March 30, 2023

POLICE BLOTTER

5 fake IDs confiscated, stolen vehicle found wrecked

KENDALL WRIGHT FOR THE POST

Was It Worth It …

Four individuals in parking lot 127 were issued a summons for having fictitious identification, according to the Ohio University Police Department.

The incident also involved possessing a controlled substance, marijuana.

Just Trying to Find a Ride

A report of suspicious activity on State Route 691 in York Township was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

Upon arrival, deputies patrolled the area and made contact with the individual. The man stated he was trying to get to Nelsonville, and deputies gave him a courtesy ride and resumed patrol.

Cyberbully

A complaint of harassment was reported by the Athens County Sheriff’s Office. The complainant informed deputies that a man had been harassing him by phone in response to a dispute on Facebook. A report was filed.

Oh … that was fake?

A man was caught using a fake $100 bill at a McDonald’s in The Plains, Sheriff’s deputies said. The money was collected and as of Monday, the case is under investigation.

Looking Out

A female called the Sheriff’s Office for a ride from Carr Road in Nelsonville.

The woman said she was walking and several people offered her a ride in their vehicles. She told deputies she was scared and asked for a ride.

Deputies picked the woman up and gave her a ride to her friend’s residence.

Hide and Seek

The Ohio University Police Department responded to a complaint of a missing person in Tiffin Hall on Sunday.

The individual was located in good health, according to the report. OUPD police noted the case as unfounded.

Meddling Kids

A complaint of juveniles throwing sticks and rocks at passing vehicles in Athens Township was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

The complainant told deputies the last known location of the juveniles, but no one was observed in the area.

Deputies also checked the complainant’s vehicle, but no damage was observed.

Stolen and Rollin’

A Jacksonville resident reported their vehicle missing to the Sheriff’s Office.

After the vehicle was listed as stolen, deputies found that the Ohio State Highway Patrol had located the vehicle earlier that morning. The vehicle was wrecked on State Route 685.

A report on the stolen vehicle was taken and as of Monday, the crash is being investigated by the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Silly Underclassmen

A fake ID was reported in Brown Hall, which Ohio University Police collected for destruction.

Just Practicing

Gunshots near East Fourth Street in The Plains were reported to the Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies patrolled the area and located the individuals who were shooting the firearms. Deputies determined that the individ-

uals were shooting in a safe area and manner.

Free Entry

A report of criminal mischief in Jefferson Hall was reported to OUPD. A door was damaged and a report was filed.

So Close

A citation was issued for expired registration on South Green Drive, according to an OUPD report.

*Click click*

A reference to flickering lights in a house in Chauncey was reported to the Sheriff’s Office.

A deputy went to the residence and found it to be vacant and undergoing reservations.

Break-up Gone Wrong

Sheriff’s deputies were informed of a report of threats made following a break-up in Athens Township.

Both parties were advised to stop having contact and no further action was taken. @KENDALLKWRIGHT

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Town hall hosts discussions of Ridges Development Strategy

SUZANNE PIPER FOR THE POST

Ohio University hosted the second of two town hall meetings Friday to discuss the Ridges Development Strategy and how feedback from the attendees of the first town hall has been implemented into the plans for the Ridges.

OU has partnered with the Buckeye Hills Regional Council, or BHRC, and Community Building Partners, or CBP, to execute the Ridges Development Strategy. The goal is to keep the Ridges under university use but also include a variety of housing spaces and utilize the 700 acres of land for revenue purposes.

Dominick Brook, the director of real estate at OU, and Shawna Wolfe, the associate vice president of university planning, opened the town hall with a slideshow recap of the feedback they had already received from the OU and Athens community regarding the refurbishment of the Ridges at the first town hall.

The feedback included desires to preserve the framework of all original buildings, add affordable senior citizen housing, update pe-

destrian and bike trails and fix the flooding in the park area. According to the feedback, one of the most important aspects of the refurbishments is that the Ridges' historical feel is preserved.

"We really took a comprehensive look at how to look at all of the buildings with the primary goal of the historic preservation of the facilities that at many times in the history of the journey of this place people have talked about tearing down," Wolfe said.

With the community feedback in mind, OU, BHRC and CBP have planned to split the Ridges into two villages, A and B, and also include up to 600 acres of land to be used for conservation.

Village A has three sections: the existing Ridges Green Buildings, Section 1 and Section 2. The development of Village A will include the reuse of the Ridges Green Buildings for senior housing, retail spaces and restaurant spaces. Sections 1 and 2 of Village A, located near the city gateway and the dairy lane corridor, will eventually be developed into multifamily homes and townhomes.

Village B encompasses the land locat-

ed near the Dairy Barn land and the Ridges' current apartment complexes. Plans for the development of Village B will include new townhomes.

"You can see how we've taken the feedback so far," Wolfe said. "It takes a community to really do this and I feel like we are on the verge of something really great."

Joseph Recchie, CEO of one of the two co-developers and in coordination with CBP, answered questions and concerns after the slideshow.

One community member asked where the funding for the housing additions would come from.

"For example, buildings two, three and four … that's the senior housing," said Recchie. "We do that with a combination of tax-exempt bonds, federal tax credits for affordable housing and historic tax credits."

Another question posed by those in attendance was whether the restaurant addition that was mentioned in the plan could be a fast-food restaurant. Many attendees quickly disapproved of the possibility.

Reccie assured the attendees that it would

be unlikely for a fast-food chain to move into the current Ridges buildings or its future developments.

Sherri Oliver, the executive director of Community Health Programs and the Area Health Education Center at OU was in attendance at the town hall and said she had concerns about the meeting times, given that they were during working hours.

"I think it's really critical, especially when you're trying to do community engagement," said Oliver. "I do know that there's an option for public comment on the website, but I do think there's value in being able to give them back in person."

Recchie said that there will be more meetings for community members to attend in the future.

Brook said OU student involvement and feedback about the Ridges Development Strategy, apart from OU student organizations, has been scarce. He said in the future, more student involvement would be ideal.

The approval of a New Community Authority, which will assist in the construction and financing of the plan, by the Athens County Commissioners, OU Board of Trustees and the Ohio Controlling Board is the next step for the approval of the Ridges Development Strategy. Approval from all three is expected to be granted by October 2023.

Mill Fest draws hundreds following small Milliron Fest turnout

Arelatively small gathering of students kicked off Fest Season at Ohio University last Friday with Milliron Fest; however, warmer weather produced a much larger turnout at Mill Fest on Saturday.

Milliron Fest

The first fest of the season was met with undesirable weather. It only reached 42 degrees and rained most of the night, which caused the cancellation of the BrickLife event and a lackluster number of fest participants.

Sophia Gee, a freshman studying business entrepreneurship, said she and her friends attended Milliron to see what the fests were like. As freshmen, they said they had had no prior experience with fest season.

Around 8 p.m., the streets were bare, with only a few people walking around. Most of the festivities occurred at apartments that were hosting small-scale parties.

Clare Mattingly, a sophomore studying wildlife conservation, said she was not excited to be at Milliron Fest because of the low temperature.

Most of the people at the parties were apartment residents or friends of the apartment renters.

Alex Arend, a junior studying social work, said she probably would not have gone to Milliron if she did not live there.

“(The fests) are fun, so I come back,” Arend said. “I feel like I just have FOMO so I got to come back. Everybody’s there, so I got to be there.”

Many people said they were more excited for the upcoming fests, but those who hosted Milliron fests said they enjoyed being able to throw a party, even if attendance was small . Mill Fest

After a rainy beginning to OU’s fest season, students were eager to hit Mill Street early Saturday morning to enjoy the festivities and the sun. As early as 9 a.m., students could be seen walking up and down Mill Street.

House parties along the street were in full swing by 10 a.m., with packed yards and loud music. The Athens Police Department could also be spotted riding on horseback to monitor Mill Fest as many students cheered them on.

The number of party-goers peaked at noon, with many fest-goers toting around “borgs,” a drinking trend recently becoming popular among college students as they walked from one house party to another.

Borgs, which is shorthand for “blackout rage gallons,” are plastic gallon jugs filled with water, alcohol, liquid flavoring and a hydration packet. The trend was especially popular this fest season.

Some party-goers also named their borgs. Broderick said one of her friends named their borg “blackborg.edu,” inspired by the learning platform Blackboard.

Rein Lee, a sophomore studying neuroscience at Ohio State University, said she was participating in the festivities on Mill with her best friend, who attends OU.

Lee said the best part about Mill Fest was being able to drink away her problems.

Zoe Foerster, a freshman studying sociology-criminology, was on Mill Street to socialize and take her sister’s dog, Wishbone, on a walk.

“I needed to take him on a walk before

dinner, but I think he also wanted to see some people and get people’s attention,” Foerster said.

Foerster said the best part about Mill Fest was the community aspect.

“Everyone’s out and you see the whole school is out and everyone just parties together,” Foerster said. “It’s just a day where everyone is together.”

Payton Daugherty, Madalyn Blair, Ella Jay and Harshita Singhania contributed to this report.

“(The turnout’s) definitely better than last year, the weather was bad and the vibes just weren’t there,” Sydney Broderick, a junior studying education, said. A partier tries to get her

friend’s attention during a party on March 25, 2023, at Mill Fest in Athens. (CHLOE EGGLESTON | FOR THE POST)

NPHC organizations create unity

KYLIE BRIDGEMAN FOR THE POST

The National Pan-Hellenic Council, commonly referred to as the Divine Nine, was chartered on May 10, 1930, and is now alive and well on the campus of Ohio University. It is the governing body of nine historically Black fraternities and sororities.

The NPHC houses are Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated, Omega Psi Phi, Fraternity, Incorporated, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.

House Bill 999, which is currently circulating the Florida courts, aims to dissolve Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programming and organizations in its public universities.

The bill denounces anything in relation to social activism which directly threatens the existence of NPHC organizations on public Florida university campuses.

Members of NPHC at OU are stressing the importance and impact of their organizations on campus.

The Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated has initiated its Spring 2023 line, The S.O.N.S ANARKHY, after not bringing in any new members since Fall 2021.

Devon Taylor, a senior studying integrated health sciences, joined the fraternity as a member of the Fall 2021 line, The Heartbreak Trilogy. He is currently the sitting president of his chapter and served as the new line’s dean.

The latest line of Kappa’s is made up of seven young men: Andrew Owusu, Donovan Billingsley, Chad White Jr., Christopher Manning Jr., Jireh Burton, Osahon Ogbebor and Joshua Smith.

“Man, I love those guys,” Taylor said. “Each one of them has a certain value about themselves that shows that young, enthusiastic need and want for success.”

The motto of Kappa Alpha Psi is “achievement in every field of human endeavor.” Taylor feels like each of the seven new members embodies the organization’s motto in a special way.

Each of the Divine 9 organizations encapsulates a motto that stimulates growth and advancement. That of Delta Sigma Theta is “Intelligence is the torch of wisdom.”

Re’Aija Grice, a senior studying exercise physiology, is the treasurer for the Epsilon Iota chapter of Delta Sigma Theta.

Grice grew up in a low-income, single-parent household, but being of service to others was always important for her.

“My mother always taught me that whatever I do in life, I always need to give back to my people and my community, and never forget where I came from,” Grice said.

The principle of service is of high importance to the sorority, especially pertaining to the Black community.

“I knew that I wanted to join an organization that aligned with my personal values (of) giving back to my community, the Black community specifically, … (and) empowering and uplifting the marginalized communities that we have in our world,” Grice said.

In addition to Delta Sigma Theta’s work for communal advancement, Alpha Kappa Alpha works to serve all mankind through its endeavors.

Mylan Foster, a senior studying communication studies, is the current vice president and treasurer of the Delta Phi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha.

Foster stresses the importance of creating positive spaces for young women on campus through her involvement with the sorority.

“It has helped me become a really good mentor, especially for the younger women on campus,” Foster said. “I definitely love to be of service to them to help them grow.”

The presence of NPHC on the campus of a predominantly white institution curates opportunities for marginalized communities to come together and be supported.

“I think that it’s really important for students at PWIs to see and understand that people who don’t look like them, who aren’t the majority, are putting in the work on campus and in their community,” Foster said.

The members of the Delta Phi chapter, including Foster, Cydney Granger and Darian Andrews, are a part of something much greater than themselves.

“I would say the women of my organization are remarkable,” Foster said. “The women of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated never fall short of doing something big. Whenever an AKA walks in the room, you know that she’s there, and they are the kind of women that make their presence known so that they can be of service to you.”

NPHC as a whole is striving to cultivate community and progress on campus, in Athens county, across the country and truly around the globe.

“Show the NPHC organizations on your campus, the love and flowers that they deserve,” Foster said. “I think it’s important to recognize that not only do we advocate for social change and what’s going on in the world right now, but we constantly advocate for ourselves, and that shouldn’t go unnoticed.”

The Divine 9 plans to continue encouraging and creating advancement, positivity, progress and so much more through their efforts, but they will not be able to if HB 999 and similar bills pass throughout the U.S.

“Let’s actually get to know (NPHC), step out of our comfort zone and learn about these different communities, organizations, and people before we decide to make decisions and try to get rid of them,” Grice said.

KB1533621@OHIO.EDU

Phi Beta Sigma holds a probate ceremony at Morton Hall to honor the induction of three new members on March 24, 2023, in Athens. (PEARL SPURLOCK | FOR THE POST)

This club is ‘hooked’ on crocheting

ALYSSA CRUZ ASST. CULTURE EDITOR

Crocheting and crochet products have been all the rage recently. Whether that is homemade tote bags, bucket hats or blankets, the craft has grown in popularity.

According to Forbes, the rise in interest in more traditionally domestic activities such as knitting and crocheting can be credited to the pandemic and the copious amount of free time everyone seemed to have on their hands. Many turned to crochet to keep those bored hands busy.

Ohio University students are not immune to the craze, with many engaging in the activity as well. Since January, students have finally had an opportunity to hone those skills in an organization with Crochet for a Cause.

Founded by club president Allison Winland, a freshman studying history, the club meets weekly to decompress and work on their recent crochet projects. Although members are not required to donate their creations to charities, the option is there for those interested.

Most recently, the club donated a variety of items, including hats, scarves, and socks, to the Athens County Reentry Program, an initiative dedicated to aiding citizens returning from the prison system. The program provides support and guidance for the formerly incarcerated population of Athens.

Winland said her motivations for creating the club lay in her want to help the community as well as to meet people with similar interests.

"I just wanted to do something to give back to the community, and also I just picked this hobby up and I wanted to meet other people that wanted to do it," she said.

Aside from philanthropy, the club is also a place for providing social interactions and creating friendships. Their most recent meeting on Wednesday was a bonding event where members sat around chatting, cro-

cheting and watching "The Hunger Games."

"It's been really great," Winland said. "I have met a lot of really great people. It's a lot of fun just watching movies and talking about everything."

Leila Abukamail, a freshman who is currently undecided in her major, said she joined the club because she was crocheting all the time anyway, so it has been fun doing one of her favorite hobbies in a social setting.

"It's fun to just chill and not think about anything else and just crochet," she said.

Kaycee Cook, a freshman studying sociology-criminology, was in a different boat than Abukamail and Winland, given that she had

no experience with the craft prior to attending club meetings. Attracted by the nature of the club and how it was advertised that no experience was needed, Cook came to a meeting.

Cook said she has been pleased with the nature of the new hobby, especially the repetition and sereneness it produces.

"It's actually really fun – you can just sit and get lost in it," she said.

Riley Rupert, a freshman studying entrepreneurship, is the social media manager for the club. She said she has received numerous direct messages to their Instagram account from people wanting to join but expressing

their concern about their lack of skills or their inability to make the meetings. Rupert said the club hopes to meet more regularly once their membership grows.

"I'm just hoping we can reach more people that way as well because I know a lot of people don't know about it, but also they just really can't make it," she said.

Crochet for a Cause meets weekly on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at various locations. All interested parties can learn more from the club's Instagram.

@ALYSSADANCCRUZ AC974320@OHIO.EDU

The Ohio Crochet Club meets in Baker University Center every Wednesday for a movie or show and crocheting. (JESSE JARROLD-GRAPES | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY)

Ready to rock: Music Summit 2023

ABBY JENKINS FOR THE POST

Ohio University's Music Industry Summit is on the horizon, and the anticipation is certainly killer. This large music industry conference is set to take place April 5 and 6, and students are preparing for big opportunities, interviews, prizes and performances.

The Music Industry Summit is free for all students and professionals, and those who plan to register may do so online or through the Music Industry Summit App. The Summit will also have both virtual and in-person events so anyone who wants to attend can.

Josh Antouccio, the director of the school of media arts and studies and director of the Music Industry Summit, in addition to having music roots of his own, helped to create the Summit in 2018. Since then, he has been the leading force behind it and continues to make each year bigger and better for all in attendance. He said the Summit is a place for students and young professionals to learn and network with people who help shape different parts of the music industry.

"So anything from art again, performers, music producers, engineers, leaders and much, tech leader and music publishing and supervision, artist management promotion," said Antouccio. "Basically try and pull something from multiple sectors for people to learn."

The Summit is currently in its fifth year, including the fully virtual Summit in 2021. Due to the accessibility the virtual Summit provided, thousands of people across almost every state and in over 40 countries worldwide attended. The 2020 Summit was canceled due to COVID-19, and last year's 2022 Summit expanded over two days and continued some of the virtual aspects.

"We also got really good feedback from

our attendees last year that they wanted more opportunities to network with speakers and guests and also kind of more variety in specialized workshops," said Antouccio. "So we incorporated both this year."

Compared to online opportunities, in-person attendees will be able to interact more closely with one another. Antouccio said there will be a mentoring session during the lunch hour where speakers and guests can sit down, enjoy a meal and exchange advice for success within the music industry.

Nathan Cain, president of Brick City Records, graduated from OU in December with a degree in music production. Cain is also part of a band specializing in folk funk and will be the opening act for the Summit's featured performer, mxmtoon, a TikTok breakout star.

"This year feels like a bit of a comeback year for the Summit," said Cain. "I mean, they said that last year because it was coming out of the virtual Summit with the COVID semesters, but I feel like this year is where it's really taking shape. We've had time to book some really big names and I just think this is going to be one of the best years and get it back to where it was before COVID hit."

Funding for the Summit comes from nearly 50 campus and industry sponsors, in addition to money raised by Antouccio.

"It's indispensable networking, (an) incredible way to engage people in the music industry," said Antouccio. "We draw from all across the Midwest. There are all kinds of industry people that are looking to hire."

Emma Gabriel, a senior studying music production and the recording industry,• is focused on more of the production side of music. She put an emphasis on this kind of opportunity for anyone in the midwest and how they should take advantage of it. She is currently an intern for the Music Summit.

"It's very much so like South by South-

west but on a smaller scale," she said. "And in southeast Ohio, which is amazing because a lot of opportunities music-wise are rarely presented in Ohio, let alone the south. It's a really sick convention where you're able to interact with professionals or other people on your same playing field, and just really network and grow together."

The Music Summit means so much to Gabriel, she said, as her passion for music was clear from a younger age. This incredible opportunity has allowed her to get closer to her career goals for the future, much like how it has done the same for many others like her.

"I wasn't made for the typical 9-to5," said Gabriel. "I love helping people but the way I felt I could help wasn't through teaching or being a doctor or anything like that. So once I found out that the music in-

dustry was a thing I could pursue, I'm like, 'Hell yeah, let's go there.'"

With incredible feature artists such as mxmtoon and hip-hop legend Talib Kweli, this is the opportunity of a lifetime for so many students and young professionals in the music industry. This year's Music Summit hopes to make many dreams a reality.

"It was very much so like it just felt right," said Gabriel. "Music helps people in ways that go unrecognized and to be a small part of helping people hear what they need to hear by artists that they like follow, is just really awesome."

@ABBYJENKS18

AJ205621@OHIO.EDU

ILLUSTRATION BY MIA PISHOTTI

Recapping the 2022-23 season

EMMA ERION AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT EDITOR MOLLY BURCHARD ASST. AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT EDITOR

Ohio started its 64th season ranked No. 7 in the American Collegiate Hockey Association but quickly showed it was much better than that. With the help of its veterans and an already very developed freshman class, Ohio got out to a strong 6-0 start for the first time since 2019. It swept teams like John Carroll, Alabama and Illinois before losing its first game of the season at Maryville on Oct. 21.

Ohio only lost seven total games during the 2022-23 season, which was much improved from the 20 it lost last season. All of the losses came against ranked opponents, four of them being in the Top 10.

One reason why the Bobcats had so much success this season was that they played so many of their games at home. 27 of the Bobcats' 35 games were played at Bird Arena, so they consistently had a huge support system cheering them on. Playing most games at an arena where they are comfortable and practice almost every day was a luxury for the Bobcats.

However, that doesn't mean the season occurred without a hitch. No team is perfect, including the Bobcats. They had their fair share of trouble in the third period of games when fatigue would start to catch up to them. By that point though, the Bobcats normally had a big enough lead so the fatigue didn't result in losses.

Like last season, Ohio also struggled with unnecessary penalties. Some of its players got disqualified from a handful of games, resulting in an often high number of penalty minutes. Laker Aldridge had the most on the team with 102 minutes.

The postseason was also rough for the Bobcats. They finished the regular season ranked No. 2 with a real chance at winning the ACHA National Championship. However, the two-week break from gameplay it had in between the regular season and the playoffs resulted in a shaky postseason. The Bobcats looked rusty and fell in the tournament's semifinals.

Despite their occasional struggles on the ice, the Bobcats never faltered with their eccentric personalities and exuberant attitudes off the ice. From 'The Ryans' and their group Halloween costume ideas, Blake Rossi exemplifying what it means to be a student-athlete, Justin Damon falling in love with Athens, Luc Reeve's penchant for "La La Land" and 'The Andrews' input on the highly-contested Fortnite debate, they always managed to keep their energy up.

One of the biggest things for Ohio last season was its recruiting. Luc Reeve, Laker Aldridge, Hollander Thompson and Justin Damon all played significant roles in keeping the Bobcats alive in close games or getting momentum going early to set the team off on the right foot. Ohio coach Lionel Mauron agrees that the recruiting success was one of the biggest takeaways from the season.

"I think we need to keep a deeper roster and we need to keep recruiting really well. I think we saw this year that the younger guys were really pushing us and we want to keep that momentum going next year," Mauron said.

Mauron also hopes to recruit a big class in the offseason again and hand over some responsibility to last year's class.

"The young guys from last year will be leading our group going forward," Mauron said.

The future is looking bright for Ohio after this formative season, even though there were some bumps in the road. Mauron is excited to see how the team will change and grow, especially with the loss of nine seniors, including Sam Turner and Ryan Higgins, the two team captains.

"It's going to be really interesting because we're losing such a large senior group," Mauron said. We'll have new roles for the younger guys and the new players coming in will have to make an impact. The team is completely going to change, but we want to be successful."

The seniors were anchors for the team this year, playing

a lot of minutes and providing leadership and positive guidance to the younger crowd of Bobcats on the team. Mauron is proud of how the entire team came into its own over the season.

"I'm proud of all of our guys and the way they evolved … They really stepped up in the room to try and create a better culture and that is really helpful for us now to have the guys already doing what we want to do so we can just keep it going."

Ohio forward Aiden Grieco (21) attempts to keep the puck from Niagara University forward Jay Ahearn (9) during the Bobcats' last home game in Bird Ice Arena on Feb. 25, 2023, in Athens. (ALAINA DACKERMANN | FOR THE POST)

Jenna Hall returns home to coach Ohio

BOBBY GORBETT FOR THE POST

For most coaches, their first head coaching job is special, but uncharted territory. For current Ohio coach Jenna Hall, a reunion with Ohio after four years as an assistant was the best job she could’ve asked for.

Hall’s love of Softball and her unique skillset was apparent from day one of her playing career at Illinois. In her first season with the Illini, Hall was named to the All-Big Ten firstteam. By the end of her career, Hall finished with a record .357 batting average and a .580 slugging percentage.

Hall had four All-Big Ten first-team selections and three All-Region selections. Hall particularly shined in her senior year, where she finished with a single-season record that still stands today, a .481 batting average. Hall finished top 5 nationally in slugging, batting average and walks that season and was a finalist for the USA Softball Player of the Year award. For her achievements, Hall was inducted into the Illinois Athletics Hall of Fame in 2019 and was able to play professionally

for the Philadelphia Force.

Hall knew her playing career couldn’t last forever but was uncertain about her future. In her professional career, Hall realized the importance of coaching.

“When I was able to play professionally, I got to be surrounded by some really fantastic Softball players in the world, but also some really good coaches,” Hall said. “I learned a lot, and so one thing I picked up, was that there are so many ways to teach this game and so many ways to play it, and so I think I was inspired to know that there’s so much more out there. And then that combined with giving back. Softball gave me so much in my life, so being part of that for somebody else is really important to me.”

After Hall made up her mind, she got her first experience as an assistant coach at Ohio. Under Hall and current Pitt head coach Jodi Hermanek, the Bobcats finished with a 5232 record in Mid-American Conference play. During her time at Ohio, Hall learned a lot about what makes Athens special.

“I think the biggest thing for me was the community,” Hall said. “I feel like people here

support each other. They love being here, they want to be here, and I feel like that’s an atmosphere as a head coach that I want to be around.”

Hall became an assistant coach at Ohio State, where several different Buckeyes excelled as hitters during her seven-season tenure as an assistant. Hall helped coach several Buckeyes to record-setting seasons, including all-time hits leader Cammi Prantl and Lilli Piper, the first Buckeye to go for 20 home runs in a single season. Piper went on to play professionally and is now part of Ohio’s staff while playing for Athletes Unlimited.

Hall then moved to Pitt, where she again coached with Hermanek. Once again, Hall’s proficiency at developing players into elite-level hitters continued. Three Panthers hit above .300 during the 2022 season, including Yvonne Whaley, who finished the season with a .344 batting average and was named to the All-ACC third team.

Despite Hall’s high level of play in her own right as a player at Illinois, the secret to her hitters’ success is their mentality.

“ I know a lot of coaches who weren’t always the best players, but it’s a learning thing,” Hall said. “It’s a skill to teach, and so I think the mentality piece comes in handy a lot when it comes to having played at the highest level and been successful. I think I can give them the right headspace.”

After 10 years of coaching at Power 5 schools as an assistant, Hall received the call to return to Ohio, but this time as the head coach. The history of Ohio’s program and the culture around the team made it an easy decision for Hall.

“This place always left such a big impression on me, and I’ve always had a lot of love for Athens, and being a Bobcat in this community,” Hall said. “So to start my head coaching career here, I don’t think I could’ve picked a better place , it just feels like home and I’m just really happy to be here.”

Photo provided via Ohio Athletics (CLAY STARK | OHIO ATHLETICS)

Ohio continues its outdoor season at Raleigh Relays

KELLYN FLOHR FOR THE POST

Ohio competed at the Raleigh Relays over the weekend along with many other teams from across the country. The meet was hosted by North Carolina State and was a three-day event with some strong performances for Ohio.

Ohio didn’t have any top finishers in the events, but they still made outstanding times and experienced new personal records. The

strongest events for the Bobcats were shot put and discus. Autumn Mohan had a great performance at last weekend’s Blizzard Buster and she was even better this weekend. In shot put, Mohan and teammate Millie Ryan both set season-best throws of 12.74m and 11.72m. The two also greatly improved in discus with Mohan throwing 40.61m and Ryan with a season-best 37.34m.

In the 100m, Josie Knierim and Taniah Stephens finished right behind each other with

Knierim clocking a 12.41 and Stephens a 12.58. Both of them also competed in the 200m, with Stephens finishing at 25.57 and Knierim right behind at 25.58.

Stephanie Pierce finished first among the Bobcats in the 1500m with a time of 4:34.12 with two other teammates following close behind her. Alyssa Christian came in with a time of 4:39.65 and Madelyn Bartolone with 4:55.95.

Unlike the opening Blizzard Buster, this weekend the Bobcats competed in the 3000m

steeplechase. Carina Weaver ran in the event and finished with a time of 11:07:51.

Lastly, the Bobcats ran the 5000m and had three finishers: Alyssa Mason, Kelsi Harris and Theresa Hagey. Mason led the three with 17:12:70 and the others followed behind with 17:15:09 and 17:28:10.

Ohio will participate in the Oliver Nikoloff Invitational this upcoming weekend.

KF875321@OHIO.EDU

The Ohio womens track team competes in the 3,000 meter race at the Cherry Blossom Invitational in Athens on Saturday, April 16, 2022. (NATE SWANSON | FOR THE POST)

Annalia Paoli’s mindset unlocks her potential as Ohio’s marquee slugger

There is a point where players are no longer known for their statistical performances but for their specialized abilities that go beyond the box scores.

Annalia Paoli has achieved this for Ohio softball with her home run-hitting prowess.

The junior hails from Point Marion, Pennsylvania, a town with just over 1,100 residents. Paoli became a legend at Albert Gallatin Senior High School as a four-year letter winner, including two years as team captain. Paoli helped break a 20-year playoff drought for her high school, leading it to the playoffs three times.

High school achievements aside, Paoli had decided to commit to the University of Pittsburgh in order to stay local. However, that decision was not her final choice.

“There was really no other place I would rather be … ,” Paoli said. “Six months later (after committing to Pittsburgh), I was like ‘That was absolutely the wrong decision.’ I came back (to Athens) and have loved it here … the campus, softball coaches, everything that’s been brought to me.”

If Paoli had any reservations about her ability to play collegiate softball, they were answered right off the bat. Paoli not only started every game as a freshman, but she did so with a .307/.348/.420 slash line.

Regardless, Paoli embodies the adage “the greatest ability is availability.” As a Bobcat, she has played in every single game. When it comes to college softball, games are played on consecutive days, often multiple times a day. That consistency is almost unheard of, as Paoli could become just the 15th Bobcat to play in 200 career games.

“Softball has always been my entire life, ever since I was four,” Paoli said. “My dad has been the best coach for me growing up. He has drilled into me to be the best player I can be and to always try my best and he has pushed me to where I am today. So I take that energy that (my dad) has given me and bring it onto the field and try to drill it into my teammates as well.”

Moreover, the ability of first-year head coach Jenna Hall to have a consistent name to pencil in at 3rd base is a huge lift. As Hall learns the ropes of managing a dugout for the first time as a head coach, Paoli’s availability helps immensely.

However, in terms of culture, Paoli learned from her new head coach.

“(Coach Hall) brings so much positivity to all of us,” Paoli said. “Everyone’s always so happy to come to practice, show up for gameday. The

atmosphere is just so great this year. I love the chemistry with all the teammates, the coaches, just all of us together.”

On the field, Paoli is a marvel in the batter’s box. She has a rare combination of power and contact, which puts incredible pressure on even the best defenses and pitching staffs in the country.

“Even when I am in an 0-2 count, I just have to think ‘I’m making contact with the ball and I’m covering all parts of the plate,’” Paoli said. “Obviously, everyone hates to strike out. I just try to have the best mindset whenever I have two strikes on me and to at least put a ball in play hard, even if I get out because if (you’re) putting the ball in play, (you’re) going make the fielders work and you have a better chance of getting on base.”

In the absence of Allie Englant, who ranks

second in Ohio history in hits, it was easy to wonder if Ohio could put the ball in play enough to be competitive. Although seen more often as a power hitter, Paoli has filled some of that void.

Regardless, Paoli has become one of the bigger bats on the Bobcats and the Mid-American Conference. She is the marquee slugger for the Bobcats, but with that territory, there are more responsibilities than simply being expected to hit home runs. Paoli is learning to handle the different treatment that comes from opposing pitchers.

“Last year, I was seeing a lot of better pitches and then this year, I’m getting a lot of balls off the plate,” Paoli said. “The pitcher is trying to get me to chase. That just means (you) have to have a stronger mindset. So this year has been a little different and I have to think ‘I’m only hitting a pitch that is in the zone and that I can drive.’”

Driving the ball is something that Paoli specializes in. She recently moved into 12th in program history in home runs, but her mindset remains unchanged regardless of how many she hits. While Paoli admits that everyone, including her, loves to hit home runs, they simply aren’t everything. Paoli says she is trying to “get runs in to win the game.”

Through the development of Paoli as a player, her mindset in the batter’s box has yet to veer from the one that got her to this point.

As Ohio looks to make some noise in the MAC this season and bring home a conference title, Paoli’s ability to be a constant on the field and in the minds of opponents will be key to unlocking the full potential of the team.

Annalia Paoli of Ohio makes contact with the ball at a game against Bowling Green on March 25, 2022, in Athens.

(PEARL SPURLOCK | FOR THE POST)

The Reds are bad, but maybe not as bad as you think

ROBERT KEEGAN III

I have a love-hate relationship with the Cincinnati Reds.

Over the last quarter-century, we have been widely regarded as one of the worst teams in not just baseball but all of sports. Nevertheless, I still can't help feeling optimistic at the start of every new season.

The start of the season is just around the corner, with opening day on Thursday and I have the same annual optimism.

I grew up attending Great American Ballpark, or GABP, with my father and fell in love with the game of baseball for all of its finest intricacies and delights.

I never needed a winning team in order to enjoy the game.

It was always just showing up to the ballpark, eating a couple of hot dogs and my dad with a beer just kicking back and enjoying the game.

However, over the years, as I have enamored myself more and more in Cincinnati sports history, I dream of how great it would be for the Reds to return to the glory days of the '90s when we were a perennial World Series favorite.

With an owner who is vocally unwilling to spend money and a group of players that seems to have lost all ability to win, this year's Reds are far from the glory days.

However, we may not be as far as you think.

I know as Cincinnati fans, after watching years and years of poor performances in both baseball and football, it has become our very nature to be pessimistic about our team's potential successes. But I am willing to be brave enough to sit here and tell you that the 2023 Cincinnati Reds will be above average.

Let's start with the main reason why everyone should watch the Reds in the first place: 39-year-old Joey Votto.

Votto has reached the end of his career, but like many baseball players before him, the first baseman has stood the test of time.

While we will almost certainly never see Votto back in his 2010 MVP form, he has slowly become one of the most polarizing players in all of baseball and most importantly, the Reds' number-one cheerleader.

Votto embraced the new generation by cementing himself as one of the social media's most entertaining baseball players last year. From his crazy TikToks to his odd obsession with chess, there is no better person to follow for the Reds.

Despite Votto's antics, the Reds have still been pretty consistently bad. This

usually means one thing: we have racked up enough top 10 draft picks to have some of the best young stars in all of baseball. We do, and I personally could not be more excited to watch them play this year.

These stars, including Elly De La Cruz, Hunter Green, Matt McClain, Nick Lodolo and so many more, will be the heart of this year's young team as they take on the long 162-game season.

It's always fun to watch young guys come up from the minors and while all those names won't be on the roster to start the year, we will surely see some phenomenal debuts throughout the summer.

While most of this talent was developing in the minors, the Reds finished last year's season with a whopping 100 losses and only 62 wins, but I don't think last year's team was as bad as the numbers show.

The team had an abysmal start, losing 22 of the first 25 games to start the year. In a division that includes great teams like the Milwaukee Brewers and the St. Louis Cardinals, the season was basically over before we even entered the summer months.

The Reds showed some promise in July and August, finishing the two months with

a decent 25-29 record.

Now I know that that doesn't sound like much, we still lost more games than we won, but if we can stay on that pace for a whole season, we will be hovering around a .500 record and have some important games late in the season that might just put us in the playoffs.

I'll admit it, come July, I may be totally wrong. I'll throw in the towel like most fans already have and hope for better years to come, but for now, the Reds are 0-0 just like the rest of the league.

Remember in 2021 when everyone counted out the Cincinnati Bengals before the season even started? We made the Super Bowl that year. Just saying, why not? Nothing says that we can't make the unlikely jump from 100 losses to a darkhorse contender.

Robert Keegan III is a freshman studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Robert? Tweet him @robertkeegan_.

Dissecting Ye’s ‘apology’

HADASS GALILI

In case you missed it, Ye, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, posted what was likely supposed to be an apology to the Jewish community on his Instagram the other day. The post, which was the “21 Jump Street” theatrical release poster, was captioned in the familiar Ye style of runon sentences that are broken up in the style of multiple paragraphs. As usual, Ye’s post has a lot to dissect, so let’s dive in.

The caption beings with, “Watching Jonah Hill in 21 Jump street made me like Jewish people again.” A strong start! Jonah Hill is super loveable! Also, “21 Jump Street” is very funny, so at least we know that Mr. West has good taste. And let’s not ignore the fact that Ye admitted that he had a dislike of Jewish people. Suddenly his “I can’t be antisemitic” comments have magically lost their weight, and everyone can stop feeling crazy for accusing him of antisemitism. Not bad, not bad at all.

The next period-less sentence, “No one should take an-

ger against one or two individuals and transform that into hatred towards millions of innocent people,” is even better. This part really does feel like it belongs in an apology, as it has another admission of the fact that Ye has taken his anger out on Jewish people as a whole. However, I wonder who the “one or two individuals” Ye mentioned are. A part of me thinks that one of these individuals could be Ye’s Jewish doctor, who, according to Ye, tried to kill him with mental health medication. That is, of course, just speculation, and I do not know Ye personally or what his interpersonal relationships are like.

With all these great steps, it seems like Ye has finally turned around! He is trying to undo the damage that he has done, both to his reputation and to his personal life. However, it seems like this is a “one step forward, three steps back” situation because the next line is “No Christian can be labeled antisemite knowing Jesus is Jew.”

I love when people get really into their religion, but using your religion as a way to get out of being accused of being hateful towards another group is not the way to go about things. This hurt to read, especially after he was doing so

PEOPLE AND PLANET

MEGAN DIEHL

well with his apology-adjacent language. In fact, this wasn’t just a way to get out of his antisemitism, it was also historically inaccurate. There have been many instances where Christians persecuted Jews (ever heard of the Spanish Inquisition?). Unfortunately, it appears that Ye is not actually taking accountability for his actions. Instead, he uses his born-again identity to dodge the well-deserved accusations.

The final sentence of the caption is “Thank you Jonah Hill I love you,” which is a sweet way to end the post. But, it still doesn’t make up for the fact that this came very short of an apology. This is not the admission of guilt and the promise not to repeat his behavior that is needed to express regret. I’m hoping for something better from him, but I will not be holding my breath.

Hadass Galili is a senior studying political science prelaw at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. Do you agree? Tell Hadass by tweeting her at @HadassGalili.

Keep an eye on the ICWA

Between 1819 and 1969, 408 special boarding schools existed in the U.S. and operated under a very different set of rules than other boarding schools adhere to.

Attendance was mandatory regardless of parental consent. Upon arrival, students had their hair cut short, were bathed in kerosene and renamed. They were forced to change their religion and were often displaced to unfamiliar communities where they were exploited for physical labor. They were made to speak a new language.

Disciplinary measures for students who protested included dietary restrictions, threats of corporal punishment and confinement. They experienced emotional, physical and sexual abuse. 500 children died at those schools that are known of, but the number will likely rise with continuous research.

The schools referenced above were run by the U.S. government, often alongside Christian missionaries. The children who attended those schools were Indigenous Americans, taken from their families in an attempt to eradicate Indigenous American culture and assimilate them to the standards of Western colonizers.

In 1978, the Federal Government passed the Indi-

an Child Welfare Act, or ICWA, aimed at ending the displacement of Indigenous children. Over 40 years later, the Supreme Court is expected to soon make a decision that could gravely endanger the well-being of Indigenous children across the United States in overturning the ICWA. The case that brought the ICWA into question is Haaland v. Brackeen.

Haaland v. Brackeen began in Texas in 2016 when a tenmonth-old Navajo boy was placed with Chad and Jennifer Brackeen after his mother was found to be using drugs. She eventually lost custody and the Brackeens wished to adopt the boy. However, the Navajo Nation stepped in and wanted him to be placed with a Navajo family. This failed and the child was ultimately placed with the Brackeens. The couple went on to attempt to adopt the boy’s sister through state court, but her extended Navajo family once again sought custody. The Brackeens filed suit in federal court to overturn the ICWA on the grounds of racial discrimination.

Under the ICWA, there are different priority levels when placing an Indigenous child who must be removed from their home. The priority levels are as such: “the child should be placed with a member of the child’s extended family, other members of the child’s tribe, or other Indian families. Second, the child could be placed in a foster

home approved by the child’s tribe, or third, in a foster home approved by the state or other non-Indian authority. Finally, they could be placed in an institution operated or approved by an Indian tribe.”

The preference for a child to go with their extended family in the event they are taken from their parents is not racial discrimination, it is putting the emotional well-being of the child first, regardless of their race. A whole other article could be written about the problems with the foster care system and the physical and mental scars it leaves on the children in the system.

However, it is even more important in the context of the ICWA because of the historical implications and potential resurrection of the institutions that allowed for a cultural genocide to occur and the deaths of countless children to follow.

Above all else, this article is a call for vigilance. The decision is no longer in the hands of the People. Regardless of the ultimate decision, it is the duty of the People to keep a close eye on what happens next.

Megan Diehl is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Megan? Email her at md396520@ohio.edu.

How to plan the best summer trip on a budget

SOPHIA ROOKSBERRY FOR THE POST

Summer is just around the corner, with all its experiences and adventures waiting to be had. For those looking to plan an exciting summer trip, but want to be as cost-efficient as possible, here is a guide to planning exactly that kind of excursion.

A general tip is to be selective about trip locations so that you don’t find yourself overwhelmed while traveling. As tempting as it may be to see as many places as possible, it’s better to give yourself enough time in each location so that you’re not exhausted and end up seeing more of the highway strip than the actual destination.

In terms of finding activities within cities, it is best to do research beforehand. For example, if you visit a museum’s website in advance, you are almost certain to find deals for specific days. Many local sites will also offer student discounts, so plan accordingly.

Whether traveling overseas or in the states, there are several affordable transportation options. The public transporta-

tion options in many European countries and major American cities are definite ways to save money while getting around quickly. If you plan to fly to your destination, book your plane tickets as soon as possible. While some argue that there are cheaper times of day to book plane tickets, this fact cannot be guaranteed, so it is best to book tickets soon. Apps like Hopper and trivago can help you determine the sweet spot in the ticket-buying timeline.

While you don’t want to sleep in a bedbug-ridden sty, staying in a less extravagant youth hostel or motel can also be preferable to save some money. However, be sure to look at reviews in advance to ensure that the location will be bearable enough to warrant the extra saved money.

While it isn’t always possible, do your best to stay with family or friends at every possible location. If money is extra tight, planning a trip surrounding that kind of lodging opportunity might even be convenient.

If possible, try not to eat out at every meal. While one of the best parts of travel is the local restaurants and cuisine, it is also totally acceptable to do some cheap

grocery shopping and cook a meal wherever you are staying. This can also involve buying picnic food and bringing it to an outdoor spot you want to visit during your trip.

With research, it is even possible to find travel experiences that pay. The National Parks Service offers summer internships that allow you to explore the area and work for a stipend and lodging, depending on location. If you can find a host family,

you could trade room and board for your services as an au pair.

Part of the fun of a vacation is exploring the area with no schedule or plan, which often comes with the territory of cheap travel. With the right mentality, even the most frugally planned vacation can be the best trip of your life.

ILLUSTRATION BY NICOLE REESE

Luke Combs’ ‘Gettin’ Old’ features something for everyone

ASHLEY BEACH ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Luke Combs is back with his new album “Gettin’ Old,” which dropped on March 24. The 18-track album arrived nine months after his third album, “Growin’ Up.”

Combs returned to the punchy, classic country sound found on his first few EPs and albums. There are no features on the album, which isn’t a bad thing. Combs produced an album that was purely his and a little less radio-based.

Combs broke free from his beer-drinking branding in “Joe,” a song about sobriety. The slow track is one for those who enjoy country music but don’t necessarily partake in the party lifestyle for various reasons. There’s a sweet piano in the background that couples the sincerity of Combs’ tone. It’s a nice step away from his traditional songs.

“Take You With Me” is Combs’ tribute to his son, Tex Lawrence, and the memories he hopes to share with him. Combs sings about Tex learning the difference between a “turtle” and a “rabbit” on a tractor and the day Tex learns that “Take You With Me” is about

him. The track is bouncy and enjoyable.

Combs partnered with Dave Turnbull, who has credits on “The Boys of Fall” by Kenny Chesney and long-time co-writer Randy Montana, who has credits on “Houston, We’ve Got a Problem” and “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” for “Where The Wild Things Are.” Combs croons about adventuring with his brother in southern California, where “it’s hearts on fire and crazy dreams” and “the nights ignite like gasoline.” It’s got the makings of a classic freedom song.

There’s a kick to “Hannah Ford Road” that Combs hasn’t brought since “Angels Workin’ Overtime.” It’s a new take on the classic trope of young couples in love running around doing things they ought not to. This middle track is a perfect candidate for song of the summer.

“Growin’ Up” also features “5 Leaf Clover,” a fan-favorite that Combs posted snippets of on social media well before the album’s launch. “5 Leaf Clover” is the ballad Combs released as a single, which was a good move considering the hype.

“5 Leaf Clover” really lived up to the noise. The sweet chorus of, “Now I hit my knees,

thankful as can be / But the one thing I can’t get over / How’d a guy like me, who’d have been fine with three / Wind up with a fiveleaf clover?” The track ranks high with other Combs’ ballads such as “Beautiful Crazy.”

Fans have long enjoyed Combs’ covers, which he’s shared via live streams and YouTube videos. One of those covers, Tracy Chapman’s “Fast Car,” found its way onto the album. Combs gave new life to an already strong song by adding more of a country flow to the acoustic track.

Other enjoyable songs are “Back 40 Back” and “You Found Yours.” The former is a slower song reminiscing on the way a town used to look before developments took over. The latter has a build-up to the chorus that emphasizes Combs’ voice.

“Fox in the Henhouse” is the song on the album that feels the most like a classic country track. Combs brings in a bluegrass sound that he’s explored before, thanks to the writing of Jamie Davis, Dan Isbell and Dustin Nunley. Combs is a little more gritty than usual, but it works for him.

Overall, “Gettin’ Old” is a huge leap from “Growin’ Up.” It feels more true to Combs

and country music. It’s a strong album with songs that can stand on their own. Combs is sure to find the charts with these tracks.

Rating: 4.5/5