September 2, 2025

PLAYING POLITICS

Sherrod Brown runs for US Senate after 2024 loss

After losing his Senate seat to Bernie Moreno in 2024, Sherrod Brown is back to regain his seat in the 2026 November election

Former Sen. Sherrod Brown launched his return campaign Aug. 18 for the 2026 U.S. Senate election after losing his seat to Republican Bernie Moreno in 2024.

According to Brown’s campaign, his return emphasizes his advocacy for reasonable wages, affordable healthcare, worker pensions and consumer protections in his campaign.

Brown will be running against several other democrats in the Democratic primary election, vying the chance to run against incumbent Republican Sen. Jon Husted, according to the Federal Election Commission.

Husted was appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine to the U.S. Senate in January, following the vacancy seat left from the election of JD Vance as Vice President.

Husted previously served in the Ohio State Senate and held the position of Ohio’s Secretary of State.

Sean Michael, a junior studying political science and the president of the Ohio University College Democrats, said Brown’s last campaign was successful in the amount of advocacy they carried out.

“When you were in Athens last election, you constantly ran into people advocating for Sherrod Brown,” Michael said. “They had door knockers almost non-stop around the county, and he was traveling all around the states.”

However, Michael said for Brown to be successful in the new campaign, he must reintroduce himself to Ohio voters.

“Ohio has known him for a long time, but I think a lot of Ohioans don’t exactly know what he stands for,” Michael said. “Also, with the amount of negative campaign ads that were out in the last cycle about Brown, a lot of people got a false sense about what he stands for.”

Michael also said Democrats need to reach people who are not voting due to political fatigue.

“There’s just so much exposure to a lot of different political advertisements, a lot of times very incorrect in their statements, that has created a lot of feeling of numbness among voters, where they feel like no party cares about them,” Michael said.

According to the Ohio Secretary of State website, in the 2024 general election,

“I don’t like how he paints himself as a moderate centrist, like a bulldog democrat type of guy,” Fox said. “When you actually analyze his voting record, he still sides with his party for the vast majority of the time. He’s not actively working across the aisle, which he says he tries to do.”

Fox made it clear no change in campaigning could convince him to support Brown.

almost 29% of Ohioans registered to vote did not make it to the polls.

Furthermore, in the 2024 presidential election, 62% of adults reported they were worn out by coverage of political campaigns and candidates, according to the Pew Research Center.

Michael said candidates can address this growing fatigue by supporting policies a majority of Americans are in favor of and being a representative voters feel they can relate to.

Aiden Fox, a senior studying political science and the president of the OU College Republicans, said he is in favor of politicians who make an effort to be personable.

“These are people that you can have a healthy conversation with, and that’s the energy that I enjoy seeing,” Fox said. “I also enjoy feeling like my candidates are people and not just people trying to get my vote and then ignore me for the rest of their term.”

Fox also said he disliked Brown’s claims he is not on only one side of the political spectrum.

“For me to vote for Sherrod Brown, there would really have to be a complete imbecile running for the republican ticket,” Fox said.

Brown previously held the senator position from 2007 to 2025, where he served as the chair of the Committee on Banking and on the Housing and Urban Affairs Committee.

Before Brown’s political career, he graduated from Yale and joined the faculty at The Ohio State University, where he also earned his master's degree. Brown later served in the Ohio State House of Representatives before becoming Ohio’s Secretary of State in 1983.

Since then, Brown has served in the U.S. House of Representatives for six consecutive terms, after which he became a U.S. Senator.

The U.S. Senate special election will be held on Nov. 3, 2026.

UAOU begins contract talks with the university after delays

After delays, the United Academics of Ohio University has started contract talks with OU’s administration, aiming to secure its first agreement on pay, benefits and working conditions.

MARY KATE MCNAMEE FOR THE POST

Nearly 18 months after filing to unionize and six months after securing a decisive vote, the United Academics of Ohio University has officially begun contract negotiations with the university’s administration.

Following a 453-189 vote in favor of unionization March 24, UAOU has formed a panel of 10 faculty members to represent the union at the bargaining table. However, early scheduling struggles have slowed the start of talks.

After two scheduled negotiation sessions were canceled by the university, UAOU held a “cheer-in” Aug. 27 in Baker University Center to rally support and call attention to the delays.

Joe McLaughlin, an associate professor of English and a member of the bargaining team, said the process has been frustrating.

“We knew at the beginning of the summer that we were going to negotiate,” McLaughlin said. “We proposed a lot of dates to them. It was a good time for faculty because we didn’t have all our teaching commitments to meet over the summer, and they weren’t willing or able to meet before Aug. 4.”

According to McLaughlin, of the three meetings originally planned for the summer, the university canceled two, one Aug. 4 and the other Aug. 22. The only session took place on Aug. 8.

Although the meetings have been sparse, McLaughlin said UAOU is determined to get a working contract.

“This is a process that’s likely to take some time,” McLaughlin said. “Things that are going to be negotiated in the contract are certainly issues like salaries and health benefits, but also issues surrounding our working conditions.”

John O’Keefe, UAOU director of communications, said although there is no way of knowing a projected timeline, he is optimistic they can reach a contract by January 2026.

“Once again, we’re confronting the strategy of denial by delay,” O’Keefe said. “I think you know if the university is prepared to negotiate seriously, I think we could easily get a contract by January.”

McLaughlin said the effort is not just about improving faculty working conditions. It is also about enhancing student learning conditions.

“At the end of the day, we’re doing this for students,” McLaughlin said. “Having competitive compensation

at the university is not just about you knowing our own individual economic well-being … It can recruit better faculty. It can retain faculty.”

McLaughlin said OU faculty and staff used to be one of the most fairly compensated teaching staff in Ohio. However, through the years, this top-tier rank has decreased.

“When I started teaching at OU in the mid-1990s, a few years before that, the Board of Trustees had passed a resolution directing the

administration to get OU faculty salaries into the top three in the state in all categories,” McLaughlin said.

At one point in the 1994-95 academic year, OU ranked second among public universities in average salary. By 2017-18, the university had dropped to eighth.

Along with better compensation, O’Keefe said improved working conditions will reinvigorate professors in their teaching.

“We love the work that we do,” O’Keefe said. “We really care about research, we care about teaching and students and we care about the service to the campus and to the community, so we want to be able to do that under better conditions.”

Dan Pittman, a university spokesperson, said the university will continue to work with UAOU toward a contract.

“As this bargaining process moves forward, the University remains focused on working in good faith to negotiate legally mandated terms and conditions of employment as determined by state law,” Pittman said via email.

Pittman said the university administration cannot release any further information to the public at this moment, but will continue to update ohio.edu/uaou as negotiations continue.

MM332621@OHIO.EDU

We have our act together. We’re ready to go. Let’s get serious about negotiating and stop dragging your feet.

– Joe McLaughlin, an associate professor of English

Alden Library begins major renovation project

KAITLIN HOGG | FOR THE POST

Ohio University has entered the master planning phase of a major renovation of Vernon R. Alden Library, with construction expected to begin after June 2026.

Announced in a July 24 news release, the project will be led by Perkins Eastman, a global architecture firm known for its work on academic libraries.

The firm was selected after a competitive process, with Rob Ross, the dean of University Libraries, noting Perkins Eastman is the most experienced with academic libraries.

Samantha Pelham, a university spokesperson, said the current phase is focused on gathering information and engaging with stakeholders focused on community outreach and feedback to understand the future of Alden.

The planning phase also relies on feedback to help determine what renovations and improvements need to be made.

Ross said the three intended phases of the project are: the master plan, fundraising and construction.

“A lot of the master plan is listening, asking questions like, ‘What do you value in the current library? What do you wish you had in a new library?’” Ross said.

Ross said students and faculty will be involved in making suggestions to improve the library. The University Libraries Committee will send out surveys to gain feedback on what people hope to see from the updated library.

“Additionally, as part of this master plan phase, University Libraries plans to share a survey with all students, host student focus groups, and also offer students an opportunity to indicate their preferences as they get

further along in the design process,” Pelham said.

The planning is still in the workshopping phase, but there is an idea of what renovations need to be done on each floor.

Ross said he and OU President Lori Stewart Gonzalez agreed the library is too heavily trafficked to close it down, so when funding starts to come in, the construction will be able to be done floor by floor.

“We’re calling it ‘seven floors, seven experiences,’” Ross said. “A library means a lot of different things to a lot of different people, and we want to make sure that folks know if you need group study, we want there to be an

entire floor focused on that kind of furniture and space.”

Alden was built in 1968 in the Brutalist architecture style, meaning it has “solid massing and minimal transparency,” according to the news release.

At a time when natural light is very important to library goers, Perkins Eastman saw the potential a building like Alden has.

“We felt like we’re really good hands, because everyone wants natural light, and that’s a real challenge for a building like this,” Ross said. “We’re even talking about a roof that could be like an outdoor space for students.”

When the master plan phase ends, there will be a goal to reach for fundraising. Once enough money is raised to fund one of the floors, the construction will begin.

“The Library is a vital part of our campus community and contributes to the success of every student at Ohio University,” Provost Don Leo wrote in the news release. “An investment in the library is an investment in our whole campus community.”

Police Blotter: Sheriff’s deputies go on a wild bull chase

EMILY STOKES | FOR THE POST

25 Mon _________________________

No more music

Deputies from the Ohio University Police Department responded to 118 Ridges Circle Drive to take a report of stolen Apple AirPods on Monday.

According to the report, the incident was listed as a theft without consent offense.

Truancy?

Deputies from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to a complaint of a juvenile refusing to go to school in The Plains.

According to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrived on scene and resolved the issue by talking with all parties involved.

No further action was needed.

Monster truck race

A caller on Mill Street in Chauncey reported a reckless driver Monday. The caller said a small-sized truck was speeding past her house and had been for days. She requested deputies speak with the driver of the small truck.

Deputies from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded and spoke with the driver, advising them to drive slowly in the area, according to a press release.

26 Tue _________________________

Bull for hire

Athens County Sheriff’s deputies responded to assist a farmer searching for a loose bull two different times Tuesday. The first time, deputies assisted with traffic control at the intersection of U.S. Route 50 and County Road 19B.

According to a press release, the second time, deputies went on a “wild bull chase for a few hours across the area.” No further action was needed.

Deery me

In a similar incident, Athens Sheriff’s deputies responded to Hooper Road in Athens for a disgruntled deer. According to a press release, the deer was exhibiting symptoms consistent with Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease.

Because of the condition of the deer spotted and how close it was to the road, it was decided to humanely

euthanize the deer. This way, the deer is prevented from further suffering, and public safety could be protected, the release said.

27 Wed ________________________

Missing adult found

Deputies from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to Mill Creek Road in Millfield for a report of a missing adult. The caller reported his daughter had left in the night at some point.

According to a press release, units made contact with the woman in the report and completed a well-being check. She was found to be fine and well.

Naked and afraid

Two children were reported playing outside naked and unattended at Carol Lane in The Plains. Athens County Sheriff’s deputies made contact at the address, according to a press release, and the children were back inside.

The parent told deputies he would keep a closer eye on the children, the release said.

28 Thur ________________________

Sleeping beauty

Athens County Sheriff’s deputies responded Thursday to The Plains, more specifically, Roy Avenue. Units visited the scene to make contact with a reported unresponsive person.

According to a press release, the individual was determined to be sleeping. Units resumed patrol.

Who let the dog out

Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a third-party report of a dispute in the area of Ellis Avenue in Chauncey. After locating the dispute, deputies spoke with three individuals involved, according to a press release.

Although there was no criminal offense, the individuals were arguing over a family pet that was let loose. No further action was taken, and deputies returned to patrol.

US Weekly Headlines: Armed troops in DC, CDC turmoil

EMILY STOKES | FOR THE POST

25 Mon _________________________

D.C. National Guard units carry firearms after Trump escalation

The National Guard continues to patrol in Washington, D.C., in an effort to override law enforcement authority at state and local levels, according to AP News. The escalation comes after some units on patrol began carrying firearms, both rifles and handguns.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a directive Aug. 22, ordering the carrying of firearms. Originally, the city saw 800 guard members stationed; AP said the numbers are up to almost 2,000 members stationed.

According to AP, units began carrying weapons on Aug. 24, which will only be used, “as a last resort and solely in response to an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm.”

Protests have popped up from locals against the placements, with Democratic politicians, including Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, commenting on the units. According to AP, Trump is also considering expanding deployments to other Democratic-led cities, including Baltimore, Chicago and New York.

26 Tue _________________________

Attempted flag-burning ban blocked by the Constitution

In an executive order signed Aug. 25 by President Donald Trump, he seeks to prosecute people for the burning of American flags. AP said the Supreme Court ruled in a 1989 case out of Texas the activity is “legitimate political expression.”

“You burn a flag, you get one year in jail,” Trump said, according to AP. “You don’t get 10 years, you don’t get one month. You get one year in jail, and it goes on your record, and you will see flag burning stopping immediately.”

AP said the order also contained a request for Attorney General Pam Bondi to challenge the previous ruling via litigation.

27 Wed _________________________

FEMA staff members suffer leave for signing dissenting letter

Members of the Federal Emergency Management Agency were placed on leave Aug. 26, AP said. A public letter of dissent was published Aug. 25, as a warning that further cuts to FEMA could result in Hurricane Katrina-like consequences.

“Our shared commitment to our country, our oaths of office, and our mission of helping people before, during, and after disasters compel us to warn Congress and the American people of the cascading effects of decisions made by the current administration,” the letter writes, according to AP.

AP reports over 180 current and former

employees of FEMA signed the letter. Only 35 signed their names, while 141 signed anonymously. At least 2 of those who signed their names are now on indefinite leave, AP confirmed.

Critiques in the letter included opposition to current policies, expenditure approval policies and the decisions to move certain FEMA staff members to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, among other things.

Other federal agency employees have also spoken out against recent policies in the form of letters and statements, like those at the NIH and EPA, both with similar outcomes of administrative leave.

28 Thur _________________________

Minneapolis Catholic School shooting survivors, victims remembered

The Minneapolis community is grieving after two students were killed and 18 people were injured as a killing “obsessed” 23-year-old fired 116 rounds during Mass at the Annunciation Catholic School on Thursday, AP said.

Fifteen children ages 6-15 and three churchgoers in their 80s were injured as well.

Fletcher Merkel, age 8, is described by family as someone who loved sports of all kinds, family, fishing and cooking. His father, Jesse, said he was growing into a wonderful young man, AP said.

Harper Moyski, age 10, is described by her parents as a bright and joyful child, according to AP. She was the big sister to an adoring little sister. Moyski’s parents hope the issue of gun violence and the mental health crisis can be addressed by leaders in this country after this latest act of tragedy.

29

Fri _________________________

Acting director appointed to CDC, turmoil continues

Trump continues cuts to federal offices after working to get rid of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, director and appointing Robert F. Kennedy’s preferred candidate to advance antivaccine policies, AP said.

Second-in-command at the Department of Health and Human Services, Jim O’Neil, is set to fill in for now former director Susan Monarez, the AP said.

In the coming weeks, the latest concern is an advisory committee of Kennedy vaccine skeptics is set to recommend new guidelines on immunizations. Congressional oversight has been called. Two Republicans and some Democrats are calling for Kennedy to be fired. AP said Kennedy is scheduled to testify on Capitol Hill Sept. 4.

Labor Day weekend gives students an extra day off

MARY KATE MCNAMEE FOR THE POST

Although Labor Day may just seem like another holiday on the calendar, the celebrations go all the way back to 1882.

“Observed the first Monday in September, Labor Day is an annual celebration of the social and economic achievements of American workers,” according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Labor Day weekend provides Ohio University students with Monday off, giving them an extra day to adjust to the start of the semester. Days off can be rare in college, so students are not shy about taking advantage of the day off.

Thaissa Santos, a sophomore studying international business and marketing, plans to catch up on some sleep.

Caroline Belo, a sophomore studying business analytics, strategic leadership and management, said most students are visiting other schools.

“I think most students are either going to go home or to visit other colleges and visit their friends, like I already know some people who are going to Cincy, like a lot of people go to OSU and a lot of people go home,” Belo said.

Santos and Belo said they enjoy the day off despite it being early in the semester.

“I enjoy the day off early in the school year, because even though it’s syllabus week coming back and getting thrown

into all of your classes and then having this extra long break is like okay I can catch up … it’s honestly relieving,” Santos said.

Belo said the extra day off gives her time to get back into the school mindset.

“For me, the shock of coming back to school after classes and I already have hella homework too, so I need that day to get back in the mindset,” Belo said.

Santos said she doesn’t mind coming back to school before Labor Day, as many other colleges start in August.

“I’d rather have my summer start earlier than it end later … everyone else goes back the same time as us, so then you’re like, left at home alone with none of your friends,” Santos said. “I feel like most people already just want to be here anyway.”

Although some students may use the day off to catch up on homework and readjust to the start of the school year, some students engage in the social life of OU.

Penelope Martir, an undecided freshman, believes many students will be going out.

“Probably get f---ed up,” Matir said. “If I’m being quite candid, I would say, probably causing mischief and mayhem, getting drunk.”

According to a study conducted by professors from Old Dominion University, college students are likely to engage in heavy drinking during days off due to holidays.

“Findings suggest that specific holidays (i.e., MLK Day only, MLK Day, and the Superbowl, Labor Day, and Presidents Day) were associated with greater alcohol use and negative consequences.”

Like others, Martir also enjoys the extra day off in the semester, and said that

Voinovich School brings thrift stores to campus

FIONA PETTICREW | FOR THE POST

It’s not a secret college is expensive. From tuition costs to furnishing rooms and feeding oneself, money is not something to be thrown around during the college years. Clothing is another thing to add to the expense list. Thankfully, Ohio University’s Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs is helping students access cheap and lightly worn clothing, right on campus.

The Voinovich School has taken it upon itself to bring the thrift stores to students, funded by the Sugar Bush Foundation. With help from its collaborators, Habitat for Humanity, Rural Action and Goodwill, Voinovich can provide students with affordable clothing and tackle the sustainability issues of fast fashion.

This is Voinovich’s second thrift event, with the first one taking place last April over Moms Weekend. With how successful the first event was, Voinovich is planning on hosting more thrift events in addition to the ones that occurred Thursday and Friday. The school plans on coming back with more thrift events around Halloween, after winter break and one more on Moms Weekend.

Nicole Kirchner, a staff member on the energy and environment team at the Voinovich School, is one of the people helping out with the thrift stand. She expressed how important sustainability is to Voinovich, mentioning several other projects it is a part of. These include the Appalachian Ohio Zero Waste Initiative and providing educational outreach materials to the OU community.

“It’s one of those first efforts or activities when you want to become more sustainable, how do we reduce the amount of waste we produce that goes to the landfill?” Kirchner said. “We are trying to solve three issues: diverting things from the landfill, making sure students get what they need and eliminating that transportation barrier for students to be able to get to the thrift stores.”

When someone buys clothes at an ordinary thrift store, their money goes directly to those companies and corporations. All profit made from these pop-ups hosted by the Voinovich School goes right back into the community. The collaborators who provided the clothing will be receiving the funds, which will help support their respective missions and initiatives.

The market was stocked with clothing, jewelry, shoes, appliances, books and more. There were several student volunteers helping check people out, and there were tents to help with the heat of the day.

Ally Mayberry, a freshman studying interior architecture, stopped to buy a cute orange sweatshirt and purple necklace Friday. She mentioned the thrift event was right outside the building she had just been in, making it a convenient stop.

“It’s fun because I can find pieces that aren’t at malls that everyone else is wearing,” Mayberry said.

Aaron Kirby, a part of the impact enterprise team at the Voinovich School and another person helping organize the thrift stand, explained a little more about what they aim to do with these thrift pop-ups.

“It supports the makerspace, amongst other things,” Kirby said. “So the profits are going back to the thrift stores, but they’re using those profits to support everything that they do. On Voinovich’s side, we’re not making any money on this. We are supporting it through our state-funded line items. So you know, we’re kind of the university lead to make sure that we can access university resources to get the nonprofits on the campus.”

For those in need of new clothing, visit one of the upcoming pop-ups hosted by Voinovich. Events will be posted on Voinovich’s Instagram and website.

although she is a freshman, it allows her to get more comfortable with her surroundings.

“I would say it’s a pretty nice thing to have an extra day to relax and explore the school, especially for us little freshmen,” Matir said. “We’re still little babies, so we don’t really have a lot of opportunities to free roam like a chicken. So I would say it’s a good thing.”

Frida’s Modern Mexican joins Athens culinary scene

Frida’s Modern Mexico opened where Ciro’s Italian Kitchen and Bar used to be, bringing an interesting array of classic Mexican dishes

As students come back from summer and settle into Athens, they’ll find Frida’s Modern Mexican open for the year.

Located down the road from Union Street Diner at 120 W Union St., Frida’s Modern Mexican is now open for students and community members to dine in or order online for pickup.

Frida’s is open every day of the week, starting at 11 a.m. They close at 10 p.m. on weekdays, 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays, providing overall consistent coverage throughout the day.

The restaurant replaces Ciro’s Italian Kitchen and Bar, which closed in 2024, leaving the building vacant until June.

Frida’s offers classic Mexican cuisine, including burritos, fajitas, tacos and enchiladas. The menu offers a decent selection of vegetarian, gluten-free and dairyfree options as well.

For drinks, restaurant-goers will find classic Pepsi products, Mexican “Jarritos” fruit sodas and handcrafted Mexican cocktails. A typical entree goes for around $13-18, putting it around the same price point as most other sitdown restaurants near campus.

Bobbi Cross, a sophomore studying English, feels the price point was valid for the food offered when put in comparison with the other Mexican restaurants around.

“After tip, it was 20 bucks for me for tacos and a fountain drink, so pretty standard,” Cross said. “I feel like Mexican food is usually on a little bit more of a pricier scale.”

The dish was crafted well, with enough food to take home for leftovers. The meal was filling and delicious, and felt well thoughtout. A heavy portion of chips accompanied by salsa was also offered alongside the meal.

The service was efficient and quick. A hostess was fast to guide people towards their seats as soon as they entered, and the waiters immediately asked for drinks, food orders and when to

bring out the check.

“The food was delicious and the wait staff was nice too,” Cross said. “So it was great, no complaints.

Frida’s has also attracted Athens locals. The restaurant was mostly post-college adults, making the atmosphere feel calm and wellmannered.

Tom and Karen, a couple from Columbus, were out eating dinner with Rod and Linda, a local couple from Athens celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary.

They were eating a dish out of the shell of a hollowed-out half of a pineapple, and were impressed by the creativity of the dish.

“For a Mexican restaurant, this is just real different,” said Tom.

“Nice presentation,” Linda said, regarding the restaurant. “I saw it in a photograph, and I sent [Tom and Karen] a text.”

Members of the Athens subreddit shared their opinions about the restaurant in a post.

“OUTSTANDING,” writes one user.

“Real dishes that feel crafted rather than slapped together. Great service and had a nice time on a Sunday afternoon on the patio,” writes another.

The Google Reviews are equally as positive. Frida’s currently boasts a 4.5-star review as of Sunday.

“We were really impressed. The renovation looks great, our server was friendly and the food was delicious,” writes one user in a five-star review.

Frida’s has competition, as Athens is home to a multitude of other Mexican restaurants. Casa Neuva, El Tenampa and Gran Rachero have remained classics of Athens for years.

Cross believes Frida’s triumphs over the competition.

“I feel like Casa Nueva just has never stuck out to me, and El Tenampa is good,” Cross said. “But I think what I got at Frida’s was a little bit pushed over the edge.”

Frida’s sticks to a more classic Mexican dish feel with some fun twists, while Casa Neuva allows people to create their own version of standard dishes, such as tacos or burritos.

Frida’s boasts a few different social media accounts as well. They can be found on Facebook as Frida’s Modern Mexican, Instagram as fridasmodernmx and TikTok as fridasmodernmexican.

They have an event calendar on their website detailing future dates of note. Currently, they mention fun holidays such as National Quesadilla Day and National Chimichanga Day, falling on Sept. 25 and 26, respectively.

“I feel like a lot of people stick to just a few things on Court Street,” Cross said. “So [Frida’s] is definitely something I would recommend, especially if they want to try something new.”

Bobcat Invitational displays highs and lows for Ohio

BRANDON GROSS | SPORTS STAFF WRITER

Ohio’s volleyball team (1-2) started off its season with the Bobcat Invitational, where it played three home games against Bucknell (0-3), Iowa State (2-0) and Eastern Illinois (2-0). Ohio won its first game against Bucknell but failed to get anything going during its last two games, resulting in a 1-2 record overall for the tournament.

OHIO VS. BUCKNELL

In Ohio’s first game of the year, it came out firing in the opening set. Bucknell opened the first set scoring two points, but Ohio sent shots right back, going on a 3-0 run.

It was able to jump out to an early 4-3 lead against Bucknell, but it soon came into the game, having a 12-8 lead over Ohio, thanks to a 6-0 run. After trading off points, Ohio brought the game back within 2 points with the score being 22-20. Ohio then proceeded to score five of the last six points in the game to take the first set by a score of 25-23.

Ohio’s freshmen stood out in this set, as Bailey Blair had five kills in this alone, along with another two from Mady Long.

“Man, they competed,” Interim coach Kenzie Brinkman said. “They went hard the entire time, and I’m really excited for their future with Ohio.”

In the second set, both teams traded scores, but Ohio started to run away with a 9-5 lead over Bucknell. Ohio eventually made this a 14-6 lead, but Bucknell wasn’t quitting, as it had brought the game within two points with the score being 23-21 in Ohio’s favor.

Ohio scored the final two points of the set, giving it a 25-21 victory. The players gave a lot of credit to coach Brinkman for helping them stay focused in this set.

“She gives us freedom,” Long said. “She calms us down, helps us out and tells us what she sees. We trust her.”

Despite Ohio getting another early lead by four points, Bucknell proceeded to score 6 unanswered points to take the lead and make the score 11-9. Both teams proceeded to trade scores until Ohio managed to tie the game at 16 apiece.

With a kill from senior Bri Frazilus and a few errors from Ohio, Bucknell was able to go on a 3-0 run and take the set away from Ohio.

“As always, a game of volleyball is a game of runs,” Brinkman said. “It was cutting those little runs but still staying aggressive.”

Staying aggressive is exactly what Ohio did. With

Bucknell scoring three points to start the fourth set off, Ohio answered back with eight of its own. Ohio remained in control for most of this set with big plays from Blair, junior Emily Waddell, who had three kills in a row, and junior Olivia Gardner.

Ohio comfortably closed out the set with a score of 2521, as it held the lead for almost the entire set. Brinkman won her first game as coach with the set win.

“I almost started crying,” Brinkman said. “I love these girls. For them to go out there and play like that and with a great crowd and doing something that I absolutely love and watching them do something that they love ... I don’t think it gets any better than that.”

OHIO VS. IOWA STATE

Ohio started off by scoring the first 2 points of the first set, while Iowa State started off a bit slower as it let Ohio grab a 4-1 lead, but the Cyclones came back quickly. Iowa didn’t let up and ran the score up to 8-5. Ohio’s offense couldn’t get much going, and Iowa State proceeded to take the first set by a score of 25-18.

“We have to pass better,” Brinkman said. “I don’t think our passing was as great as it was, which then our offense has to get a bit more vanilla.”

Long had back-to-back service aces along with three kills and Gardner had two kills of her own in the second set. These plays powered Ohio to tie the game at 23 each during the final moments, but Iowa State was able to secure the win with consecutive kills by senior Maya Duckworth.

“We got timid,” Brinkman said. “We got timid at the end of the games, and I think that was really the difference.”

Ohio proceeded to get blown out of the water during the third set as it couldn’t get much going and Iowa State’s offense was firing on all cylinders. It had multiple scoring runs of three or more points while Ohio only had 13 points the entire game.

Iowa State took the set and the game with a score of 25-13, handing Ohio its first official loss of the season.

“Though it stings, I think it fuels the fire,” Brinkman said. “For us, it’s continuing to be aggressive and not staying away from blocks. That’s when we need to swing harder, faster and stronger.”

OHIO VS. EASTERN ILLINOIS

To start the game, both teams traded scores on and off. In what became the story of the game, Ohio started to

choke in the second half of the set, allowing big scoring runs.

Where Ohio was previously trading off one point each with Eastern Illinois, the Wildcats went on runs, allowing them to take the first set.

“I think maybe we felt a little bit too comfortable,” Brinkman said. “(We) felt good right off the bat. I think we started to coast, and it cost us.”

The second set didn’t fare much better for Ohio as it continued to allow big scoring runs from Eastern Illinois. The Wildcats went on runs of four unanswered points this set while Ohio only had one of three scores.

Eastern Illinois also scored the last three points of the set, which gave them the 25-20 win. Lots of mistakes on Ohio’s side led to points for Eastern Illinois, which became another trend in this matchup.

“It goes back to just the simple things in volleyball,” Brinkman said. “This is back-to-back nights that I don’t think we did the little things at all.”

Ohio seemed to come back with a vengeance in the third set. After Eastern Illinois scored the first point, Ohio held a 16-9 lead, but once again let off the gas and proceeded to let Eastern Illinois go on a run to tie it.

With both teams neck and neck, Eastern Illinois scored two quick points to take the lead but Ohio answered with two more points to once again tie the game. Eastern Illinois took the set and game after an attack error and two kills spelled doom for Ohio. In a set where it had a seven point lead, it lost by three.

“I’m trying to look at this as the most positive thing ever,” Brinkman said. “We’re getting our two losses of our season out of the way right now so that we don’t have any more for the rest of the season.”

BG326422@OHIO.EDU

Ohio’s offense looked ready for midseason play during loss at

Rutgers

OWEN LIPSTREU

ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Ohio finished the 2024 season with 30 or more points in six of its final 7 games. The offense was run heavily through graduate student quarterback Parker Navarro, who used both his arm and legs to pick apart defenses.

The first week of 2025, however, brought a new challenge, Ohio travelled to take on Big 10 opponent Rutgers as the reigning Mid-American Conference champs. Ohio came out on the losing end in this one by a score of 34-31, but the offense that finished last season appears to be back in gear again to start the new year strong.

The Bobcats offense was firing on all cylinders against the Scarlet Knights defense, scoring points on five possessions. The offense cycled through a handful of receivers throughout the night with six guys having multiple catches.

“I think he’s a great leader,” Ohio head coach Brian Smith said. “He’s a two-time captain, he has strong character, I think a lot of players can be drawn to him, and he’s done a good job making connections. I think that he really saw the value of the connection he had with Coleman last year … The ability to do that with more guys on the team increases his ability to be successful.”

The main recipient of Navarro’s passes was junior Chase Hendricks, who hauled in nine balls for a game high 115 yards from his new slot role.

“I love Chase, and I think that he’s improved a lot as a player. I think moving to the slot gives him a lot more opportunities to get touches,” Smith said. “I think it fits his game better.”

The rise of opportunity could also be seen from the tight end position this season. Last season, Ohio had only three touchdowns all year caught by tight ends, but on Thursday night it saw three. Two touchdowns were caught by senior Jake Bruno and the other by sophomore Mason Williams.

“I’m working off of a script, and that’s where you might see more variation, more creativity, maybe because I’ve got time to kind of really think about what I want to see,” Smith said of the first drive play call. “There’s times early in the game where you want to give some different looks, you want to show some different formations to see how things will align.”

Those guys did a great job. I was happy to see them play with so much effort.

“That just happened naturally,” Navarro said of the tight end’s role in the offense Thursday night. “Some of those guys were open down in the red zone and got in the end zone. We got two good tight ends, and they made some plays.”

– Graduate student and quarterback Parker Navarro

The flow in Smith’s play calling was apparent early in the game. Smith utilized both Navarro’s arm and senior running back Sieh Bangura’s legs to move the ball down the field with creativity and precision.

The Ohio offense had Rutgers on its heels due to the dual threat ability of Navarro, who had 333 total yards on the night, but his legs did not become a factor until midway through the third quarter when he burst through the defensive line for 17-yard rushing score.

“I think it just came in time,” Navarro said. “I think defenses give us what they give us, coach Smith made play calls accordingly.”

The Bobcats as a unit played a clean game all over the field on offense but the unsung heroes of the night were the offensive linemen protecting Navarro and Bangura. As a unit, they allowed no sacks and only four tackles for a loss. This effort is what allowed the Bobcats to stay in the game all night and is pivotal moving forward.

“Those guys did a great job,” Navarro said. “I was happy to see them play with so much effort. Those guys come to work at practice, and I know coach Thompson got them going. Those guys kept me clean, and I really appreciate the work they put in throughout the week.”

Ohio’s well-balanced play fell on the legs of Bangura and sophomore Duncan Brune, who combined for over 100 yards. Bangura specifically carried a lot of the load with 16 carries for 86 yards. Bangura was explosive, logging three runs of over 15 yards, and once he got to the second level, he was a tough task to tackle for Rutgers defenders.

A Big 10 environment can be a daunting place to play, especially in a season opener, but the unfazed Ohio offense came to compete all night long and even in a loss was never out of the game. Its 440 yards was enough for Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano to go for it on a fourth down late and not let the ball back into the hands of Navarro and the offense.

The big play ability with both the arm and legs has the Bobcats ready to have another strong season ahead as they hope to compete for another MAC title and put pressure on power conference opponents with their high-powered offense.

Ohio falls just short of upsetting Rutgers

The Bobcats made a valiant effort to defeat the Big 10 Scarlet Knights

CHARLIE FADEL SPORTS EDITOR

In recent years, Ohio has emerged as a premier program in the Mid-American Conference that has been built on culture, effort and winning habits.

Despite losing a MAC title-winning head coach, that culture is as intact as ever. Even though Ohio’s 34-31 loss on the road against Rutgers on Thursday was tough, that culture shined throughout the game.

Ohio didn’t look like a team that was happy to be on the field of a Big 10 opponent, looking to get reps against a more talented opponent early in the season; they looked like a team that deserved to win the game.

“They’re not happy that they were just in the game because they’re playing a Big 10 team,” Ohio head coach Brian Smith said of his players. “They don’t just appreciate that opportunity. They believe they could have and should have won this game.”

The whole game didn’t look like Ohio should have won; however, the first half was as rocky as it gets for an underdog on the road.

Rutgers came out firing on the first drive of the game, scoring a touchdown with relative ease by moving the ball consistently down the field via the running game.

Ohio answered right back; however, as the offense looked like they hadn’t missed a beat since excelling towards the end of last season. The offense opened showcasing their top players as receiver Chase Hendricks had three catches for 36 yards on the opening drive, and a big run from running back Sieh Bangura set up a short touchdown throw from Parker Navarro to tight end Mason Williams.

The Williams touchdown was the first of three for the tight end position in the game for Ohio, and it was the first of four on the day for Navarro.

The following drive, Ohio’s brand new defensive front was able to move Rutgers’ Athan Kalikmanis off of his spot by getting pressure, forcing a field goal.

“I know the defensive staff wanted to emphasize being able to put pressure on the quarterback,” Smith said. “When you’re playing a team like that, the ability to move guys off their spot, to put pressure on them, is important.”

Ohio went three and out on the following drive, which gave way for a one-play 54-yard touchdown for Rutgers. The Bobcats bounced back; however, with Navarro and the offense marching down the field and finding the end zone on a wide-open dump-off pass to Jake Bruno, the second tight end to score for Ohio.

“Those guys were open down in the red zone and got in the end zone,” Navarro said. “We (have) got two really good tight ends, and they made some plays.”

However, Rutgers went on to score two straight touchdowns. One was after

an offensive drive that looked easy as it ran the ball at will and finished the drive with a passing touchdown to KJ Duff. Another on a blocked punt that was recovered for a score after a disastrous play from a special teams unit with a new coordinator, punter and long snapper.

Ohio was able to drive and kick a field goal before the half, giving them momentum for their opening drive coming out of halftime that ended with Navarro’s third touchdown of the game on a 17-yard QB draw. Navarro was able to use his speed on the play to bring Ohio back within a score of tying the game.

As the offense started to heat up, so did the defense as the new look unit got their first stop of the game.

“The thing that I liked is they just continued to play hard,” Smith said. “No one quit in the game, no one complained on the sideline, guys didn’t stop playing hard.”

After the stop, the Bobcat offense took full advantage of the opportunity to tie the game as Navarro continued his near flawless play on his fourth touchdown drive of the game.

The senior captain had multiple chunk plays, including a 24-yard throw to Hendricks, a 22-yard run, an incredible 24-yard throw and even better catch from Max Rodarte, and an incredible scramble and throw to Bruno for the second time in the game to score six and tie the game at 31.

Navarro ended the game with 239 yards passing, three passing touchdowns, 93 yards rushing and a rushing touchdown as well. It was one of his best career

games in one the biggest moments in his career, and he proved why he was a highly touted returning quarterback.

“Extremely proud of how he played,” Smith said. “He’s a special kid. His ability to make plays with his feet, the confidence he has in his own ability and the faith he has in his teammates is really special. He’s fun to coach, and he’s fun to be around when he’s playing like he is today.”

On the next Rutgers drive, it was able to get into field range to gain the lead back, giving Ohio its first opportunity to take the lead, but the offense stalled out at midfield after a weird exchange between Navarro and Bangura on a play where it looked like Bangura expected the ball, but Navarro kept it and was swallowed up.

With that drive ending without a score, Ohio needed one final stop for one last opportunity to win the game. The defense forced Rutgers into a fourth and seven, but the Scarlet Knights converted with a catch from DT Sheffield to ice the game.

The Bobcats fell just short of having an opportunity to tie or win the game, and they showed tremendous fight as they fought their way back into the game. Ohio looks to keep up the high-level effort and play as it welcomes Big 12 opponent West Virginia to Athens for its home opener next Saturday.

@CHARLIEFADEL CF111322@OHIO.EDU

OHIO FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Sep. 6 vs. West Virginia

Sep. 13 at Ohio State

Sep. 20 vs. Gardner-Webb

Sep. 27 vs. Bowling Green

Oct. 4 at Ball State

Oct. 18 vs. Northern Illinois*

Oct. 25 at Eastern Michigan

Nov. 4 vs. Miami (OH)

Nov. 11 at Western Michigan

Nov. 18 vs. UMass

Nov. 28 at Buffalo

*Homecoming game

A night of drag, drama at Ohio University

This past Saturday, Baker University Center Ballroom was taken over by a talented group of drag queens. Organized by the Ohio University Program Council, a night of death drops, dancing and drama occurred.

Queens Glitz Glam, Kazma Knights, FREAK, Judy Chiffon and Evelyn Everything stepped into the spotlight. They left the crowd impressed with their glamorous drag looks and jaw-dropping performances.

To kick off the night, recent OU graduate Evelyn Everything, entered the ballroom filled with enthusiasm. As the lights dimmed, she introduced the first queen of the night.

Entering with a drum roll, out came Glam, dressed in fur. Her fierceness projected through her explosive dance moves to the song “like Jennie” by JENNIE. She devoured the dance floor with her sickening leg kicks and cartwheels.

Up next was Southeast Ohio’s very own mother, Knights. Not putting up with anyone’s business, Knights got straight to work. Her attitude radiated through her sassy struts and voluminous wig. She left the crowd stunned when her wig flew across the ballroom as she continued to serve.

Following Knights, was FREAK in her Frankenstein-inspired look. Dancing to the Goosebumps theme song, she sent shivers down spines. Her piercing look broke necks and left the crowd entranced. As she collected dollar bills in her stiletto heels, this diva went down, but she crawled her way into everyone’s hearts.

Taking a trip back in time, Chiffon was next on stage. Channeling Marilyn Monroe, Chiffon put on an elegant

performance. With her corset buttoned to the top, she approached the crowd with nothing but respect. Her theatrics, pizzazz and snatched waist had jaws dropping.

Ending round one of the show, out came Evelyn. Performing to Ariana Grande, Evelyn captivated the ballroom with flips, booty bouncing, leg kicks and twirls. As she whipped her high pony back and forth, the ballroom went feral.

Moving on to round two of performances, Glam was first up. Performing to the song “Gnarly” by KATSEYE with Evelyn, both queens rocked the crowd. Their sharp moves and attitude had everyone sat for more. As Evelyn exited the stage, Glam continued to serve face and body while hyping up the audience.

Coming back for more, Knights put on a moving performance as she showed everyone what real love is. She created an uplifting atmosphere for the LGBTQIA+ community while she sashayed around the ballroom, spreading joy. After a quick costume change, she transformed into a rainbow goddess, showcasing her pride.

Shifting the vibe in the ballroom to a fun house was FREAK. Back to slay, FREAK popped out with a full face of sexy clown makeup, peering into people’s souls while twerking. Her playful yet freaky aura made for a scandalously spooky performance that left the crowd floored. Returning for seconds was the one and only Chiffon. Her charisma instantly swooned the crowd as she performed an intense rendition of “Rose’s Turn” from the musical Gypsy. Her heels clacked as she put on a powerful show inspired by old Hollywood.

Lastly, Evelyn took the stage once more ready to cause chaos. This time, Evelyn came out to “Everything is romantic” by Charli xcx, embodying “BRAT.” She teased the crowd with nip slips and legendary

directly impacted queer people.

Finally, the queens gathered on stage for one final performance. “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga began to play as they dispersed around the ballroom and served one last time. Dancing in sync they collected their last few dollar bills and left the crowd gagged.

The queens sent inspiring messages to students about embracing LGBTQIA+ culture. During the show, they acknowledged changes that have happened within OU’s community that

To combat these changes, the queens encouraged students to provide support to one another. Additionally, UPC provided resources for students belonging to LGBTQIA+ people.

From runway realness to wigs flying, the UPC drag show was a night to remember. It was a thrilling event that showcased the drama of drag and featured the impressive talents of drag queens from all over Ohio.

Get to know Athens’ music scene

ELIZABETH TALAGA COPY CHIEF

Athens thrives on a rich blend of arts, music and togetherness. To live in Athens is to explore and support local artists, musicians and organizations. For newcomers, lifelong residents and those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the magic of Athens, familiarizing oneself with the local music scene is an excellent way to get started.

Rylee Bapst, a singer and songwriter based out of Athens, has a distinct blend of music combining familiar sounds from the likes of John Mayer, Zach Bryan and Tyler Childers and making them his own.

Bapst’s first EP, “Afraid of the Change,” was released in March, and he is a frequent character in the Athens music conversation. His upcoming shows include a set at Eclipse Company Store on Sept. 20 and College Green on Oct. 8. Last fall, Athens’ newest all-girl band, Blush, took over the town. Last year’s members of Blush — Caden Primmer, Ella Franks, Sophie Butler, Emma McGowan and Jenelle Fauber — wanted to create a greater space for women in Athens’ maledominated music scene, according to a previous report by The Post. Blush takes inspiration from ‘90s rock and a variety of alternative musicians to create its sound.

Blush had a busy and successful first year on the scene with a handful of shows at The Union and a closing set at ACRN’s annual Lobsterfest.

Ohio University student Jillian Kay is another dominating artist in the music realm. Kay released her first EP, “Young Recollections,” in 2023, and her latest EP, “It’s Partly Fact and Partly Fable,” was released in April. Kay’s distinct sound makes her hard to forget.

Kay has found great success with performances at the Music Industry Summit, the Athens Halloween Block Party and plenty of showcases at The Union.

Catch Kay at her next performance at the Rambling House in Columbus, Ohio.

No Athens music playlist would be complete without a beat or two from folk band Caamp.

Evan Westfall and Taylor Meier created Caamp in Athens while studying at OU.

Matt Vinson, Joseph Kavalec and Nicholas Falk joined along the way, and since then, the Ohio-native band has released four albums and headlined shows across the U.S. Caamp is currently touring in the U.S. with upcoming shows in Europe later this fall.

A great resource for those looking to further dive into and explore the Athens

music scene is ACRN, OU’s student-run radio station. ACRN frequently spotlights local artists and hosts Lobsterfest each year, showcasing some of the best acts in town.

Venues such as The Union, The Side Bar, Latitude 39 and Donkey Coffee often host shows and open stages for those wanting to perform and those wanting to take in all of the music Athens has to offer. Upcoming live music shows include Hip Hop Shop on Sept. 4; One Exit Down, Frances Ford, Ananke and Swerve on Sept. 5 and Midnight Music on Sept. 6 at The Union.

ET029322@OHIO.EDU

American Eagle’s jeans controversy sparks ethics conversations

NYLA GILBERT ASST. ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

With recent diversity, equity and inclusion rollbacks and legislative changes, citizens are on high alert, and Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle advertisement has sparked controversy for being branded as eugenics propaganda.

Based on Charles Darwin’s theory of Natural Selection, eugenics, a discredited theory rooted in Darwin’s ideas and precursor to Nazi idealism, was used to justify white supremacy and colonialism by promoting selective breeding to eliminate those deemed genetically inferior.

This theory developed into eugenics

laws, such as Buck v. Bell, which mandated the forced sterilization of those deemed unsuited to procreate by the state. These laws were aimed at individuals considered “mentally deficient,” racial, sexual and religious minorities, the impoverished, those with mental and physical disabilities and women who were considered “promiscuous.” As many as 70,000 people were sterilized in the early 20th century.

Eugenics caused many horrific events, including the Tuskegee syphilis experiment, one of the most notorious eugenics experiments in American history. As well as the creation of the ugly laws, which legally banned those who did not fit beauty standards from public spaces.

Nearly 100 years later, the practice is making headlines. Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad campaign is under fire for promoting the ideal of white, cisgender, fit, able-bodied people being deemed the “perfect” beauty standard.

One of the ads, still circulating online despite being removed from American Eagle’s official platforms, shows Sweeney lying down, pulling up and buttoning her jeans with her open jacket covering only her breasts and her diaphragm exposed, as the camera pans up her body to her face.

“Genes are passed down from parents to offspring, often determining traits like hair color, personality and even eye color,” Sweeney said. “My jeans are blue.”

Another ad shows her sitting in a chair, getting up to look at the jeans in the mirror, then walking back to stand in front of it. This particular sequence was criticized for its focus on her cleavage and lower half before finally zooming out to show her full figure, ending with

the tagline, “Sydney Sweeney has Great Jeans.”

Sweeney’s ad has drawn comparisons to Brooke Shields’ infamous 1980 Calvin Klein commercial, controversial for sexualizing the 15-year-old actress, which ended with the tagline, “You know what comes between me and my jeans, nothing.”

During the ad, Shields recites the theory of natural selection while also comparing genes to jeans. Shields has since talked about the ad’s negative impact on herself and her image, including the vitriol she received from the public.

TikToker @williammcniff called the American Eagle ad “gross,” stating he originally thought the public may have been overreacting until he watched the ad.

TikToker and neuroscientist Dr. Jia, a queer Asian woman, criticized the American Eagle ad and recalled a Harvard lecturer who, while discussing Darwin’s theory during her grad studies, told her she would “naturally be selected out” amid her back injury.

The criticism of the ad campaign has been overwhelming. In comparison, GAP’s newest ad featuring international girl group KATSEYE, has become a global sensation, garnering 51.4 million views on TikTok. The extended 90-second version gained 11 million views on YouTube since its debut Aug. 19.

The GAP ad has been praised for showcasing the international group with creativity, sexiness and artistic appeal that resonates with younger audiences. The dance from the advert has gone viral, with netizens going to GAP to recreate the dance and brands like Duolingo joining in on the trend.

Many chimed in, showing contrasting GAP and American Eagle ads, with commenters stating things like “take notes, American Eagle,” “American Eagle could never” and “Best GENES and JEANS.”

Although the American Eagle ad has received backlash, some are praising it for “killing ‘woke’ propaganda.” In a country ever divided by politics and stances on DEI, campaigns like American Eagle and GAP say a lot about the cultural divide in the nation.

@SIIMPLY_NYNY NG972522@OHIO.EDU

Sabrina Carpenter wows fans with ‘Man’s Best Friend’

The pop star comments on power, sexuality and love in her newest album

Sabrina Carpenter dropped her seventh studio album, adding more music to her explosive career. “Man’s Best Friend” was released Friday, bringing with it lots of buzz and opinions.

“Man’s Best Friend” was surrounded by controversy before its release due to varying opinions around the album cover.

The album cover features Carpenter on her knees beside a faceless man holding her by the hair, drawing comparisons to how men treat women like dogs. The risque imagery sparked online criticism for depicting women in a submissive, powerless role.

Despite the powerless nature of her position and the obvious exploitation of the situation, Carpenter clarified the cover is a commentary on how women are often reduced to having no power in a relationship, and how they are frequently aware of this.

“I think as a young woman you’re just as aware as when you’re in control as when you’re not … and I think it’s about knowing when you’re putting yourself in a situation that will end up poorly,” Carpenter said in an interview with CBS. In her song “Lie to Girls” from her album “Short and Sweet,” Carpenter sticks with this motif by telling a man he does not have to lie to girls because they lie to themselves to try to salvage a relationship and convince themselves it’s fine.

“You don’t have to lie to girls / If they like you, they’ll just lie to themselves,” she sang.

Similar to “Lie to Girls,” “Man’s Best Friend” is composed heavily of songs critiquing the past men in Carpenter’s life, the ways they’ve hurt her or the ridiculous personas they’ve displayed.

Carpenter’s single release from the album, “Manchild,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, highlighted Carpenter’s ability to make a catchy pop hit with both stark and relatable lyrics.

“Man’s Best Friend” features many catchy hits fans have come to expect from Carpenter, with songs “Tears” and “House Tour” featuring a pop-synth beat and an upbeat chorus, similar to “Espresso” or “Taste” from her previous album.

Carpenter’s album also veers from her traditional pop classics, with certain songs dipping into different genres. “When Did You Get Hot?” features a sultry, R&B rhythm paired with smooth vocals.

Fans on TikTok compared the sound to classic ABBA, due to its stylized ‘80s beats. Carpenter’s final song on the album, “Goodbye,” uses piano and horn instruments in a way that is noticeably reminiscent of ABBA.

“Bed Chem” and “Juno,” two songs from her previous album, skyrocketed in popularity partly for their suggestive topics and promiscuous nature.

Carpenter continues this theme in

“Man’s Best Friend,” including some classic innuendo-filled tracks.

“Treating me like you’re supposed to do / Tears run down my thighs,” Carpenter sings in the chorus of “Tears.”

These sexual songs have created controversy in the past from people who believe Carpenter’s cheeky performances contribute to women becoming overly sexualized.

This idea is noted by the BBC in its article, “Sabrina Carpenter to Taylor Swift: Why female pop stars embracing sex is still controversial in 2025.”

“Carpenter’s album doesn’t reveal anything that shocking – just a young woman exploring her sexuality and writing smart, funny and sometimes smutty lyrics about the realities of modern dating,” BBC said. “So why all the fuss?”

The release of her newest album has already garnered attention, with media outlets BBC, Pitchfork, Variety, Billboard, Rolling Stone and Forbes publishing commentary on the songs.

Last year, Carpenter was nominated for six Grammys and won two of them, earning her “Best Pop Vocal Album” and “Best Pop Solo Performance” at the 67th Grammys.

It remains to be seen if “Man’s Best Friend” will receive the same type of acclaim, but each song on the album has already reached four million streams on Spotify with most going above that.

Overall, “Man’s Best Friend” continued Carpenter’s theme of creating songs that are a mix of fun, flirty and heartfelt. Songs that comment on the duality of the dating scene and give a relatable picture for women dating modern men, and what that typically comes with.

2025 TOUR DATES

October 4 Zilker Park-Austin, TX

October 11 Zilker Park-Austin, TX

October 23 PPG Paints Arena Pittsburgh, PA

October 24 PPG Paints Arena Pittsburgh, PA

October 26 Madison Square Garden New York, NY

October 28 Madison Square Garden New York, NY

October 29 Madison Square Garden New York, NY

October 31 Madison Square Garden-New York, NY

November 1 Madison Square Garden New York, NY

November 4 Bridgestone Arena Nashville, TN

November 5 Bridgestone Arena Nashville, TN

November 10 Scotiabank Arena Toronto, ON

November 11 Scotiabank Arena Toronto, ON

November 16 Crypto.com Arena Los Angeles, CA

November 17 Crypto.com Arena Los Angeles, CA

November 19 Crypto.com Arena Los Angeles, CA

November 20 Crypto.com Arena Los Angeles, CA

November 22 Crypto.com Arena Los Angeles, CA

November 23 Crypto.com Arena Los Angeles, CA

TRACKLIST + RATINGS

MANCHILD: 8/10

TEARS: 10/10

MY MAN ON WILLPOWER: 8/10

SUGAR TALKING: 7/10

WE ALMOST BROKE UP AGAIN LAST NIGHT: 8/10

NOBODY’S SON: 10/10

NEVER GETTING LAID: 7/10

WHEN DID YOU GET HOT?: 10/10

GO GO JUICE: 8/10

DON’T WORRY I’LL MAKE YOU WORRY: 7/10

HOUSE TOUR: 10/10

GOODBYE: 9/10

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EMILY STOKES | FOR THE POST

Emily’s Evidence

The literacy ‘crisis’

The concept of a literacy crisis is often used to describe educational issues. However, the term is increasingly being applied in online communities of readers to describe individuals who read more fiction than nonfiction.

The concept of being a “reader,” to me, is at its core about fulfilling a fundamental curiosity. It’s the curiosity to have a space where you can explore new characters, worlds, plots and ideas at your own pace and frequently at a more digestible level.

With the increase in online community spaces over the last decade, many are turning to BookTok, BookTube, Bookstagram and other platforms to discuss and find community in their reading.

As a high consumer of this content, responsible for more than one of the over 370 billion views according to Forbes, I am puzzled by this. For me, reading has always been an easy way to connect with others, even if they are not avid readers.

Director of Student Media | Andrea Lewis ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S

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The argument against many of these popular online communities is, while they are reading, they are not “real” readers or book enthusiasts because of the genres of books they read. To some, this includes genres such as romance, contemporary fiction and other more lighthearted topics. Others feel tropes, or predictable plotlines that follow similar patterns, distract from key literary devices such as characterization or narrative.

It is not to say there are no signs of a literacy crisis in America. It is certainly true there is a reduction in assigned reading and a larger classical understanding between young and new adults.

“It’s not that they don’t want to do the reading. It’s that they don’t know how. Middle and high schools have stopped asking them to,” The Atlantic said.

Even in the educational space, some feel terming these trends as a “crisis” is unnecessary. However, with politicians banning books and restricting the right to free information, encouraging reading is more important than ever.

“They’re not reading in the ways that they need to read to be prepared for the tasks of learning and critical thinking,” Vox News said. “A decline in those critical thinking skills has big implications not just for young people today, but for society as a whole.”

So, what constitutes a reader? Curiosity. Although social media has the power to connect people and ideas globally, I don’t think it should have the power to gatekeep literacy or being literate.

Reading is for everyone and the more we encourage and support others, the stronger we are as a society, whether you enjoy Nora Roberts or Dante.

Providing others who may not have grown up in a readinginfluenced household with the opportunity to pick up a new hobby is, in my opinion, our duty as those with the privilege to be enthusiasts already.

Not to mention many of these tropes or genres, which appear frilly in nature, actually have quite important themes for life. Even if a book doesn’t have some grand fable, why can’t we enjoy them all the same?

If you want to read more banned books, check out Banned Books Week, Oct. 5-11 2025.

Emily Stokes is a junior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Have something to say? Email Emily at es542222@ohio.edu

BANNED BOOK WEEKS’ MOST CHALLENGED BOOKS FROM 2024

“All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson

“Gender Queer” by Maia Kobabe

“The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison

“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky

“Tricks” by Ellen Hopkins

“Looking for Alaska” by John Green

“Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” by Jesse Andrews

“Crank” by Ellen Hopkins

“Sold” by Patricia McCormick

“Flamer” by Mike Curato

*The most common justifications for censorship provided by complainants were false claims of illegal obscenity for minors; inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters or themes; and covering topics of race, racism, equity, and social justice. (More information available at bandbooksweek.org)

ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST

Gutting the Roadless Rule will wreck public lands Behind the Lens

Certain types of forestry are important, especially to supply lumber demand, and it can be done in a sustainable way that preserves old-growth forests, limits clear-cutting and allows for natural regeneration of the forest and protection of at-risk species. However, the Trump administration does not seem to be too keen on the idea, as it means less money short term.

In late June, U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Brooke Rollins announced her plan to rescind the Roadless Area Conservation Rule. The policy, better known as the Roadless Rule, was put in place by the U.S. Forest Service in 2001 to reduce the impact of road construction on certain public lands.

Since its inception, the policy has protected 58.5 million acres of land from commercial and industrial development, particularly in the western U.S. and Alaska, areas that hold most of the country’s public lands. On Aug. 27, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the next steps of the plan to ditch the policy, opening the floor for public comment.

Although the USFS claims opening forests up to development is a net positive by allowing for more sustainable forestry, it fails to mention getting rid of the rule opens the door to development for oil, coal and mining of natural resources, something keenly in line with President Donald Trump’s plan to limit green energy development and expand fossil fuel production.

Forests in particular are important as carbon sinks, a system that takes in more carbon than it emits. Through sustainable forestry, less carbon is released as forests have time to regenerate. On the contrary, clear-cutting, an effort to extract as much lumber as possible in a small amount of time, releases a much larger amount of carbon than it can recapture.

USFS Chief Tom Schultz implied in the recent press release that more roads will help decrease wildfire risk, but according to a study from the Pacific Biodiversity Institute, the development of roads for commercial use actually increases wildfire risk for the simple fact: where there are roads, there are humans, and where there are humans, there is fire, with around 85% of wildfires in the U.S. caused by humans.

Opening up the development of roads in forests would also allow for a growth in extractive industries that hurt the environment more than they give. It’s well established that fossil fuel industries are a major contributor to the rise in global carbon

emissions, propelling climate change. Further, the extraction of fossil fuels and other resources leaves a permanent scar on the land that, unlike forests, cannot heal.

Aside from the impacts of industrial development, the roads themselves will cause increased problems for forests. According to a 2020 study by the USFS’s Rocky Mountain Research Station, rates of invasive plants doubled within 500 feet of forest roads. Along with that, roads cut through ecosystems and create barriers between habitats.

For decades, the USFS has acknowledged the harm road development can bring to forests through extractive industries, increased fire risk and harm to native plants. Yet the Trump administration and USDA’s push to gut this rule and public lands more broadly is a clear attack on America’s forests in an effort to privatize and divide up the land that belongs to all Americans.

Ethan Herx is a junior studying photojournalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. Want to share your thoughts? Let Ethan know by emailing or tweeting them at eh481422@ohio.edu or @ ethanherx.

Gavin Newsom isn’t the guy for Democrats Debriefing

There’s a new front-cover man in the Democratic Party following the dismantling of the Kamala Harris-Tim Walz campaign in 2024: California governor Gavin Newsom.

Newsome, 57, appears to be the picture-perfect candidate on the surface. He’s much younger than this modern era of presidents, conventionally attractive, with a combative charisma that has gotten under the Trump administration’s skin on social media.

However, in the 2024 presidential race, it wasn’t race or gender that caused the Democrats to lose. It was policy. While it’s easy to say, “Things would be better if Harris won,” as Joe Biden’s second-incommand, the administration sent billions of dollars to Israel and billions of dollars to ICE. The whole time, little was done to combat Republican agendas against life-saving healthcare, such as abortions and insulin, increase affordability and combat hate speech.

All in all, Harris lost due to her inability to separate herself from Biden. Newsom, from a policy perspective, is following the same playbook. He’s fully capable of cutting words and “Gotcha!” moments on X. California has struggled with homelessness, affordability and employment, as an unchecked, billionaire-owned housing market

continues to grow out of reach for the working class.

In the meantime, nearly 3,000 miles away, New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani is showing the Democrats how to win: with policy and substance that positively impact the average American.

Mamdani, 33, is a card-carrying Democratic Socialists of America member and is destigmatizing the label of socialism by fighting for things Americans care about: affordability and access. Mamdani’s campaign points, including freezing rent and making buses fast and free, have become wellknown in and outside the sphere of New York City.

In the Democratic primary, Mamdani blew out dynastic candidate Andrew Cuomo, whose family has had its hands deep in politics for generations. Cuomo is now running as an independent, trying to take down Mamdani in the general election through lackluster attacks on topics like the rent of his apartment, in response to a video of Mamdani detailing Cuomo’s history of sexual harassment.

In the Democratic primary, Mamdani drew a record-breaking pool of voters, bringing in New Yorkers who had never voted before to topple Cuomo. Mamdani’s success has not only inspired

voters in New York City, but also campaigning candidates across the country.

Minneapolis mayoral candidate Omar Fateh, 35, is another Socialist running with major success, despite lacking billionaire and even party backing. More recently, in Maine, senator candidate Graham Platner, 40, is running for a Democratic seat with rhetoric aimed at the approach of Democrats. While the success stories of candidates running to the left of the establishment Democrats grow in number, Newsom’s all-bark, no-bite approach is bound to lose momentum. As we inch closer and closer to 2028, voters will be looking for more substance than what Newsom or Harris has been willing to provide.

Logan Adams is a senior studying journalism. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Logan know by tweeting him @LoganPAdams.

The Red Zone exists at OU

THE POST EDITORIAL BOARD

Statistically, 50% of all college sexual assaults are found to occur from the start of the fall semester until Thanksgiving break. If this statistic is true at other schools, it is also true at ours.

The first weeks of the semester are crucial for new experiences, growth and change from a previous routine and unfortunately, are also accompanied by a higher risk of sexual assault cases.

The increase in sexual assault cases during this period is referred to as the Red Zone. This period isn’t coincidental, as the return of students to campus calls for celebration in the form of parties and gatherings, as well as an influx of new people, equaling a higher risk for dangerous sexual behavior.

Out of the student population, women, students with disabilities and LGBTQ+ students remain at the highest risk of encountering sexual assault. Specifically, women aged 18-24 on college campuses are three times more likely to experience assault compared to women in the same age band who don’t live on campus.

Among these, first-year students on campus remain the most vulnerable to attacks and assaults. The heightened risk comes as a result of new relationships, environments and situations.

The business of a new environment, especially on a college campus, calls for new relationships to form. Although there is no reason why assault should occur, this is an indicator of its increased occurrence within the first six to eight weeks of the semester.

At Ohio University, sexual assault prevention education begins before a student steps onto campus. Bystander intervention remains one of the school’s top priorities when educating students on methods to prevent sexual assault.

Although prevention empowers students and provides them with more tools for safety, more than 77% of assault cases go unreported in the period of the Red Zone.

Ultimately, it is up to college administrators to promote a safe learning environment, as well as to open themselves up to students as a resource. Those who assist the first-year students must discuss the Red Zone timeframe and teach students about the resources available to them. This will promote comfortable spaces for students to share their experiences and receive support.

For students, organizations such as the Survivor Advocacy Program provide safe places, people and resources for survivors. SAP works to provide power back to the situation and is open to all students who may need support. There are also mental health resources available to students through Counseling and Psychological Services.

Prevention of sexual assault also comes with proper sexual health education. General education on sexual health can help to inform and protect individuals by empowering them to learn and understand their bodies. Coupled with education comes a need for sexually transmitted infection testing and annual appointments for sexually transmitted disease testing. Not only is it important to practice consent and sexual education, but vital to keep yourself safe and healthy by testing regularly.

The ultimate goal of every university should be to pour as much time and energy as needed into preventing assault from happening on campus. As the Red Zone’s timeframe continues, it is up to administrators to teach prevention techniques, educate their students, provide resources and ultimately ensure sexual assault does not go unpunished and is treated as the serious offense it is.

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

Support is available 24/7 for survivors of sexual assault through Ohio University’s Survivor Advocacy Program at: 740-597-SAFE (7233)

To report sexual misconduct, relationship violence and/or stalking, fill out the “Sexual Harassment and Other Sexual Misconduct Incident Report” on the Office of Community Standards and Student Responsibility’s page under “Report an Incident” or call 911.

OU Counseling and Psychological Services 24/7 Crisis Intervention Line: 740-593-1616 Campus Care: 740-593-1660

The Weekender

Local music, a food drive and football

TUESDAY, SEP. 2

Donkey Coffee, 17 W Washington St., will host its weekly Designated Space poetry night at 9 p.m. All are welcome to sign up and showcase their poetry, prose and spoken word.

Admission: Free

The Office of Health Promotion will host an Overdose Awareness Day on the third floor atrium of Baker University Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prevention and recovery resources will be available and attendees can share their story and have their photo taken by Recovery Reframed. Refreshments will be provided.

Admission: Free

Lucky’s Sports Tavern, located at 11 N Court St., will host its weekly Trivia Night beginning at 8 p.m. Contestants play for cash prizes in teams no larger than eight people. Categories range from Science and Philosophy to Music and Animals, along with many others.

Admission: Free

WEDNESDAY, SEP. 3

Casa Nueva, 6 W State St., will host its weekly open stage with local musician Chris Beister in the Casa Cantina from 8-11p.m. Other musicians are encouraged to join and all are invited.

Admission: Free

Housing and Residence life will host Yoga on the Greens at the LLC Oval, between Tanaka and Carr halls, at 7 a.m. The first 10 attendees will receive a free yoga mat.

Admission: Free

The Athena Cinema, located at 20 S Court St., will host the first night of the annual Sustainability Series with “Her Shark Story.” The evening will feature a pre-show presentation from Dr. Molly R. Morris, a professor of biological science at OU.

Admission: Free

THURSDAY, SEP. 4

Donkey Coffee will host its weekly Open Mic Night at 8 p.m. Anyone is allowed to sign up and share their talents with the audience.

Admission: Free

The Union, 18 W Union St., will host a HipHop Shop with headlining performances by Yung Devil Tarintino and Skilla. Other hip-hop artists are welcome to perform but must arrive at 8 p.m. with a 15-minute set on a flash drive. Doors open at 8 p.m. and music begins at 9 p.m.

Admission: Free

FRIDAY, SEPT. 5

THRiVE will be hosting a food drive in support of Cat’s Cupboard. The drive will accept all items. Grains including rice, cooking oil, sugar, honey and canned

proteins are most needed. Drop-off points can be found at Boyd, Nelson and Jefferson Markets and at Cat’s Cupboard in Baker 354. The drive will run from Sept. 5 to Sept.12.

Admission: Free

One Exit Down, Frances Ford, Ananke and Swerve will be performing at The Union. Doors open at 8 p.m. and music begins at 9 p.m.

Admission: $8 for 21+, $11 for those under 21

Housing and Residence life will host Yoga on the Greens on the front lawn of Ping Recreation Center at 7 a.m.

Admission: Free

SATURDAY, SEP. 6

Every Saturday, the parking lot of the Athens Community Center, located at 701 E State St., is transformed into the Athens Farmers Market. Vendors from all over Athens County gather to sell fresh produce, dairy farm products, artisanal wares and lots more. The market opens at 9 a.m. and shuts down at 12 p.m.

Admission: Free

The annual Little Cities of Black Diamonds Day will be held at Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, OH, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event includes a lineup of storytellers, musicians and historians to celebrate the region’s history of coal mining. The event is open to the public.

Admission: Free

The West Virginia Mountaineers will travel to Peden Stadium for a matchup against the OU Bobcats. The game will kickoff at 4 p.m. and give the home team a chance at redemption after a recent loss to Rutgers University.

Admission: Free for OU students and between $150 and $400 for non-OU students

Midnight Music will host a concert at The Union. Performers include Kitz, Unreal, Young Brody, Domvrse, Roka!, Jack Wyatt and a guest performance by loljack. The theme is blackout. Doors open at 8 p.m. and music begins at 9 p.m.

Admission: $10

SUNDAY, SEPT. 7

The Honors Tutorial College will hold its second annual Lake Day at Strouds Run State Park from 5-7 p.m. The event is open to all HTC, honors students and 1804 scholars. A shuttle service will be provided at the parking lot across from 35 Park Place.

Admission: Free, email HTC, OHIO Honors and 1804 Scholars.

The Post’s favorite pictures from the week