Vol. 16 Issue 1

Walsh | Editor-in-Chief backdropmag@gmail.com

Letter from the editor

Hello,

How significant it is to be in Athens at this time of year. As the colors change across campus, we are reminded that change can be beautiful and thrilling. This is a whole new year of Backdrop and we are so excited for it to finally be in your hands.

On the subject of change, the masthead is different this year. My name is Mia Walsh and I am your Editor-in-Chief of Backdrop for four issues this year. My promise to you is to bring a new perspective while continuing our mission of diversity to the following issues. Our new staff is talented and ready to help bring this perspective to life through our stories, designs and updated social media pages. We are already diving into topics and asking deeper questions to discover the people who make this place home.

This issue appeals to humanity. We see how humans find joy in keeping houseplants as a hobby (pg 8) and amusement in walking cats on leashes (pg 9). We create solidarity in green bandanas (pg 16). In our cover story, we even learn about the man who made the mountains sing (pg 22). Glimpses into human-ness are exemplified throughout these pages.

Issue 1 is yours now. Producing this has already taught me so much. If only we could tell of the human-ness of this staff. The laughs in our meetings, the rush of eating maybe too much candy and the knowing glances we share because we know this is a damn good magazine. How significant it is to bring you these stories. How significant it is to begin. That being said, I am happy to present Issue 1. Make good choices, bobcats. And we will see you again soon.

Best,

Mia

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MIA WALSH

MANAGING EDITOR CAROLINE BISSONNETTE

ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR MCKENNA CHRISTY

ASSOCIATE EDITORS RORY BALL, CAROLINE BISSONNETTE, MCKENNA CHRISTY, CAROLINE GILLEN, GRACE KOENNECKE

COPY EDITORS CAROLINE BISSONNETTE, CAROLINE GILLEN, GRACE KOENNECKE

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTORS RORY BALL, LAINE DANNEMILLER, HELEN WIDMAN PHOTO EDITOR ELLIE HABEL

CREATIVE DIRECTOR RACHEL RECTOR ART DIRECTOR DREW FOLLMER DESIGNERS ABBY BURNS, DREW FOLLMER, SARAH HEINK, ALLY PARKER, RACHEL RECTOR, ELLIE SABATINO, PEARL SCHAFER MARKETING DIRECTOR JOSIE DONOHUE PHOTOGRAPHERS JACOB DURBIN, ELLIE HABEL WRITERS RORY BALL, CAROLINE BISSONNETTE, MCKENNA CHRISTY, JOSIE DONOHUE, AMBER PHIPPS, RACHEL RECTOR, OLIVIA RIGNEY, HELEN WIDMAN, DARCIE ZUDELL WEB EDITOR JOSIE DONOHUE

Our weekly meetings at 6:30 p.m. in Ellis Hall 019.

Interested in working with us?

CONTENTS

FEATURES

MOUNTAIN RANGER TO MUSICIAN

OU grad’s inspiring journey shines through in his debut album, "He Rode On".. ....................................................... 22

FUTURE DOCTORS IN DEMOCRACY

Athens Medical Students for Choice make their presence and other resources known. ................................................. 26

Q&A

BEYOND BACKDROP: CATCHING UP WITH BUCKINGHAM

A conversation with Backdrop alumna on health writing, marathon training and more ......................6

THE DROP

GROWING HEALTHY HABITS

The Athens community embraces plants and the health benefits in caring for them .............................8

ANYTHING IS PAW-SIBLE

Who says leashes are only for dogs? How the cat walking trend has left a mark on Athens................10

RECIPE

COCKTAIL CRAZE

A newly 21-year-old’s guide to creating the most refreshing drinks ...........................................................12

PUMPKIN TO TALK ABOUT

A chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe that rivals all other fall treats ............................................14

COMMUNITY

WEAR A BANDANA. CHANGE A LIFE

OU establishes chapter of national mental health initiative: The Bandana Project ...............16

CONVERSATION ABOUT CONSERVATION

A guide to park safety and leaving no trace ....18

BREWING COMMUNITY

Ohio University alumna follows coffee shop dream to Albany, Ohio ................. ...........................20

SEX & HEALTH

REFRAMING GAINS

FitTok inspires but the pitfalls of this TikTok subculture have the ability to create toxic gym environments and beauty standard ...................30

INFOGRAPHIC

SENIOR ADVICE FOR ALL

Upperclassmen at OU offer guidance ..........................32

ENTERTAINMENT

TOO QUICK TO CANCEL?

Discussing the cancel culture phenomenon and its impact on society ...................................................................34

STYLE

5’9” BY DESIGN

Clothing brand Five Nine Collective hand-sews inclusivity ....................................................................................36

PHOTO STORY

DAIRY BARN

A look at our local landmark through the years..38

VOICES

DOWN WITH THE GOSPEL

Backdropper Darcie Zudell gives a personal view of coming to terms with the religion she was raised on .....................................................................................40

EXHIBIT A

This Backdropper shares his caricature drawings.....42

CALENDAR

ON THE BRICKS

Attend these events around Athens this fall ..........43

Beyond Backdrop: CATCHING UP WITH BUCKINGHAM

A conversation with a Backdrop alumna on health writing, marathon training and self-improvement.

BY HELEN WIDMAN | PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CHEYENNE BUCKINGHAM | DESIGN BY ALLY PARKER

As a current college student studying journalism and trying to determine my path after graduation, I decided to chat with Ohio University alumna Cheyenne Buckingham to learn more about her exhilarating career in New York City.

Buckingham graduated from OU in 2017 where she studied journalism and specialized in nutrition. During her time at OU, she wrote for publications including Backdrop magazine and “Her Campus” and was the vice president of the nutrition club. This is when she began focusing her writing on food injustice, local businesses and overall food and health.

After graduation, Buckingham started working in New York at “24/7 Wall St.,” then “Eat This, Not That!” She is currently the staff editor for activity growth content at Nike and has freelance stories in “Runner’s World” and “GoodRx.”

IF YOU WEREN’T A WRITER, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING INSTEAD?

There’s like, so many professions that I’m genuinely intrigued by so I think just because of the things that I studied at OU … I would say dietetics for sure. Like I would definitely love to have my own business as a registered dietitian and helping people actively construct a food plan — I don’t even want to say diet because you know what I mean, I don’t want like “fad diet” to be associated with that — but like a food plan that suits them in a way that they can enjoy most foods and not have like any stigmas associated to any of them.

I MEAN, IT WORKS TOO, BECAUSE NOW YOU CAN WRITE ABOUT THOSE THINGS TOO. AND YOU HAVE A LITTLE BIT OF CONTEXT WITH

Cheyenne Buckingham is an Ohio University alumna who previously wrote for Backdrop Magazine.

YOUR OWN EDUCATION, SO THAT’S REALLY COOL. SO, THE NEXT ONE IS IF YOU HAD TO NARROW IT DOWN, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR FAVORITE

THING ABOUT BEING A JOURNALIST?

No, I love this. Okay, so my favorite part about being a journalist is that it satisfies this endless curiosity that I have about people, about specific subjects within science, within culture within … anything there, right? I’m genuinely curious about everything. Let me backup — in college, that’s what I loved about Backdrop is I got to pitch stories about people within the community … I’m a people person through and through, and being able to write about them in text that’s imagery driven and hopefully inspiring to some … How cool that you get to just do that for your local community or your audience, whatever your publication is.

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR FAVORITE PIECE THAT YOU’VE EVER WRITTEN AND WHY? LIKE IN YOUR ENTIRE WRITING CAREER?

So, I have two actually that come to mind. I would say the first one was at “Eat This, Not That!” I did this deep dive into food deserts. I tapped into that first in college and being able to do that at the national level was pivotal in my career, and being able to interview food policy experts from Johns Hopkins and Hunter College and reputable universities and as well as interviewing people from [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] SNAP or Feeding America … That was absolutely amazing.

Another one was more recently; it was in May or June of 2021. I had always wanted to write for “Runner’s World,” and I had hired somebody as a writer for me at “Eat This, Not That!” and she — I know she had a column at “Runner’s World” and I had just finished a marathon and I hadn’t run one in six years for numerous reasons, but I was just feeling extremely sentimental about it … So, it was really beautiful to have this first-person essay be my first debut into “Runner’s World” … That was just a huge confidence boost and it also felt super therapeutic.

I DIDN’T REALIZE HOW HELPFUL THAT IS TO EXPLORE THAT SIDE OF WRITING IN ADDITION TO THE TRADITIONAL MAGAZINE OR NEWS STORY. BUT THAT KIND OF LEADS INTO MY NEXT QUESTION, WHICH [IS] HOW DO YOU OVERCOME WRITER’S BLOCK? LIKE OVERALL, WHETHER IT’S SOMETHING PERSONALLY YOU’RE WRITING ABOUT

Something I’m noticing is that I feel like, maybe this is wrong, but I find that writer’s block might be directly linked to confidence.

And I find that on my days that I feel confident about me, about my skill set, about where I’m at in life … I find that I can construct sentences more clearly. I can get to the point more quickly … But I find if I’m not feeling in a good headspace to write and I know that I have time under a deadline, like you know what, tonight’s not the night; we’re not even going to try and push this because I know that I’m not feeling it. Also, I work way better under a strict deadline, like an intense one. I have to get in the zone.

EXACTLY. SO, MY NEXT QUESTION [IS] WHAT WOULD BE THE BIGGEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU COULD GIVE TO YOUNG WRITERS, ASPIRING WRITERS, ANYONE THAT WANTS TO WRITE OR EDIT OR BE IN YOUR POSITION SOMEDAY?

I think my biggest advice is to always remain open minded, perceptive and willing to accept feedback in a joyous manner because it’s a gift to be able to learn from a mentor. I’m currently learning from the mentor of my dreams right now and it means everything to me because she’s challenging me in ways that I’ve never been challenged. It is thrilling, and being able to approach hard tasks and challenges with low ego, I think will take you far … And knowing that you’re not going to be the best writer coming out of the gates of college.

MY LAST QUESTION IS, WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE THAT YOU’VE FACED IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR, WHETHER IT’S MENTAL, PHYSICAL, ANY CHALLENGES?

Probably the most difficult challenge was moving to New York three weeks after graduation, getting the second job I was offered [at “24/7 Wall St.”]. And it was a huge challenge because it was essentially like a data journalist, feature-oriented position … The challenge is that I had no experience with Excel and now I had this job that required me to analyze trends and find correlations within data to make a story about it, an evergreen story about it. And so, having to learn that and you know, just accept that, okay, I’m gonna have to ask for support on this and it’s gonna make me uncomfortable because I don’t like asking for help. That was former me, you know? Now I love asking for help. b

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity.

To read more about Cheyenne Buckingham and her work, visit cheyennebuckingham.com.

Cheyenne and Mackenzie Smith pose with copies of Backdrop magazines in September 2015 at the College Green in Athens, Ohio.

GROWING HEALTHY HABITS

The Athens community embraces plants and the health benefits in caring for them.

BY JOSIE DONOHUE | PHOTOS BY JACOB DURBIN | DESIGN BY ABBY BURNS

Houseplants have overtaken the home decor market, and it’s easy to buy fake succulents at your local Marshall’s, HomeGoods or Target. Real houseplants, however, not only provide an aesthetic, but a unique hobby and health benefits

In 2020, there was a spike in gardening and houseplant owning to relieve stress and create a pastime. In an April 2020 study conducted by Civil Science, out of nearly 1,500 responses, Gen Z and Millennials reported reasons they own a houseplant are to take care of a living thing, have something pretty to admire and to improve the look of a space.

Tyra Huxley, a senior studying energy engineering and Spanish, owns houseplants to provide natural benefits as well as upkeeping them as a hobby. Huxley owns a variety of houseplants such as aloe vera, purple kale, a fig tree, a peace lily, a flaming Katie, a prayer plant and more.

Huxley suggests taking care of houseplants as a hobby because it allows owners to give life to something without having a major responsibility.

“You’re harboring life, but the life isn’t as consequential as having a dog or something,” Huxley says. “Dogs are a lot of work and plants are just like a baby amount of responsibility for another living thing.”

For current plant lovers and those wanting to learn more, Ohio University’s Plant Club provides that opportunity for all majors on campus. The club is very involved in learning more about various genus’ in and outside of the classroom.

Indoors, the club hosts seminars about

different plants, sustainable farming and potential career opportunities.

Outdoors, they go on identification hikes and invasive species pulls. These invasive pulls involve traveling to nearby conservation areas such as Strouds Run and ridding of invasive species so native plants can thrive.

Sarah Maracz, a senior studying civil engineering, is the president of Plant Club and has been a member since her first year at OU.

Maracz says owning plants almost seems natural because her family always

has. Maracz’s personal passion for becoming a plant owner stems from the time she saw a Venus fly trap at the zoo as a child. Since that day, she fell in love with the idea of owning her own plants.

For those interested in maintaining and growing their own plants, Hyacinth Bean Florist, a flower shop, can fulfill a green thumb’s desire. Located at 540 W. Union St, the shop also provides outdoor plants, houseplants, pottery and vintage items.

Chandler Castle, store manager of Hyacinth Bean, recommends

The executive board of the Ohio University Plant Club. Left to right: Fiona Davis (Vice President), Sarah Maracz (President), Mekenzie Altman (Treasurer), Cat Tillis (Outreach Coordinator).

philodendrons and snake plants for beginners because they can survive with little care and light. For those wanting a challenge, she suggests succulents and cacti because the water levels need to be closely monitored.

Castle says she enjoys being a part of the plant buying and owning process.

“Seeing the joy that plants bring other people has spurred our plant journey (and) helping people find that perfect plant for their space,” Castle says. “Knowing they can look at [the plants] and find a sense of calm in their busy day; it brings us great joy here at the store.”

Castle says she enjoys fulfilling orders for special occasions. It’s common for family members to place orders for incoming students to place plants in their dorms to make them feel more welcome and comfortable.

“Being a florist is really rewarding because you get to brighten people’s days,” Castle says. “Every day you get to be a part of a celebration with the person who is ordering.”

Castle says beautifying spaces with plants is beneficial for people’s mental

health. Castle is familiar with greenery as she has managed a perennial plant operation for seven years and has been with Hyacinth Bean for a year.

Plant care has health benefits as well, Maracz says. She suggests that plants can bring humidity to a room, filter out pollutants, increase oxygen and remind owners to open windows daily.

According to a study by the University of Exeter, having houseplants in a workspace can increase productivity by 15 percent.

Huxley enjoys owning houseplants for the greenery and mood they create in a room.

“I’ll put on my Bluetooth speaker and sing and dance with them,” Huxley says. “I think they like that. I think plants are very receptive of their caretakers’ energies.”

During Huxley’s dance sessions, she mostly listens to reggaeton to emanate the feeling of being at a discoteca.

Digging fingers into warm soil, watering a seed and watching it grow into a plant is a rewarding and relaxing feeling for many. If anyone is looking for a new hobby, owning a plant can look

however the caretaker wants it to. And they can take advantage of all the benefits that plant ownership has to offer.

“You learn a lot about a plant by taking care of it,” Castle says. “It will help you be intuitive about how to take care of other plants in the future and maybe how to take care of your friends and even yourself.” b

“Knowing they can look at [the plants] and find a sense of calm in their busy day; it brings us great joy here at the store.”

CHANDLER CASTLE STORE MANAGER OF HYACINTH BEAN IN ATHENS, OHIO

Four of the Hyacinth Bean employees are pictured outside the store. Left to right: Rachel Ballinger, Sara Banks, Polly Creech, Jess Bouffioux.

ANYTHING IS PAW-SIBLE

Who says that leashes are for dogs alone?

BY CAROLINE GILLEN | PHOTOS BY ELLIE HABEL & KATIE LIMBERG | DESIGN BY ABBY BURNS

Apollo likes to spend his time catching bugs and trying to befriend the squirrels on Ohio University’s campus. Apollo, and other cats, can bring comfort to their owners. Katie Limberg, Apollo’s owner and a junior studying English and creative writing, has been leash training Apollo to introduce him to life outside of the walls.

Limberg takes Apollo on various adventures such as walks around campus and even occasionally they go for a hike in Hocking Hills. Leash training a cat may seem tedious, but with patience and effort, it can be done. Limberg wanted a hiking cat before adopting Apollo and has seen people walk their cats on campus.

“When you adopt a cat, you get a harness that fits them and then you just start putting it on them for playtime and mealtime and let them wear it around the house until they get

Apollo is an Ohio University local cat that has been leash trained. Apollo enjoys hiking around campus and Hocking Hills State Park. Photo taken in Athens, Ohio, on Aug. 29, 2022.

over themselves,” Limberg says. “But then eventually they get used to it.”

Once the cat gets used to the harness, then the leash can be added, Limberg says. Similar to the harness, she advises to keep the leash on and let the cat drag it around the house so that they can get used to the weight of it.

“And then after that, you can start introducing [your cat] to outdoor environments,” Limberg says.

Some may consider it odd to see a cat walking on a leash like a dog, but it has become more normal since social media introduced the idea to people.

Addie King, a junior studying early childhood education and a cat owner, mentions first being introduced to the cat walking phenomenon through TikTok.

“I see a lot of hiking TikTok’s with cats and I have tried once or twice walking my cats,” King says.

Apollo wears both a harness and leash when he hikes outside. Apollo’s favorite spot on campus is the grassy area located outside of East Green.

TikTok has become a common place for cat owners to share their cat walking and hiking experiences. Some of these cats have hiked into Internet stardom via the platform.

One popular TikTok cat is Uno, @one_eared_uno, whose account has 2.4 million followers. Uno’s owner, Kat Curtis, posts videos showcasing her and Uno’s walks where he happily interacts with other cats, dogs and humans.

Holly Garcia, @travelcatmom, also displays her two cats, Bean and Meister, on various platforms. She even has a specific section on these platforms dedicated to cat leash training tips.

On TikTok, Garcia shares the importance of connecting the leash to a harness rather than the cat’s collar to avoid injury. She also expresses that walking a cat is nothing like walking a dog. According to Blue Cross, cats are naturally cautious and tend to “explore the outside at a pace that feels right and safe for them.”

Garcia also creates full-length training videos on YouTube, where she takes people through all the steps to properly train and prepare their cats for walks and hikes. Garcia’s YouTube is the perfect starting place for those interested in learning how to leash train.

“I would enjoy walking my cats on a leash if they enjoyed the outdoors,” King says. “I have tried a few times and they have primarily just laid down and did not move or it scared them. I do not think it is easy, but it is doable.”

King’s cat struggled to get comfortable on a leash, but some cats yearn for the nature to which they were exposed. According

to Four Paws International, an organization dedicated to encouraging humans to treat their animals with respect and empathy, when a cat “develops a taste for walks on a lead, it will start demanding to be taken out.”

Limberg shares her best piece of advice for people who succeed with walking and hiking with their cat. It’s important to find the right “currency” because they may be persuaded to go for a walk, Limberg says. Treats, for example, are effective in motivating cats because they help them become more comfortable on walks ad hikes. Other currency works too, such as toys.

“My cat is not food-motivated at all, which is really difficult because a lot of the things online are like, train them with treats” Limberg says. “For [Apollo], I had to find a certain toy that he likes [and] that he’ll follow around on his leash.”

It may take some time and extra determination, but every cat owner should figure out what works best for their individual pet in order for leash walking to be an enjoyable experience for both parties.

“Be really patient. Cats are different than dogs,” Limberg says. “Dogs will kind of do what you want them to with the right amount of training and some cats are just very obstinate. But I think that [cats] are all trainable if you have enough patience with them.” b

Pictured is Katie Limberg, third-year student at Ohio University and owner of Apollo the cat in Athens, Ohio on Aug. 29, 2022.

COCKTAIL CRAZE

BY RORY BALL | DESIGN BY DREW FOLLMER

This past summer was one I had been looking forward to for a long time, anticipating the day I would finally turn 21. As any new 21-year-old would, I spent way too much money going out to local bars and breweries after the day came in late May. But as the summer unfolded, and I started bartending at a family owned restaurant, I found a new passion in creating my own cocktails at home. Here are the top five recipes of my favorite, homemade cocktails for you to enjoy too!

BLACKBERRY MOJITO

• Large handful of mint leaves (save a couple to garnish!)

• 2 lime wedges + 1 for garnish

• 1.5 oz. of a gin of your choice (I use Bacardi)

• 5 good size blackberries + 2 for garnish

• .5 oz. of simple syrup *I choose to leave this out but if you like sweeter drinks, go for it!

• 6 oz. of good quality club soda or sparkling water

In a shaker, muddle the mint, lime, blackberries and simple syrup. Then add your gin and ice, cap the shaker and give it a really good mix (about 10-20 seconds) so those flavors really come through. Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the delicious gin concoction. I like adding the saved mint leaves and blackberries next, so they float nicely in the drink! Then top with club soda and place a lime wedge on the rim.

A newly 21-year-old’s guide to creating the most refreshing drinks!

SPICY MARGARITA WITH TAJÍN

• 1 serrano pepper, seeded and diced

• 2 oz. of tequila (Espolòn Tequila Blanco is a pretty light and mixes amazingly with the spice)

• .5 oz. of triple sec (Cointreau)

• Juice of three fresh limes

• Handful of fresh cilantro sprigs (optional)

• 3 table spoons of Tajín

HIBISCUS MULE

• 1.5 oz. of vodka (I usually use Tito’s but Absolut tastes just as good at half the price!)

• 2 lime wedges + 1 for garnish

• 1 can of Q Mixers hibiscus ginger beer o1 tsp. fresh ginger (optional)

TROPICAL SANGRIA

This makes a large serving, so I recommend sharing this sweet drink with a group of friends!

• 2 bottles of white wine of your choice (I use Chateau Ste Michelle Sauvignon Blanc, its cheap and tastes great in this recipe)

• ½ cup of peach schnapps

• 1 cup of fruit juice of your choice (Pick the juice of your favorite fruit in this recipe to enhance those flavors. My go-to is mango!)

•

First, measure out the Tajín on a small plate, around the size of the rim of the glass you will put your margherita in. Add one tablespoon of lime to a dish the same size as before. Dip the rim of your glass in the lime juice and place it onto the Tajín to coat the rim.

Now, add the serrano pepper and lime juice to a shaker and muddle the two for 30 seconds. Next, fill the shaker with ice and add the tequila and triple sec. Toss the top on and shake for another 30 seconds.

To your Tajiín rimmed glass, add ice to the top! Strain the spicey mixture in and add the fresh sprigs of cilantro!

In a classic Moscow Mule copper mug or tall glass, squeeze the lime into the vodka. Next, add ice and top with the hibiscus ginger beer. The mixer is pretty sweet with a hint of spice so if you are like me and prefer it the other way around, use only half a can of the hibiscus ginger beer. You can sub club soda for the other half and add fresh ginger to spice up it up!

I love this recipe because it is so, so simple! Throw all of the ingredients into a large pitcher or container and place in the fridge. I recommend making this recipe in the morning and letting the flavors develop all day. Once you are ready to impress your friends with this tropical twist on the sangria, fill wine glasses with ice, use a spoon to collect your favorite pieces of fruit, and pour the delicious mixture in! b

1.5 cups of fresh mango

• 2 medium mangos, cubed

• 2 large peaches, sliced

Chocolate chip pumpkin bread made by Rachel Rector on September 19, 2022 in Athens, Ohio.

Pumpkin to Talk About

STORY, PHOTO, & DESIGN BY RACHEL RECTOR

The leaves are turning orange and red, and a cold breeze has entered the air. To keep yourself warm this fall season try this chocolate chip pumpkin bread. b

Ingredients Instructions

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon of salt

1 teaspoon of baking powder

1 teaspoon of baking soda

4 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice

2 cups of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)

2/3 cup of brown sugar

2/3 cup of granulated sugar

1 cup of applesauce

3 eggs at room temperature

1 tablespoon of vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup of mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease two 8x4 loaf pans and line with parchment paper. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin, brown sugar, granulated sugar, applesauce OR oil, eggs and vanilla extract.

Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients, mixing until moistened and combined. Fold in chocolate chips. Reserve a small amount of mini chocolate chips for the top of bread if desired. Pour half of the batter into each of the prepared loaf pans and bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

A chocolate chip pumpkin bread recipe that rivals all other fall treats.

CHANGE A

WEAR A BANDANA, LIFE

OU Establishes chapter of national mental health initiative: The Bandana Project.

BY ANKITA BANSODE | PHOTOS BY ELLIE HABEL | DESIGN BY ELLIE SABATINO

The hustle culture associated with college life can make it hard for students to take care of themselves physically and emotionally. The stigma around mental health makes it difficult for students to find a safe place to turn when they need help. According to the Rehabilitation Counselors and Educators Journal, estimates show around 40 percent of undergraduate students “have a mental health condition.”

Due to concerns for the mental health of students, the Office of Health Promotion at Ohio University has launched their own chapter of The Bandana Project, a national mental health awareness and suicide prevention initiative. The project encourages students and faculty to wear a lime green bandana to show that they are comfortable discussing topics related to mental health.

The two people at the office leading the project are Ann Brandon, the associate director of prevention and education, and Paige Klatt, the assistant director of prevention and education. Three graduate assistants also work on The Bandana Project throughout the semester, promoting the initiative among students and faculty at OU. The project receives funding through Rise and Thrive, which is a program through the Prevention Action Alliance – an organization that promotes mental health and wellness at universities in Ohio.

The Bandana Project was founded at the University of Wisconsin – Madison “with the help of a NAMI On Campus chapter,” in January of 2016, according to The Bandana Project’s website. Colin Bass, after his uncle and close friend died by suicide while he was in high school, went to college with the mission to deconstruct the stigma surrounding mental illness. Bass sought innovative ways to promote mental health and raise awareness. The lime green bandanas are used as a symbol of support for people feel to more comfortable seeking help.

Students between the ages of 15 and 24 “are in the highest risk group for a majority of mental illnesses,” but one in four will not seek support or treatment, according to The Bandana Project.

Each bandana represents seamless threads of support, tying individuals who struggle with their mental health to people who care about their well-being. The bandanas are displayed on backpacks, bikes, hats and other items to distinguish participants. Ambassadors welcome individuals to have conversations and wear the bandanas to express solidarity while promoting mental health awareness among students.

“When we normalize it, then we no longer feel the impact of the stigma and shame that folks might have with mental health challenges or the things that they face,” Brandon says.

55 chapters have adopted the initiative and each is doing its part to contribute to the awareness movement, Brandon says. When people have conversations about mental health, they work toward a future when mental health is no longer a taboo topic. Every day people are building support networks and finding the necessary help through The Bandana Project.

“It’s a simple and powerful mental health awareness and suicide prevention program,” says Keamogetse Khudu, a graduate assistant at the Office of Health Promotion. She came across this project last semester and saw the program’s potential.

“[The project promises to] change the trajectory of social norms to being open to and accepting of those who want to talk about mental illness,” says Erin Dickson, another graduate assistant, regarding the reason the project stood out to her.

According to Dickson and Khudu, there are four steps people can take to get involved with The Bandana Project:

1. Wearing the lime green bandana and knowing what it means. By donning the bandana, people on campus will associate it with participation in The Bandana Project, representing a commitment to fighting the stigma.

2. Getting a resource card from a bandana project ambassador. The card helps navigate some of OU’s resources such as Counseling and Psychological Services, the Survivor Advocacy Program, the Multicultural Center and other places students go for support.

3. Participating in conversations with ambassadors and students. The acknowledgment of mental health issues helps to create a new norm on campus.

4. Educating oneself and normalizing mental health issues by practicing self-care and learning about topics relating to mental health.

The bandana is a wearable symbol representing the commitment to mental well-being. Offering hope through self-expression and positivity, The Bandana Project encourages students to join in discussions with friends, family and colleagues about potentially uncomfortable topics.

It also provides an opportunity for students to become visible ambassadors of campus mental health advocacy, creating a platform for awareness, empathy and support.

“It’s just a step,” Brandon says. “It’s not going to solve all the issues. But this would very much be connected to a sense of belonging. The more we normalize reducing stigma, the more someone might feel like, hey I’m not alone here.”b

To become an ambassador, visit thebandanaproj.org.

Conversation About Conservation

How students can enjoy the environment without destroying it.

BY AMBER PHILIPS PHOTOS BY PEARL SPURLOCK DESIGN BY SARAH HEINK

There are always times, year-round, when people escape to the national parks and forests in Athens. They seek pleasure in the opportunities to hike through the woods, camp for a weekend or take a refreshing dip in the water at Strouds Run State Park.

Athens isn’t just a place of history, education and worn brick roads, but also a place of rolling hills and welcoming forests that stretch for miles. Sunny or cloudy days call for time spent exploring the various parks near Ohio University.

People can find places of sanctuary in neighboring wooded areas, and it can be easy to forget the beautiful forests right outside of campus that need the care and attention of students and community members.

Parks and forests such as Strouds Run, Burr Oak and Wayne National Forest can play a big role the Athens experience, and it’s important for students to encourage conservation. Conservation is a way for humans to keep nature protected so that it can be thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.

While this land is meant to bring peace to all, it’s important to recognize that this land was inhabited by Native Americans long before settlers took over. Strouds Run acknowledges the Adena Indians and the Shawnee Nation as tribes that previously inhabited the land, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Burr Oak and Wayne National Forest also recognize the indigenous peoples that originally called this land home, according to ODNR and The United States Department of Agriculture.

But land acknowledgements are not enough, students are encouraged to enjoy nature while staying aware of any potential impacts, whether helpful or harmful. OU students can participate in the joy of being outdoors while being cautious of conservation.

Mindy Bankey, an assistant director at the ODNR, gives advice to college students about protecting nearby parks.

“We have a lot of volunteer groups so we’re always looking for ways to improve that area,” Bankey says. There are many different conservation practices in which students can engage to improve the parks, Bankey says. Trail development and the cleaning of litter are two examples of activities achievable by students. Bankey also emphasizes a need for “workforce.”

Getting out into the parks and exploring new areas can be uncomfortable at times, especially without proper education about conservation. Steve Gray, another assistant director at the ODNR, gives a few tips for new explorers.

“I would seek a mentor,” Gray says. “Somebody who has been out to visit the state parks or has been out fishing or hiking to go along with them to learn about the areas and learn the techniques.”

Finding someone to explore with who is comfortable being outdoors is an easy way for someone to participate in nature’s beauty without strict education. People can always learn from others to avoid any fear of the unknown.

There are also ways people can become better acquainted with neighboring forests, which includes park safety. Conservation and safety are important aspects when furthering your education about the outdoors. Students and young

adults can learn to take care of nature while also taking care of one’s wellbeing.

“We try to encourage people to follow the rules, especially on trails. We ask them to stay on the trails, there is a reason they are designated and have signage,” Bankey says. “There are areas that we will encourage them to stay off of purposely for their own safety and for the safety of our staff.”

As freshmen and others who are unfamiliar with Athens’ surrounding areas seek adventures outdoors, it is beneficial for students to take necessary precautions. From experienced backpackers to new hikers, it is important for everyone to pack the necessary items. Also, cleaning up after oneself and staying on designated trails are some simple ways that students can practice being mindful while exploring forests and trails.

Jessie Lynch, a former undergrad OU student, spends her free time outdoors exploring and spent the past year traveling across the country and to various National Parks. She says she feels that college students are typically unfamiliar with the natural world around them.

“I feel like making sure that we’re keeping [the parks] safe, once you’re educated about that, it just has a deeper impact when you know what you’re protecting,” Lynch says.

Lynch dedicates much of her current life to exploring the parks, hiking and

understanding how sacred nature is to the world. With her experience, she shares tips for students and others wanting to spend more time outdoors.

“Making sure that most of my skin is covered is something that I prioritize, along with making sure that I have everything that I need in my hiking bag,” Lynch says. “I keep a pocketknife with me and snacks and I always bring enough water.”

Taking advantage of the many forests and parks surrounding Athens can create new adventures and memories for people. The state of Ohio implemented new wildlife programs such as H20 and the Naturalist Program, which allow opportunities for students to navigate the outside world and learn about the ways wildlife can be protected. There are also student organizations at OU for various outdoor hobbies like hiking and plant research such as OU Climbers, Plant Biology Club, Geography Club and H.I.K.E.

Students can learn to appreciate the scenes of green around them while keeping themselves safe. There is importance in the way humans treat Earth, and the planet can prosper if the necessary steps are taken in the direction toward conversation and safety.

“Everything you do over there, whether it’s hiking, camping, hunting or fishing, there’s a set of rules and the rules have a conservation purpose and also a safety purpose,” Gray says. b

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Scenes from Strouds Run in Athens, Ohio on September 18, 2022.

UP COMMUNITY BREWING

Ohio University alumna follows coffee shop dream to Albany, Ohio.

BY JOSIE DONOHUE | PHOTOS BY JACOB DURBIN | DESIGN BY ELLIE SABATINO

Aquiet yet inviting study spot can be exactly what students need to feel comfortable at OU and get into a personal groove to get work done. Some may enjoy quiet solitude surrounded by books in the library, whereas some might enjoy some light background noise of chattering and the rich aroma of a coffee shop. For fans of the latter, Threefold Roasters in Albany, Ohio is the perfect spot to hang out and grab a drink or sweet.

Threefold Roasters, opened in December 2021, is co-owned and operated by McKenzie Yazdani and her husband. Yazdani is an Athens native and Ohio University alumni who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education in 2019 and a master’s in curriculum and instruction in 2020. While she has a passion for teaching, she says she’s always dreamt of opening a coffee shop.

The Yazdani’s originally planned to set up shop in what was previously known as John’s Barbershop on Washington Street in Albany. They visited the location and had full intentions of putting the coffee shop there, but a friend ended up telling them about a different location up the street. They liked it even more and got the keys the same day.

Yazdani says despite making plans and beginning the business during the pandemic, the startup process went very smoothly.

“We had amazing people that surrounded us and lifted us up in the community and helped that process go way smoother than I think it should have been,” she says.

When asked about her favorite part of the business, she says the customers and coworkers make her experience special.

“I love to love people,” Yazdani says. “I love to get to know everyone’s story and that starts with the customer. Something I made a priority in our business from the start was our customer service because we are such a small town; we are going to get to know everybody.”

She has a heart for the people who work and visit the shop, and she says it’s important for her to build relationships with them. Karen Olbers Bright, a frequent customer, says between her daughter, husband and herself, their family comes to Threefold Roasters up to five times a week.

“When we knew they were opening a business, we really wanted to be very supportive,” Olbers Bright says. They are very excited to have a coffee shop available on their side of town.

Olbers Bright says she sees people at Threefold studying, hanging out and having meetings or bible studies. She has known the Yazdani’s for years, but she also appreciates the communal aspect of the business, and the menu options are good.

“It’s really nice to have a business here. It’s local, convenient, excellent product, excellent service [and they’re] doing a lot in the community”

Olbers Bright’s favorite drink on the menu is a specialty chai, which she requests with half spice and half vanilla. Yazdani says the chai at Threefold is popular, and it has a unique story.

Employees of Threefold Roasters gather around a display of branded products.

Left to right: Zachery Adkins, Micah Adkins, McKenzie Jones, Kailey Cozort.

Serving up the chai drinks and more as head barista is Connor Truax, a 2020 graduate of Alexander High School and junior studying business at OU.

Items on the menu range from coffee flights, herbal and chai teas, loaded gourmet milkshakes and more. Yazdani is proud of their new milkshakes and has featured unique flavors such as buttercup shakeup, cookies and cream and brownie batter. Current seasonal items on the menu are pumpkin cream cold brew and pumpkin cream chai. Yazdani says someday the company would like to expand into sandwiches, soups and salads.

Truax says he considers the team of employees for Threefold Roasters a family. He enjoys the strong leadership of the Yazdani’s and values the interactions he has with customers.

“McKenzie and Josiah are just great bosses; they take care of you,” Truax says. “I know people’s drinks when they come in and certain customers; they’re all just so friendly.”

Threefold Roasters is open every day except Sunday and welcomes everyone who needs a calm environment to work or chat. Located at 5281 Washington Road, the store is in the heart of Albany, providing a community center for the town.

“Our dream and our hope from the beginning, and still is, for the coffee shop to be a place to unite,” Yazdani says. “When you look around right now, you see so much of division. We wanted to provide our community with a space that no matter what you believe, no matter how you feel that you come in, you feel loved and you feel wanted.”b

“It’s really nice to have a business

The brand, Charlie Joe Chai, is owned by a friend of the Yazdani’s who donates 1/3 of the proceeds to a nonprofit called Life for the Innocent, which aids in child trafficking prevention in India. Yazdani appreciates that this brand supports the community and beyond.

here. It’s local, convenient, excellent, and doing a lot for the community.”

KAREN OLBERS BRIGHT

Views inside Threefold Roasters.

MOUNTAIN RANGER TO MUSICIAN

OU grad’s inspiring journey shines through in his debut album, He Rode On.

BY HELEN WIDMAN | PHOTOS BY GREG KUCHIK, CHRIS SAWICKI & MAGGIE HARRISON | DESIGN BY ALLY PARKER

The early spring morning curled over Radar Hill as a then 22-year-old Michael Shaw scoped out a spot to decide his future. After studying all night for final exams at Ohio University, he found himself near The Ridges watching the sunrise. After graduating with degrees in psychology, philosophy and music, Shaw felt encouraged to strive for a life free of distractions and focused on art.

“I knew I wanted to go out west, and I just remember being out there and the sun was coming up, and I was like maybe I should go out to Montana,” Shaw says. “It was kind of random. I didn’t really know anybody out in Montana; I didn’t have a job.”

Shaw grew up in states bordering Ohio until he landed in Springfield, hailing from a musical family. Shaw attended OU and quickly hit it off with Colin McKnight, who ended up

becoming a longtime friend and music partner.

After graduating in 2002, Shaw took the chance and moved out to Montana by himself.

“I found a guy who was like, ‘You can give me 100 bucks and live in my barn in the back of my house till you find a place,’” Shaw says. “And in my 22-year-old brain, I was like, yeah that sounds great.”

Shaw worked as a tele-researcher for a couple months then with troubled teenagers. In 2005, he stumbled upon what would become a lucrative job and outlet: becoming a seasonal ranger at Glacier National Park.

“I think it was challenging but in a way that never felt stressful because I gravitated to it so naturally, like I’d already been hiking in the mountains by myself and [was] learning how to get around in the Northern Rockies.” Shaw says.

Shaw poses for a photo with his cowboy hat. Photo by Greg Kuchik.

Shaw spent the warmer half of the year as a park ranger, soaking in the wilderness around him. During the winters he stayed inside with his favorite literature and started playing around with music. McKnight joined Shaw in the mountains eventually, and the two formed a country band called Whiskey Rebellion, with Shaw on his drums and McKnight on his electric guitar.

Brandon “Rex” Stewart, a programmer and artist from southern Utah, connected with Whiskey Rebellion in winter 2010. Stewart grew up playing the guitar, but not bass — and not country music. Still up for the adventure, he joined Whiskey Rebellion and found brotherhood within Shaw and McKnight.

“We would pass out whiskey shots to the crowd at a certain point, I think it was on our fourth set,” Stewart says. “So that was basically just a tradition. We’d get the crowd a little more wasted than they already were.”

Whiskey Rebellion began to fizzle as the thenlead singer departed from the group. Shaw, McKnight and Stewart formed another band together called the Waylay Brothers. They went by stage names derived from old carvings in the cabin that Shaw tended to in Montana.

“We just wanted to keep making music, you know, the lead singer left, and so once he left, we were like, okay, we’re going to do our own thing. We’re just going to concentrate on writing our own music,” Stewart says.

Wingspread Ranch, where Shaw lived and worked, housed epic practices for the Waylay Brothers, especially when the Montana blizzards kept them inside. Stewart eventually found himself unable to continue the rowdy lifestyle and amicably departed from the band. Around the same time, Shaw started coming out from behind the drums.

“I started just playing Colin’s guitar, his acoustic guitar when it was laying around, and I loved it,” Shaw says. “I started writing and it came really easy to me. I got some good feedback right away from my early stuff, and I think that helped me be a little more confident to keep doing it.”

The throes of the raw Montana wilderness provided a never-ending supply of musical material for Shaw to draw on, so much so that he felt like lyrics and songs fell out of the sky to him. Shaw wrote a variety of original songs, some of which wound up on his debut album, He Rode On, which released June 3.

“I think it’s really a product of Montana,” Shaw says. “I went out there and took to that western life and living out in the country. I started hunting and making homemade wine and my beard got down to my belly button, and I was just loving this

mountain man life that I had out there. And that first album was all written, nearly all of it, before Colin passed away.”

McKnight died in an unexpected accident and was never able to see the album debut. Shaw later dedicated his album He Rode On to his friend and musical soulmate. The song and phrase, “He Rode On,” while originally inspired by a novel, garnered more meaning after McKnight died.

“After Colin passed away, I wrote the final verse to it and at that point, the words ‘he rode on’ made me think of Colin —

about him departing or passing away, and then it made me think about myself, to how I rode on and how I left Glacier and I left that life to do this other life that I’m doing now,” Shaw says.

Although being alone in Montana and dealing with loss challenged him at times, Shaw continued with his music,

Colin McKnight playing the guitar. Photo by Chris Sawicki.

determined to finish He Rode On. He attended the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, one year where he successfully tracked down Canadian music producer and professional musician Grant Siemens by sneaking backstage. The two bonded over the fact that they were some of the youngest people at the festival.

Shaw and Siemens began pre-production for He Rode On through letters and emails. Shaw traveled to Winnipeg in Manitoba, Canada, to record the album in person at Private Ear Studio.

“I never thought I’d be recording an album without my buddy Colin there or doing music without him,” Shaw says. “But Grant became a really good friend throughout the whole thing. And I had trusted him, I felt like my music was in good hands with him.”

Siemens felt like he could see Shaw’s vision and wanted to help him achieve it. By the end of their time producing, He Rode On, Siemens felt like they had co-produced it.

“I’ve never seen an artist work so hard to achieve exactly what they want,” Siemens says. “And I think that’s a true testament to Michael is that he’ll go above and beyond just to get exactly what he needs out of it.”

As further testament to Shaw’s authenticity, they recorded everything to a tape machine, with all the accompanying musicians playing in the room at the same time. Shaw even brought a bottle of whiskey into the booth with him as a way to carry the late McKnight with him.

With a completed album and an innate need for change, Shaw moved to Nashville in 2019 after 12 years of being a park ranger at Glacier National Park. He gathered up band members and started scheduling gigs until COVID-19 slowed his momentum. But Shaw wanted to release his debut album when it felt right.

Although it had been a long time coming for He Rode On, it still captures a moment in time of one version of Shaw.

“I feel like I’m a different person now than when that album came out, but I liked that album because it is like a snapshot of that time of my life and it’s a very western kind of thing,” Shaw says.

The music video for “He Rode On” embodies the western narrative that Shaw wanted, depicting him in his element with the natural beauty of Montana as the background. Shaw’s childhood friend and Los Angeles videographer Andrew Moorman flew out to Montana with a backpack full of gear to film it.

“The track that resonated with me the most was ‘He Rode On,’” Moorman says. “It felt the most like Michael, it felt the most personal, it just spoke to me in terms of the authenticity of what he was trying to portray with the album.”

In the future, Moorman thinks that he could help Shaw produce a more traditional country music video that takes place in a dark western-style bar with reveling extras, but he knew that this first one needed to be rawer.

“It would be difficult for me to imagine someone working

Shaw recording “He Rode On” in the studio. Photo by Maggie Harrison.

with Michael who didn’t know Michael, didn’t care about the authenticity of the album or him as an artist,” Moorman says. “So, I think just because he’s such a friend and I care about him so much, I’d like to protect them through that process.”

As someone who has known Shaw since his time in Springfield, Ohio, Moorman delighted in seeing Shaw step out from behind the drums and blossom into a front man.

“When he sent me the album, it was such a beautiful surprise to see him now kind of using the language of music that we all grew up with as his form of self-expression,” Moorman says.

Moorman describes their upbringing as a Steven Spielberg, idyllic safe space, laden with adventure and musical greats like Pink Floyd and Van Halen. To Moorman, Shaw is still the same kid he grew up with, just with more character development.

Although an L.A. veteran like Moorman can attest to the difficulties the music industry brings, he ascertains that art, in its finest form, is self-expression.

“Michael went from being on the Blackfoot River by himself for the vast majority of weeks and months and years living this solitary life when he wrote the album,” Moorman says. “Now, he’s in a big city and he’s around tons of people and he’s trying to push that out and book gigs and stuff. So of course, he’s going to be a very different person than he was. But that’s the beauty of it, is had he not made the album, how would you ever encapsulate who that person was?”

Nashville is not home for Shaw, as much as he appreciates the rich country roots the city has. He plans to release a few more albums, establish himself in the Nashville music scene and then return to his calling in the mountains. He may even stop by Athens again.

“Athens is definitely, out of all the places I lived in that part of the country, Athens is my favorite,” Shaw says, reminiscing on legendary parties and gigs with McKnight at the place tucked in Southeast Ohio where their musical journey together was born.

Even though McKnight won’t be there to join him the rest of the way, Shaw knows that his musical soulmate would have liked how the album turned out.

“He was such a giving, wonderful human being that made everybody feel seen,” Shaw says. “He made everybody feel appreciated, listened to, so I try to kind of embody that and the best of him and kind of carry that spirit along with me as I go forward.” b

Listen to He Rode On on Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. Follow @michaelshawmontana on Instagram or visit michaelshawmusic.com to learn more.

He Rode On

Shaw poses for a photo with his guitar for “He Rode On.” Photo by Chris Sawicki.

Shaw smiling with his horses. Photo by Maggie Harison.

Future Doctors in Democracy

BY MCKENNA CHRISTY | DESIGN BY RACHEL RECTOR

Reproductive health care encompasses a variety of essential services that people need to take care of their health holistically. An individual’s reproductive health can be affected by the access they have to services such as contraceptives, abortion, treatment and prevention for sexually transmitted infections and obstetrical care, according to Women’s Health Policy.

When Roe v. Wade, the 50-year-old precedent that set the constitutional right to abortion, was overturned on June 24, 2022, people working for abortion funds and students in medical school had already been thinking about the future of access to these essential services. And although the reversal of the court case remains distressing, people working in reproductive health and justice, especially Black and brown people, saw Roe v. Wade’s fate coming.

Health Affairs, a health care journal, explored reproductive health care access in the article “Racism Runs Through It: Examining The Sexual And Reproductive Experience Of Black Women In The South.” The journal states that “reproductive health disparities occur and are sustained against a backdrop of racism” in the United States.

According to the article, 24 percent of Black women use Title X programs, which help low-income people gain access to reproductive health care resources. Also, around one-third of Black women between the reproductive ages of 15 and 44 are enrolled in Medicaid. Guttmacher Institute explains how Medicaid “is indispensable” when it comes to ensuring access to reproductive resources for people in the program.

With barriers in place blocking reproductive health care access, nonprofits and organizations are working around them. Abortion funds serve, partially, as financial assistance to help people receive and find reproductive health services. Shakti Rambarran is a board member of Ohio’s statewide abortion fund, Abortion Fund of Ohio (AFO), and says prior to the overturn of Roe v. Wade, access to abortion was limited for people living in southeastern Ohio and Appalachia.

When Rambarran was seeking abortion care from Athens to Columbus, Ohio, she found the process to be delayed and difficult. The delay, Rambarran says, was caused by targeted restrictions of abortion providers [TRAP] laws. According to the Center for Reproductive Rights, TRAP laws in Ohio “include reporting requirements and requires ‘ambulatory surgical facilities’ to have written transfer agreements with a hospital.” These laws restrict a physician’s ability to provide abortion care.

Athens Medical Students for Choice make their presence known following the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Rambarran’s abortion was delayed for two weeks because of TRAP laws despite having the finances to cover costs of travel, the procedure, lodging and other logistics. She says the entire cost of the process totaled almost $1,000.

Since the reversal of Roe v. Wade, Ohio’s laws regarding abortion access have only grown stricter. Guttmacher Institute compiled the restrictions on abortion access in the state as of June 28, 2022. One of these restrictions includes abortion being banned at six weeks of pregnancy, except if the person’s life is in danger or if they suffer from “severely compromised physical health.” Also, if a minor wants an abortion, they must have parental consent. Rambarran says that it’s almost impossible for people living in southeastern Ohio and Appalachia to receive compassionate, timely and safe abortion care when a near-total ban is in effect.

AFO and other local abortion funds, Rambarran says, can be “lifesavers for their communities.” Although a post-Roe world will change the landscape of abortion access even more, abortion funds can aid in finding the right care for individuals. Due to Ohio’s six-week abortion ban, Rambarran explains that abortion care becomes more expensive because people may need to travel out of state. Because people may need to travel outside of Ohio for abortions, they also may need to take time off school or work, resulting in a loss of income, and possibly find childcare, Rambarran says.

“AFO helps to offset these burdensome costs so all people –regardless of where they live – can get the care they deserve and need,” Rambarran says.

The need for financial and logistical assistance in seeking abortion care will always be necessary if abortion access remains limited in some states. But Rambarran says AFO has always been able to provide support.

“It’s worth noting that AFO has always helped every patient that has requested care, and that in the first half of 2022 alone, we have provided more financial support to patients than we did the entirety of 2021,” Rambarran says.

Abortion funds take donations and 100 percent of them go toward patients seeking abortion care, Rambarran says. People can donate to AFO on their website and sign up for their mailing list. Rambarran says AFO sends out opportunities in their emails for people to help support patients through volunteering. Some opportunities include driving patients to and from clinics or “taking action on harmful anti-abortion bills.”

As abortion funds stand up against the overturning of Roe v. Wade and its aftermath, so are some medical students at Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (HCOM). Amanda Burgess is the president of Athens Medical Students for Choice and a second-year medical school student.

Athens Medical Students for Choice is a chapter of a national organization and its presence in Athens is relatively new, Burgess says.

Dominique Rehl is also in her second year in medical school and is the vice president of Athens Medical Students for Choice. Rehl says the organization brings “a lot of awareness and education around abortion and contraception.”

Last year, the organization hosted an IUD workshop and a papaya manual vacuum aspiration workshop. A vacuum aspiration is a simple abortion procedure done early in pregnancy, according

to Women’s Health Matters. The suction of a syringe is able “to remove the contents of the uterus” and is low risk. Rehl says the procedure is simulated well on a papaya. This year, Athens Medical Students for Choice has plans to screen movies and documentaries relevant to abortion care and host a book club.

Burgess wants to become an OBGYN and with the state of abortion access in the United States, she also wants to be an abortion provider. But Burgess explains the fear doctors have about the legality of performing abortion procedures in their states.

“So many doctors are now coming out like the reason their patient didn’t receive care is not necessarily because abortion has been banned in their state, but it’s because the doctors are confused on the legalities, which is frustrating,” Burgess says.

And the laws regulating and banning abortion access aren’t the only cause of the overturning of Roe v. Wade that concerns medical students and doctors. It’s why abortion is being the procedure that’s targeted by politicians and what other medical procedures could be made illegal to provide, Rehl says.

“Abortion is one of the only medical procedures that is being regulated by nonmedical professionals,” Rehl says. “And that is also scary for the future and what other medical procedures could be up to the discretion of our politicians and not our physicians.”

Rehl has always wanted to be a doctor because she wants to help people and believes she can accomplish that as a physician. When Rehl was 4 years old she had her photo taken of her wearing a white doctor’s coat. But Rehl fears the connections created between physicians and patients is threatened by limited abortion access because patients may not tell the truth due to fear of violating the law or getting caught doing so.

“The physician–patient relationship is so sacred, and we learn a lot in medical school about the truth and the confidentiality and the importance of that between a physician and their patient,” Rehl says.

The emotional toll caused by Roe v. Wade’s reversal and other pieces of restricting abortion legislation leading up to the overturning has been making some medical students such as Burgess question pursuing medicine.

“It’s definitely led to a lot of sad moments for me,” Burgess says. “Where I’m like, why am I even here? Why am I in medical school learning all of this if my knowledge and time and effort is not going to be respected and it’s not going to be considered in legislation? I don’t tell them how to do their job.”

Despite the exhaustive struggle of finding a way to create a country where people have complete body autonomy and barrierless access to abortion, Athens Medical Students for Choice are doing their part in raising awareness of abortion’s essentialness and how doctors want to take care of their patients’ whole health.

“At our student involvement this year we got a lot of interest,” Rehl says. “And I think it just goes to show that this is a topic that medical students are interested in. And while it’s unfortunate that it came to the fall of Roe v. Wade to sort of get people to become passionate and recognize that they need to be vocal about this issue, we’re obviously very glad to have more and more people supporting access to abortion.” b

The views of the students are their own and do not reflect those of HCOM.

REF R A M I NGGAINS

BY RORY BALL | DESIGN BY ABBY BURNS

In recent years, TikTok has taken the reins of popular social media platforms. The video-creating app is used prominently by young, impressionable minds to either create or sit and scroll for hours on end. Its algorithms have created distinct subcultures, boosted in popularity by the use of hashtags. The most prominent subcultures on the platform are #CottageCore, #WitchTok, #MomsofTikTok, #Egirl/ boy, and, of course, #FitTok.

Each group has a different character, aesthetic and vocabulary. They also have distinct values,” according to TikTok for Business.

FitTok influencers provide viewers with step-by-step workout routines to achieve a certain aesthetic, humorous content about gym etiquette, healthy recipes and motivation to go to the gym. As with all forms of social media, this subculture can be used to inspire a new generation to lead an active lifestyle, but it can also be used to shame, harass and humiliate.

Joey Swoll, self-proclaimed “CEO of GYM POSITIVITY” and founder of Taste Flavor Co., a sauce brand popularized for its low calories, carbs and fat content has racked up 5.4 million followers on TikTok for his continued effort the make the gym a safe environment for everyone. Swoll uses his platform to call out negative FitTok content and encourage users to “do better” and lead with kindness in intimidating spaces.

Swoll stitched, a way to combine a video with one a user is creating, a TikTok by @chris_gunshow, a fitness trainer, influencer and Amazon Associate with 26.5K followers. In the 15 second video clip, Chris shames a woman for carrying her belongings with her as she works out. In Joey’s analysis of the situation, he calls out Chris for using his platform to humiliate and belittle a woman who appeared to be anxious, unsure and intimated at the game.

“My advice is you apologize to this woman, then you learn about this new phase going around called minding your own business. Be better than that,” Swoll says in his video.

FitTok inspires but the pitfalls of this TikTok subculture have the ability to create toxic gym environments and beauty standards.

Charles J. Ping Recreation Center is frequented by active students of all levels on campus and offers unique spaces for all types of workouts. OU students walking in and out of Ping explain their opinions of this fitness side of TikTok from the viewpoint of consistent gym-goers.

Ayla Carter, a senior studying childhood and family studies, works out at Ping and considers her experience with #FitTok.

“It’s a good way to get people into the gym,” Carter says. “But I don’t think that, sometimes, the way that influencers show it is always good.”

Chris of @chris_gunshow exemplifies the spiral of toxicity that can impact a viewer’s perception of gym culture. In many of his TikToks, Chris stitches videos of women wearing bikinis and booty shorts. Before these women begin to bend over or dance, Chris cuts them off, encouraging his young male audience to perform “30 pushups” or “20 pull ups,” going as far as requesting a 33-minute plank from his viewers.

Chris uses women to place a fear of rejection in men, assuming the only way they will find someone they find attractive is if they look a certain way. His content also encourages the idea that appearing muscular is the most important achievement in life.

This type of content bleeds into small communities, such as Athens, and the focus of attending the gym for some relies heavily on appearance instead of overall health. Emanuel Douglas, a sophomore studying computer science says FitTok users inspire him.

“I see a lot of people with crazy physiques on TikTok, and I think they look good, so I want to look good too,” Douglas says.

As with any subculture of TikTok, an algorithm presents viewers with content they have previously interacted with. If a viewer is more interested in fitness education, how-to training videos provide them with step-by-step workout guides, easing gym anxiety and intimidation. Ana Macdonald, a freshman studying biological science, recently started going to Ping.

A former lifelong volleyball player, Macdonald has transitioned to weight training and uses FitTok to find workouts.

“My whole for you page is workout videos because I save them all,” says Macdonald. “I make my workouts based on the videos, so it guides me on what to do.”

FitTok also inspires gym enthusiasts to remain consistent in the gym to reach their goals and promote a welcoming environment in the gym. Roman Simpkins, a sophomore studying mathematics is a gym enthusiast who excitedly announced that it is his one year “gains-aversary.”

Before becoming a passionate lifter, Simpkins occasionally saw fitness content on TikTok, but once he became a consistent gymgoer, the algorithm increased videos using FitTok and GymTok hashtags. His first time lifting in the gym was intimidating enough for Simpkins to want to give up completely, but TikTok turned that around for him.

“There are certain stereotypes that you get at the gym,” says Simpkins. “Especially me, walking in that first day, I (was) nervous as hell (and I) didn’t even want to be in there. And then you just see people on TikTok like really trying to promote positive gym culture.”

Simpkins is also a huge fan of Swoll, and immediately connected with his positive videos that explain gym culture and etiquette. Algorithms play a huge role in constantly filling users’ FYPs with videos that reflect what they have interacted with in the past, positive or negative.

The ways people perceive negative content on their TikToks determines how they let FitTok and other subcultures on the app affect their daily lives. One in five videos Simpkins sees on the app is related to FitTok. Sometimes, he sees a fit body builder dead lifting 500 pounds repeatedly and thinks “I could never do that.” But Simpkins tries to remain positive.

“I try and think of it as that’s going to be me,” Simpkins says. “That’ll be me. I try (to) draw from a positive source of inspiration.” b

ELLA ERGAZOS COMMUNICATION STUDIES MAJOR

EMMA DUBLER INTEGRATED LANGUAGE ARTS MAJOR

SENIOR

BY CAROLINE BISSONNETTE DESIGN BY PEARL SCHAFER

DEREK ZEMPER MULTIMEDIA, PSYCHOLOGY MAJOR

GRACE GOLD JOURNALISM MAJOR

“Try to keep a good school and social life balance. Get your stuff done before the weekend and ahead of time, that way if something else comes up you don’t have to worry!”

“If you ever get stressed out, remind yourself that each of your classes only last four months. After that, you’re done!”

“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself right away! You will always have time to join new clubs and go to events, so there’s no shame in easing into it to avoid burnout.”

“Lean on the resources around you, whether that is your friends you make here, the friends you came with, your professors, advisors, etc. College is a very exciting time that can get stressful at times as well, so having a support system was really important to me throughout my four years at OU.”

“Get involved in student organizations that will have you more engaged with students that have similar coursework and interests as you. Example your college has professional student organizations, this will help you build a network in your specific field you want to explore a career in.”

PEYTON SITES FINANCE, ECONOMICS MAJOR

“Don’t take college for granted. Explore the opportunities OU has to offer, have fun, get out and meet new people.”

DREW BEHM MARKETING MAJOR

“Try out anything and everything because you can always change. Also, reach out to new people!”

LEXI LEPOF JOURNALISM MAJOR

ADVICE

“Take advantage of the local outdoor recreation resources, such as the Baileys Trail System.”

ZACK MCGINTY OUTDOOR RECREATION AND EDUCATION, RECREATION MANAGEMENT MAJOR

“I’d say this is a small, but fun part of your life. Don’t sweat the small, bad things and enjoy the good moments.”

HENRY MASCALL SOCIAL WORK MAJOR

www.backdropmagazine.comwww.backdropmagazine.com

Too Quick to CANCEL?

BY CAROLINE BISSONNETTE | DESIGN BY DREW FOLLMER

cancel_what

Hardly is there a day when a celebrity is not faced with thousands of people ridiculing them for socially (or legally) unacceptable behavior. This phenomenon, known colloquially and professionally as cancel culture, is a widely discussed topic in the media, mainly because of how controversial it is.

In an episode of “The Daily,” Michael Barbaro and Jonah Bromwich discuss cancel culture and how it has changed over time, hoping to define its place in society.

According to the two The New York Times reporters, the colloquial version of the word “canceled” originated on Black Twitter as a joke. Around 2018, it officially entered mainstream media as a word used to describe something that no longer serves us, or we no longer want in our lives.

Up until 2018, not many concerned themselves with cancel culture as a phenomenon, but instead only with what was being spread on social media, which at this point, was the term “canceled.” That was until big names, such as Donald Trump and Kanye West, catalyzed the movement by criticizing its point, or what they perceived as its point.

To this day, cancel culture is still not as widely understood as some may think. It can be hard to define its validity in society. However, its impact is clear:

nobody wants to get canceled.

Cancel culture is a form of radicalized morality, meaning that as celebrities or other social figures do things that can be perceived as immoral, the public has no problem calling them out and

attempting to eliminate them from having a large influence. This form of ostracism has grown alongside social media as people have become more comfortable behind a screen. Despite its new fancy name, cancel culture has been

Discussing the cancel culture phenomenon and its impact on society.

around for as long as people have been disagreeing with each other.

For example, the killing of women during the Salem Witch Trials. In fact, cancel culture has even sometimes been referred to as a modern day “witch hunt,” due to the public’s ability to discover information that can be considered a cancellable offense. A less gruesome example is Ray Bradbury’s bestseller “Fahrenheit 451,” where books are outlawed and get burned. If this book were released today, maybe Bradbury would have used “canceled” to describe the books in his writing, rather than “burned.”

According to a 2020 Pew Research Center survey of over 10,000 adults, “44% of Americans say they have heard at least a fair amount about the phrase, including 22% who have heard a great deal.” The survey was completed over two years ago and much has changed in the world of cancel culture in the media. It is valid to assume awareness has only grown. Celebrities and others in the public eye tend to fear cancel culture, giving them a negative perception of the movement. Former presidents Donald Trump and Barack Obama have touched on the danger of cancel culture; Obama focused on its tendency to go “overboard,” and Trump referred to it as “the very definition of totalitarianism.”

It makes sense that those at the highest risk of being canceled on a large scale would be the first to fear the power of cancellation on social media. However, other members of society have different views of the phenomenon, which is what makes it so highly debated. On a basic level, cancel culture is either seen as a tool to hold celebrities accountable or a form of unjust punishment.

“Cancel culture is now just a reality

and fact of life,” says Hailey Koenig, an Ohio University senior studying nutrition. “It can be used for good, but there are some major flaws in the system. I do feel like it is important to hold celebrities accountable, though, because of the power and influence they hold.”

Koenig also mentions the fact that a part of being a celebrity is being cognizant of the eyes of the world constantly watching them, which should influence them to make decisions and say things that will be positively received by their audience.

In the case of a cancellation, the audience must also make their decision on whether to continue supporting the celebrity under fire. This is known as the notion of separating the art from the artist.

Kanye West, self-dubbed “the main person that’s been canceled,” has been canceled more than most celebrities. However, West still manages to release music that tops the charts. The success of a celebrity post-cancellation depends primarily on the leniency of their fan base or the seriousness of their “offense.”

Dominic Bush, a senior studying journalism, says “the art should speak for itself,” which seems to be the case for West. His fans likely either agree with him, or do not have a problem with separating the art from the artist.

“If a person’s past or actions affect how you hear or see the art, then stop looking or listening,” Bush says.

There are multiple exmples of artists who have continued to find success after being canceled. Morgan Wallen’s reputation, for example, was hurting after a video of him saying a slur went viral. Despite this, he still collected 2022’s prestigious Milestone Award from the

Academy of Country Music last month.

These examples raise the question: Is canceling celebrities for wrongdoings worth it? In some cases, it just might be.

Armie Hammer was accused of sexually assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Courtney Vucekovich, as well as fantasizing about cannibalism, according to Vucekovich in a Page Six interview and leaked messages Hammer sent to various women. This mostly knocked Hammer off the top shelf, eliminating him from three projects he was part of and potentially harms his chances of being involved in something else. In this case, Hammer is likely feeling the sting of cancel culture and many believe he got what was coming for him.

It can be hard for the public to face and accept when their favorite celebrity has done something wrong. Whether cancel culture is considered punishment or holding someone accountable, celebrities can benefit from recognizing when they have made a mistake.

“If someone does something that is very harmful, it is important for people to learn about it, but it also reminds people that those they look up to can do bad things,” says Mace Miller, a sophomore studying music education and saxophone performance.

The growth of social media will continue to impact how and where interactions between fans and celebrities happen. Whether or not the person in the limelight truly made a mistake, they are going to be called out and this is not likely to change anytime soon.

“Everyone can grow,” Miller says. “Celebrities can have a dark spot on their record, but they are still just humans like everyone else. Bad people can change, and good people can do bad things.” b

After graduating from Ohio University in May of 2022, Trevor Johnson did not foresee a typical office job in his future. Taking a risk, he fully committed to the Five Nine Collective, the company he started, which is an athletic clothing brand that focuses on mid-thigh shorts, primarily for men who are 5 feet and 9 inches tall and under.

“I really don’t want to have an office job, so let’s just do the shorts thing,” Trevor says. “I didn’t know anything about manufacturing, but my grandma has a sewing machine and that’s how it all started up. I taught myself how to do it all.”

After being displeased with a popular shorts brand in 2020, Trevor decided to take his idea and run with it. The Five Nine Collective has been about men’s shorts from the very beginning. The very first products to date were merely scraps of material Trevor would use to practice putting materials together.

“When I first started, the very first pair were Pittsburgh Steelers fabric I found at Joann Fabrics,” Trevor says. “Then I started doing customs for people once I got a little bit better.”

The brand’s online store started dropping shorts for sale in the summer of 2021 and has not stopped since. Using social media to his advantage, Trevor has been able to expand the company’s connections.

“All fall [of 2021], it was just me doing stuff for my friends and family,” Trevor

5’9” by DESIGN

Clothing brand Five Nine Collective hand-sews inclusivity.

BY OLIVIA RIGNEY PHOTOS BY TREVOR JOHNSON DESIGN BY RACHEL RECTOR

says. “And then I made an Instagram and found a fabric distributor in Los Angeles to get the mesh and fleece material for the sweat shorts.”

Finding potential manufacturers is a very intricate process, according to Trevor. After developing a presence on Instagram, the next step for the Five Nine Collective became locking down a reliable and high-quality sample.

After seeing an encouraging video on TikTok, Trevor decided to increase the Five Nine Collective’s online presence to gain more attention.

“I started putting out 10 videos a day,” Trevor says. “Some of it was shorts content. Some of it was whatever came to mind. It just started rapidly growing and then I remember one week … I sold out of all my fabric. Then I just continued posting more and more and now we’re here where I have to manufacture.”

Family has been a motivating factor for Trevor. Trevor’s younger brother and a junior studying exercise physiology at OU, Tanner Johnson, has been a supporter of the brand since day one.

“I kind of thought it was cool because I knew I understood where he was coming from,” Tanner says. “His original idea saying there’s no short shorts for short guys, and being five nine myself, I agree with that.”

TREVOR JOHNSON

“From May until July, I was getting nothing but terrible samples,” Trevor says. “Then I posted a video and [a company] hit me up and he’s like, ‘hey man, I do private manufacturing. And I have an open spot for a client.’ So, I talked with him [to] get the sample made and this is the best sample I’ve ever had.”

Trevor’s inspiration for his clothing brand started with wanting to provide options for men who are not as represented in traditional fashion.

“The more you look into fashion, the models are definitely taller,” Trevor says. “The way some size-carts expand, I feel like they’re not made for the average person. Pants [are] the hardest thing to find. Getting a good pair of pants sucks because my size is either non-existent or sold-out. That’s definitely something I want to pursue in the future, to help with that issue”

“

Then I posted a video and [a company] hit me up and he’s like, ‘hey man, I do private manufacturing. And I have an open spot for a client.”

Shopping as a masculine-presenting person can be especially challenging when not only looking for new brands and stores, but also specific cuts. While runway fashion requires all models to be over an average height, finding everyday clothes that are functional and flattering is a skill that can be obtained with some steps.

Love Your Tailor, a professional tailoring service, has outlined steps for masculine-presenting individuals to get clothes fitted to match their height:

1. Wear clothes that give off a slimmer figure to elongate the entire look. If this style is preferred, it is recommended to stay away from baggy clothes and opt for something that fits the shoulders.

2. Find the perfect length of pant. Instead of cuffing pants, tailor pants to lie just above the shoelaces.

3. Accessorize to bring together an outfit. Keep this in mind when choosing accessories that complement other pieces of the outfit.

The trial-and-error process of finding what looks good differs from person to person. Tanner has had similar experiences when shopping.

“It’s not bad considering five nine is an average height, so there’s some things geared toward us,” Tanner says. “But at the same time, if there’s a pair of shorts or whatnot and you’re really liking them, but they just don’t get that one spot you like on your thigh, then you can’t really buy them.”

In a society catered towards tall individuals, there are still ways to feel confident that go against the beauty and body standards. Trevor is hopeful for the future of the Five Nine Collective and being able to provide items that cannot be found at other bigger companies.

“Long term goals are to be one of the biggest in the industry focusing on good short shorts in general,” Trevor says. “But I’d like to just get in the basics. So essentially, have my own cut of T-shirt, cut of hoodie, cut of sweatpants and be a truly original brand. I always want to keep it and be a good place for people to come and get essential items.” b

Dairy Barn Diary

A look at our local landmark through the years.

PHOTOS BY ELLIE HABEL

Athens State Hospital Dairy Barn, circa 1930s.

Dairy Barn, Athens Mental Health & Mental Retardation Center, circa 1977.

Athens Dairy Barn pictured in present day. The Dairy Barn is now used as an arts center.

Athen's Dairy Barn offers educational programs that promote local artists and provides access to local fine arts.

Down with the Gospel

living with so much sin. My mom reassured me that coming together and asking for forgiveness was beautiful. After a few deep breaths, I went back inside and got scolded by the priest for signing the cross with my left hand.

Catholicism, in theory, preaches forgiveness and love. The Catholicism I experienced for most of my childhood silently endorsed shame and exclusion. It was during Mass that I first heard homosexuality being called a sin. I was eight and I didn’t understand, but it was discussed in Sunday school several times after that. When I was a little older, I discovered RuPaul’s Drag Race. I learned about sexuality and identity through this show. After that, I did not understand how the church could classify such a beautiful thing as a sin. My faith clashing with my other personal beliefs was

BY DARCIE ZUDELL DESIGN BY PEARL SCHAFER

Every Sunday in 2017 was the same. I drove to 10:30 a.m. Mass with my mom and then spent the rest of the day begging her to let me skip Perish School of Religion (PSR)—Catholic education classes for children in public school.

Although I no longer attended Catholic private school, I still had to discuss my fleeting faith with other uninterested teenagers on Sunday evenings. I know I sound pessimistic, but I wasn’t always this way. I used to get down with the gospel. I don’t remember exactly when I stopped wanting to go to church. One time during confession, formally called the Sacrament of Reconciliation, I asked for forgiveness because I often prayed my parents would sleep through their alarms so I would miss Mass. The priest wasn’t amused.

In PSR we practiced the Catholic sacraments before doing them. First Holy Communion was a big ordeal. My mom bought me probably the most expensive dress I will ever own, and I had relatives travel hours to watch an eight year old drink wine for the first time. Reconciliation was a little different. I’ve always admired how Catholics believe in forgiveness, and I remember being excited for my sins to be forgiven.

The first time I cried in church was during a Reconciliation Mass. Reflecting on this is amusing, but this experience was traumatizing for me. I sat and waited for my turn to confess to the priest when I saw a woman beside me crying with her hands tightly squeezed together. She repeatedly said “I’m sorry” while looking at the altar. I looked around me and noticed a man staring blankly at the ground. I wondered about all the sins he might be recalling and how he was going to admit them aloud. At that moment, I thought I felt their shame. My heart was heavy, and I couldn’t catch my breath. I started crying and told my mom that I needed to go home. I explained to her the emotions I felt and how horrible these people seemed to feel

Backdropper Darcie Zudell gives a personal view of coming to terms with the religion she was raised on.

Our normal teacher introduced a guest speaker and then left. The speaker looked to be at least 20 and began the discussion by asking who people’s celebrity crushes were. I initially felt glad to be in class that day. Soon the conversation shifted from Ryan Gosling to sex, which we had never talked about in PSR before.

The speaker talked about chastity and remaining “pure” for a future husband. She used the classic flower analogy and told us we had a beautiful flower in hot barren desert. If we lost our flower, we would never be able to find another one. She encouraged us not to take birth control because it would be like “watering our flowers with lava.” At the end of the discussion, she asked us if we would take a vow of chastity. At this point in my Catholicism, I had observed the church’s sexism. As a seventh grader, I was being asked to make a promise on a concept that I did not fully understand yet. My friend and I were the only ones who refused to sign. I was angry when everyone else was given plastic rings after for signing, but I still felt good not vowing to do something I didn’t believe in.

a shift in the church from what she remembered growing up. With time, people may believe an organization would evolve, but instead this church chose to remain unmoved and set on tradition more than ever.

The last time I went to Mass was the weekend before I left for college. My dad begged me to go and even though I would’ve rather done anything else; I went because I knew it meant a lot to him. At the end of the Mass, one of the speakers asked for the congregation to pray for the supreme court following their “brave decision.” I remember turning to my dad to get the “don’t say anything” look. I left that Mass crying and thought about the years following my PSR days and how little the church changed.

I don’t hold resentment toward my parents for having me grow up in the church. I made friends at camp, and I met adults that I viewed as family. Those relationships made it almost impossible to leave. I recall the disappointment on my father’s face every Sunday when I refused to go. I saw my mother’s sadness when I complained about PSR. I carry grief from leaving behind a key component of my life. I removed myself from the church but the Catholic church has not removed itself from me. I make decisions as an adult woman that I cannot help but think my younger self would be ashamed of because the church told her it was wrong.

It was hard to go against the grain in church. Although I knew others in my PSR group disagreed with certain ideas being falsely spread as fact by teachers, no one wanted to speak up. I stood up for my beliefs again when I walked out of an abortion lecture. It was then that I realized I wanted to remove myself from the church. The teachers handed each student a model of a bloody fetus while a woman talked about how her mom almost terminated the pregnancy that resulted in her birth. I cried again because I was so disgusted at the discussion. I had no evidence at the time to defend my disgust, but I never thought access to safe and legal abortion should be persecuted.

After I finally made my Confirmation, a sacrament where a young teenager reconfirms their place in the church, I told my mom that I never wanted to go to church again. She cried and wanted to challenge my position but instead silently agreed. My mom had noticed

It wasn’t easy leaving behind that chapter of my life. I’m slowly beginning to accept that I owe nothing to the church. I had to leave people behind that do not accept the person I am today. I should believe in Catholic forgiveness and forgive myself for the shame I carry. b

I removed myself from the church but the Catholic church has not removed itself from me.

DARCIE ZUDELL

As a seventh grader, I was being asked to make a promise on a concept that I did not fully understand yet.

DARCIE ZUDELL

The following illustrations come from Drew Follmer, who has been a Backdrop designer since last spring. He is a senior studying publication design and infographics and has been an artist for most of his life.

ON TH E N O

Check out these entertaining and educational events this fall.

BY MAYA MEADE

ATHENS FARMERS MARKET

EVERY SATURDAY 9 A.M. - 12 P.M.

THE MARKET ON STATE 1002 EAST STATE STREET, ATHENS, OH .

The place to shop for locally grown and raised meats, cheeses, vegetables, fruits, prepared foods, pies and pastries, traditional and specialty bread, coffee, wine and cider, jams, jellies and preserves.

THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW-LIVE

OCTOBER 27TH-30TH, 8:00 P.M.

52 PUBLIC SQUARE NELSONVILLE, OH

Get ready for a night of fun, frolics and frivolity! Bursting at the seams with timeless classics, including Sweet Transvestite, Damn it Janet, and of course, the pelvic-thrusting Time Warp, Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror show is a non-stop party.

ATHENS ART MARKET

EVERY SATURDAY 9 A.M. - 12 P.M.

The Market on State 1002 East State Street, Athens, OH

Local artists present their own handcrafted pieces.

PAWPAW 4 MILER

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20TH 7 P.M.

52 PUBLIC SQUARE NELSONVILLE, OH

Spoken & Heard is a seasonal series of literary events hosted by Kari Gunter-Seymour, Poet Laureate of Ohio, featuring award-winning authors, poets and singer/ songwriters from across the country. October’s event will feature Diane Suess, Kari Gunter-Seymour, and Quartez Harris.

REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN KMA COLLECTIONS

RECURRING ART COLLECTION, TIMES VARY 100 RIDGES CIRCLE, ATHENS, OHIO 45701

This student-produced exhibition highlights works from the Kennedy Museum of Art's collection that investigate the representation of women and the female form in art.