring the Skalarks. The atmosphere of the concert itself was very chill, inviting, familiar and local. The venue had a porch for people to sit outside, smoke and chat during the music or between artists.

The museum also gives workshops once a month on a variety of topics related to home growing. On

Alden Book Club invites all readers

MARIA

SAUNDERS | FOR THE POST

On the first Thursday of every month, a group of Ohio University students welcome new members with cookies and smiles.

Alden Library is home to the Alden Book Club, a group of passionate readers who recently held their first meeting of the academic year.

Emily-Rose Moore, a senior studying psychology, is the club’s social media ambassador and said she was eager to meet the new underclassmen this year.

“I’m excited to have the power to be able to include the freshmen and the sophomores and people that are maybe new because I feel like that can make a big difference,” Moore said.

The other executive officers were also excited to see what the year has in store. Delaney Cyrus, a junior studying early childhood education, is the club’s treasurer and said she is looking forward to making connections.

“I think (I am excited) for everything, like reading new books and getting to know more people and reaching more people,” she said.

Cyrus said her favorite part about the organization is getting to talk about books because she becomes closer with members through conversations.

Similar to Cyrus, Taylor Wagner, a senior studying biological sciences, said seeing new faces and participating in fun experiences is one of the multiple highlights of being a book club member.

A favorite memory of Wagner’s, she said, was when New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Mia Sheridan, spoke with the club about her book, “Archer’s Voice.”

“We plan different things to try to see what gets us more talkative and involved,” she said. “It’s just kind of cool to see what kind of things we can do that are book related.”

Although the organization does not have a similar event planned for this year yet, there is fun to be had at their regular meetings. Upon entering the library, one could expect to see people eating cookies and talking to one another before the meeting has even officially started.

Wagner said the club always starts by discussing the read of the month. Members then play an online trivia game about the book, with the winner typically earning a $5 gift card for coffee to a location of their choice. Following the trivia game, they dive into a conversation about the book.

“We have discussion questions that we put up on the projector and just talk about our thoughts on different points that happened along the way through the book,” Wagner said.

Alden Book Club welcomes readers of all genres and even people who do not like to read as much. Wagner said it is important to her that books vary in content throughout the year due to previous book club experiences.

Cyrus said in her high school book club, members also did not have any voice in choosing what books to read.

In light of these negative experiences, the organization values including members in selecting books. At each meeting, executives take suggestions from members and over the next 24 hours, everyone can vote in the club’s GroupMe to select the next read.

“(The club) is open to construction from the actual members and the execs are pretty much just like the members,” Moore said. “There is no real hierarchy or anything.”

Moore said the club tries to read from a different genre so all members can find something appealing to enjoy.

Alden book club meets on the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in Alden room 319. For September, the club is reading a general fiction book and those interested can stay up to date with the club’s activities through social media or Bobcat Connect.

“There is a book that somebody is going to like,” Wagner said. “You might think that you don’t like a book, but you just haven’t found the right book yet.”

Sept. 17, they will cover early harvest for a $10 fee for nonmembers and a $5 fee for members.

Tickets to visit the museum are $5, with open hours Wednesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Members get tickets for cheaper, $4.20, discounted event prices, earlier notice of events and access to member-only events. Individual plans start at $50 and can be purchased on the museum website.

You can get in contact with the museum by phone at (740) 331-4558 or by email at info@cannabismuseum. com.

JEN FOSNAUGHT | FOR THE POST

MEGAN VANVLACK | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day digs up history, heritage

Nelsonville, just a 15-minute drive from Athens, is no stranger to history. It is one of the oldest cities in Ohio, dating back to the start of the 19th century. It has been home to thousands of families and faces in those 200 hundred years, and continues to be home to just over 5,000 people, according to the 2020 census.

Many different veins of history converged in Nelsonville on Saturday. Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day took place in Stuart’s Opera House, bringing together speakers, performers and Athens County residents for a sweeping look at Southeast Ohio history and Appalachian cultural heritage.

“The first (Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day) was in October of ‘94 at Southern Local School District,” Tyler McDaniel, Little Cities of Black Diamonds president, said. “It was in the cafeteria of the elementary and middle school. They had kind of what we have today; smaller, but speakers on a stage presenting different things, and they had folks who collect history, like artifacts.”

Little Cities of Black Diamonds is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to preserving the history of Southeastern Ohio. Formed in the early 1990s, it started with a goal of promoting community development in Perry County. Today it has the same goal, just with dozens more cities to promote.

“I think the more people know about the region, the more respect that they feel for themselves in the place that they call home, or the place that their ancestors are from,” McDaniel said. “From that, I think it just builds respect for people and a feeling of place.”

After over two decades of planning its flagship event, Little Cities of Black Diamonds has grown its annual day to include 20 tables from organizations, live singers and a slate of local presenters all from across Appalachian Ohio.

Mount Zion Black Cultural Center was one of the organizations present at Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day. Regis Saxton, a research administrator at George Mason University and Ohio University graduate, said Black history is an integral part of Southeastern Ohio history.

“We’ve always been here, and we will continue to be here, and we have a place here to be able to share that with other people,” Saxton said.

Little Cities of Black Diamonds supports cities, villages and unincorporated towns across the region through cultural and historical preservation efforts. One of the supported places is Rendville, a village in southern Perry County that is the smallest incorporated town in Ohio with a population of 28, according to the 2020 census.

Despite its size, the town has a deeply-important history that deserves to be remembered, Harry Ivory of the Rendville Historic Preservation Society said. Rendville was founded in 1879 and quickly became a town where labor rights and racial integration were particularly important issues. The town’s founder, Colonel William P. Rend, was a Chicago-born mine owner who advocated for miners’ rights until his death in 1915.

“W.P. Rend brought in some African American miners from Virginia and West Virginia and paid them the same wages as the white miners,” Ivory said. “Once the coal ran out, people started moving away, and the history started disappearing, and that’s one thing that we don’t want to happen.”

Rendville is home to many of historic firsts in Ohio, Ivory said. Sophia Mitchell was appointed mayor of Rendville in 1969, becoming the first Black woman to hold the position of mayor in Ohio. Dr. Isaiah Tuppins, the company doctor for W.P. Rend’s mines, was the first Black man to graduate from Ohio State University’s medical school and the first Black mayor of in the northern U.S. after becoming Rendville’s mayor in 1886.

“Once we start telling people about it, they’re like, ‘man, we didn’t know that,’” Ivory said.

There were several people at Little Cities of Black Diamonds who, like Ivory, had bounties of knowledge about places in the region. One of these people in attendance was Nyla Vollmer, the vice president of the Hocking County Historical and Genealogical Society. She shares this knowledge via the society’s Facebook page and in the Hocking County Museum where she works as the curator.

“We have got six buildings full of history, and we have got history on all kinds of things and everything is Hocking County,” Vollmer said

Vollmer, a Southeast Ohio resident her entire life, has been preserving Hocking County history for most of her life.

“Well, if we don’t share (our history), we lose it and no one will know it,” Vollmer said.

Throughout the event, casual talks of the old times were abound. Nancy Devol Rose, a folk and bluegrass singer, performed her song “Ode to Haydenville,” a twangy track about her childhood in the unincorporated community. Many of the people who shared the history of their towns at Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day were people who had spent decades in the region and were now grandparents or great aunts and uncles.

“I’m trying to find some younger people to take my place,” Ivory said. “I need to find them because I don’t have much time left. I’m an old man. God’s got to get some young people interested. The problem is the

descendants of the people from Rendville, those kids don’t have any connection to Rendville anymore. They moved away, and, you know, they basically never come back.”

The Appalachian region as a whole has suffered from declining populations for years. Central and Northern Appalachia, which includes parts of states such as Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia, have experienced population losses of at least 3%, according to the Appalachian Regional Commission.

McDaniel sees Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day and what Little Cities of Black Diamonds does — preserving oral history, collecting and documenting stories — as a solution to keep people who grew up in the Appalachian region home.

“I’ve had so many people reach out to me that said that they look at this region or their hometown differently and with more respect, because they have learned more about the history,” McDaniel said.

Understanding the history of the region kept McDaniel in Southeastern Ohio, but it also brought some new people in. Saxton, who was originally from Cleveland before he attended OU, said his experience in Appalachian Ohio made him fall in love with the place.

“I was gone for 20 years, and then I came back because the hills always call me back,” Saxton said.

“I think part of this is people coming back and reconnecting with their history and knowing how they fit into the story, and then advancing the story.”

Despite the many challenges Appalachia faces, at Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day there was an abundance of pride to be from the region.

“I was born in Appalachia, raised in Appalachia, and people in Appalachia get a short stick,” Ivory said.

“So to me, it’s special. It’s a family. Everybody knows everybody, everybody loves everybody.”

JACKSON MCCOY | EDITOR-IN-CHEIF

JACKSON MCCOY | EDITOR-IN-CHEIF

LOCAL SINGER NANCY DEVOL ROSE PERFORMS IN STUART’S OPERA HOUSE AT LITTLE CITIES OF BLACK DIAMONDS DAY, SEP. 6, 2025. (JACKSON MCCOY | EDITOR-IN-CHIEF)

Fusion Noodle Company intrigues new Bobcats

$20, with a large menu to choose from.

For most Athens residents, local businesses are the heart of the city, with multiple offering a variety of menu items. From handcrafted lattes, to popular fast food chains and historical establishments, a hidden gem may be right around the corner.

Located at 30 W Union St., Fusion Noodle Company has been leaving city residents and Ohio University students smiling for over a decade.

A meal at Fusion can range from $10-

Whether a resident is looking for pot stickers, udon or even french fries, Fusion can be the spot for an affordable, yet diverse meal.

The restaurant, open from 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 10:30 p.m. Sunday, fuses Italian and Asian cuisine to create innovative dishes unlike other Athens eateries.

Mia Comello, a sophomore studying anthropology, said she and her roommate recently tried Fusion for the first time.

“I ordered the spicy lamb skewers,

got my roommate Magnolia the crab rangoons and I also ordered the pho,” Comello said. “I ordered it at night (and) there was no one in there. It was very fast and it only took (employees) 10 to 15 minutes to make it. They were very kind.”

Comello said she recommends Fusion to those who have not tried it.

Although some Bobcats may not stumble upon the restaurant just yet, others have discovered their regular spot.

In a five star rated Yelp review on the restaurant, Becky F., of Athens, wrote the restaurant had “excellent service and patience with my bad hearing … comfort food from really nice people.”

Not only do customers enjoy the atmosphere of Fusion, but so do employees.

Jonathan Zheng, a local high school student, is a cashier at the restaurant. Zheng said the menu offers a variety of items, with the most expensive costing $18.25.

“(I recommend) the Taiwan steak noodle soup, if you have the money,” he said.

More affordable menu options include the pho or the pad Thai. Zheng said Fusion stands out among other Athens restaurants because it serves pho.

“Most restaurants don’t have pho and we are the only restaurant around here that (has) pho,” he said.

For freshmen new to Athens, the

Fluff Bakery welcomes all

FIONA PETTICREW | FOR THE POST

Fluff Bakery, located on 8 N. Court St., opened in 2010 to satisfy the hungry bellies of Athens. Not only do they offer an array of different coffees, teas and other drinks, but they also have numerous different kinds of pastries and sweet treats. Brunch and bowl options are available, featuring salads, breakfast tacos, burritos, rice bowls, wraps, scramblers and “veggie specialties.” If you’re in the mood, Fluff Bakery offers alcohol infused coffees and other drinks for those 21 and over.

Fluff Bakery is colorful and inviting, featuring rainbow cupcake artwork, sky blue walls and a chalkboard outside, listing the specials and other goodies. The bakery has plenty of seating, with booths, outside chairs and a bench for to-go orders or pickup. They have a secluded area in the back, ideal for studying or taking a break. Fluff even has a water fountain available for thirsty customers.

For those who are celiac or gluten-free, Fluff Bakery has many options to choose from. The bakery offers many gluten-free sweets and meals, as well as vegan and vegetarian-friendly options.

“The unique thing about us is that we have a large variety of gluten-free pastries and savory food options,” Gwen Boes, the owner and baker, said.

Boes shared Fluff’s most popular items. “I think the most popular breakfast pastries are the cinnamon twist or the gluten-free cinnamon rolls. We also make both regular and gluten-free pepperoni rolls that normally sell out on the days we have them.”

Ruby Pare, an Ohio University nursing graduate, commends Fluff Bakery’s gluten-free dishes. Pare has celiac disease and cannot have gluten. She found the bakery through an app called Find Me Gluten Free.

“I love the chorizo scramblers, and their sweet croissants are awesome,” Pare said. “Thursdays, they do a pepperoni roll, spinach cheese roll, croissants, which I haven’t had since I got diagnosed, so it’s awesome. They always have cupcakes and brownies.”

Lauren Markovich is an Athens local and stated that Fluff’s chai is quality and pairs great with espresso.

“I like their sugar cookies, and they do a really good job decorating them,” Markovich said. “(Boes) was a worker, and then she became the owner. So it’s really cool to see the worker-owner relationship and then going into having her own business, and it’s very uniquely Athens. So it’s a pretty cool place,” said Markovich.

Nick Wayn is from Columbus, but comes to Fluff often with Markovich. Wayn says he always gets the chorizo burrito and likes the location of Fluff.

Fluff Bakery works with Passionworks studio, a nonprofit located in Athens, providing employment for people with developmental differences. Fluff Bakery displays Passionworks artwork, which is all for sale. Boes shared that their coffee is sourced from Silver Bridges Coffee Company, a woman-owned company in Gallipolis, Ohio, that gives back to the community.

A Google review from user Annie Graham posted on Sept. 5, 2025, rated the bakery 5 stars and left a positive review. “Mini cannoli (in the bag, to go), yum! Bacon and cheddar croissant, yum! Free coffee with my piece of pie, excellent!”

Fluff Bakery is a great place for friends to gather or for solo study time. Dining in, there is a choice between a bar stool overlooking the sidewalk, spacious booths or tables. Fluff Bakery’s square site makes it convenient for food pickup as well. If you would like to visit Fluff Bakery, they are open Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

wide variety of food options can be overwhelming.

Katie Metzler, a freshman studying prephysical therapy, has yet to try Fusion.

“I’ve seen it when I have gone up Court Street but I just haven’t gone out to eat much,” she said.

Based on first impressions, Metzler said she could see herself stopping in at some point throughout the year and plans to try Fusion’s pad Thai.

“It’s just a classic,” she said. “I enjoy eating at places like that. I think Athens actually has a pretty wide variety, with all the fast food and then also the little coffee shops and noodle places.”

The establishment features a dining room with various seating options. Customers can sit at a counter, high-top, low-top table or outdoor table.

Fusion also offers 20 minute pickup or delivery, as listed on their website. Orders are also taken over the phone.

Zheng said working on a college campus is interesting but he enjoys the fluctuation of customers who come into the restaurant.

“It goes from really slow to really busy,” he said.

CV592923@OHIO.EDU

EVENTS

Social Engagement & Student Org Events

Events for Students, by Students

Discover what’s happening across campus—concerts, guest speakers, club meetings, and more. The Student Org Events Calendar has something for everyone.

see what’s happening this week

Ohio defends the Frank against West Virginia

Bobcat defense shines in front of a record-breaking crowd

OWEN LIPSTREU | ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Defense wins championships. Last year for Ohio football, defense was the leading force in the first Mid-American Conference title run in nearly 60 years for the program. The 2025 Ohio defense once again stood tall Saturday evening against a formidable foe in West Virginia. West Virginia was limited to only minimal points in the gritty victory for Ohio, 17-10.

Defensive systems find success when all 11 players on the field do their job. This starts up front with the defensive line, who were hounding all over the Mountaineers quarterback Nicco Marchiol. This unit had 2.5 sacks, 3.5 tackles for loss, and held the Mountaineer rushing attack to under three yards per carry in the game.

The group was led by junior defensive tackle Nehemiah Dukes, who had 6 tackles, including both a sack and a tackle for loss. It felt like Dukes was always around the backfield, slowing down the run game or condensing the pocket for Marchiol.

“We noticed that the quarterback was a little antsy in the pocket, and that’s because of the pressure, and we just continued to get after him,” Dukes said. West Virginia and head coach Rich

Rodriguez are built on running the football, so for Ohio to shut down that aspect of the game, it completely changed the dynamic and allowed for momentum to flip toward Ohio as the game progressed.

“That was a huge part of the game plan, when you’re playing a tempo team, and Rich (Rodriguez) has built his career off being able to run the ball and then playing with a lot of tempo on offense,” head coach Brian Smith said. “One key to stopping a team like that is being able to stop the run on early downs. The job our defense did, and the plan that they had to knock out the run was awesome.”

The Bobcats found success in the second level as well, with redshirt juniors Jack Fries and Michael Molnar flying around the field. They had 14 combined tackles, plus Molnar had 1.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. The biggest play at linebacker came from back up graduate student Cameron Hollobaugh, who intercepted a Marchiol pass late in the fourth quarter.

“I’ve been so happy with their progress as players,” Smith said. “Both (Fries and Molnar) were walk-ons within the program. Both of them earned

scholarships in the spring, and just so proud of how they’ve taken on those roles…. and obviously (Cameron) had a chance to play more of a role in this game, had an opportunity to get an interception in the fourth quarter. It was awesome.”

Ohio was incredibly efficient on the back end as well. They disrupted the running game so much that West Virginia had to throw more than they probably would have hoped, but were kept in check by the defensive backs, as Ohio would only allow two passes of over 20 yards throughout the entire game.

The defensive backs were solid all night, but the standout man had to be Adonis Williams who came up with a couple of huge open-field tackles to prevent first downs while the Mountaineers were threatening in the first half. The defense all over the field picked the scraps of a tough third quarter by the offense and helped them rebound to put away the game.

“I’m proud of the defense,” junior wide receiver Chase Hendricks said. “Big testament goes to the defense, because we stalled a lot. (There were) a lot of interceptions, a lot of penalties, shooting

ourselves in the foot. They got a lot of stops, and we should have converted more. But we’re a team, so when they helped us out, we helped them out.”

The final aspect that built on the defense and kept the stadium lively to make some pivotal stops was the recordbreaking crowd in Peden Stadium. The place was electric hours before kickoff and roared with cheer as redshirt junior defensive lineman Anas Luqman secured the game-winning sack.

“It was awesome,” Smith said. “The thing that we talked about was a sold-out crowd, the largest capacity in the history of the stadium. How is that going to affect the team? We talked about how it was going to be our energy, our enthusiasm, our effort, how hard we play, that was going to affect the crowd. And that was what was going to drive the crowd that was there. It wasn’t gonna be the other way around.”

The entire team brought this crowd to their feet all night with highlights by the offense to start, but it was the defense that brought this one home in the second half and sent the record-breaking crowd home with a win.

Linebackers Cameron Hollobaugh (24) and Michael Molnar (25) after an interception during the Bobcats game against West Virginia, Sep. 6, 2025. The Bobcats defeated West Virginia 17-10 in Peden Stadium. (JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST)

Hoosiers win on lone goal against Ohio

The Ohio Bobcats soccer team (2-41) traveled to Bloomington, Indiana, to take on the Indiana Hoosiers (3-2-1), where they came up short, losing 1-0. The Bobcats looked to continue their success after a tie to Northern Kentucky on Thursday.

The first half started with back-andforth momentum, starting with Indiana’s junior Kennedy Neighbors placing a shot bottom left that senior Celeste Sloma saved in the 11th minute.

The save from Sloma was huge allowing Ohio’s junior forward Jaimason Brooker to fire back with a shot that missed left.

The teams continued to fight back and forth for position until the 25th minute, with another missed shot by Neighbors after an aggressive battle for possession.

Senior midfielder Hailey Jeng answered with a shot of her own that just sailed over the post in the 35th minute.

A costly foul by the Bobcats in the 36th minute set up Indiana for the game’s lone goal on a penalty from senior defender Abbey Iler. The Bobcats looked to answer back in the 39th minute with a shot that missed high from sophomore forward Sania Dearing. The first half ended with the Bobcats being outshot 4-3 and down 1-0.

The second half saw an offensive explosion by both teams, as Indiana outshot the Bobcats 19-9. Indiana constantly put pressure on the Bobcats, including six shots between the 51st and 55th minutes. However, the Bobcats placed five shots on goal despite all of them being saved by Indiana’s graduate student goalkeeper Sally Rainey.

Rainey’s remarkable play proved enough as the Bobcats fell 1-0 to the Hoosiers. Sloma continued to shut down Indiana’s momentum, including an impressive clean sheet in the second half with seven saves. Brooker led the team with three shots, including one on goal. Both Jeng and junior forward Anna Burchett placed two shots, and one on

goal. Burchett continues to be the driving attacking force for the team with a teamleading 18 shots and six shots on goal.

The Bobcats look to bounce back on the road Sep. 14 in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, as they will start off conference play against Central Michigan at 1 p.m.

JH269721@OHIO.EDU

JACKSON HUXEL | FOR THE POST

Maia Kaufman (4) kicking the ball closer to the goal, Oct. 17, 2024. (ANTONIO RAHMAT | FOR THE POST)

An Ohio soccer player goes to kick the ball at the game against Western Michigan, Sep. 19, 2024 (JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST)

Ohio falters at Chattanooga Classic

BRANDON GROSS | SPORTS STAFF WRITER

Ohio volleyball (2-4) played in its first road outing in the Chattanooga Classic this weekend, where it played against Cincinnati (4-1), Chattanooga (2-4) and Jacksonville State (3-3). Ohio won its game against Chattanooga but lost against Cincinnati and Jacksonville State. Ohio was able to keep up in its losses, though, as it won at least a set in all the games played.

CINCINNATI

Ohio played Cincinnati first and came out with a strong start, as it kept up with Cincinnati’s scoring for the entire first set. Ohio was also able to steal the first set with a score of 25-23 and have a 1-0 lead very early in the matchup.

Cincinnati came back during the second set, though, as it smothered any scoring attempt made by Ohio. Ohio was only able to go on a scoring run of 2 points at max while Cincinnati opened the set with 5 unanswered points. Ohio lost this set with a score of 25-10, and the next set didn’t get any better.

Ohio lost the next set with a score of 25-14. Cincinnati once again had large stretches of scoring, compared to Ohio not getting anything going. The final set was much more competitive as Cincinnati opened with 5 points, but Ohio was able to claw its way back to tie the game at 24 each. Cincinnati would go on to win the set 26-24 and take the set and the game with an overall score of 3-1.

CHATTANOOGA

After a disappointing loss, Ohio opened the game ready to play against Chattanooga. Much more aggressive than against Cincinnati, Ohio was able to take the first set away from Chattanooga with a score of 25-21. In a repeat of the last game, Ohio wasn’t able to win the second set and keep the momentum going. Chattanooga played extremely well, with two scoring runs of 4 or more points, comfortably winning the set 25-21.

Not wanting a repeat of last game, Ohio traded off scores with Chattanooga for almost the entirety of the third set, but thanks to four quick scores, it was

able to pull ahead with a score of 23-18. Chattanooga didn’t let those scores go unanswered, though, as it sent shots back and made the game 24-22, but Ohio was able to close out. The final score of the set was 25-22.

Ohio closed out the game in the final set with lots of offensive firepower, as it didn’t let Chattanooga get many scores. Almost all of Ohio’s points were scored in bunches, and not many point trades happened. Ohio went on to win the set 25-14 with a dominant performance. Ohio would also take the game, winning three sets to Chattanooga’s one.

JACKSONVILLE STATE

This was the final game of Ohio’s in the Chattanooga Classic, and it didn’t go down without a fight. Jacksonville State was able to take a commanding 25-19 win against Ohio in the first set, but in a tight-fought second set, Ohio would be the victor with the score being 25-23, a narrow 2-point margin. Ohio and Jacksonville State also traded the third and fourth sets, as Jacksonville State won the

third with a score of 25-17 and Ohio won the fourth with another close score of 25-23.

All coming down to the fifth set, Ohio and Jacksonville State were ready to play. The fifth set came down to only 15 points; there was less room for error, and Ohio committed too many. It was down by 5 points for most of the set, and Jacksonville State went to take the set 15-10, giving Ohio its second loss of the tournament.

With the Chattanooga Classic wrapped up, Ohio continues its road trip and plays in Dayton this coming weekend, participating in the Tru by Hilton Dayton Beavercreek Invitational.

BG326422@OHIO.EDU

Junior opposite hitter Gentry Brown prepares

dancing stars with the

Season 34 cast announcment

EMILY

FRANK | FOR THE POST

On Wednesday the “Dancing with the Stars” Season 34 cast was announced on “Good Morning America.” Prior, the show had already confirmed Robert Irwin, Alix Earle and co-stars of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” Jen Affleck and Witney Carson.

Olympic Gold medalist Jordan Chiles was the first contestant announced on the show. Gymnasts typically start strong because, much like dancers, they have strong body control. After winning gold and bronze at the Paris Olympics last summer, Chiles has her sights set on the Mirrorball Trophy. Chiles is partnered with Ezra Sosa, who joined the show last season.

Actor Corey Feldman, known for “Gremlins,” “Stand by Me,” and “The Goonies,” will complete this season with last season winner Jenna Johnson. Feldman’s “Comeback King” music video showed he is ready to dance his way toward the Mirrorball.

Val Chmerkovskiy, Johnson’s husband and fellow pro, is paired with influencer and heiress Alix Earle. While contestants with prior dance experience often spark debate among fans, Earle hasn’t competed since she was 16 and in a different dance style.

Hilaria Baldwin, wife of Alec Baldwin, will also be competing this season despite dancing ballroom since

At 40, Mario’s still in his prime

BEN SCHNEIDER | FOR THE POST

From an outside perspective, it can be tough to truly understand what makes Mario a big deal. He is an Italian plumber made by a Japanese company who speaks English. He has been featured in hundreds of games as a racer, doctor, fighter, golfer, partier and more.

How did he get to this point? How has this one character been able to spawn so many different entertainment properties around him? There is a movie, an amusement park and multiple stores across the globe selling his merchandise.

Understanding Mario’s cultural impact starts by first figuring out what qualifies as a Mario game. Typically, when someone says they’re playing “Mario,” they are referring to either the 2D or 3D games.

The 2D games are the originals. They aren’t really what started it all, Mario’s first appearance can be dated back to the 1981 arcade game “Donkey Kong,” but Nintendo likes to focus its anniversaries around the initial 1985 release of “Super Mario Bros.” in Japan. Though this particular genre in the series has evolved a lot over the years, it has kept its main focus on linear platforming with different mechanics and power-ups to spice up the level design.

Every level generally comes with its own idea, where the game gently teaches the player one new mechanic

childhood and even competing on NYU’s ballroom team.

Baldwin’s partner, Gleb Savchenko, was actually rumored to be fired this summer because of his romantic entanglement with his partner, Brooks Nader, last season. Fellow pro Sasha Farber was not asked back; Farber also had relations with his partner, Jenn Tran, last season.

Replacing Farber, right off the recordbreaking Eras Tour, is Jan Ravnik. He is to be partnered with “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” star Affleck. Over this summer, Affleck gave birth to Penelope, her third baby.

Joining Affleck is her co-star, Whitney Leavit. Like Earle and Baldwin, fans are upset about Leavit having majored in dance in college. Her partner, Mark Ballas, is no stranger to fan criticism over this subject, as his Season 31 partner, Charli D’Amelio, faced similar complaints

Comedian Andy Richter is paired up with Emma Slater. Slater is commonly considered the sweetest of the pros. She is often paired up with older competitors because of her kind spirit.

Elaine Hendrix, most famously known from her role as Meredith Blake in The Parent Trap, is partnering up with Alan Bersten. Bersten and Slater went public about their relationship earlier this year while on stage for the Dancing with the Stars Live 2025 tour.

Musician and songwriter Scott Hoying, best known for being Pentatonix’s baritone, partnered with Rylee Arnold.

Winner of the newest season of “The Traitors,” Dylan Efron, is partnered with Daniella Karagach.

Two-time NBA All-Star Baron Davis will be partnered this season with Britt Stewart. Stewart got married over the summer to her Season 31 dance partner, Daniel Durant.

Girl meets ballroom as Topanga Mathews herself, Danielle Fishel, takes to the floor with Pasha Pashkel. Fishel has joked about wanting to use her “Girl Meets World” co-star, Sabrina Carpenter’s, music every week.

On Aug. 31, the girl group 5th Harmony reunited on stage at The Jonas Brothers concert in Dallas, Texas. Group Member Lauren Jauregi will be partnering up with Brandon Armstrong this season on “Dancing with the Stars.”

She is noticeably missing from this season’s trailer and poster. Jauregi stated that she had just learned she was going to be on the season two days before the big “Good Morning America” announcement, which explains her absence from promotional material. Robert Irwin was announced back in April. His sister, Bindi Irwin, won the Mirrorball in Season 21 with Derek Hough, who now sits on the judges’ panel. Irwin is partnered with Witney Carson.

Host and Season 19 winner, Alfonso Ribeiro, gives one piece of advice for all of this season’s contestants: “Listen to your pros, they’re pros for a reason.”

@E.G.FRANK7

EF687124@OHIO.EDU

and then another, until slowly it ramps up into an entirely new thing, the likes of which one has probably never played before.

Though there have been 24 mainline games over this 40-year span, each one comes with its own identity and focus.

“Super Mario Bros.” (1985) created the blueprint for what modern games could be. The first level is burned into countless players’ minds and plastered over arcade and gaming spaces around the world.

“Super Mario 64” (1996) saw the birth of three-dimensional video games. Because the Nintendo 64 cartridges didn’t have the memory to support a bunch of linear, individual levels, the game instead had fewer, but larger open-ended levels. What was created as a response to limitations actually created an entirely new and beloved genre of Mario based on exploration and creative movement.

“New Super Mario Bros. Wii” (2009) was the first time one could play with friends all at the same time in a Mario game. The “New” series of games would grow a bit stale as time went on as these games were a bit tame in originality, but still serve as an important stepping stone for the series today.

“Super Mario Odyssey” (2017) was a much-needed return to form. After years of stale, risk-free entries in the series, Mario returned to 3D in a big

way that was as much an ode to Mario 64 as it was its own thing entirely. Based on the mechanics of taking control of enemies, its imaginative world design and intricate movement made it one of the best games of all time.

“Super Mario Bros. Wonder” (2023) injected the 2D series with some much-needed life. Structurally, it mirrors that of the “New” series, but with flashes of modern ingenuity. Mario got a new art style, each level features a wild twist and the gameplay has a particular focus on enemies and environment.

As many ‘80s arcade coin-op characters fade into obscurity, Mario stands as a triumphant reminder of technological innovation and progress.

While gaming titans like Electric Arts and 2K Games continue to flounder around with recycled game engines and overbearing micro-transactions, Nintendo pushes the envelope for what a great game looks like.

Nintendo is certainly not free from scrutiny, with rising prices at the forefront, but at the very least, when one does buy a Mario game, it doesn’t lose value like most other games on the market.

What stands out about these games is not only a singular focus on fun, but the game’s staunch creativity and unwavering replayability. The beauty here is that anyone, from any country or walk of life, could boot up these games and have fun.

ABBY DOENCH | ASST. DESIGN DIRECTOR

Pinterest, pop culture inspire students’ fall fashion

CASSIDY MCCLURG | FOR THE POST

The fall months are beginning, which means it’s time to get dressed for them. Whether you made a Pinterest board already or not, here are some things students are wearing this fall.

Asking about patterns and colors, the common consensus is muted, darker tones. Neutrals are commonly seen in fall fashion Pinterest boards, with browns, beiges and oranges often taking over palettes.

Blues and purples are associated with the much spookier side of fall. For Halloween fans, darker colors are a staple and are often added to fall wardrobes.

People often wear darker colors that reflect the season shift during the change from summer to autumn, reflecting the changing leaves and muted tones.

Connor Hockenberry, a sophomore studying environmental science, discussed the importance of nature

during the autumn season.

“Fall is a good season because all the wildlife is hiding under rocks,” Hockenberry said. “So, I go and flip rocks … I think fall is flannel weather.”

It seems what is really in this fall is outfits inspired by outdoor activities that most will be doing. Having outfits that almost camouflage or represent the season with colors and patterns can match those activities, since most people will be picking pumpkins or going to fall festivals.

Similar to patterns and colors are statement pieces, textures and accessories. One textile that makes a great statement piece is faux fur. Its soft texture provides warmth for the season. Meghan Linn, a freshman studying criminology and sociology, attested to this.

“I feel like (fur) is so in. I’ve already been seeing fur boots,” Linn said. “Everyone is pulling their Uggs back out … just earmuffs and big fun accessories.”

Aside from using accessories like scarves, shoes, tights and earmuffs to personalize outfits for fall, it seems like the goal this fall is to be cozy and reflect that vibe of hibernation, which follows the theme of using the season’s change as inspiration for outfits. Keeley Ferguson, a freshman studying English, finds comfort in fall fashion trends.

“I’ll be wearing a lot of cardigans, leggings,” Ferguson said. “I’ll probably just wear a bunch of crewnecks and a bunch of comfy clothes.”

Comfortable and natural outfits are trending this fall. Make sure to have lots of nature-inspired patterns, textures, and colors in your wardrobe.

Often, people take inspiration from pop culture when it comes to finding their fall style. Characters such as Rory and Lorelai Gilmore are referenced during the fall for their cozy outfits. “Gilmore Girls” has been mentioned across social media for years during the fall, becoming a popular binge-watch during the autumn months. However, fall isn’t just cozy; it can also be spooky. Linn mentioned the 2009 film “Coraline” as an inspiration for her outfits this fall, noting that dark purples and blues with fingerless gloves will make appearances.

“[I’m] definitely feeling ‘Coraline,’” Linn said. “We’re doing hats, gloves, scarves, you know…and fun accessories. I want good costumes.”

If you are looking for some trendy ideas, layering and accessorizing this fall is going to play a large role. Jewel tones that match the color of the leaves and comfortable sweaters will appear. Get ready to cozy up with fur or take a walk with some earmuffs. Fall is naturecentered and festive this year, so grab a pumpkin and take a pic in your best outfit.

Chloe Malle takes over editorial content at Vogue

After 37 years as editor-in-chief, Dame Anna Wintour has passed down the Vogue torch.

Chloe Malle brings a new vision for Vogue and a new title. Instead of editorin-chief, Malle is head of editorial content, a shift that highlights the everevolving magazine business.

Speaking to the New York Times, Malle said there’s no replacing Wintour and trying to be a carbon copy of her predecessor would not allow her to succeed.

“Placing my own stamp on this is going to be the most important part of this success,” Malle said. “There has to be a noticeable shift that makes this mine.” Wintour’s legacy remains, as does Wintour herself, as she keeps her position as global editorial director at Vogue and chief content officer of Condé Nast, Vogue’s publisher.

Although Malle has two famous parents, Candice Bergen and Louis Malle, and dubs herself a “proud nepo baby,” her extensive and successful history at Vogue speaks for itself.

Malle joined Vogue in 2011 as social editor, leading wedding and social coverage before serving as a contributing editor from 2016-23. In 2023, Malle became editor of the Vogue website, which saw double its normal traffic under her leadership.

During her 37 years as editor-in-chief, Wintour led Vogue and the fashion industry as a whole through a major

shift. From putting a model in jeans in 1988 to putting Madonna on the first pop star cover in 1989, Wintour changed the landscape of fashion through the magazine.

Malle is set to make her own changes to Vogue, which will undoubtedly shake up the fashion industry as a result. As head of editorial content, Malle is limiting the number of print issues Vogue releases, bidding goodbye to monthly issues and instead saving print editions for specific themes and cultural events, according to the New York Times.

The magazine landscape looks far different now than it did when Wintour first took over editorial duties. Vogue recently came under fire for featuring artificial intelligence-generated models in its August issue. Malle’s approach to the rapid increase of AI in media is a key component of how Vogue is going to be able to adapt to the changing industry.

In a statement made to Vogue, Wintour boasted her utmost faith in Malle to be at the forefront of Vogue’s future.

“I believe that warmth, joy, experience, and keen vision are what Vogue will thrive on through the years ahead … ” Wintour said. “Chloe has proven often that she can find the balance between American Vogue’s long, singular history and its future on the frontlines of the new.”

ELIZABETH TALAGA | COPY CHIEF

NICOLE REESE | FOR THE POST

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Fool’s Gold: ‘Parasite’ stuns at the Athena

LOGAN BAUER | FOR THE POST

On the night of Aug. 28, the Athena Cema held a screening of the critically-acclaimed 2019 Best Picture winner “Parasite,” directed by Bong Joon Ho. After putting off watching the film for years, I can wholeheartedly recommend it to all fans of film as a medium, even those who may be put off by the film being spoken entirely in Korean.

I was initially put off by having to read subtitles for the entire duration of the film, which was part of the reason why I had not seen it until very recently. When the rooftop showing by The Athena was announced, there was no better time to give it a watch.

The film features a poor family trying to work for a rich family, lying about their identities to infiltrate the household together. Their collective greed leads to being trapped in the home when they are not supposed to, and discovering the secret hidden deep within the mansion, even from the owners.

Although the film is arguably a slow burn at first, its introduction helps set up the characters and make every revelation truly impactful.

The film is worth a watch, if not just for the climactic ending moments. The movie comes together in a gutwrenching sequence of events that had been prepared for the entire runtime. It also contains a lot of key scenes that were really humorous, much more than I had anticipated. Particularly, the nighttime scene where the family hides under the table. The film is incredibly tightly written and leaves no room for bloat or unnecessary scenes.

Liam Delaney, a freshman studying film, shared his thoughts on the film after attending the rooftop screening at the Athena.

“You have to read the subtitles and thus things can be misinterpreted or left up to your interpretation, which is kind of a special aspect of the film,” he said.

“I also think that the film does a really good job when it comes to the plot twist in the middle, which is something I did not expect my first time watching and it really drew me in for the second half of the movie,” Delaney said.

I was particularly impressed by

the cinematography, editing and presentation of the film. There were plenty of sequences that wowed me, such as the previously-mentioned climax sequence, as well as other scenes that take place within the house, like the appearance of the “ghost figure.” Many shots’ compositions wowed me in tandem with expressive editing choices that really make the film something special.

The messages of the film give a lot of commentary on the dynamics between the impoverished and the wealthy, particularly with how both the rich and the poor express desires to be like the other. It also features a lot of deception on behalf of the protagonists, which unravels very quickly at the turning point of the film and leaves long-lasting consequences.

The biggest hurdle for many to watch

the film may be the necessity of reading subtitles for the film’s duration of over two hours. Although it may be an obstacle at first, the film moves at a quick enough pace and is so engaging that at some point, I forgot I was even reading subtitles at all, as if the film were in English. Even if one is opposed to reading subtitles to enjoy a film at first, give “Parasite” a try. You’re missing out on an incredible piece of art to dismiss it for that reason.

In all, the film succeeds due to its interesting premise, even better execution, expertly-crafted filmmaking techniques and overcoming the “hurdle” of subtitles, Hoon’s “Parasite” earns a 10/10 rating.

Logan Bauer is a freshman studying film at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Logan about his column? Email him at lb324324@ohio.edu.

Real Talk with Rylee Heidi’s Hot Takes

Love isn’t a rescue mission

HEIDI BARTOLONE | FOR THE POST

It always starts with a hoodie. Not your hoodie, but his hoodie. Oversized, soft and typically smells like Old Spice and bad decisions. He is funny and has a smile that makes you fall fast and far. His Spotify playlist is a thoughtless mess of Frank Ocean, Mac Miller and songs that make you think you are the love of his life. Every word he speaks comes with a smile. And now you are falling in love with a man who doesn’t know what a 401(k) is. Welcome to dating in college: where ambition is cringey and red flags look a lot like indie record covers if you tilt your head just right.

The funny part of it all is you knew. You knew the moment he put your Chipotle date on his mom’s card. You knew it when he mentioned it might be cool to be a SoundCloud rapper.

Still, there you are sharing coffee. Lying to your friends. Making excuses. Telling yourself he’s “emotionally intelligent” because he listens to The Smiths.

This isn’t just about one naive college boy; it’s about the silent expectations we put on women to carry both the love and the logistics in relationships. The 2025 college dating market has become less about partnership and more about aesthetics. Aesthetics that conveniently excuse men from accountability, goals and occasionally jobs.

It’s important to note college men have a simple lack of motivation. In the 21st century, women have begun to outperform men in higher education. This represents a decline in male motivation compared to women today.

The irony is that women, especially in college, are doing everything they can to make it to the top. We’re applying for internships, building side hustles and negotiating with landlords. The Pew Research Center says, “Women hold a rising share of high-paying occupations in the United States. They are also a growing share of managers and professionals.”

Meanwhile, he’s still wearing a Carhartt

beanie in 80-degree weather and is “just trying to figure things out.”

No one is expected to have it all together; that is not the issue here. The issue, however, is the gender gap in who is allowed to be a mess and who gets applauded for it. Men are constantly given room to be creative or find themselves. Women are told to be supportive, patient and nurturing. In other words, you become his therapist and unpaid life coach.

As college students, it is important we stop romanticizing struggle when it isn’t shared. There is a difference between building a life together and carrying the weight of someone else’s refusal to try.

One article from Tue Love Scam Recovery implies for centuries, women have been tasked with guessing at men’s emotions due to today’s men not being able to rationalize their own emotions.

We fall for these men due to their charming nature. Because they quote your favorite Zach Bryan song and flaunt the money they don’t have. Because they make you feel special for being the only girl that could ever “get” them. But love shouldn’t be a rescue mission. You are the unpaid intern of his emotional development.

You deserve someone who shows up. Who invests in you, in himself and a retirement plan, maybe. You deserve more than Spotify playlists and potential. Potential won’t pay bills. Potential isn’t just another cute word for “not yet.”

Fall in love with someone who knows how to file taxes and feelings. Fall in love with someone who has a plan and not just a plan for their next tattoo. Fall in love with someone who knows what a 401(k) is or at least cares enough to look it up.

Because the hoodie isn’t worth your peace. And aesthetics? Aesthetics don’t build a future.

Heidi Bartolone is a sophomore studying communications at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Heidi about her column? Email her at hb963023@ohio.edu.

| FOR THE POST

Not everyone who starts your journey with you is meant to walk alongside you forever. I used to think loyalty meant keeping everyone close, no matter what. But sometimes the healthiest thing you can do is walk away. Later in life, you’ll look back and see a map of where you came from, with many footprints joining and leaving your side and it will be beautiful.

I’ve learned the hard way that closure, although painful, is often the best path to peace of mind. Experts agree relationships have a major impact on our well-being and mental health.

Psychologist Rebecca Aquilina Bala notes distancing yourself from toxic connections is crucial for emotional health. Her advice mirrors what I’ve discovered: sometimes the most caring

act you can take is not for someone else, but for yourself.

From personal experience, setting boundaries can be transformative. Initially, I struggled with guilt and fear of confrontation. Emotions take over and all you can do is live in this version of your life that is in your head.

However, taking a step back and looking at everything laid out in front of you can help you set those boundaries. Even if that means constructing alone time to recoup and recollect yourself. Having conversations like this helps not only with your own well-being but also helps build a more concrete idea of time management throughout your life.

When you have this newly found time to yourself, you are able to delegate time more effectively by looking at what truly deserves your attention. I have found this has helped preserve my mental health

The desire for knowledge is gone

RYLEE DREES | FOR THE POST

Social media apps such as TikTok and Instagram have increasingly become nesting grounds for fear-mongering and misinformation. With each swipe, there is a different piece of media to be consumed that will stay on your mind for the rest of the day, week or even month. Do you find yourself becoming easily distracted while doing schoolwork? You probably have ADHD. Did you just walk up a flight of stairs, and now you are having a hard time breathing and maybe are even feeling a bit lightheaded? You are having a heart attack. Did you see President Donald Trump is planning on making a statement soon? The United States is going to war. This is what social media does.

When tensions started rising between Iran and Israel, I could not take my eyes off TikTok. My For You Page convinced me the U.S. was right in the middle of a war, and we would have a sorry ending. I then realized all of the “facts” I had gathered were from fifteen-second videos made by other young adults. Young adults who thrived off my fear and attention.

Unfortunately, this is how most people receive their information today. A post will pop up on their screen, they read the snippet, believe it and move on. Digging deeper has vanished.

The lack of curiosity in our generation greatly frustrates me. The world is becoming too quick to believe the first thing they see and spread it to those around them. This is why there is an influx of misinformation today; it spreads like wildfire across platforms with talk of “did you see” or “look at this.” It is such a dangerous practice consistently overlooked.

Access to Information is a privilege we are all lucky to have. With social media, however, we are depleting ourselves of that privilege. There is no external force taking it from us; we do it to ourselves and bring down others. We should be

angry with ourselves, sad, upset, striving for change. Why are we okay with not knowing the full story?

I came to this realization a few months ago and vowed to always check my facts or research further than what popped up on my phone. Now, I want to bring the failure of questioning to the attention of everyone else.

In September 2022, a report stated at least 20% of videos on top news stories on TikTok presented misinformation. More than half of users on TikTok say they frequently get their news from the site. We may feel educated on the issues in today’s world because we are constantly fed information, but in reality we are absorbing a multitude of lies and incomplete stories.

It is time to wake up. We need to realize this is not OK, and we owe it to ourselves to be fully in the know of what is actually occurring. When you see a story on TikTok, Instagram, X or any other social platform, take a step back, research the facts and inform yourself.

There is too much deception out there to believe the first thing we encounter. Be upset this is what we have let ourselves come to. Do not allow yourself to take the easy way out because being informed is one of the greatest powers a human has. Refuse to give up your ability to be in the know and refuse to let others relinquish theirs. Be curious, ask questions and always yearn for more, because that is the cure to the epidemic of misinformation.

Rylee Drees is a freshman studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Rylee about their column? Email them at rd198224@ ohio.edu.

while not fully burning bridges entirely. This approach aligns with advice from mental health professionals, who suggest establishing boundaries is essential for maintaining healthy relationships.

Still, not every connection can be saved by boundaries. Some people simply don’t want to repair a relationship, and that realization hurts. People grow in different directions, and expecting someone to evolve at the same pace or in the same way you do is unrealistic. Chapters close. If you want to continue forward on the adventure of life, you must sometimes be willing to say goodbye.

Saying goodbye is the realization that personal growth and putting yourself first are more important than those long, sleepless nights spent wondering what went wrong. It’s choosing peace over guilt, clarity over confusion and progress over nostalgia. Letting go doesn’t erase the memories or the lessons, but it does

free you from the weight of what you were carrying. That kind of decision takes courage, the courage to accept not everyone is meant to stay and your wellbeing matters more than keeping the past alive.

In the end, saying goodbye isn’t about shutting people out; it’s about opening yourself up to the possibility of better relationships, stronger self-respect and the freedom to move forward without what holds you back. It’s an act of strength, not selfishness, and it can be the first step toward a life built on peace instead of pain.

Michael Dorwaldt is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Michael about their column? Email them at md557123@ohio. edu.

MICHAEL DORWALDT

SUDOKU

Editorial Student safety should be top concern

THE POST EDITORIAL BOARD

With student enrollment numbers increasing at Ohio University and campuses nearly everywhere, it becomes concerning when students begin to worry about their safety as a result. In 2024, the Athens campus had 22,266 students in total.

In August of 2023, OU welcomed its record-breaking first-year class in Athens. The class of 2027 contained over 4,500 students, breaking the record of the previous year, which contained 4,441 students.

Athens is a unique college town. Where students make up a large majority of the population during the academic months, College Green leads into Uptown Athens. The only separation from the town and the campus is a block or two.

Luckily, the Athens Police Department is also within a few blocks of the academic buildings that are near Uptown, located at 11 N. College St.

Across the country, there has been an uproar over false emergency reports at college campuses. Last month, West Virginia University responded to reports of gunfire. This prompted an emergency response alert telling students to shelter in place.

Less than 30 minutes after the initial alert to students, there was confirmation it was a hoax. Since classes began this year, schools such as the University of Arkansas, the University of Colorado Boulder, Northern Arizona University, Villanova University and Kansas State University all received similar threats. Due to OU’s nature of events and decades worth of traditions, visitors from all over come to Athens to enjoy Court Street and the town’s charisma. The annual Athens Halloween Block Party has seen crowds as large as 30,000 attend and flood the streets.

OU students and residents understand large events that gather thousands in town, but travelers who have never been

in the Athens atmosphere could pose the most threat to students. Although the university has committed to its quest for “people to be visible and valued” on its campuses, its safety standards must be high to protect students against outside forces.

New safety challenges can arise on campus quickly. Unfortunately, new trends can pose a threat to student safety. Recent “swatting” hoaxes highlight the need for increased safety.

An increase in security, such as surveillance of each campus green may improve underclassmen’s personal feeling of worry and promote ease. Sharing annual reports of crime statistics also contributes to students’ overall awareness and perception of events occurring on campus.

Transparency between authorities and students should also be a top priority. When alerting students to notify them of threatening and emergency events, the alerts should be timely, accurate and concise to best make students aware. Students should also be aware of self-defense resources and training to de-escalate a situation. For women on campus, The Rape Aggression Defense System is a program for realistic tactics and techniques. OUPD offers the program.

Students share their concerns about campus safety, and it’s up to institutions to work quickly to improve safety measures. It’s their responsibility to provide for students in every way.

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

IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO KNOW Ohio University Police Department: 911 or 740-593-1911 Athens Police Department: 911 or 740-592-3313

The Weekender Resource fair, Pawpaw Festival and Bobcat football

TUESDAY, SEP. 9

The Office of Health Promotion and THRiVE are hosting a mental health resource fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Baker University Center rooms 240 and 242. Attendees will learn about the well-being resources offered on campus, enter giveaways and form friendships. All students are welcome.

Admission: Free

The Union, 18 W Union St., hosts a game night every Tuesday, with bingo starting at 6 p.m. Trivia starts at 8 p.m. Both events are 18-plus.

Admission: Free

WEDNESDAY, SEP. 10

The Pub Bar, 39 N Court St., hosts trivia every Wednesday starting at 7:30 p.m., with team sign ups opening at 6:30 p.m. The max number of people to a team is eight and staff recommend arriving early to secure a table. Trivia night is only open to people 21 and older.

Admission: Free

The Athens Public Library, 30 Home St., will welcome caricature artist, Kurt Dreier, for a kid’s craft corner event. Dreier will be drawing caricatures of attendees from 5-7 p.m. and other craft stations will be open while people wait in line. Families of all ages are welcome.

Admission: Free

THURSDAY, SEP. 11

For the Culture is hosting a For the C(OU)LTURE event at The Union. The organization strives to create a space where everyone feels included, celebrated and seen. Music will be provided by DJ HALO and doors open at 8 p.m. Everyone over the age of 18 is welcome to attend.

Admission: Free

The Kennedy Museum of Art, 100 Ridges Circle, invites students and locals to participate in a sketching of the galleries. Representatives from the Chaddock + Morrow College of Fine Arts and Kennedy Museum will host instructors to lead a guided drawing experience, utilizing a multitude of pieces around the museum as inspiration. The event runs from 6 to 7 p.m. and no registration is required.

Admission: Free

FRIDAY, SEP. 12

Local musician Caitlin Kraus and other band members will perform at Uncle

Buck’s Stable and Dance Barn, 73930 Buck Ln., at 7:00 p.m. Uncle Buck’s invites all locals to enjoy some live entertainment and dancing.

Admission: $10 cover fee

OU’s alumni association and university advancement office is hosting a Scarlet and Green Weekend Mixer at Steppin N Stylez, 2545 Petzinger Road, Columbus, Ohio. Starting at 5 p.m., all OU alumni are welcome to reconnect, sip and celebrate the 10th Charter Anniversary of the Ebony Bobcat Network. With the purchase of a ticket, attendees can enjoy complimentary food and drink specials, including a “Bobcat Green Blaze” cocktail.

Admission: $10 via Eventbrite

For Athens residents and OU Bobcats interested in going to the Ohio University vs. Ohio State football game, bus tickets can be purchased at ridegobus.com. All bus tickets cost $10.

SATURDAY, SEP. 13

OU’s alumni association and university advancement office invites all Bobcat families, alumni and students to the Bobcat Bash at Ohio State. The tailgate, hosted at the Schottenstein Center Lawn, 555 Borror Dr., Columbus, Ohio, will run from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tickets include giveaways, drinks and a buffet.

Admission: $80 (21 plus for two drink tickets), $60 (20 and under for two non alcoholic drink tickets)

Post Saga and the Rylee Bapst Band will perform at The Union. Doors open at 8 p.m., with music starting at 9 p.m. All students and Athens locals over the age of 18 are welcome.

Admission: $8 for 21-plus, $11 for attendees 18 to 20 years old

SUNDAY, SEP. 14

The 27th annual Pawpaw Festival will run Friday-Sunday. The festival celebrates one of America’s largest native fruit trees, the Pawpaw. All Athens residents, OU Bobcats and locals from neighboring cities are welcome. Festival gates open at 4 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Admission: $60 for a weekend pass, $20 for a Friday only pass, $30 for a Saturday only pass and $20 for a Sunday only pass. Children 12 and under will be admitted for free.

Scenes from the Athens City Pool Dog Swim

GINA NAPOLI | HUMAN INTEREST EDITOR

PHOTOS BY ELLE MALTRY

PHOTO 1: Three dogs run through the water together at the Athens City Pool Dog Swim, Sep. 6, 2025.

PHOTO 2: A dog in swim trunks at the Athens City Pool Dog Swim, Sep. 6, 2025.

PHOTO 3: A woman tugs on her dog’s leash while it bites at it at the Athens City Pool Dog Swim, Sep. 6, 2025.

PHOTO 4: A golden retriever shakes off at the Athens City Pool Dog Swim, Sep. 6, 2025.