September 17, 2020

OU faculty member sues university...PG 4 Religious organizations adapt to COVID-19...PG 12 Recycling summer clothes for fall...PG 20

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

Praying through the pandemic

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

If you couldn’t tell, taking a full virtual class load is terrible

MOLLY SCHRAMM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Though it was for the right reasons, the decision to move forward with a fully online class load for most Ohio University students probably wasn’t what students intended for their Fall Semester. It surely wasn’t what I wanted for the start to my senior year. Nonetheless, OU’s student body is truly rolling with the punches and begrudgingly adapting to the administration’s decision, but, if I’m being honest, it sucks.

Not to get too sentimental, but there’s truly something special about a college classroom, especially one with an engaging professor and classmates. Now students are fitted with the oh-so handy dandy Blackboard, maybe a live Zoom class and their own wits and self-teaching abilities to pass through the semester with flying colors. Ultimately, as we reach the middle of week four, I can confidently state that virtual classes are difficult as hell.

As someone who strives off the strict structure I have between my class, work and student organization schedules, it’s quite off-putting to have a ton of lectures to watch, discussion board posts to write and multiple assignments due at various times randomly

throughout a week. While having solid time management skills — which I fairly do — is the crux of the issue, it also seems that professors are just disregarding the amount of time in a day and assigning what seems like busy work, just to assign something. When that happens with not one but around five or six classes a week, it can become a lot.

Deep down, I’d like to think the majority of professors aren’t doing this. All of mine have seemed empathetic to the circumstances we’ve been graced with and, honestly, I feel bad for the situation they’ve been put in as professors, but at the end of the day, they’re the ones assigning work to us and calling the shots for the class.

On top of classwork, attending school from home is probably the worst factor of a virtual Fall Semester. Not only is it a bummer to not experience campus and Athens if you’re an underclassman, but attending all your classes while cooped up in your home isn’t good for one’s mental health. Yeah, sitting in your pajamas all day can be liberating, but it’s not healthy to do your physics homework in the same place you sleep. Separating work spaces

from personal spaces is a needed practice, but that’s immensely hard to do if you’re forced to stay home and work from your bedroom.

At the end of the day, students simply have to endure their classes, try to keep their GPA up and along the way attempt to not lose their minds. It’s easier said than done though, and I truly hope not only professors but OU’s administration see the stress put on college students right now. On top of that, while enduring these classes, students are still paying in-person tuition rates because, according to OU, money comes first, I guess.

The circumstances surrounding Fall Semester financially, academically and mentally are draining. College students didn’t ask for this, didn’t necessarily want this, but we’re doing it because there’s a global pandemic going on. The only thing we ask professors as students is to maybe, just maybe, not assign roughly eight hours of work each week.

Molly Schramm is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University and the editor-in-chief of The Post. Have questions? Email Molly at ms660416@ohio.edu or tweet her @_molly_731

COVER ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA JUENGER

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Molly Schramm MANAGING EDITOR Baylee DeMuth DIGITAL MANAGING EDITOR Matthew Geiger EDITORIAL NEWS EDITORS Abby Miller, Nolan Simmons ASST. NEWS EDITOR Ian McKenzie LONG-FORM EDITOR Shelby Campbell SPORTS EDITORS Jack Gleckler, J.L. Kirven CULTURE EDITOR Riley Runnells ASST. CULTURE EDITOR Keri Johnson OPINION EDITOR Noah Wright ASST. OPINION EDITOR Mikayla Rochelle THE BEAT EDITOR Madyson Lewellyn ASST. THE BEAT EDITOR Emma Dollenmayer COPY CHIEF Bre Offenberger SLOT EDITORS Eli Feazell, Anna Garnai, Katey Kruback, Molly Powers ART ART DIRECTOR Mary Berger ASST. ART DIRECTOR Olivia Juenger DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY Kelsey Boeing PHOTO EDITOR Nate Swanson DIGITAL WEB DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Brianna Lender SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR Taylor Burnette DIRECTOR OF MULTIMEDIA Ethan Sands BUSINESS STUDENT MEDIA SALES INTERNSHIP MANAGER Andrea Lewis MEDIA SALES Emily Cassidy, Ali Gifford, Kyle McCort

2 / SEPT. 17, 2020

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NEWS BRIEFS

Menards opens Athens location; OU to ramp up COVID-19 testing for Phase 2 ABBY MILLER NEWS EDITOR

OU TO BEGIN NEW COVID-19 TESTING STRATEGIES FOR PHASE 2

MENARDS OPENS ON EAST STATE STREET

Home improvement store Menards opened a new East State Street location Monday after an initial delay due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Construction for Menards, 2009 E. State St., began last year. Despite the pandemic, General Manager Darren Miller said the opening process for the store went well. Now that it’s completed, Menards will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.

The store will sell its usual selection of home improvement, garden and construction tools and supplies, according to a press release from Menards.

In accordance with the city of Athens’ ordinance, masks will be required by all employees and customers, Miller said.

Menards also has a schedule for “enhanced cleaning” its carts and major touchpoints at the store. Stickers throughout the store also remind customers to maintain 6 feet of physical distance whenever possible.

Workers also took extra precautions when doing the store’s initial stocking by having fewer people in each aisle.

College students and retirees seeking part-time work are some of the included employee demographics.

Ohio University President Duane Nellis said Monday the university will roll out a new testing model to ramp up its COVID-29 testing during Phase 2.

During Faculty Senate’s first meeting of the year, Nellis and Gillian Ice, professor and director of global health, discussed a new testing strategy to screen both asymptomatic and symptomatic students.

The university also signed a contract with OhioHealth — which will allow for increased testing — and is finalizing an agreement with CVS to increase the amount of asymptomatic testing available.

Tests in partnership with CVS will be administered in Grosvenor West 111. OU now has the capacity to test between 150 to 180 people in a day.

Ice said the university will also be doing random sampling and wide net testing. OU employees will be included in random sampling, with those in high-risk groups being invited to participate first.

High-risk groups include university employees in housing, maintenance and custodial work, Ice said.

Nellis said the university is still working on a plan for how students going out to bars and parties may be punished. He said it is important for penalties to be in place, but the univer-

sity also does not want to disincentivize those partying from coming forward for contact tracing.

THE PLAINS MAN ARRESTED FOR STOLEN CATALYTIC CONVERTERS, RELATED CRIMES

A man from The Plains was arrested Tuesday for theft, breaking and entering and possession of criminal tools in relation to a string of catalytic converter thefts in Athens County.

James Howerton, 47, of The Plains, was arrested after the Athens County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Interdiction Units executed a search warrant at 7 Beech Road, The Plains.

The warrant was issued in light of an investigation into the high number of catalytic converters stolen from a business in Athens County over the past several months. On one occasion, seven converters were stolen from the store.

Video surveillance from the business was used to identify Howerton and an additional male. Howerton is currently being held on a $35,000 bond with 10% allowed, according to a press release from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

The additional suspect has been identified, and charges are expected, pending lab results.

@ABBLAWRENCE AM166317@OHIO.EDU

POLICE BLOTTER

Man extinguishes car fire with water bottle; man reports son's toys broken by roommate GRANT RITCHEY FOR THE POST A WATER BOTTLE WILL DO

The Athens Fire Department received a report of a car on fire at Columbus Road and Second Street. The car was at Athens Quick Change and Lube on the corner of the two streets. When AFD arrived, the hood on the car was up, and a bystander had poured water on the fire, which extinguished it.

ICY HOT

AFD received a report of an air conditioner on fire behind the building by Oakview Dermatology. Upon

arrival, AFD found a cigarette receptacle by the rear door of Interim Healthcare. The fire was extinguished.

BROKEN TOYS

The Athens County Sheriff’s Office received a call Monday from a man saying his son’s Power Wheels were damaged while he was out of town. He alleges the damage was done by his roommate but had no evidence to support it. He said he didn’t want the roommate connected, and he just wanted the record logged.

MOVE THE HERD

The Athens County Sheriff’s Office received a report of cattle blocking the Lemester Road over the weekend. Deputies were dismissed when they arrived on the scene.

@RITCHEY_GRANT GR619615@OHIO.EDU

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OU journalism faculty member sues university for discrimination following sexual harrassment investigations Yusuf Kalyango alleges that the university discriminated against him during sexual assault investigations due to his race, gender and national origin

NOLAN SIMMONS NEWS EDITOR

IAN MCKENZIE ASST. NEWS EDITOR

Ohio University journalism faculty member Yusuf Kalyango — who was investigated by the university in 2018 for sexual harassment — filed a lawsuit Sept. 11, alleging the university discriminated against him during its investigation because of his race, national origin and gender.

Kalyango, who is a tenured professor and was director of the Institute for International Journalism, alleges in a lawsuit submitted to the Ohio Southern District Court that the university subjected him to unfounded investigations, failed to follow its own policies, breached confidentiality and proceeded with a de-tenuring process, according to the lawsuit.

K

alyango claims if he had been white, American-born or a woman, he would not have been treated this way. Kalyango is a Black man of Ugandan descent and a U.S. citizen.

He is still a university employee, working on research.

His teaching and advising duties were suspended.

Kalyango, who demanded a trial by jury in the lawsuit, filed the suit because OU “purposefully deprived” him of equal contract and procedural rights as well as job protections and opportunities, and OU unlawfully discriminated against Kalyango because of his race, according to the lawsuit.

OU has received and is reviewing the litigation, Carly Leatherwood, a university spokesperson, said.

The university will reserve comment until it files a for-

4 / SEPT. 17, 2020

mal response in court.

Kalyango requested in the lawsuit the court “(eradicate) the effects of past and present unlawful employment practices.” Kalyango also requests that the court orders the university to carry out policies and practices that provide equal opportunities for all employees, according to the lawsuit.

Kalyango claims in the lawsuit he has suffered, and continues to suffer, “extreme emotional distress, humiliation, anxiety, depression and loss of esteem and reputation as well as the loss of income, benefits, and productive ability.”

Kalyango claims he is entitled to compensation for “all economic loss, past and future lost wages, past and future benefits, non-economic compensatory damag-

es, reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs,” according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit also orders the university to reinstate him as a full tenured professor and “make him whole by providing appropriate back pay with prejudgment interests,” according to the lawsuit. Kalyango also ordered the court to require OU to compensate him with more than $75,000 and the costs of this action, including attorney fees, according to the lawsuit.

Kalyango remains on paid administrative leave, which is a “state of limbo,” because he does not have the ability to continue to develop himself and his career due to the “unfair, inappropriate and discriminatory conduct” of OU, according to the lawsuit.

Kalyango joined the E.W. Scripps School of Jour-

nalism’s faculty in the fall of 2008 to teach several undergraduate and graduate classes, including foreign correspondence.

As of August 2018, Kalyango is the only tenured Black full professor in the journalism school, according to the lawsuit.

Kalyango was found through an Office of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, or ECRC, investigation to have sexually harassed a graduate student by quid pro quo and hostile work environment, according to a previous Post report.

The Post does not name people who report sexual harassment or assault unless they give permission.

In early 2017, a female graduate student began working as Kalyango’s assistant on a project.

The graduate student traveled with Kalyango to South Africa in June 2017 for the project. Kalyango and the student were invited to a side-trip in Rwanda to attend a gorilla trekking activity. The student accepted the invitation and participated in the trip, according to the lawsuit.

Kalyango states in the lawsuit the student was staying in Butare, Rwanda, while he was staying in Kigali, Rwanda, which is about six hours away.

While on the trip, the student was required to prepare a comprehensive financial report on the expenditures for the group on the South Africa trip. The lawsuit states that the student “submitted a grossly inadequate and erroneous report … which failed to properly itemize, inventory or reconcile the receipts and expenditures for the trip.”

Kalyango told the student that her work was subpar, but he did not terminate her position nor indicate that her employment was in jeopardy, according to the

“

At that point, Ohio University initiated a severely flawed and discriminatory investigation by investigator, George Anaya.”

- Yusuf Kalyango, journalism faculty member at Ohio University, alleges in the lawsuit

lawsuit. After returning to OU in June 2017, the student started working for another project headed by Kalyango.

After Kalyango told the student her work was not up to par, she filed a complaint to Sara Trower, then-director of University Equity and Civil Rights Compliance and Title IX coordinator at OU. The lawsuit states the student “gave false and misleading information regarding her employment interaction with Dr. Kalyagno.”

The main example the lawsuit states is that the student “falsely claimed Dr. Kalyango suggested they might need to share a room based on scheduling and availability, for the first night during the Rwanda Trip.”

Kalyango claims Trower or employees within OU’s Human Resource Department encouraged the student to quit her position “to create an alleged policy violation against Dr. Kalyango,” according to the lawsuit.

He also claims the student said to friends she learned from Trower and others in her department that she could create a claim against Kalyango if she claimed she was terminated or if she resigned from her position, suggesting that such action was retaliatory based on her alleged refusal to share a room in Rwanda, according to the lawsuit.

In 2019, the student filed a lawsuit against Kalyango and OU. The case was terminated June 2 as OU awarded her with $90,000.

Trower provided incorrect information to the student about her rights and the process that could be followed, Kalyango alleges in the lawsuit. Trower and other employees allegedly encouraged the student to resign from her position working with Kalyango in the Africa program.

The student then presented a Title IX complaint to the University Equity and Civil Rights Compliance Panel, according to the lawsuit.

“At that point, Ohio University initiated a severely flawed and discriminatory investigation by investigator, George Anaya,” Kalyango alleges in the lawsuit.

The investigation began in July 2017 and ended Aug. 24, 2018. Under state and federal law and OU’s policies, the student’s complaint should have been investigated and resolved within 90 days, according to the lawsuit.

Following the investigation, Dean of the Scripps College of Communications Scott Titsworth sent Kalyango a letter, suspending him from teaching and reassigning him to other work for the school.

Kalyango alleged this was a professionally harmful action that was “grossly premature” and severe, as Kalyango and his family were physically banned from campus, where his sons were enrolled in activities and summer camps.

The lawsuit alleges Titsworth’s actions were based on Kalyango’s race and national origin.

Kalyango alleges Anaya disregarded statements of several key witnesses, including two female senior OU professors who validated Kalyango.

Kalyango further alleges Anaya “prepared his report with a discriminatory animus, based upon Dr. Kalyango’s race and national origin, depicting Rwanda in particular, and Africa in general … as a dangerous place and region.”

After the release of the findings, then-journalism school Director Robert Stewart told Kalyango that he could not represent OU at academic conferences

and in global engagements, according to the lawsuit.

Kalyango stated that decision was inconsistent and created a double standard, similar to what he claims regarding Titsworth’s suspension memo.

During the investigation, Kalyango was not placed on administrative leave and continued to teach and hold other responsibilities at OU. Kalyango alleges this verifies that if the student was telling the truth, his employment as an instructor was still not an issue of safety.

The lawsuit also alleges that Kalyango complained to Stewart in 2017 about the chair of the graduate admissions committee, Michael Sweeney, who Kalyango believed was favoring U.S. students over minority international students in the admission process.

“I will happily and completely respond to these allegations at the proper time,” Sweeney said in an email.

Kalyango was the only Black faculty member of the journalism graduate committee from September 2011 until March 2018, according to the lawsuit.

Stewart “discriminated and retaliated against Dr. Kalyango, negating customary de-tenuring norms,” the lawsuit alleges.

The Title IX office launched investigations into Stewart and Titsworth for discriminating against race and national origin and retaliation investigation.

Kalyango claims there are at least three white professors who were accused of far more egregious conduct.

One of them was recommended for a reprimand and training. There were at least two former minority professors who have been terminated, de-tenured or forced out of their employment with the university for “conduct similar to or less egregious to the conduct of the American-born, caucasian peers,” the lawsuit alleges.

@NOLANSIMMONS37 NS622217@OHIO.EDU @IAN__MCKENZIE IM581017@OHIO.EDU

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 5

Students Power the Polls Bobcats Power the Polls encourages OU students to combat national poll worker shortage ABBY MILLER NEWS EDITOR An Ohio University student group is working to raise awareness over a national shortage of poll workers for the November election and is recruiting Athens youth to step up and fill the gap.

Bobcats Power the Polls is a group of about 10 student recruiters working in

a partnership with national organizations. Student recruiters are using social media to enlist OU students to become poll workers and are collaborating with other OU student organizations to spread their message.

“I grew up in a family where you voted every election, no matter what,” Maxeen Ramlo, a junior studying mechanical engineering, said. “So when I

ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA JUENGER 6 / SEPT. 17, 2020

was reached out to, it was pointed out that there is this national nationwide poll worker shortage, and kind of the idea of what that would mean, like polling places not being able to open and some having long lines and having to close early … and that really motivated me to want to help out and do something about it.”

Students in Bobcats Power the Polls were reached out to by their individual colleges and programs, like the Honors Tutorial College and Ohio Honors Program, Ramlo said. From there, they applied to the Campus Compact’s Safe Elections project, which is partnering with the national Power the Polls initiative to recruit youth poll workers.

Haley Janoski, a sophomore studying communication studies and Spanish, said Bobcats Power the Polls previously worked with the OU College Democrats and is spreading its message to groups like OU College Republicans, Student Senate, Cutler Scholars Program and more.

Students from contacted groups have since signed up to become poll workers, Janoski said. A handful of students from the Honors Tutorial College and additional students from the Cutler Scholars Program will work the polls on Election Day. Bobcats Power the Polls also has a growing social media presence.

Ramlo runs and creates graphics for Bobcats Power the Polls’ Instagram and Twitter. She said the group has received great feedback from those online. The group obtained even more interaction after it ran a giveaway for free OU mugs to any student who sent in confirmation for signing up to be a poll worker.

“A lot of times students are like, ‘Oh, my God, I just signed up. Thank you so much for this information,’” Ramlo said. “We’ve gotten a lot of good reach … through social media. We’ve gotten questions, and we’ve gotten good responses to it.”

Debbie Quivey, director of the Athens County Board of Elections, said she is confident with the number of poll workers Athens County currently has signed up.

“I think we have more than enough, but we keep taking them,” Quivey said.

“We can always use people ... for sanitation, for cleaning, for guiding — some-

where. We’re going to try to have as many people as we can.”

Janoski said OU students are very engaged in politics, but many first-time voters still don’t know about becoming poll workers and the logistics behind it.

Some of those signing up to be poll workers were unaware the position pays, Quivey said. In Athens County, poll workers are paid $113.50 for working Nov. 3. Poll workers can be paid an additional $20 if they take a polling class.

Poll workers will be provided with surgical-grade masks, face shields and bottles of sanitizer on Election Day. Poll workers will be required to wear masks, but voters are not, Quivey said. If a voter refuses to wear a mask or cannot wear one for medical reasons, they can either vote outside as a curbside voter or vote in an isolated area inside one of Athens’ 20 polling locations.

Poll workers at each of those polling locations will be equipped with sanitation wipes to clean stations after each voter leaves, Quivey said. Voters will also take their pens with them after voting in order to avoid contamination.

Quivey said voters need to be patient with poll workers this election.

“This is an election like no election we’ve seen: it’s a big election, it’s a presidential and we’re going in a pandemic,” Quivey said. “On Election Day, whether you vote here in the office, whether you’re voting mailing, but if you’re coming in contact with people, try to be respectful to other people, to others people’s wishes. Try to be respectful to each other. Be respectful to our poll workers.”

Ramlo encourages students to sign up to be poll workers whether they are in Athens or at home.

“It’s not just in Athens that we need poll workers,” Ramlo said. “Their community still needs poll workers. No matter where they are, there is a poll worker shortage.”

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Greek life adapts to COVID-19 A look into how Greek life chapter houses are handling COVID-19 BEKAH BOSTICK FOR THE POST Fraternities and sororities at Ohio University have not received specific safety guidance from the university for their return to campus due to their designation as off-campus housing.

However, many organizations have been given guidelines from their national chapters for how to safely bring members back to campus during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Delta Zeta, for example, has implemented rules and procedures to ensure the safety of all of the women living in the house and anyone with whom they come into contact.

Masks are worn at all times in the Delta Zeta house, except for while eating in the dining room or in one’s own bedroom. There is only one entrance that is open, and it has a sanitation station. Temperatures are taken every Monday.

When someone is finished with a room, they have to disinfect everything they touched as well as any of the other high touch surfaces, Maggie Old, a junior studying communications and president of Delta Zeta, said.

Delta Tau Delta has similar rules for its house. There are no visitors allowed in the house, and masks must be worn at all times. Those returning to the house after leaving must go through a mandatory check-in station, where they have their temperature recorded and receive hand sanitizer, said Henry Strosnider, a senior studying integrated math and who is in charge of apparel and formal planning for Delta Tau Delta.

“The university wasn’t super involved with our rules.

It was WPA which set the rules for us. WPA is kind of like who oversees all of the Greek housing and Greek life and stuff like that, so they were the ones who gave us the rules,” Hannah Monk, a senior studying nursing and the director of housing for Pi Beta Phi, said.

Pi Beta Phi has 48 women living in the house right now, though it can usually hold 54. The women living there have to wear masks at all times and record their temperatures every day. There are no guests allowed in the house.

Food is served individually, rather than buffet-style, to avoid cross contamination, Monk said.

There are only 12 women currently living in the Delta Zeta house right now. It normally houses fifty-four, though 10 more women will move in as Phase 2 students return to campus.

When the next ten women move into the Delta Zeta house, they will be required to make a 10-day go-bag. This will help in the case that any resident gets the virus or comes down with any symptoms of COVID-19, she can just pick up her bag and leave without contaminating the rest of the house, Old said.

Pi Beta Phi has two safe rooms that can be used by those in contact with someone who was sent home after testing positive for COVID-19. There is a separate bathroom that will be closed off near the rooms that will only be used by the safe room occupant, and her meals will be delivered to her to avoid spreading the virus throughout 8 / SEPT. 17, 2020

ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA JUENGER the rest of the house, Monk said.

“I don’t have a roommate, but if I did have a roommate, and she tested positive, she has 48 hours to leave the Delta Zeta property and then the roommate would go into the safe room, which nobody’s occupying right now and then they’d fog that room, disinfect that room, give it a few days and then the non-sick roommate would get tested,” Old said. “When they test negative, they can go back into their original room. The student, or girl, who tested positive would have to stay off the premises for 10 days.”

If anyone leaves the Delta Zeta house and goes home for the weekend or visits somewhere else, they have to fill out a screening form before they can return. Those forms then go to the Delta Zeta national chapter and are then accepted or denied to return back to the house, Old said.

Cleaning in many Greek life houses is done either by the members living in the house or by hired staff, who clean off all high touch surfaces. Delta Zeta has a worker come in every day to clean the elevator, the bathrooms and all the common areas in order to stay on top of things

every day, Old said.

Delta Tau Delta had the house professionally cleaned before members arrived, and since then, the residents have divvied up all of the chores and increased the cleanliness requirements, Strosnider said.

Most meetings for Greek life organizations are taking place virtually to keep everyone safe. Delta Zeta’s chapter meetings, philanthropy events and sisterhood events will be virtual for the foreseeable future. The executive board has been adapting everything to be online in order to ensure safety and allow those who are not living in the house to participate, Old said.

“As far as our fraternity, there’s also programming and health presentations for the chapter on just everything going on, and we cut all of our social events for the semester … We just try to have all of our events that we can online,” Strosnider said.

@BEKAHBOSTICK RB442218@OHIO.EDU

The Kennedy Museum of Art at The Ridges is an integral and historic part of Athens’ past and present. Now, it’s bringing its exhibits virtually, marking a new era in viewing art museums. (NATE SWANSON | PHOTO EDITOR)

Viewing Art Virtually Kennedy Museum of Art develops virtual portal LILY ROBY STAFF WRITER For the 2020 Fall Semester, Ohio University’s Kennedy Museum of Art has gone live online through the KMA Virtual Portal.

The KMA Virtual Portal offers a safer option for visitors to access the Kennedy Museum of Art’s collections without visiting the museum in person.

According to the KMA website, the museum is “an integral part of the educational, research, and public service missions of Ohio University.” The art museum, which offers national and international exhibitions, collection-based research and diverse formal and informal learning opportunities, is housed in The Ridges and has been providing art education opportunities to students and Athens locals for years. The virtual portal is meant to create even more accessible options for people to learn about the KMA and the collections it offers.

Sally Delgado, the curator of education at the Kennedy Museum of Art, has worked closely this year with two

graduate and five undergraduate student interns from OU to facilitate the experience of the museum as an educational resource. With the help of her team of interns and various other members within and outside of OU, the KMA Virtual Portal was compiled over the summer with four main sections: virtual exhibitions and tours, remote teaching resources, family friendly activities and collections.

“It is divided into different sections that invite exploration of the curatorial voice and background process of putting the exhibition together,” Delgado explained in an email.

“It also provides resources for teaching as well as fun art and math activities. Teachers can use the portal themselves with their classes, or they can request a synchronous visit with a museum staff member that further contextualizes the online exhibition with their class objectives.”

Upon request, OU and K-12 classes can take part in virtual class visits and visual literacy workshops at the museum.

Many Athens City Schools art teachers have already added the virtual portal as a resource for their students in order to more broadly educate their students about the certain ex-

hibits and collections that the portal offers.

An essential part of the success of the portal is Basil Masri Zada, a consultant for the education department of the museum. Zada, who is also an instructor at OU’s School of Art & Design and a Ph.D. candidate of interdisciplinary arts, was the main person who transferred the exhibits and collections to the portal and made the KMA staff’s dream a reality.

Zada designed and programmed every aspect of the portal, which includes more than 100 different pages.

In addition to putting together the website, Zada recorded, designed and made available the portal’s Virtual Panoramic Tours, which give visitors an opportunity to view exhibits as if they were there in real life.

“The portal is dynamic and always growing; it is not just a place to look at art,” Zada said in an email. “It is a comprehensive interactive non-linear experience. Based on that, the portal will continually evolve and add new elements, activities and exhibits.”

The most thorough online exhibit currently on display at the KMA Virtual Portal is “Pattern & Disruption: Diné Lifeways and Embedded Mathematics.” The exhibition explores Diné weavings and the mathematical ideas embedded within those weavings.

Bob Klein, an OU mathematics professor and provost fellow for student success initiatives, guest curated the exhibit with his Navajo brother and mother, Henry and Sally Fowler.

While the exhibit initially opened Feb. 1, 2020, it was quickly forced to go virtual. The fact that the virtual portal was developed gives people an opportunity to view the exhibit, which was prepared over a course of two years.

Klein said he is more than delighted that the exhibit was included in the online portal because it also allows the people he worked with on the Navajo Nation to now view the exhibit rather than travel all the way to Athens.

“I think it would have made Edwin Kennedy unbelievably happy to know that elements of the collection he assembled were now being shared back with the descendants of the skilled weavers who created them…” Klein said in an email.

“To find out that the KMA has over 700 Navajo (Diné) weavings, on the Ridges, in Athens, is an unexpected convergence for me. It’s one of the things I love about being part of the Ohio University community—a place where those convergences happen all the time for our students.”

To view the KMA Virtual Portal, visit https://www.ohio. edu/museum/virtual.

“

@THELILYROBY LR158117@OHIO.EDU

The portal is dynamic and always growing; it is not just a place to look at art, it is a comprehensive interactive non-linear experience. Based on that, the portal will continually evolve and add new elements, activities and exhibits.”

- Basil Masri Zada, a consultant for the education department of the museum, said in an email.

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 9

ILLUSTRATION BY EMMA DENGLER

Kombucha Culture Athens residents engage in local kombucha culture KERI JOHNSON ASST. CULTURE EDITOR Imagine an organism, living in a jar in the kitchen, an edible terrarium. About once a week, it is fed sugar and water, kept in the dark and covered by a cloth. The fizzy, brown, sour and sweet tea is called kombucha, and it is made by a living, ever-changing symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, aka scoby.

The recipe for kombucha is simple: water, sugar and tea. The scoby ferments the sugar and creates a delicious, unique, carbonated, vinegar-y and minutely alcoholic beverage. There are many recipes for kombucha on the internet, but they all follow the same method: boil water; add tea bags; add sugar; keep the jar covered by a cloth, in a cool, dark place; peel the scoby when needed; repeat.

Interest in kombucha has progressively gone up since 2014 and peaked around 2018, according to Google Trends. A simple web search brings up numerous articles, asking: “Are There Benefits to Drinking Kombucha?”

10 / SEPT. 17, 2020

and “Is Kombucha Healthy? Here’s What Experts Say.” Even healthline.com proposes the benefits of kombucha –– but even then, it’s all proposed.

Commercial products should be safe, Dr. Walton Sumner, a research scholar with the Ronin Institute and a co-author of the review on the available literature on kombucha consumption, said in The New York Times article. Dr. Sumner advises to drink it in moderation and exercise caution for those with kidney or lung disease and those at risk for acidosis.

But the moderation disclaimers about kombucha isn’t stopping anyone from brewing and drinking it.

Grant Hohenstein, a student at Hocking College studying art and design, has been making kombucha since early this year.

He likes making kombucha because he finds it fun and rewarding. But, he said, brewing kombucha sometimes has a learning curve.

“It took me three batches before I got it right,” Hohenstein said in a message. “I had a few bottle explosions all over my kitchen, problems with it not (being) carbon-

ated enough or carbonated too much and problems with straining fruit out. Now, I’ve bought the right equipment and just use 100% fruit juices to avoid any straining.”

Mike Makosky is another Athens County resident who brews his own kombucha. Makosky’s Constellation Kombucha is available at Fluff Bakery, Kindred Market, The Farmacy and Hocking Hills Emporium near Logan. He’s also working on a Columbus restaurant and a “kombucha delivery service.”

Makosky and a friend started Constellation Kombucha about three years ago.

“The first step was building my own commercial kitchen and getting it approved by the state of Ohio,” Makosky said in an email. “I like to think of it as the smallest commercial kitchen in Ohio as it is only 8’ x 8’. I also had to get my brewing process, testing procedures, and labeling approved by the state. It was a lengthy process but really not too bad.”

Makosky produces kombucha in five-gallon batches, and he currently has about 60 gallons of kombucha in various stages of fermentation.

“I generally use the basic recipe of black tea and sugar, but I have refined it throughout the years with different types of teas,” he said in an email. “Now, I brew with only organic sugar, teas, fruits, vegetables and herbs.”

Makosky started drinking kombucha as an attempt to lose weight. He liked the idea of an non-alcoholic drink with lots of flavor and not too many calories. Now, he loves producing it.

“It’s a good time,” he said in an email. “I have my system down pretty well now so it’s a couple of intense hours of production at a time. I just throw on some music and get to it. I also enjoy the experience of learning about the beverage industry and trying to figure out how to expand my sales and create new flavors.”

For Kara Osbourne, a grad student studying social work, one of the great things about kombucha is that it lends itself to “community.” Osbourne described herself as “drowning in kombucha” –– she has too much, so she often gives away cultures to Athens neighbors.

Osbourne estimated that she’s given out between 20 to 30 scobies to Athens residents. It’s been a good way to get to know her neighbors, Osbourne said.

“I really like things like that I can share,” Osbourne said. “I’m a sharer when it comes to things like gardening, houseplants and bread. It’s like friendship –– and everybody’s kind of like brothers and sisters of scobies now.”

Osbourne always prefaces that she hasn’t done her research on kombucha. She obtained her first scoby only about a year ago and simply enjoys the drink. She doesn’t know about the supposed health benefits or science. She just enjoys the simple craft of kombucha brewing.

For Osbourne, sharing scoby is a part of Athens culture, a culture of sharing and making a craft.

“Athens is so cool in that way people are always sharing their vegetables and flowers and seeds and even just anything that can be shared, especially right now more than ever,” Osbourne said. “I moved in and started sharing my scobies, and that has rapidly introduced me to my neighbors or people next door to me, and we met online and shared addresses and found out we lived across the street. It’s pretty awesome.”

@_KERIJOHNSON KJ153517@OHIO.EDU

Athens movie theaters stay afloat during COVID-19 HANNAH BURKHART FOR THE POST The movie theater industry has faced one of the most intense setbacks amid COVID-19, and Athens theaters have been getting creative to stay afloat.

As COVID-19 continues to ravage businesses, movie theaters across the country are doing what they can to stay secure and avoid possible business failure. Many businesses around the world have been forced out of leases because they are unable to make enough funds to afford their buildings.

Athens movie theaters have been staying strong and continuing business in the safest ways possible.

The Athena Cinema, 20 S. Court St., currently does not have a reopening date set, but it is working with Ohio University, the Athens City-County Health Department and Gov. Mike DeWine’s guidelines. Alexandra Kamody, director of Athena Cinema, said Ohio has allowed movie theaters to open with 15% capacity, but the Athena is holding off.

“We have planned scenarios when we would do limited reopening,” Kamody said.

“For example, we have thought of opening the theater on a reservation basis only to keep capacity low and keep the safest possi-

ble environment at the theater.”

During the Athena’s closure due to the pandemic, the theater’s marquee was restored. The donors of the restoration did it to honor their son, who passed away years ago.

Tyler Weymouth was a projectionist at the Athena while he was an OU student.

“After Tyler had passed, his parents and us were thinking of ways to honor him and his time at the Athena,” Kamody said. “The marquee had fallen into disrepair, so we decided restoring it would be a nice tribute to him.

We at the Athena are thankful for their donation, and we are looking forward to having them here and having an event with them.”

The Athena has held its Sustainability Series for eight years every Fall and Spring Semester. It is a beloved event where people come together to watch environment-themed documentaries and hold discussions. Due to safety regulations, the Athena had to think of a way to make the event virtual.

Kamody said the first online series had a great turnout. About 200 people signed up, and close to 100 people showed up in the Zoom conference. She said people felt comfortable writing their thoughts in the chat box on Zoom, so in the years ahead, the Athena may offer a chat feature in person for those who prefer typing over

speaking out loud.

“Our main goal has just been to stay connected with the community and our people,” Kamody said. “We are learning and evolving during this.”

On the other side of town, the Athena Grand, 1008 E. State St., has been trying its best to maintain business during the pandemic. The theater has reopened and closed twice but is now open with 10% capacity. However, with the lack of blockbusters releasing, not many people are going to the theater.

“If you’re a movie-goer, you know we’re open,” Rick Frame, owner of Athena Grand, said. “Now that blockbusters aren’t coming out, we’re getting true movie people who don’t just go to the blockbuster releases.

What we’re getting are the very die-hard customers. Some of them come every day.”

Some of those customers are Athens residents, and others are OU students.

“Movie theaters opening back up is really important for the box office and actors,” Jacob Clift, a junior studying chemical engineering, said. “The pandemic prevents movie studios from creating more high-quality movies. Going to movie theaters is a good way to get out and watch your favorite actors.”

When customers enter each cinema, workers and signs clearly explain they must sit with two seats or one row between other

parties. Employees spray sterilizer and disinfectant through the whole theater between viewings. Upon entering work, employees’ temperatures are taken, and they are asked standard questions surrounding COVID-19 exposure and symptoms.

Frame said similar to restaurant guidelines, customers at Athena Grand must wear masks when they enter and leave, and masks should only be taken off when seated in the cinema. He said there have been no issues with people following mask guidelines.

During the unprecedented setbacks of the pandemic, theaters are not sure how long they will be able to stay open before they are required to close again. Frame said Athena Grand’s plan is to see what happens when students return at the end of September because they will increase potential customers by 50%. Guidelines will continue to be strictly enforced once the theater gets more business to ensure everyone’s safety from the virus.

“We know each time we close it is more difficult to reopen,” Frame said. “There is a cost of closing, and it is difficult on our business to continue to do that. The Athens County Health Department has been helpful in giving instructions, and the community has been very supportive. People are buying gift cards even though they know we may not stay open.”

@HANNAHNOELBURK HB239417@OHIO.EDU

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The Islamic Center of Athens, Office of the Muslim Students Association in Athens, Ohio. The Islamic Center of Athens has been the site for the end of the annual Interfaith Peace Walk. (NATE SWANSON | PHOTO EDITOR)

Praying through the Pandemic

Student religious organizations adapt to COVID-19

TAYLOR BURNETTE SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR The students of Ohio University’s Hillel will be celebrating Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, a little differently this weekend.

Instead of gathering together with family and friends, its Rosh Hashanah Shabbat, a weekly religious service and dinner that this week will be combined with the beginning of Rosh Hashanah, will be held virtually. Those interested in participating can get their Shabbat dinner, candles included, to go from OU’s Hillel, an international Jewish college campus organization, Director Sarah Livingston said.

“We’re doing it digitally,” Livingston said of holding high holidays traditionally spent together online. “This is, like, painful. It’s hard.”

Student groups and religious organizations around Ohio University’s campus have been working to adapt their gatherings, services and social events to an online format amid 12 / SEPT. 17, 2020

the COVID-19 pandemic.

For those of all religions, the gathering of family and friends for religious holidays is a special experience aside from just its religious importance. The community that surrounds the traditions, the food and the love between the communities is not quite the same when experienced through a Zoom call.

Ohio University has 30 registered student religious organizations listed on Bobcat Connect, along with the University Interfaith Association, which provides counsel to the Dean of Students on matters concerning the spiritual needs of students. Each organization has adapted different customs digitally or in a socially distant fashion to keep a sense of normalcy during an age of separation.

Along with Hillel’s Friday night Shabbat for Rosh Hashanah, the organization will offer online services Saturday morning and a small, private service for the Jewish community in Athens to hear the Shofar, the blowing of a ram’s horn done each Rosh Hashanah.

Additionally, there will be a socially distanced event Sun-

day at 11 a.m. with the blowing of the Shofar at the Richland Avenue playground for the whole community. Families and roommates can attend in their “pods,” and social distancing and masks will be required.

For Livingston, her priority during the pandemic has been keeping Jewish traditions going, like the weekly Friday night Shabbat, and keeping in touch with students while many are far away from their communities.

“I think my attitude towards all of this has been to do whatever it takes to bring Judaism and all the Jewish traditions and rituals to the students that need it in whatever way we can,” Livingston said. “And … to make sure that the students feel like they’re getting what they need from us, and that they’re feeling all of their feelings are valid.”

Familiar traditions, along with fun, social events have become even more important in keeping the Hillel community connected as the school year starts and students mourn their in-person semester and deal with online learning.

Other organizations, like Reach Out on Campus, a nondenominational Christian group, have also been adjusting their usual offerings to the online sphere.

James Wallace, the president of ROC and a senior studying pre-med chemistry, says the group usually meets in person for Wednesday night Crosswalk, a gathering including a lesson, games and worship songs. The group began meeting over Zoom, like many other organizations at OU. “We adapted … so everybody could still be part of the Zoom call,” Wallace says. “We still try to keep it around the same basis and that sort of same format as if we were in person, but it’s just one of those things, like, not everybody wants to stand in front of a computer, so we shorten it down.”

Additionally, the group has been holding online bible studies, many of which have focused on lessons that bring comfort during the time of COVID-19.

“We’ve been doing a lot of studies and a lot of lessons based off of submission, control, stuff like that, because a lot of people are scared right now not knowing what’s going to happen,” Wallace says. “It’s just (about) letting the Lord take over your life.”

For Wallace, he is looking forward to getting back into the office space the group meets in that has been affectionately dubbed “the ROC house” and being with the group in person again.

“We’re not just a group,” Wallace said. “We’re not just a bunch of Christians meeting up. We’re family. We’re up there to serve a better purpose. Being able to, once again, just come together as a group and get that family feeling again, it’s going to be amazing.”

The group has tried to stay in touch online for the time being and has taken its members’ prayer requests as well.

Many people, college students and otherwise, turn to religion during times of crisis because of the unique power of prayer and communication.

Loren Lybarger, associate professor in the department of classics and religious studies, said religion is unique in how it arises during crises and offers something that other social and cultural entities do not: it allows communication.

“The thing that distinguishes religion from anything else is that it makes available, (and) it provides religious communities access to these spiritual interventive tools, these techniques through which crisis is addressed spiritually,” Lybarger says.

A modern example of religion being present during moments of crisis is in hospitals, Lybarger says. Although medical science is usually the first thing people go to for health concerns, there are often religious entities within those institutions.

“Within hospitals themselves, you have religious practi-

tioners who function as counselors and operate alongside doctors, and they operate alongside doctors because they … in many cases will seek spiritual interventions,” Lybarger said. “You have medical interventions, but you also have spiritual interventions that are sought as … an extra added way of contending with that crisis.”

Crisis gives rise to religion, Lybarger said, because humans are culturally dependent beings.

“We create cultural practices and institutions in order to enable our lives and our very survival, and religious practices are among the earliest kinds of practices that human beings develop,” Lybarger says.

While many groups and organizations have fully adapted their services to an online format, some organizations, however, are still able to attend in-person religious services, like Ohio University Catholics.

That doesn’t mean things are entirely back to normal, though.

The group meets for Eucharistic Adoration at 8 p.m. on Wednesday nights, then attends mass together at 9 p.m.

Soon, the group will be starting back remote Bible studies, so those outside of Athens can participate, too.

For OU Catholics senior ministry team member Michael Massinople, a senior studying marketing, his faith has given him a way of knowing things are going to be all right.

“I think when you hope it’s something greater than the world, that you know what you’re hoping in and it doesn’t matter what happens in the world, as I have my hope in Jesus,” Massinople says.

Not all groups and organizations have been able to adapt events online, however.

The Muslim Student Association, which usually offers many events to the community, like the yearly MSA Culture Night held in Baker Center, has been unable to adapt many of those online. Additionally, five daily prayers are not something that can be done through Zoom but can be done individually from home.

Majed Zailaee, the former vice president of the Muslim Student Association and a Ph.D. candidate studying mathematics, says he usually went to pray at the mosque twice a day, and although he is still able to complete his prayers from home, that is not all he is missing.

“Because we pray five times a day, I (went) to the mosque at least twice a day to pray,” Zailaee says. “So having the Islamic centers closed in COVID-19, it was really, really tough for me to adapt. ... It’s not only about the prayer. You go and pray, and then you see friends and you have a small conversation with them.”

For Zailaee, the Muslim community he found in Athens has become more like a family while being away from his own.

The daily visits to the mosque are not only about prayers, but people. For the meantime, and with added precautions, Friday prayers can be registered for online, Zailaee said.

He is also very thankful to the Athens community for being so welcoming of him, and he said that since his arrival to OU in 2014, he has never felt discriminated against because of his faith.

“I am personally so glad that I made a choice to come to Ohio University because of the wonderful people we have around,” Zailaee says. “They care so much about other people.”

Executive Director of Hillel at Ohio University Sarah Livingston kneads challah, a bread made with apples, cinnamon and honey that is usually served for celebrating Shabbat and other major Jewish holidays. “It’s my favorite thing to do for the students,” Hillel said while preparing the dough for roughly 25-45 students in the kitchen of Hillel’s synagogue in Athens, Ohio, on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020. (NATE SWANSON | PHOTO EDITOR)

@THATDBEMYLUCK TB040917@OHIO.EDU

Students kneel before the cross, starting off the Eucharistic Adoration in Christ the King University Parish Catholic church in Athens, Ohio, on Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2020. (NATE SWANSON | PHOTO EDITOR)

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 13

Beautiful Bodies Body Project program helps students challenge appearance ideals LILY ROBY STAFF WRITER This fall, Ohio University will be offering a virtual version of the Body Project to students through Counseling and Psychological Services, or CPS. This program, which has traditionally been aimed at young, female-identifying people, is an international collaborative project with a goal of challenging the appearance ideal.

In four peer-led sessions, eight participants meet for one-hour sessions in order to work on activities and perform reflections. Becky Davenport, the associate director and clinical director of CPS, said the Body Project was designed to help adolescent girls and young women resist sociocultural pressures to conform to the ideas and images of what women should look like to be considered beautiful.

“Research supports the use of the Body Project not only with those who have elevated body dissatisfaction, but also in more diverse groups of adolescent girls and young women that include those with lower levels of body dissatisfaction,” Davenport said in an email. “In my experience, it is also helpful to those who may not identify as women, helping them question ways that appearance ideals are also not helpful to them.”

Davenport highlighted that in sessions, participants will discuss the appearance ideal, where it comes from, how to talk back to it and ways to act to counteract it in their lives. The program’s research has shown the Body Project has been effective in reducing thin-ideal internalization, body dissatisfaction, negative mood, unhealthy dieting and eating disorder symptoms.

Kate Hibbard-Gibbons, a psychology resident within CPS and coordinator of OU’s Body Project, said a large part of the Body Project is fun and interactive.

Participants will take part in role play activities and will be assigned homework at the end of each session in order to help them develop a further connection to the information and their self-awareness.

“The participants gain a sense of community and they learn there are other ways to view their body and the bodies of female identified women around them,” Hibbard-Gibbons said in an email. “Par-

ticipants have commented that they developed a stronger voice for themselves after completing the program and felt more equipped to advocate against the appearance ideal.”

However, the Body Project isn’t just for those who have intense body dissatisfaction or symptoms of disordered eating.

Rachel Mangold, a well-being and fitness graduate assistant, has been involved with the Body Project for over two years at Ohio State University. She said while participants were taught how to reframe their thought processes about what is and is not beautiful, she was able to see

the wonderful impacts that the program can have on members.

“I have had the privilege of seeing perspectives change, to witness enormous growth of self-confidence, and to see female-identifying individuals really challenge and critique the messages surrounding body ideals for the first time in their life,” Mangold said in an email.

“It is not a one-stop-shop and the fight against the negative ideals and unrealistic expectations society places on us will be on-going. However, it provides tools to handle the challenge more effectively and positively.”

While participation is free, spots for the Body Project are limited in order to ensure that everyone has a safe space to share their thoughts and to encourage discussion-based intervention. The three interventions this fall have been filled, but there will be future intervention opportunities this coming Spring Semester.

@THELILYROBY LR158117@OHIO.EDU

ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA JUENGER 14 / SEPT. 17, 2020

Keeping Dance Alive During Uncertain Times Jitterbug Club maintains dance lessons while transitioning to online format LAUREN SERGE FOR THE POST Many students and community members are getting in the swing of things while attending dance classes remotely. Like many other organizations, Ohio University’s Jitterbug Club has turned virtual due to the coronavirus pandemic, which has set strict limits on close contact.

Typically, the club operates with dance instructor Brianne Szymanski teaching an hour of lessons with elements pertaining to different swing dance moves, followed by social dancing and interactive activities.

This year, however, with the multitude of restrictions set in place, the club has formulated an entire new schedule.

Kayla McGinnis, a senior studying English and creative writing, is the president of the club. McGinnis explained the new weekly format, via Microsoft Teams, that includes both instructional and social content.

“Every other week, we are switching be-

tween an asynchronous dance lesson and a synchronous social hour,” McGinnis said.

“In the asynchronous lesson, our instructor records herself doing a specific dance.

Right now, we’re doing a lot more solo jazz and choreographed routines. For the synchronous hour, we are in a chat discussing the lesson to have the social aspect that’s really important to our organization.”

Alongside this, McGinnis said the club members are offered the opportunity to submit their work to the instructor. She will then review them, and they can each then receive feedback on their dance techniques.

Hannah Fleming, a sophomore studying political science, is the treasurer for the club. Fleming mentioned some of the difficulties present within this virtual transition and how it has impacted her club experience.

“Slow internet has definitely been a difficulty,” Fleming said. “Also, just not really having a great space to practice. It’s kind of awkward to practice dancing by yourself,

and if you don’t have a place with good reception or actual space around you, it can definitely make it difficult.”

On the other hand, the online format has had its upsides. Emma Stefanick, a senior studying journalism, said the online classes have enabled some members to let loose and relax their self-conscious feelings.

“I think it just gives people more confidence in knowing they don’t have to learn dance in front of somebody else,” Stefanick said. “There definitely is that insecurity when you start out. None of us are spectacular, and we’re all here to learn, but it’s certainly difficult at first, so being online can help people feel more comfortable.”

Additionally, McGinnis said this strucainvolvement with the organization to better grasp the material.

“People can now go at their own pace,” McGinnis said. “It’s great that we are able to bring in beginners, but that we are also able to bring in people from all different experience levels. So this way, people can rewind and take time with the lesson videos or speed through them if they want to.”

As a whole, the club is not exclusive to OU students, as it extends its membership to community members in Athens and all across Ohio. McGinnis highlighted this feature of their organization and how it has actually benefited from the online format.

“We’re able to get some members we wouldn’t have been able to get normally in person because the commute or their

schedule was too challenging,” McGinnis said. “So we’ve now been able to get some members from other swing dance communities as well or Bobcats who are currently home.”

Despite this not being a typical year, McGinnis said she is grateful for the opportunity to still learn and socialize with members in the club, even with the virtual changes.

“We’re just excited to try our best with this new format,” McGinnis said. “I’m disappointed we can’t meet up for social hours, but what is nice is that we can still connect with people. It’s gonna be difficult, but we’re still excited.”

ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA JUENGER

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

Logan Neal leads Spartans on, off the turf He does everything asked of him as a team leader TYLER JOHNSON FOR THE POST On an Alexander team that currently sits at 0-3 on the season, not too much has gone the Spartans’ way, but as the team leader, Logan Neal can’t let that lower his morale or that of the rest of the team.

Neal is making sure the Spartans are not dwelling on the mistakes made in the first three weeks and is trying to keep their minds focused on the next task at hand.

“We just have to keep on trucking every week,” Neal said. “A lot of shortcomings come along in a season, and we have

to make sure that we keep fighting.”

Keeping his teammates’ spirits high may seem like a tough task to ask of a high school senior, but Neal feels more than up to the task.

Neal isn’t the only one who thinks he was made for a leadership role, either.

The Spartans are young this season, graduating 13 seniors from the 2019 season, including many starters from the defense and most of the starters on offense.

Not only did coach Earich Dean have to figure out who could replace those holes on the field, but he also needed someone to be able to replace what his seniors did off the field for the team.

One of the first players Dean looked

to step up this season was Neal.

“We’re leaning on him this season,” Dean said. “He’s a great teacher because we have seven or eight new starters on the defensive side of the ball that he’s got to help put in position and transfer plays from sideline to the field.”

Neal knows how important his role as a teacher on the Spartans is, but he thinks it goes beyond helping them figure out which plays the team is running or what spot they’re supposed to be in on the field.

He’s trying to help the younger players bring out their competitive nature and that fiery mentality to the game.

He knows he can do it because the past

leaders did the same thing with him when he was first getting playing time.

Now that he is in their shoes, he knows what to look for.

“We lost a lot of dogs last year on both sides of the ball,” Neal said. “With the younger guys, we just got to bring out the dog in them.”

Neal’s leadership isn’t a “Do as I say, not as I do” type of relationship, either.

He makes sure to lead by example on both sides of the field.

On offense, Neal has carried the workload as the lead tailback. Alexander may not have much of an offensive identity right now, but the one thing that has been consistent in the first three games of the season is the Spartans will look to pound the ball with Neal and quarterback Xander Karagosian leading the way.

As a defensive lineman, his ability to get pressure on the quarterback is the key to Alexander’s defense being successful. In the season opener against Athens, Dean started to increase how much he blitzed Joey Moore in the second half, and that increased pressure, led by Neal, saw the high-powered Bulldog offense be held scoreless in the final two quarters.

Producing on both sides of the ball at a high level, Neal and his mindset don’t change.

“I try to bring the competitive nature every single snap,” Neal said. “I want to give us the momentum in the game, whether that be a long run, a big hit in the backfield or a sack.”

Neal has become Alexander’s do-itall guy this season, and that role has come with a lot of pressure, but he knew this is a role he was made for.

@TYLERHJOHNSON7 TJ932016@OHIO.EDU

Alexander’s Michael Lash II attempts to run the ball past Athens’ Braxton Springer during the game at Alexander High School on Friday, Aug. 28, 2020. Athens beat Alexander 20-13. (ANTHONY WARNER | FOR THE POST)

16 / SEPT. 17, 2020

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL fresh. It also has the advantage of a three-year starting quarterback.

Defensively, the Vikings bring heavy pressure on the quarterback and will likely be going after left guard Nathan Martin, who stepped in last week after senior Dylan Mays went down in practice.

Nelsonville-York will have to run the ball nearly as effectively as it did last week, so the defense respects the run and gives junior quarterback Drew Carter some time to throw. Carter bounced back last week and gained some confidence after struggling in the first two games.

Many quarterbacks might be upset about handing the ball off in 39 of 40 total plays, but Carter was loving it. And when he got the chance to start throwing the ball, he did so effectively.

“He was all smiles in the first half last week,” Richards said. “And when we did throw it, people were open because we just ran it about 20 straight plays.”

The Buckeyes will likely continue to roll Carter out because he tends to throw better on the run. They also want to give him the chance to keep his options open if he can’t find a receiver and take the ball himself, as he did for a touchdown last week.

Nelsonville-York wants to stick with what worked last week and establish the run game first. But they can throw the ball, too. It will probably need to do both to win its second game and even out its record Friday.

@SCOTT_CTHOMAS11 ST610417@OHIO.EDU The Buckeyes’ fullback Colton Snyder (No. 48) pushes through a play against Meigs High School in the first quarter at a match held at Nelsonville-York High School’s Boston Field on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020. (NATE SWANSON | PHOTO EDITOR)

Nelsonville-York prepares for Vinton County with another good week of practice SCOTT THOMAS FOR THE POST After two losses to start a six-game season, many teams would give up. The chances of giving up become even more likely after losing two seniors in the week before the third game.

Nelsonville-York didn’t give up, though, and instead had its best week of practice leading up to its best game of the season against Meigs.

Behind the senior leadership of Colton Snyder, Ethan Gail and Christian Wiseman, the Buckeyes are looking to resurrect their once-dead season. Head coach Rusty Richards has been pleased with the practices this season, led by the captains.

“It seems like every week, we’ve practiced better and better,” Richards said. “The attitude’s been great

all year. These boys haven’t quit. I think that’s why we’ve finally seen progress last week against Meigs: the attitude in practice has been very good.”

It has been necessary for practice to be good. Nelsonville-York has yet to play a team that is under .500.

That won’t change when it goes to Vinton County (2-1), whose only loss came in week one to Meigs.

“Sometimes when you look on and you’re going to have a real good season and you see an 0-6 team, it’s hard to keep the kids’ attention because they’re sort of looking past it,” Richards said. “With our schedule, very seldom can we look past anyone, so I think it helps practice.”

This week in practice, the Buckeyes have had a challenge in trying to prepare for the Vikings and even their record. Vinton County runs a similar offense to Nelsonville-York by bringing in multiple ball carriers to stay

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THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 17

THE CAT’S CRADLE

3 great introductions to Batman comics Benjamin Ervin is a senior studying English literature and writng at Ohio University The Batman trailer has graced the public conscious with dreams of a suede-suited man gallivanting in the night. The response by Batman fans (new and old) has been: “What should I read in preparation for the new film?”

Coveted by fans as one of the mainstay Batman stories, Batman: Year One has stood the test of time with reprints, name drops and on-screen adaptations, ranging from film to animation. That said, it’s not a good introduction. Instead, Year One doesn’t focus much on Batman.

Rather, the comic follows a young Commissioner Gordon as he navigates corruption, affairs and a few kidnappings as Batman trains.

Batman is more than crime and corruption. Batman comics are about mysteries, family and even horror stories that challenge the character and craft lasting stories. These are the three best introduction points to the Caped Crusader.

Batman: The Long Halloween The Long Halloween is easily one of the best comics made, with a perfect blending of art and writing. The

book opens with a crime lords murder on Halloween, the first of several holiday-based murders that occur through the plot. As Batman hunts this new "holiday killer," he also must deal with several super villains that aim to stop or distract the Caped Crusader from his investigation.

Having a strong core mystery, the book is an excellent example of a page-turning mystery, as readers are trapped by the question of who the holiday killer is. Exemplifying Batman's detective abilities and the villains he faces, The Long Halloween is a breezy read that leaves the viewer enthralled, in a way Year One is missing.

Batman and Robin: Bad Blood Bad Blood follows Batman and his son, Damian, as they try to stop a villain who is hunting allies of Batman. As Batman tries to solve the mystery of who this new threat is, he must also raise his long-lost son. The narrative shows Batman as not only a hero, but as a father teaching Damian to be a hero.

What Bad Blood has in spades is a family drama. Unlike Year One, which ignores most of Batman’s training before his return to Gotham, Bad Blood fleshes out Batman’s past training. The past becomes a framework for the lessons Batman teaches Damian. Batman imparts his rules on killing, crime and revenge, each being tested by the mysterious villain. Why the book is great is due in part to Batman’s role as a father. We are given a window into his philosophy on childcare and the lessons we impart to the next generation.

Batman: Black Mirror Batman strikes fear into the heart of criminals, chasing them deep into alleys and extorting information. What about the villains who don’t know fear, the monsters that bump back? Black Mirror answers this question in the first few pages with the transformation of a young boy into a monster. When a new transformative drug hits the streets of Gotham, Batman seeks answers. Concurrently, Batman must solve a series of murders committed by an unknown serial killer.

Similar to Batman comics of the late ’80s to ’90s, this comic presents a chilling take on mystery fiction. Reshaping what a Batman story can be, Black Mirror challenges the perspective of the reader to read a new and scary Batman comic. This deviation has informed Batman moving forward, as horror has slowly permeated the medium. While Year One reminded people that Batman fights crime, Black Mirror established Batman as a horror lead, a legacy that exists today.

Benjamin Ervin is a senior studying English literature and writing at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Benjamin know by emailing him be425014@ohio.edu_.

WORDS I MIGHT HAVE ATE

Orville Peck brings crooning back Shelby Campbell is a senior studying strategic communication at Ohio University Country music is back in a big way. The faceless Orville Peck helped bring it here.

The masked cowboy sings with his whole chest, and it’s easy to hear the love and power he puts behind it.

The fact that Peck hails from Toronto, with his thick Western croon, is surprising. But what is even more surprising is how he maintains the big sound throughout all of his music.

His newest EP, Show Pony, expands on what he started with his first album, Pony.

Show Pony specifically has songs that draw on country music staples like trucking or being “rode hard and put up wet,” but the somber piano and wavering guitar chords complete the sound and let it differ from 18 / SEPT. 17, 2020

conventional radio country. On “Drive Me Crazy,” the verses mainly feature a steady beat and his lone voice, and the chorus builds a wall of sound with piano riffs and perfectly produced guitar.

His bassy voice is unusual but perfect for the sound he achieves. Queer cowboys are a welcome trope, and Peck makes folky music for people who long to see the vast plains and play guitar by the campfire. “Kids” puts the listener by a stream in the middle of Montana, with the stars shining over their canvas tents. The entire EP is a collection of folk and country-western tunes that a modern generation of country listeners can get behind.

Peck doesn’t pander. It’s not his game. Instead, he’s authentic as he can be for a Canadian cowboy. A shining light on the album is “Legends Never Die” featuring Shania Twain, a legend herself. It isn’t poppy country, though, as could be expected from Twain. It’s bringing the best parts of both Peck and Twain’s music together, and their powerful voices flow together with ease.

As simple as it is, however, “No Glory in the West,”

with his low, pained voice, takes the top spot on the album. With simple guitar strokes accompanied only by Peck’s voice, it’s hauntingly pure and clear. All he needs is a guitar and that low moan, and that song is proof.

Orville Peck’s face is a mystery. But what isn’t a mystery is why he’s getting so much attention. His somber yet sweet voice shines on every track, making Show Pony a perfect follow-up to what was a nearly perfect debut by North America’s most mysterious cowboy.

Shelby Campbell is a senior studying strategic communication at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post.

Want to talk more about it? Let Shelby know by tweeting her @bloodbuzzohioan.

FILM REVIEW

HBO Max’s ‘Unpregnant’ is a brilliant film with an important message RILEY RUNNELLS CULTURE EDITOR Road trip films are typically the genre filled with nostalgia and chaos with a lot of high stakes. Typically there are messages of friendship or family, but they always have a heartwarming ending. Unpregnant takes the road trip genre idea and flips it on its head, keeping all the fun with a unique yet important message.

Packed to the brim with amazing acting, clever and heartwarming writing and a powerful and important message, Unpregnant is an absolute must-see.

The film follows Veronica (Haley Lu Richardson), a high school student who, after finding out she’s pregnant, decides to get an abortion. However, in Missouri, it’s impossible to get an abortion if you’re under 18 without parental consent.

When she’s not able to tell her parents or her best friends and receives no help from her idiot boyfriend, Veronica turns to her ex-best friend, Bailey (Barbie Ferreira), to take her to Albuquerque, New Mexico, which is the nearest clinic that allows young women to get abortions without parental consent. Throughout the 14-plus hour drive, chaos ensues.

Though there are a few supporting cast members throughout the film, it’s Richardson and Ferreira who absolutely steal the show. Richardson brings this all-too-relatable energy of a young girl who is so nervous about fitting in during a social media-driven society. Richardson is a breath of fresh air when she’s on screen.

Ferreira, on the other hand, has this almost too-honest energy that she brings to the character. It overcompensates for her character’s shortcomings and insecurities, and it’s another one that’s all-too-relatable. Both of the character progressions throughout the film are absolutely breathtaking to watch and send extremely important messages to young women about subverting what people expect of you and just being yourself.

Not to mention, the all-too-important message of abortion throughout. Not only is there the religious aspect with Veronica’s parents, but there’s also the conflict of having her boyfriend telling her what to do.

The film consistently emphasizes the idea that abortions should be easily accessible for women everywhere at any age, as well as the idea that it’s the woman’s choice: not her parents, not her significant other’s, hers. It’s so important that younger people watch content with that messaging to get the idea that it’s a woman’s choice, and she must

do what’s best for her.

This messaging and character progressions wouldn’t have been possible if it weren’t for the fantastic writing, thanks in part to the novel that the film is based on and its writer, Jenni Hendriks. The other screenwriters, Rachel Lee Goldenberg, Bill Parker, Jennifer Kaytin Robinson and Ted Caplan all did a wonderful job of depicting young women, especially those going through such a difficult time like Veronica.

It’s always much better to watch films when women are depicted in a real and honest way. Combined with the twists and turns that the film takes throughout the roadtrip, it’s one of the best scripts surrounding young women that’s been produced in a while.

I could go on for hours about how incredible the film is.

Not only with just the writing, message and acting, but the production elements like cinematography and costuming are brilliant as well. It’s an all around incredible film that should be on everyone’s must-watch list this year.

@RILEYR44 RR855317@OHIO.EDU

ALBUM REVIEW

Tokyo’s Revenge releases his feelings aggressively and harmoniously on EP ‘7VEN’ HANNAH BURKHART FOR THE POST Tokyo’s Revenge has dropped a new EP, 7VEN. It may only be seven songs in length, but it displays his wide range of vocal and emotional capabilities.

Tokyo’s Revenge started free-styling at school when he was 16, and he was homeless by the age of 18. This did not stop him, though. He taught himself how to use production software while bouncing between friends’ houses. At first, he used this talent to mix his friends’ music but, eventually, he started creating his own. His talent eventually received viral attention with his 2019 track “GOODMORNINGTOKYO!” The track received so much mainstream attention that it peaked on Spotify’s Global Viral 50 playlist.

Tokyo’s Revenge is most famous for his aggressive, screamo hip-hop sound, which 7VEN gives us, but it also exhibits his laid-back, alternative, contemporary blues side.

The EP was highly anticipated after Tokyo’s Revenge dropped the promotional singles, “GOTHAM” and “BODYCOUNT (feat. Jasiah).” These tracks both display his infamous screamo style, with vulgar yet genius lyrics.

“BULLETPROOF” is one of the more belligerent tracks on the EP because Tokyo’s Revenge does not hold back.

He raps in his screamo style about winning any fight that

comes his way. He tells of how his enemies talk like they want a fight but never actually pull up to face him. Also, of course, there are the typical lines here and there about women and, in the interlude, he even cracks a joke about the backlash he gets from the way he talks about women in his songs.

The rapper pauses the track and talks in a short interlude, mocking haters, “Nah, we can’t do that anymore / You can’t rap about anything that, um, dehumanizes women / Or, um (Yeah), offends anybody who may not have- (Shut the, yeah, f---).”

Tokyo’s Revenge is the king of referencing anime in his music. He does this twice on the track “BULLETPROOF” alone.

During the second verse of the track, he references “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure,” rapping, “Bullets make you stop in time like I control the world, yuh.” Then, in the third verse, he references Avatar: The Last Airbender, spitting “I’m flyer than Aang on a mother------- bison.”

“SINNER PT. 3” is where Tokyo’s Revenge has his top-tier, slowed-down vocals come in. He sings about a girl in his life that he has fun memories with but feels that it is best for him to keep his distance from her so they can let each other go. The meaning of the song could be he struggles with anger issues and takes his inner demons out on people he loves when that isn’t his intention. He could believe it is for the best that he focuses on himself.

Tokyo’s Revenge recounts the toxic relationship he had with a girl, singing, “You would let me cuss you out, but I didn’t mean it / And I hold you while you bleeding / And you would tell me I’m a demon.”

Tokyo’s Revenge wraps up the EP with “we made an anime opening (feat. ZEDSU),” a melancholy track with a rock-like melody about the toxicity and confusion he has with someone in his life. The lyrics seem to indicate that he and a significant other get off on each other’s pain and continue to pretend like everything is fine.

The end of the track, and EP as a whole, is a powerful statement that fits the mood of the project, “Your pain is too infectious / My toxic lethal weapon / I should get away, I know / Diaries of a tortured soul.”

Tokyo’s Revenge is brilliant at releasing his emotions through music and benefiting his listeners who relate to his lyrics. His anger, sadness and battles with inner demons are created into pure art that others can listen to while feeling heard. 7VEN is an early project in the artist’s career, and it is no question that he has a bright future in music with his creativity and versatility.

@HANNAHNOELBURK HB239417@OHIO.EDU

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 19

4 easy ways to recycle your summer clothes for fall Save your money and the environment all at the same time

EMMA DOLLENMAYER ASST. BEAT EDITOR Most college students are on the verge of being broke, and if they’re not, they are more than likely only one of few. This means, most students’ first

priority as to where their money is spent is not clothes, and if it is, they probably have a shopping addiction.

However, with the weather changing, many are probably in need of a new wardrobe. Instead of buying new hoodies, sweatpants, etc., we’re here to help

you discover four new ways you can recycle your summer clothes and layer different articles of clothing to be more fitting for the chillier months. Not only is this better for the environment, but it is also better for your bank account.

TURN JEAN SHORTS INTO JEANS Though this DIY may be more difficult and time-consuming, it is more than worth it when the time comes to wear the finished product. All it takes is a couple pairs of jean shorts that either are no longer in style or no longer fit and an old pair of jeans that could use some spicing up. Cut up some patches of denim shorts and sew them on to the jeans to make for mismatched, multi-colored, trendy jeans.

THROW A CARDIGAN, JACKET OR FLANNEL OVER A CROP TOP While the weather still permits for clothing that can be layered, depending on how the temperature changes throughout the day, one can create a very stylish look while still coming off as not trying too hard. This look can be accomplished with a cropped basic tank or a graphic tee paired with corduroy pullovers, oversized flannels or cozy cardigans. By adding sweats, leggings or joggers, you can pull off a very casual, cute autumn look.

SOCKS WITH BIRKENSTOCKS OR SLIDES Open-toed shoes, like Birkenstocks or Adidas slides, may seem like shoes that are strictly for summer, but fear not, they can be worn in the fall as well.

By simply adding a pair of solid colored or funky socks underneath, the shoes can easily be worn for months well into the cooler season.

LONG SLEEVE OR TURTLENECK UNDER DRESSES AND TANKS A new trend that has recently gained popularity is the pairing of turtlenecks and solid colored long sleeve shirts under sheer shirts, loose tank tops and sun dresses. It is incredibly easy to pull out your favorite summer shirt or dress and wear it in the chillier months by wearing it over a more weather appropriate shirt.

Another chic fit would be to grab your favorite graphic tee and throw it over a collared shirt or polo. You’ll look like a model straight out of Urban Outfitters.

ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA JUENGER 20 / SEPT. 17, 2020

@EMMADOLLENMAYER ED569918@OHIO.EDU

5 upcoming films you don’t want to miss We could all use a sense of normalcy in our lives, so mask up and go out to the movies

JULIANA COLANT FOR THE POST We all know the buzz of excitement as the opening scene shines bright on the big screen, of the overpriced buttery popcorn and box candy snuck in from your purse and the feeling of satisfaction as the credits roll after an excellent movie.

All are one-of-a-kind feelings that have been deeply missed since March.

You won’t have to miss them any longer, as there are currently 206 theaters showing movies in Ohio. Gov. Mike DeWine allowed theaters to reopen June 10. However, each theater opened at its own discretion, and new movies are starting to roll out. As with any reopening during COVID-19, there are protocols to follow. The National Association of Theater Owners, or NATO, created “CinemaSafe,” a program dedicated to encouraging protocols and guidelines to cultivate a safe return to beloved movie theaters. NATO is made up of 385 companies representing over 33,000 screens across the nation.

New safety measures include mobile ticketing, modified concessions, mandatory masks, social distancing and limited capacity. Grab your popcorn and pick a seat. Here are five upcoming movies you won’t want to miss: THE WAY I SEE IT (RELEASE DATE: SEPT. 18) The Way I See It is coming out just in time to get you into the spirit of the upcoming election. This documentary follows well-known photojournalist Pete Souza during his time as the official White House photographer for Barack Obama and Ronald Reagan. He captured it all, and this movie provides a glimpse, from iconic scenes to historic events to personal moments.

KAJILLIONAIRE (RELEASE DATE: SEPT. 25) We could all use a little laughter these days, and this comedy drama will surely do the trick. Old Dolio (Evan Rachel Wood) is the only daughter of two con artists (Richard Jenkins and Debra Winger). For 26 years, Old Dolio has been scheming and scamming in training to follow her parents’ ways. Life

as they know it is turned upside down when a poorly planned heist draws in help from a stranger (Gina Rodriguez).

The film was a hit at the Sundance Film Festival this past January and will soon be at a theater near you.

MISBEHAVIOUR (RELEASE DATE: SEPT. 25) Misbehaviour screams girl power and will be a hit at your next socially distant girls night. Based on a true story, this British comedy drama focuses on the 1970 Miss World Competition. Drawing in 100 million viewers, it was the most-watched TV show in the world. The newly developed Women’s Liberation Movement stole the show by invading the stage during the live broadcast. Nonetheless, the results were unexpected as well. Anticipated favorite Miss Sweden (Clara Rosager) lost the title to Miss Grenada (Jennifer Hosten), the first Black woman to be crowned Miss World. Patriarchy and beauty ideals turned upside down all in one night makes for an empowering story.

LX 2048 (RELEASE DATE: SEPT. 25) LX 2048 is a science fiction drama with a fascinating plot of what hopefully will not become our future. Set in the year 2048, humans cannot go out during the daytime due to mankind’s destruction of the ozone layer. Humans do everything through virtual reality systems. The world is in transition from human to artificial. Mental depression is rampant; thus, there is a state-issued pill. Adam Bird (James D’Arcy) defies this technological way of life as well as the pill. Heart

problems arise, and he finds out his time on Earth is limited. With little time left, Bird is determined to find a solution and prevent an artificial clone from taking his role on earth.

SHORTCUT (RELEASE DATE: SEPT. 25) Looking for a spooky sci-fi horror film to get you in the Halloween mood?

Well, look no further: Shortcut has it all. Five teenage classmates and their bus driver take a shortcut, which leads

them down an eerie, barren road in the wild. Throw in a mysterious terrorizing creature and a psycho, and everyone must work together to fight for survival. Shortcut will keep you on the edge of your seat as you wonder if the teens will make it out alive.

@JULIANA.COLANT JC079419@OHIO.EDU

‘Misbehaviour’ will be released in theaters on Sept. 25, 2020. (Photo provided via @misbehaviouruk on Instagram)

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 21

the weekender Friday Night LIVE show involves students with virtual music RILEY RUNNELLS CULTURE EDITOR

OHIO Involvement is hosting Friday Night LIVE, an hour-long music show that gets students involved with campus life in a virtual format.

DJ A-roc hosts the event every Friday on Twitch.tv from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. and brings musical guests to entertain students.

A-roc has been performing on Twitch.tv throughout the pandemic and has partnered with the university on projects prior to Friday Night LIVE, such as OU’s Homecoming. However, the Friday show and the other program, Tuesday Night Laughs, are a big teamup effort to further integrate students into college life.

“We are going on our third week right now,” A-roc said. “The whole idea was to bring some virtual entertainment to campus with everything closed off.”

Previous performances have featured artists like DJ Top Knot and Guitaro 5000. This Friday’s performance features a violin duo called Black Diamonds, who has performed on cruise ships and currently resides in Ukraine.

They did a pre-recorded set to account for the seven-hour time difference.

“We’re bringing entertainment to Athens, Ohio, to Ohio University, but it’s going out to everybody because now with things being virtual, even if they come back to campus for college this semester, or you’re doing everything at home or you’re in California, you can still be involved in these activities that cater to our campus here,” A-roc said.

A-roc and Ohio Involvement have also been doing giveaways during the Friday events. When students arrive at the virtual event, they can enter their name in a drawing and be eligible to win a prize shipped out by A-roc. The prizes are coming from the Athens community, from places like Brenen’s Coffee Cafe, Court Street Coffee, Donkey Coffee and Espresso and Fluff Bakery; even the OU bookstores are giving away T-shirts.

22 / SEPT. 17, 2020

Andrew Holzaepfel, senior associate director of student activities, worked with A-roc to put the event together and has been impressed with the turnout. When deciding how to continue with programming like the Friday Night LIVE events, Holzaepfel just puts himself in the shoes of students.

“I just put myself in the perspective of being: for instance, an incoming first-year student who hasn’t had the opportunity yet to be on campus, living,” Holzaepfel said.

“So being able to meet and connect with people as we’re all making our way through this crazy COVID virtual time, it just gives them a connection back to Ohio University.

That’s why it was really A Friday Night Live Ohio advertisement is set up between escalators inside Baker University Center. important for us to work (NATE SWANSON | PHOTO EDITOR) with local businesses.” keep students involved with OU –– even if Aside from OHIO Involvement, othIF YOU GO it’s just for a little while on Friday nights. er organizations like the Black Student “We just want a place where OU stuCultural Programming Board and the WHAT: Friday Night LIVE dents, in general, could come and inMulticultural Center are pitching in to teract on the chat sessions,” Holzaepfel sponsor the event.

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 18 at 8 p.m. said. “If you tune in, you’re going to see Holzaepfel has found learning comthe backgrounds are going to be Ohio munity leaders and resident assistants WHERE: Twitch.tv University, so students can be nostalgic have been taking groups of newer stuin that sense and feel connected to Athdents to the Friday Night LIVEs as a fun ens, even while they’re away.” bonding experience.

ADMISSION: Free There have been alumni viewers, incoming freshmen and everything in be@RILEYR44 tween, and students are really enjoying this is an awesome way for bobcats to RR855317@OHIO.EDU this virtual way to stay involved with be together and enjoy each others’ “virtual” presence.” campus life.

Holzaepfel and A-roc hope the event “I think this is a really great opportunity to keep students involved while not will continue. For now, they’ve planned physically on campus,” Charlie Knox, a out six weeks, this being the third week, sophomore studying strategic commu- and will plan to host more of them if there nication, said in a message. “Everybody is continued interest from students.

For now, they’ll continue trying to is in a different situation at home and

WHAT’S GOING ON? Buy local produce; drive your car for suicide prevention ERIN GARDNER FOR THE POST

FRIDAY, SEPT. 18 Plein Air with Erica Magnus at 12:30 p.m. at the Dairy Barn Arts Center, 8000 Dairy Lane. “En plein air” is French for “in the open air.”

Come paint directly from observing nature as a socially distanced activity. Admission: $170 for members, $190 for non-members Friday Night LIVE OHIO at 8 p.m., hosted by OHIO Involvement and DJ A-roc. Head over to Twitch for some Friday night entertainment.

There will be prizes and giveaways.

Admission: Free Shabbat To-Go at 4 p.m., hosted by Hillel at Ohio University. Although Hillel cannot host Shabbat in person, they still want to make your Shabbat dinner experience enjoyable. Sign up each week to receive a delicious kosher Shabbat meal with everything you need to bring in Shabbat to your residence with roommates or loved ones.

Don’t forget to join them on Zoom every Friday at 6 p.m. EST for services. Admission: Free

SATURDAY, SEPT. 19

Congress Run Greenhouse, 11789 Congress Run Road, hosted by Gabriel Farm and Greenhouse. Mask up and grab some fresh produce.

Hurry, though, because it’s first come, first serve.

Admission: Free DMTK at Athens Farmers Market at 9 a.m. at Athens Farmers Market, 1002 E. State St. Enjoy authentic Thai food with masks, of course, while you’re shopping. Order online for contactless payment while skipping the line.

Admission: Cost of food Online/Zoom or Outdoor Power Flow with Liz at 10 a.m. at Bodhi Tree Guesthouse, 8950 Lavelle Road. Strengthen your body and mind with this vigorous class that focuses on breath. Admission: $10 The Wicked Lobstah in McConnelsville! at 11 a.m. at Old Bridge Brewing Company, 281 W. Main St., McConnelsville. The Wicked Lobstah food truck will be parked at Old Bridge Brewing Company for all your lobster needs. Preordering is available.

Admission: Cost of food

SUNDAY, SEPT. 20 Shofar Mitzvah with Hillel at 11 a.m. at Richland Avenue Park, hosted by Hillel at OU. Join them for a socially distanced Shofar blowing so our entire community can accomplish the mitzvah of hearing the shofar. They will have the shofar blower and gifts of apples and honey for everyone. Masks are required for everyone’s safety. For more information, reach out to Sarah at director@ohiohillel.org.

Admission: Free

@ERINGARDNER_ EG245916@OHIO.EDU

Produce Saturday at 10 a.m. at THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 23

PRACTICE SAFE SIX STAY INFO R ME D WAS H YO U R H ANDS AVO ID C LO S E C O N TACT WE AR A MAS K C LE AN AND DIS INFE CT M O N ITO R YO U R H E ALT H

BE S A F E BO BCA TS .