Trump orders DEI program cuts, sparking widespread concern
The Trump Administration is demanding Ohio University and other public institutions dismantle their diversity, equity and inclusion programs by Friday or risk losing federal funding. Although a judge temporarily blocked the move, DEI-related bills are still advancing through federal and state legislatures, and the issue is expected to continue.
On Feb. 14 the Department of Education issued an ultimatum in a letter titled “Dear Colleagues” that cited “divisive” concepts, such as DEI, critical race theory and social justice activism as subjects that must be eliminated to avoid violations of federal law.
a factor.”
Seda Feldman, a junior social work major at OU, is alarmed about the broader effect of defunding DEI programs. She said she believes the lack of education on minority groups could fuel ignorance and discrimination in future generations.
From OU’s 2025 Diversity Distribution data, 78.7% of students are white and 15.7% of students are from historically underrepresented groups enrolled, according to OU’s Diversity Dashboard.
Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights, said the Department will no longer tolerate racial discrimination in educational institutions.
“The law is clear: treating students differently based on race to achieve nebulous goals such as diversity, racial balancing, social justice or equity is illegal under controlling Supreme Court precedent,” Trainor wrote in the memo.
At the Council of Student Leaders last week, Interim Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion Russell Morrow, said the university plans to comply with the new law but stressed current programs at OU do not discriminate based on race.
The university also issued a response Feb. 18 reaffirming its commitment to nondiscrimination.
“Ohio University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, or other legally protected status,” the university wrote in the statement. “Those involved in admission, scholarships, financial aid or conferral of other University benefits, programs or services, as well as those making hiring decisions, may not consider race, color or national origin as
Gulf of America replaces Gulf of Mexico, Bobcats react
SUZANNE PIPER | FOR THE POST
The Gulf of Mexico was renamed from an executive order by President Donald Trump. The action received more attention than many other executive orders Trump signed since being in the Oval Office.
According to a Jan. 7 video published by the Associated Press, Trump announced before his inauguration that he would sign an executive order changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.
“I think the fact that the majority of our school is white is a problem in the first place,” Feldman said. “If we weren’t able to get those diversity numbers up while DEI programs were funded and in place, then there’s no way those numbers are going to go up now.”
Betsy O’Brochta, a retired Upper Arlington teacher, is also concerned. O’Brochta, who taught in an informal progressive program for kindergarten through fourth grade, said DEI programs are essential to quality education and shaping the future.
“It bothers me when (people) say ‘DEI hire,’ because you make the assumption that a person of color is less than, and that’s not necessarily true,” O’Brochta said. “This whole ‘woke’ business revolves around white old men.”
O’Brochta also criticized the negative portrayal of DEI initiatives and said the phrase “DEI” is politicized and mischaracterized. She said DEI is vital and encourages people to question what aspect detractors are truly opposed to.
“My biggest point when I talk to people and they are anti-DEI is I don’t call it ‘DEI,’” O’Brochta said. “I call it diversity, equity and inclusion, and I ask which piece they’re against.”
“The Gulf of America, what a beautiful name,” Trump said in the video. “It’s appropriate.”
On Feb. 9, the U.S. Continental Shelf area was officially renamed the Gulf of America. The White House also declared Feb. 9 as Gulf of America Day and encouraged U.S. citizens to observe the day through ceremonies, programs and activities.
Apps such as Apple Maps, Google Maps and Google Earth have officially erased the Gulf of Mexico and replaced it with the Gulf of America. Mexico has requested Google to change back the name or a lawsuit will be in order, according to the AP.
“Kind of a political power grab that is what it is,” Ohio University geography professor Timothy Anderson said about Trump changing the name. “It’s a way of reclaiming.”
For a body of water shared by both the U.S. and Mexico, Trump’s remarks primarily emphasized its significance from an American perspective. However, the Gulf is also important to Mexico in many ways.
The history of the Gulf of Mexico’s name comes from European explorers who came upon the body of water in the 16th century, according to Britannica.
Despite the legal change of the Gulf’s name, Anderson said people will still refer to it as the Gulf of Mexico because there
is no way to enforce the name change.
“Are you going to arrest someone who calls up the Gulf of America? No. So in Mexico, it will still be referred to as the Gulf of Mexico,” Anderson said.
However, the White House restricted AP News reporters from entering a briefing because the AP Stylebook – a guide for American English grammar and vocabulary, created by journalists for journalists – has not changed the term, sparking a lawsuit citing freedom of speech.
The AP sued three Trump administration officials Friday. The White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responded, saying, “We’ll see them in court,” according to an AP report.
Trump said AP reporters will continue to be restricted from entering events and news conferences if the AP Stylebook does not change the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.
“President Trump was elected during this period when, obviously, there’s a part of the electorate that wants to reclaim an American identity,” Anderson said.
Liam Thieme, a junior majoring in biological sciences and wildlife conservation, said he doesn’t understand how renaming the gulf is necessary. He said there are more important issues, namely health care and climate change, to focus on, and the name change feels disrespectful toward Mexico.
“It just seemed like almost a way to get people distracted from the actual issues in the country and just almost a power move to try to create dominance over other people,” Thieme said.
ABBY WAECHTER | ASST.
Athens wins EPA award encouraging environmental excellence
ZOE
The Ohio Economic Development Association awarded the City of Athens the 2024 Gold Level Encouraging Environmental Excellence in Communities Award. The award recognizes an organization or local government’s commitment to environmental oversight and excellence.
Notable benefits of the award include enhanced environmental assistance from the Ohio EPA, reduced time to obtain permit modifications and marketing opportunities to highlight environmental accomplishments.
To obtain the award, the city had to complete environmental, economic and social sustainability requirements and meet at least 12 of the EPA’s criteria.
Policies such as banning plastic bag usage and increasing the use of solar energy have helped Athens earn the award.
In February 2020, City Council passed a resolution to declare a climate emergency and begin a mobilization effort to restore the climate. The resolution instructed Athens to make efforts toward reducing gas emissions.
The resolution also requested all city boards and commissions focus on climate protection strategies and that the Athens Environment and Sustainability Commission involve all residents in aiding the environment.
Other changes included making city vehicles more fuel efficient, increasing public transportation and the use of sustainable energy, decreasing plastic use and creating several programs such as tree planting to aid in sustainability efforts.
In 2025, Athens will have been deemed a Tree City USA for 35 years, a title created by the Arbor Day Foundation to recognize cities that create and maintain tree cover.
Due to Athens’ commitment to sustainable energy initiatives, the city was awarded Solsmart Gold Status through the Department of Energy and joined the Sustainable Ohio Public Energy Council.
The city was also awarded the 2023 Duro-Last Sustainability Project Award for recycling 100% of the old roof materials from the community center roof replacement.
A greenhouse gas emissions study completed in 2022 found that Athens is one of the lowest producers of greenhouse gasses in the state and the U.S. Another comparative study is scheduled for 2030.
Several groups within Ohio University and Athens County are working to conserve and sustain the environment.
Donna Goodman, the president of Athens Conservancy, a group that protects open land in Athens County and surrounding areas, highlighted how important it is to conserve the environment.
“We’re experiencing an unprecedented amount of habitat loss from fragmenting of large lands due to more housing going in, other developments, timber harvesting and resource extraction,” Goodman said. “Unbroken, connected lands are critical for maintaining biodiversity.”
Goodman also noted which lands need the most protection.
“What we try to do is protect culturally and ecologically significant lands in the area, such as large forests, streams, wetlands, scenic vistas and lands that provide habitat for threatened or endangered
species,” Goodman said.
Goodman emphasized that spending time outside, taking environmental science classes and volunteering with Athens Conservancy are good ways to get involved with environmental protection and conservation.
Despite Athens’ efforts toward sustainability, some community members have expressed concern that the city may not have been in compliance with some of its environmental laws.
The concern largely stems from water discharge coming from The Lostro project in uptown Athens, which might have been in violation of the Clean Water Act, a federal law regulating water quality, and Title 97, a local law detailing the rights of nature and Athens community members.
According to a previous report by The Post, the developers are abiding by Athens City Code Title 27, as the water is clean and natural following the filtering process.
ZW211923@OHIO.EDU
Athens City Council members stepping down in next election
Athens City Council will be looking a little different in the upcoming months. City Council is holding its election May 6 and three of the nine current members have decided not to run again. The seats for Ward 1, Ward 2 and council president will all be open for new faces or current members to take their place.
Early voting for the Primary Election takes place at the Athens County Board of Elections Office at 15 S. Court St. in room 130 starting April 8. Hours can be viewed online at the Board of Elections website. Polls are open May 6 for voting from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Ward 1 currently has three candidates running for the seat currently held by Solveig Spjeldnes. Spjeldnes has been a member of the council since 2021 and said her decision to step down was due to her desire to do more around the community.
“I’m really interested in housing issues, workforce issues, trying to help with small businesses,” Spjeldnes said. “I feel as though it’s time for me to focus on the things I’m most interested in tackling.”
When she’s done serving on City Council, Spjeldnes said her extra time will be used for activist work which she believes is vitally important in America’s current political state.
“I am very disturbed by decisions being made by the Trump administration,” Spjeldnes said. “I want to become far more involved with activist activities to convince the administration to take another turn.”
The other seat up for grabs is Ward 2 where a political newcomer, John Staser, is running uncontested. The seat is currently held by Jeff Risner who has held the position for six terms, or 12 years, and felt that his time at City Council has reached an end.
“I believe in term limits for one thing,” Risner said. “I’m 73 now, getting older, and there are other things I’d like to do while I still have time to do it.”
Micah McCarey, a current Councilmember AtLarge, is running unopposed for the open seat of council president. McCarey has previous campaign experience running for House District 95, and current President Sam Crowl believes he will be a good fit for the position.
“He has the type of demeanor who I think fits very well in the role,” Crowl said. “He also is a very intelligent man, so I think he brings a lot to the table and so when I discussed with him my plans not to run I really encouraged him to run.”
Crowl said his decision not to run was due to his desire to spend more time with his family and focus
on his other responsibilities. He said he was also frustrated by the amount of political turmoil across the country and how federal or state jurisdiction would affect Athens City legislation such as the plastic bag ban.
“There’s a fair amount of stress and criticism and difficult situations that you really have to be prepared for if you want to be involved at this level,” Crowl said. “Personally, I’d like to have a little bit more of my time back and be able to spend more time with my family and not be consistently stressed out about things.”
Crowl said people do not always realize it takes a large amount of time and commitment to serve as a council person. Along with the public meetings Monday nights, there is also a lot of other work that goes on behind the scenes that can be very time-consuming.
Risner said before he became a council member he didn’t realize how much time and energy he was dedicating.
“When I first ran, the county chair told me ‘Oh, it’s only a couple hours a week, no problem, anyone can do it,’” Risner said. “It’s a lot more than two hours a week. You have your regular sessions, and then you have your committee sessions and then you’re on other committees that have to meet sometime during the week.”
If there’s anything he regrets about his time on council, Risner said it would be that he didn’t acquire any benefits for council members especially because of the commitment it takes. He said if a role on City Council provided things such as health care it might encourage more young people, or even students, to get involved with local politics.
“Council is terribly underpaid for the importance of the work we do,” Risner said. “And we need younger people on council; once upon a time we used to have students who ran for council.”
When asked if he had any advice for future council members, Risner said it takes time to adjust, so make sure to put in effort at the beginning to understand how City Council really works.
“For your first year at least, you’re learning,” Risner said. “You gotta give yourself some time to really figure it all out because there’s no school to teach you how to behave as a council person.”
Athens City Council meets atthe Athens Municipal Court on Washington Street , Feb. 26, 2024.
(ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)
Athens 1st ward councilwoman Solveig Spjeldnes at a city council meeting in the Athens City Building in Athens, Feb. 3, 2025.
(ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)
Athens 2nd ward councilman Jeffrey Risner at a city council meeting in the Athens City Building in Athens, Feb. 3, 2025.
(ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)
Buzz Kill
Alcohol, vulgar language sparks fan ban at LUG hockey
DREW HOFFMASTER | NEWS STAFF WRITER
An incident occurred Feb. 13 at the Bird Ice Arena during a LUG Sports hockey game, an organization that helps arrange recreational sports for colleges, involving alcohol, fan behavior and language used toward referees, according to a LUG Disciplinary Committee.
The organization received reports of “vile language,” including derogatory terms, being used against the officials. Bird Ice Arena also emailed LUG Sports after finding beers being left in the facility.
“The bottom line - those ‘fans’ are representatives of you and the league and by leaving alcohol in the facility and showing up drunk, they put your ice at risk,” the LUG Disciplinary Committee wrote in a warning it issued.
Samantha Pelham, OU’s communications and public relations strategist, said Bird Ice Arena does not sell alcohol on its premises and consumption is not allowed inside it.
The LUG Disciplinary Committee said no fans are allowed at games during the week starting Feb. 16. If any players bring friends to the facility during the games, their team will lose automatically. In addition, punishments were issued to individuals involved via email.
“We have a great thing going in partnership with (Ohio University) and let’s be smart about how we approach the next few weeks as this is going to help reset the tone for LUG playing at Bird,” the LUG Disciplinary Committee wrote.
LUG Sports’ Code of Conduct states using or being under the influence of tobacco products, drugs and alcohol is prohibited, and all garbage must be picked up in the facility LUG Sports is using. All hockey players, coaches, fans and LUG affiliates are expected to respect these rules.
A player who is a part of the High Rollers LUG team at Ohio University was also suspended for six games for “offensive language” during the night. The suspen-
sion ends March 25, which is more than 50% of the season.
The day after the incident, Feb. 14, every team in the league received the same formal warning that any players or fans engaging in similar conduct would experience a similar suspension, LUG sports employee relations and customer service coordinator Kaylee Ledger said. Additionally, the individuals involved, along with their teams, could risk being removed from the league.
“LUG Sports does not condone or allow fighting or the use of abusive or offensive language in games,“ Ledger wrote in an email. “We also hold players accountable for the actions of their fans meaning that if your fans violate our rules, we hold the team on the ice accountable for their actions, as ultimately, this is a community and we’re all a part of it.”
Luke Risko, a freshman studying mechanical engineering and a player for the LUG Sports team the Outlaws said it is
important for players to respect the officials. Risko said referees work to keep the game safe for the players and are needed to play a game.
“You can take whatever the people are saying, but at a certain point, it gets too far to where it obstructs from the game,” Risko said. “It can definitely impact the game for sure.”
Risko said it would be unfortunate if any games were canceled. He said he would be disappointed in his fans if they were responsible and especially disappointed if it was from the other team or their fans.
“It’s a buzz kill for everyone involved, all the players, and we shouldn’t have to deal with that,” Risko said.
Risko said having fans at the game is important. Their support provides the players with much-needed energy to get through the game; however, sometimes fans may trash-talk the players and referees.
2025 Annual Lazaroff Memorial Lecture
“Toward a Definition of Medieval Antisemitism”
The History Department at Ohio University cordially invites you to the 2025 Lazaroff Memorial Lecture in Jewish History. This year's speaker is Dr. Maya Soifer Irish, Associate Professor of History at Rice University in Houston, TX. The event will start at 7:30 p.m. preceded by a reception from 6:30 p.m. in the Baker University Lounge. The event is free and open to the public.
“It can definitely be a lot for a referee to have to deal with that,” Risko said. “It’s always going through the back of their minds. They don’t want to make a bunch of calls because then the fans might get really mad, so they might start going a little softer. They might start throwing people out to kind of make sure that their voice is heard.”
Risko said he understands how tough being a referee for a game is, and it can be imperfect at times.
“It’s kind of a deterrent for people to become referees because you’re kind of asking to get yelled at, which is really unfortunate,” Risko said. “It’s not like we’re in a situation where it’s very, very difficult to get referees, but it is one of those things that keeps people away from it, especially the younger kids getting into refereeing.”
Wednesday March 5th 7:30 pm Baker Theater
Human Butter Churners players stand in the bench to watch the ongoing game, Feb. 23, 2025, in Bird Ice Arena.
(TALITHA MALOY | FOR THE POST)
A ref throws down the puck for a faceoff during the LUG hockey matchup between the Dirty Dawgs and High Rollers, Feb. 23, 2025, in Bird Ice Arena.
An excessive noise complaint was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office coming from a business in Trimble Township.
Deputies were dispatched and patrolled the area and found no criminal activity.
Jacket weather
During the afternoon, the Ohio University Police Department took a report for a stolen jacket at College Green.
The incident and offense were recorded as a theft offense and were found to be false.
15 Sat __________________________
Backseat driver necessary
OUPD issued a traffic citation to an individual in a parking lot by Clippinger Lab during a traffic stop.
The individual violated a temporary permit’s instructions and failed to have the required lights on while operating the vehicle.
Just a prank, bruh
A 911 call from Mound Street in Chauncey was left open, causing deputies from the Athens County Sheriff’s Office to be dispatched.
Once on scene, deputies learned juveniles were playing with a phone and no emergency took place. Deputies returned to patrol.
16 Sun_________________________
It was just a scratch man
According to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office, a vehicle crash took place at Main Street in Glouster. It was reported the parties involved were about to possibly fight.
The Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at the scene to secure it until the
Ohio State Highway Patrol could arrive to further investigate the scene.
17 Mon ___________________________
Warrant is still hanging around
At East First Street in The Plains, the Athens County Sheriff’s Office responded to a burglary that had just taken place.
Deputies took a report and then patrolled the area. Deputies were unable to locate the suspect; however, they were able to identify who the suspect was. The suspect is a man with multiple warrants.
Tied up dog
At Alderman Road, a dog was reported to be tied up and injured, according to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies then located the dog and discovered an injury on its neck, which was not due to the collar. The dog, however, seemed to be healthy and in good spirits.
Deputies then told the owner of the situation who immediately attended to the dog’s injuries.
Trespass to attempt a fight
The Athens County Sheriff’s Office received a report for trespassing and threatening behavior at Fossil Rock Road in Shade.
Deputies met with the complainant who said the neighbor was trespassing on his property and was trying to start a fight.
The suspect was then determined to be trespassing and issued a trespass complaint.
18 Tue __________________________
Just a note to self
On Crestview Drive in The Plains, a caller reported someone broke into their vehicle, according to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.
The caller, however, did not want to file a report but wanted to document the incident.
19 Wed __________________________
About your extended car warranty…
According to OUPD, a report was taken by officers in the evening at Jefferson Hall.
An individual was being extorted from money through social media, according to the report.
Too little too late
A well-being check on a woman in The Plains was performed by the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.
At the scene, deputies met a neighbor who said the woman was already in jail. Half an hour later, the caller called to say the woman was safe and did not need any further assistance.
20 Thur _________________________
Going ghost mode
Morgan County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Athens County Sheriff’s Office to receive help locating a resident.
At the residence, deputies noticed no footprints in the snow, no lights and the windows frosted over. Deputies attempted to knock and announce their presence but did not come into contact with anyone. Deputies then resumed patrol.
CAMPUS EVENTS February 25th - March 18th
Social Engagement & Student Org Events
Wednesday, February 26
Midweek Bible Study hosted by: Encompass Campus Min. 7:00 - 9:00 pm Baker 503
Thursday, February 27
Hot Diggidy Dog Commuter Event hosted by: Housing & Res Life 12:00 - 3:00 pm Boyd Hall, The Den (First Floor)
Friday, February 28
RISE Collegiate Recovery Community Meeting
3:00 - 4:00 pm Baker 313
Friday’s LIVE Season 54 E02 hosted by Sam Gottfried 8:00 pm Studio C (RTV 515)
* To have your event included on this calendar make sure it is registered on Bobcat Connect!
Tuesday, March 4
Standard Tournament hosted by: OU MTG
6:30- 9:30 pm Ellis 115
*Sign up on Bobcat Connect
Recovery Ally Training hosted by Collegiate Recovery Comm.
1:00 - 2:00 pm Baker 313
CASE Club BINGO night
5:00 - 6:00 pm Gordy 113
*Sign up on Bobcat Connect
No Man's Land Film Festival 6:30 - 9:00 pm Baker Theatre
*Sign up on Bobcat Connect
Wednesday, March 5
Midweek Bible Study hosted by: Encompass Campus Min.
7:00 - 9:00 pm Baker 503
Friday, March 7
RISE Collegiate Recovery Community Meeting
3:00 - 4:00 pm Baker 313
Wednesday, March 12
Midweek Bible Study hosted by: Encompass Campus Min.
7:00 - 9:00 pm Baker 503
Tuesday, March 18
Free Battle for Baulder's Gate Commader Draft hosted by: OU MTG
6:30- 10:30 pm Ellis 115
*Sign up on Bobcat Connect
Wednesday, March 19
Midweek Bible Study hosted by: Encompass Campus Min. 7:00 - 9:00 pm Baker 503
Student initiatives and local communities provide safe spaces for trans students as anti-trans legislation takes effect across the country.
ALEXANDRA HOPKINS | FOR THE POST
As legislation changes across the country, many members of the LGBTQIA+ community are concerned with finding resources and safe spaces. This is especially true for transgender individuals who may face discrimination as a result of the new administration’s policy and values.
As many as 550 anti-trans bills will be under consideration in 2025, according to the Trans Legislation Tracker. Eight of these bills have already been passed in seven states.
Organizations at OU and across Athens are working hard to provide safe spaces for trans students, including Victory Earley, a junior studying classical civilizations. Earley recently revived Swarm of Dykes, a club initially founded on campus in 1997.
“With everything going on right now, especially affecting the queer community, it seemed like such an important time to have some sort of revolutionary group like Swarm of Dykes doing political action and community mutual aid,” Earley said. Swarm of Dykes began as a group
committed to lesbian visibility and protesting against all forms of homophobia. With the revival, the group has shifted to fight against all forms of oppression, specifically oppression against the queer community.
“We’re working on trying to focus our gaze on what we want to do, especially with (Ohio’s Senate Bill 1) looking like it’s going to go through,” Earley said.
Ohio’s SB 1 would ban any form of diversity, equity and inclusion offices, departments, orientations and training. Any DEI efforts would be made illegal if the bill is passed.
For OU, this would mean potentially losing the Multicultural Center, Pride Center and Women’s Center, among other initiatives. Losing these organizations would be detrimental to students who rely on these resources and support systems.
“If SB 1 does pass, we’re going to lose safe spaces,” Earley said. “People are going to lose their jobs. It’s going to be a big deal, and it’s going to be scary for a lot of people in the queer and trans community.”
Adrien Legarth, a sophomore studying theater production, is president of the T.R.A.N.S. Student Group.
“I’ve been in (the group) since I got to OU … and it was primarily for building community,” Legarth said. “I have continued that space for people to just tune all of the loud noise out and chill and be themselves and talk to people and find community.”
The group talks very little about legislation and politics during its meetings, if at all. Finding a space to get away from political buzz is equally as important as action, Legarth said.
“With a bunch of things changing, it’s hard to have a constant thing to look forward to, because everything’s so up in the air,” Legarth said. “That certainty of knowing I’m going to be able to go to this space and it’s going to be nice and relaxing and I can chill and be myself, I think that that’s a very important thing to have.”
Many off-campus organizations also provide safe places for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, including Passion Works.
Passion Works is a collaborative art studio located just off OU’s campus at 20 E. State St. Tanner Ingle is an artist in residence and volunteer coordinator at Passion Works who graduated from OU in 2017.
“Our larger mission is to have a radically inclusive space where regardless of any individual’s gender, ability, ethnicity, race, everybody here is accepted and we do not turn anybody away ever,” Ingle said. “We want to celebrate everybody, all of our differences because all of those differences are what makes the world a unique, special place.”
MIA PISHOTTI | ART DIRECTOR
DJ Muchi Nochi infuses music, friendships in Athens
Neal Mohr knew who he wanted to be at a young age. Mixing tracks, throwing funky parties, collecting records and spending time with his family are just a few of his passions.
Athens locals and Ohio University students may know Mohr by his stage name: DJ Muchi Nochi. What started as his high school hobby has now transformed into a full-time career, and Mohr can often be seen at several Court Street hotspots.
Born and raised in Athens, Mohr said he was surrounded by music throughout his childhood. His grandfather played an influential role in his love for jazz and other spunky genres.
“My grandfather was a jazz pianist, so I always liked hearing him play jazz piano for us after dinner when we went
over there,” Mohr said.
Despite growing up in a musical household, Mohr did not start DJing until high school.
“I was just absorbing all kinds of music and I got really into making mashups and things like that,” Mohr said.
Mohr said he let go of the DJ fascination after high school, but rediscovered the passion after studying audio production at OU. When he graduated in 2015 and the COVID-19 pandemic hit Athens a few years later, Mohr’s career fell into place.
Some of Mohr’s close friends are also involved in the Athens music scene.
Michael Bart, otherwise known as DJ Barticus, met Mohr long before he began his DJ profession.
“The first way I got to know him is he booked me to be his prom DJ,” Bart said.
“I got to DJ at his prom, it was a lot of fun.”
It was not until quarantine in March 2020 that Bart and Mohr reconnected on the streaming platform Twitch. Both started streaming on the platform in search of a creative outlet, as nearly all of Athens was shut down.
“I think (Mohr’s) DJ skills really were supercharged there
because on Twitch we were exposed to so many amazing DJs around the world,” Bart said. “We were friends with good DJs in Brazil and Japan … we could just spend time with them and study what they do.”
Bart said he and Mohr would participate in raid events where DJs could play music and forward audience members to each other after performances.
Based on his appearances at The Side Bar, Casa Nueva and The Union Bar, Mohr knows how to throw an electric party. Locals and students may have attended his “Mucho Funkies,” hosted at Casa on 6 W. State St.
“His Mucho Funky parties are really cool and I really enjoy that, I went to the last one (and) had a really good time,” Brandon Thompson, also known as DJ B-Funk, said. “It takes a lot to create a party (and) to sustain a party.”
Thompson and Mohr crossed paths in 2012 after Mohr hosted one of his first shows at West End Ciderhouse on 3 N. Shafer St. However, their friendship did not develop until 2020.
“We are both parents and stuff like that, so we understand that the life of DJing and trying to be a dad at the same time, it is not always easy,” Thompson said.
Thompson said he and Mohr have collaborated for Boogie on the Bricks, the annual family-friendly musical festival on Court Street.
Not only does Mohr host thrilling parties, but he also participates in other exciting hobbies, including collecting records. With a few thousand records to
his name, Mohr said he was a consistent shopper at Haffa’s record store in college.
“It just came from wanting to check out new music,” Mohr said. “(Haffa’s) had super cheap records and there was always cool stuff in their $1 bin … anywhere I go, if there is a new record store I can check out, I am gonna check it out.”
Whether he is out with family, spinning tracks or browsing the nearest record store, Mohr creates a positive environment and strives to make new connections.
“I think having people like Neal in the community doing what they do is really healthy,” Thompson said. “I am happy to call him a friend and excited to have him as another Athens DJ, he just makes us look good.”
All 9 Lives, Crochet Club encourage cat adoption in style
Ohio University’s Crochet Club and All 9 Lives organization are collaborating to host an adorable photo shoot of cats up for adoption dressed up in hand-crafted cat sweaters.
All 9 Lives is a partner of the Athens Humane Society and was formed in the fall of 2023. The club strives to promote awareness of the stray cat population and the de-stigmatization of “grief around pet loss.”
Jess Mitchell, a senior studying biological sciences pre-veterinary, is the president of All 9 Lives and said Alyssa Goodenow, the founder and OU alumnae, started the organization to create an environment where cat lovers can socialize.
“She made it in memory of her emotional support cat Hank, who died of a neurological issue at two super unexpectedly,” Mitchell said. “So she kind of made it as a memory to him and also to help other cats.”
Mitchell said some of the club activities include building outdoor cat houses for strays and hosting “bring your own cat” meetings.
Peta claims there are 60-100 million feral cats in the U.S. due to a lack of care, socialization and trust in people. Some cats are abandoned while others are homeless, and a plethora carry diseases including feline AIDS and leukemia. These diseases can pose a threat to wildlife. The American Bird Conservancy says homeless cats “kill millions of birds and small mammals in the U.S. each year,” in addition to endangered species. A portion of these feral cats can be found roaming the streets of Athens, longing
for permanent owners and comfortable homes.
Allison Winland, a junior studying sociology pre-law, is the president and founder of Crochet Club and started the organization in 2023. Winland said the club has over 100 members enrolled, but 20 students consistently attend each meeting.
“We just come and hang out, listen to music (and) watch movies,” Winland said. “We do a few special events here and there.”
Some of the club’s events include an Earth Day sale, a Valentine’s Day party and a collaboration with the Marshall Honeybee Foundation. Ryan said sale items range between $10-$20, and the profits are donated to other organizations or used to purchase crochet materials. It is safe to say both organizations
share a similar goal: to benefit the Athens neighborhood and assist those in need.
Hallie Shea, a junior studying sociology pre-law and political science, is the Crochet Club’s secretary and joined in fall semester 2023.
Shea said she discovered All 9 Lives at OU’s involvement fair in 2024 and was excited when the photo shoot was finally announced.
“I was like, ‘Hey what would you think about a collaboration?’ and then I talked to our president and we got it set up,” Shea said. “We will be able to take cute little pictures with the cats and who doesn’t love a cat in a sweater?” Crochet Club has been working hard to create cat outfits, as members have to account for sizing and color patterns. From sweaters to hats to beds, each cat will be dressed to the nines and ready to
find their forever home.
“I think anytime that different organizations, who otherwise look outwardly unlikely, but are able to come together for a common good or common goal is a really inspiring thing,” Mitchell said. Mitchell said there are currently 10 cats on the adoption record but the numbers can fluctuate after kitten season. Over the summer there were 60 cats in need of homes.
“The more cats we get adopted, the more cats we can take in,” Mitchell said.
“The more lives we can save, the more publicity we get in this way, and also it betters nonprofits in general.”
The photo shoot will be March 21 and feature a variety of cat breeds, all of whom are looking for a new home or foster parent. The cat photos will be posted on PetFinder, a database of nearly 11,000 adoption shelters and animal organizations for those interested in finding a new furry friend.
The Humane Society and All 9 Lives Instagram pages will also promote the photos with the hopes of expanding outreach and eliminating Athen’s feral cat population.
Lauren Elliott, a sophomore studying media arts production, owns five cats and said crocheting homemade pieces for All 9 Lives is a rewarding feeling.
“Handmade clothing is very, you know, tedious, but it’s worth it,” Elliott said. “Just all the love and hard work that is put into it and really just taking the time to, you know, perfect your craft … we do it all for good causes.”
GINA NAPOLI HUMAN INTEREST STAFF WRITER
Lauren Elliott crochets a hat for cats in order to donate the hat to All Nine Lives, Tupper Hall, Ohio University, Feb. 19, 2025. (TALITHA MALOY | FOR THE POST)
After being closed for a week and a half, the rock climbing wall at Ping Recreation Center reopened to the public Saturday morning for the Spring Semester Climbing Competition, hosted by Ohio University Outdoor Pursuits. The wall was closed to set up new routes for the event.
Outdoor Pursuits holds a climbing contest once a semester, with a Halloween one in the fall and another themed one in the spring. This semester’s competition was cowboy-themed, with about 20 participants moseying in wearing cowboy hats, boots, flannel and a few chaps. Along with the climbing contest, there was also a costume contest.
Brenna McFarland, a junior studying environmental science and sustainability and a climbing wall supervisor for Outdoor Pursuits, said she pitched the idea
after she was inspired by the climbing gym she goes to in Cincinnati.
“The cowboy theme was actually a theme from my home gym in Cincinnati, RockQuest Climbing,” she said. “They would do a Western night where they did flying figure-eight competitions and tried to lasso a quick draw.”
Tyler Duricky, a freshman studying mechanical engineering who climbed in the men’s intermediate category, wore a blaze orange cowboy hat he won at the fall climbing competition.
“I like the cowboy theme,” Duricky said. “I usually have a normal cowboy hat, but I won this one at the last comp, so I had to wear it for this one.”
There were different categories for competitors to climb in. The beginner and intermediate groups were split between men and women, while the advanced group was coed, with each having four routes.
Duricky, who won the men’s intermediate category followed by Charlie Clark and Blaise Ignagni, said he climbs nearly every day but has not been able to with the rock wall being closed.
“I probably miss maybe one day a month,” Duricky said. “I haven't been able to climb in like two weeks because they've been closed.”
Climbers were judged on a point system, with each hold they touched being worth one point, holds they controlled being worth two and any holds they skipped being worth two as well. Competitors also had two attempts at a route and would get an additional 10 points if they completed it on their first attempt. To complete a route, a climber had to put both hands on the top of the wall.
The advanced category was won by Trevor Gillam, women’s intermediate by Anna Martin, men’s beginner by Miles Gassaway and women’s beginner by Caleig McFawn.
The event was open to anyone, not just current students. Ben Brewster, who graduated from OU in 2022 with a degree in mechanical engineering and a climber
in the advanced category, said this was his first competition since he graduated.
“I did them when I was a student, I haven't done them since,” Brewster said. “I used to work for Outdoor Pursuits, so I would set routes for the comps and then compete as well.”
Unlike previous years, climbers belayed each other rather than having Outdoor Pursuits staff do it. A belayer stays on the ground attached to the climber and gives them more or less slack on the rope when needed.
McFarland said the competitions can help to create fellowship among climbers while introducing people to the sport.
“I think it really is about the community, that's the biggest thing for me,” McFarland said. “Also just testing your ability. Climbing is scary, and competing can be scary, but we have so many different divisions that I think it’s a good way to test yourself and challenge yourself and try something new, and also meet other climbers.”
A climber grabs a hold at the Outdoor Pursuits spring climbing competition at the rock wall in Ping Recreation Center in Athens, Feb. 22, 2025.
(ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)
The Outdoor Pursuits spring climbing competition at the rock wall in Ping Recreation Center in Athens, Feb. 22, 2025. (ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)
ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST
Ohio is right where it needs to be
After a win over undefeated No. 1 Akron, Ohio looks better than ever.
LOGAN ADAMS | SPORTS EDITOR
Almost four months ago, Ohio was the near-unanimous selection to finish first in the Mid-American Conference. All things considered, Ohio was coming off a season much like this one; a slow start out of the gate, a dominant record at home and a massive improvement into conference play. This year’s team was just missing that statement win.
Last Saturday, it got that win. Ohio brought 13-0 No. 1 Akron into The Convo, snapping its opponent’s nation-best winning streak with a dominant 84-67 victory. Beyond putting Ohio in a better spot with four games left, this victory showed the team can hang with anybody in the MAC.
“With everything we’ve been through, all that (preseason No. 1 talk) went out the window a long time ago,” Ohio coach Jeff Boals said. “The biggest thing for us has been staying as healthy as we can, staying as together as we can and just keep getting better.”
Ohio’s struggles are well-documented. In the team’s last matchup against Akron, the course of Ohio’s season changed massively. Junior guard Elmore James was away from the team, forward Aidan Hadaway suffered a season-ending ankle injury and senior star AJ Clayton, who looked inhuman entering the matchup, had one of his worst games.
In the time since, James has come back and Clayton has struggled with injuries, but against Akron, Ohio looked its healthiest since its first matchup with Akron. In the wake of injuries, Ohio’s other options have also begun to strive.
Transfer point guard Jackson Paveletzke has had his best stretch of the season, commanding Ohio’s offense, averaging over 17 points per game in Ohio’s last four MAC games. Graduate leader Shereef Mitchell looks like Ohio’s best player as of late, averaging 20 points per game in the three games leading up to Akron.
(JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST)
Filling in on the starting lineup for Hadaway, freshman Elijah Elliott is a seemingly never-ending story of growth for the Bobcats, as one of its most exciting offensive players.
Although the season hasn’t gone how Boals or the Bobcat faithful expected following the preseason No. 1 selection, the team’s recent stretch has shown there’s no need to worry.
Ohio’s biggest games of the season coming up will be at home, aside from a road matchup against thirdranked Toledo to end the regular season. After a one-off road game against Western Michigan, Ohio will play back-to-back home games against Eastern Michigan and Miami, two teams Ohio lost to on the road.
Luckily for Ohio, the atmosphere in The Convo has only grown since the start of the season. Ohio is historically good at home under Boals, but against Akron, with a raucous blizzard of fans participating in the “White Out” theme, Ohio looked undefeatable.
“I thought our atmosphere was unbelievable, I think it was one of the best of the year,” Boals said. “Moving forward, we have two more home games left. Hopefully, we can continue what we had (against Akron).”
With the win, Ohio secured its spot in the MAC Tournament in Rocket Arena as the fourth team to do so. As the season continues to wind down, Ohio will have a great chance to secure a top three, if not top two, slot in the standings, especially with wins in upcoming games against Miami and Toledo.
Regardless of where they end up in the standings, the Bobcats have proved they were more than deserving of the No. 1 spot they were awarded in the preseason.
Guard, AJ Clayton during the Bobcats game against Akron, Feb. 22, 2025. The Bobcats beat Akron 84-67, in The Convo. Guards, AJ Brown (3) and Elijah Eliott (6) during the Bobcats game against Akron, Feb. 22, 2025. The Bobcats beat Akron 84-67, in The Convo. Head coach, Jeff Boals during the Bobcats game against Akron, Feb. 22, 2025. The Bobcats beat Akron 84-67, in The Convo.
Baseball: Ohio gets first win but loses series against West Georgia
ROBERT KEEGAN III | SPORTS EDITOR
Ohio (1-5) had another unsuccessful weekend on the road despite tallying its first win of the season Saturday. The Bobcats were an expected favorite against West Georgia (4-2), a program that transitioned from Division II to Division I in July, but couldn’t come through with a series win.
Although Ohio’s main issue in Week One was an inability to get much success off the mound, its main issue in Week Two was a lack of production from the plate. The Bobcat offense was held to just 7 runs in three games, including being shut out Friday night.
Ohio picked up its first win Saturday after an excellent day off the mound from Hudson Boncal, who pitched more than four innings of shutout ball out of the bullpen.
Here’s everything to know from the weekend.
FRIDAY
Friday was perhaps the most frustrating game Ohio has endured all season. Despite six innings of shutout baseball from starter Blake Gaskey, the Bobcats could not scratch across a run, resulting in a 3-0 loss.
Gaskey was the game’s highlight for
Ohio, allowing only three hits in six innings pitched without allowing a run. After a rough outing to start the season against Wofford, Gaskey had an encouraging bounce back in his second start.
Although Gaskey had a phenomenal game, West Georgia starter Lane Pearson was even better. Pearson completed seven shutout innings, allowing only three hits while striking out eight.
Landon Price came in to relieve Gaskey in the seventh and immediately surrendered the game’s first run to the first batter he faced. Landon Weidner took Price deep over the left field wall to give West Georgia a lead it didn’t relinquish.
Price surrendered 2 more runs in the eighth inning, putting Ohio in a 3-0 hole before the ninth. Price was credited with his second loss in just as many appearances this season.
SATURDAY
Ohio put it all together and delivered its first win Saturday by a score of 4-2. Jacob Tate took the mound for Ohio but only went one-and-two-thirds innings. Tate was limited early in the season due to an injury before the year.
Tate successfully allowed no runs before Boncal came in in relief and pitched
excellently. Boncal allowed just 2 runs after delivering four-and-a-third innings of work out of the bullpen.
Ohio excelled on the mound and its offense got hot at the plate. Dylan Shepard started the scoring with a home run in the third inning off pitcher Sam Cole. Ohio’s infield duo of JR Nelson and Matt Ineich each came across to score in the fifth, ballooning Ohio’s lead to 3 runs.
Reliever Tyler Peck came in to pitch in the eighth inning and was impressive, shutting down West Georgia for two innings en route to his first save of the year.
SUNDAY
The Bobcats got off to as good a start as any game Sunday, going up 3-0 in the second inning before surrendering a late-inning comeback by West Georgia, who won by a final score of 4-3.
Dillon Masters was handed the ball to start off the mound for Ohio, who had another impressive performance. Masters started with three straight scoreless innings before allowing singular runs in the fourth and fifth.
Ben Slanker got the scoring started for Ohio in the second inning when he sent one over the fence for a 2-run home run that scored Trenton Neuer. Later in the
inning, freshman Matt Ineich recorded a sac-fly RBI to score Dylan Shepard.
The Ohio offense did not score outside of the second inning.
Tre Barkman relieved Masters in the sixth inning, holding onto a slim 3-2 lead. Barkman tossed a scoreless sixth before allowing a 2-run home run to Carter Dierdorf to start the seventh. Barkman was credited with the loss after surrendering the lead in the seventh.
Gavin Mask was credited with the win for West Georgia after two scoreless innings where he struck out three batters.
Softball: Ohio completes dominant weekend in Lowcountry Classic
LOGAN ADAMS | SPORTS EDITOR
Ohio (9-4) didn’t have its best weekend in the Bear Down Fiesta, going 1-4 against several strong opponents, including No. 15 Arizona. To say it bounced back in the Lowcountry Classic this weekend would be an understatement. The Bobcats walked away with four wins in three days, playing dominant softball in all facets.
The weekend opened with its most tightly-contested matchup, a 1-0 victory over Dartmouth that required an eighth inning to finish. Freshman pitcher Anna Wise secured her first career win in the victory, playing all eight innings and throwing four strikeouts while forcing five outs.
Pitching was a premium on both ends, with only eight hits combined between the two teams. Ohio had the advantage in walks with two to zero, but at the end of the seventh inning Ohio was looking at a 0-0 game.
It didn’t take long for Ohio to get its
first score in the top of the eighth, with CiCi Keidel scoring junior Colleen Bare with a single to center field. Another shutout inning where Wise only allowed one hit secured the opening win for Ohio.
Ohio’s offense showed more life in the second matchup of the day against Rhode Island, winning 8-0 in five innings. The pitcher earning the shutout this time was redshirt junior Skipp Miller, who pitched six strikeouts in five innings.
At the end of two innings Ohio led 6-0 with massive plays from sophomore Brenna Farmer, Keidel, senior Lauren Yuhas and senior Emma Hoffner offensively. All it took was 2 more runs in the following three innings to bring about a mercy rule.
Ohio’s second matchup against Dartmouth followed the next day, logging yet another shutout. Ohio won 5-0 with a five-strikeout performance from sophomore Mikie Lieving in yet another
complete game. Lieving was lights out, walking just one batter and allowing one hit.
Offensively, sophomore Izzie Wilson made the most of her three at-bats, logging two hits and three RBIs. Yuhas also had a productive game, logging three hits and 1 run. Ohio’s most productive offensive day was still yet to come, however.
In the first of what was supposed to be two games against Charleston (the latter was canceled), Ohio scored 15 runs, only needing six innings to finish its weekend early. Ten of those runs came in the sixth inning, with Ohio coming back from being down 2-0 early in the game.
Wise and Miller split pitching duties, for the first non-complete game from an Ohio pitcher in the Lowcountry Classic. Wise was awarded her second career win, allowing just one hit in four innings.
Juniors Belle Hummel and Shelby Westler chipped in 3 runs apiece on the
offensive end, with senior Maddie Wilcox notching four RBIs and three hits in just as many at-bats.
Ohio’s dominance didn’t start until the fourth inning, following three shutout innings from Rhode Island. Ohio was only able to score a single run in the fourth with Wilcox’s first RBI on a single to the left but would heat up quickly in the remaining two innings.
Although Ohio hit mostly singles and doubles, its batters simply couldn’t be struck out for the remainder of the game, looking automatic at home plate as it took the lead with 4 runs in the fifth inning. A 10-run explosion followed in the sixth, sealing the deal.
Ohio will continue its incredible season in the Purple/Gold Challenge next weekend in Nashville, Tennessee, where it will play Northern Iowa, Lipscomb and Illinois State.
(ABBIE KINNEY | FOR THE POST)
(ABBIE KINNEY | FOR THE POST)
Women’s Basketball Ohio notches second straight win against Akron
CHARLIE FADEL SPORTS STAFF WRITTER
For the first time all season, Ohio (6-19 overall, 4-10 Mid-American Conference) has strung together two straight wins and two straight quality performances.
The first game came against NIU in The Convo with a 74-70 win, and the second win came Saturday in the James A. Rhodes Arena in Akron by a score of 70-62.
The weekend matchup was the second time the Bobcats and Zips faced off this season, with the first contest being a loss for the Bobcats at home in The Convo. This time it was a much different game, with Ohio shooting the ball efficiently en route to its fourth MAC win.
Even with the convincing win, the game started slow for Ohio, who at one point was down 16-3 in the opening quarter.
Bailey Tabeling had 8 of Ohio’s 11 first-quarter points with two threes and a layup trying to keep Ohio in the game early.
The Bobcats began the second quarter down 19-11, a rough opening quarter that seemingly didn’t bode well for the remainder of the game.
Ohio jumped out of the gate in the second quarter on a 7-0 run that got it back within a point of the Akron lead. The rest of the quarter was back and forth between the two in-state rivals, with both Asiah Baxter and Tabeling knocking down a pair of threes in the second.
The Bobcats found themselves up by a point heading into the locker room after outscoring Akron 20-11 in the second. This was a remarkable bounce back from a poor showing in the opening quarter.
The third quarter was more
of the same, with both teams trading scores and the lead. It was again a lot of Tabeling, who ended the game with 16 points on 5-12 shooting from the field to go along with five assists.
Even with her strong performance, Tabeling didn’t lead the team in points Saturday, as it was Wake Forest transfer Aliah McWhorter who stuffed the stat sheet and had her best game in the green and white.
She was able to put up a game-high 18 points on perfect shooting from the floor, going 6-6, including hitting both of the triples she attempted. She was also four-of-five from the foul line and snagged four rebounds as well as a whopping five steals.
The duo of Tabeling and McWhorter kept the game tight as Akron’s Maddie Vejsicky also had an impressive day, scoring 16 points to combat the scoring from Ohio’s guard duo.
The fourth quarter is really where Ohio found its stride, scoring 25 points on the back of solid shooting from the free throw line, going 12-16 on free throws in the fourth quarter alone. Six different Bobcats got in on the scoring, making for a solid team win and an impressive final quarter to close out the game on the road.
Just four games remain for Ohio, but with the season winding down, the Bobcats have been clicking on both ends of the court, putting together back-toback wins in hopes of carrying the momentum through the final stretch.
@CHARLIEFADEL CF111322@OHIO.EDU
Guard, Kennedi Watkins (5) during the game against Northern Illinois, Feb. 19, 2025. The Bobcats defeat Northern Illinois 74-70, in the Convo.
(JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST)
Ohio Bobcats head coach, Bob Boldon during the game against Northern Illinois, Feb. 19, 2025. The Bobcats defeat Northern Illinois 74-70, in The Convo. (JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST)
Guard, Anyssa Jones (3) during the game against Northern Illinois, Feb. 19, 2025. The Bobcats defeat Northern Illinois 74-70, in The Convo. (JOHN FOUSS | FOR THE POST)
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OU film school director responds to studio diversity rollbacks
ALEXANDRA HOPKINS FOR THE POST
Entertainment studios are rolling back diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives following major changes made by the Trump administration.
Large-scale DEI initiatives appeared across the U.S. in 2020, following the death of George Floyd, a Black man, by Minneapolis police. The incident incited Black Lives Matter demonstrations across the country, protests which led to major change in corporate America.
Although the origins of DEI programs date back to the Civil Rights Movement, “Floyd’s murder renewed the push for DEI leadership roles and initiatives at major corporations,” according to CNN.
Dozens of entertainment studios across Hollywood joined corporate America to implement new DEI programs; including Amazon Studios, Disney and Fox Entertainment.
Three years later, people of color and women found major success in the film industry, and diverse audiences dominated the box office in 2023. However, unease over the sanctity of diversity-centered initiatives began in June when a series of Hollywood diversity executives were laid off.
Concerns stagnated last year as entertainment studios waited for the results of the 2024 Presidential Election before Trump won.
On the day of his inauguration, Trump signed an executive order terminating all DEI offices, positions and initiatives within the federal government. Last Friday, a video captioned “DEI is dead under the Trump administration” was posted on the White House’s official Instagram account.
A growing list of companies have rolled back DEI initiatives in response to these changes, with Disney and Amazon Studios among the most recent.
Justin Daering, director of Ohio University’s School of Film, has worked in the entertainment industry since 2008 when he began working on “Public Enemies” (2009).
Daering, an award-winning writer and director, has seen diversity initiatives evolve throughout his career, beginning with programs known as “incubator labs.”
“Warner Bros. had one, and Sony had one,” he said. “They were intended to be diversity initiatives, but they weren’t labeled that way.”
Incubator labs are programs focused on expanding experience and opportunities for up-and-coming artists, often those from underrepresented communities. Many directors, including Ryan Coogler and Alfonso Cuarón, have found success following these labs.
By the mid-to-late 2010s, Daering began to see positions specifically meant to expand diversity content and representation opening up at studios. Now, he’s watching as they disappear.
“It's hard to know what's going to come out (of shutting down diversity initiatives) because I don't know that they were done as whole-heartedly as they were being advertised,” Daering said. “At the same time, some of them were very successful and tapped into very lucrative markets that those companies have no interest in losing access to.”
UCLA’s 2024 Hollywood Diversity Report found “America’s increasingly diverse audiences prefer diverse content in theatrical film releases.” It also found diverse movies tend to perform better at
the box office.
“There's a big marketplace for (diverse content), and that's not going away,” Daering said. “The people who have an interest in going back to an era where all the content is white people, it's not going to happen. You can't put the genie back in the bottle like that. People are seeing content with people that resemble themselves, that they didn't used to have … they're going to want to continue to see it.”
Daering said it is harder to predict what’s going to happen in terms of hiring practices.
“I think there's going to be some negative impact,” Daering said. “But, I think there are people who care about this, who are going to continue to care about it in businesses, whether or not DEI mandates exist … I think the business has diversified a lot, and that's going to naturally continue of its own accord.”
As for the advice Daering would give to concerned students entering into the entertainment industry, he said to not be discouraged.
“I believe that there is room in this business for people who are great, always,” Daering said. “This is a marathon, not a sprint business for anybody, no matter who you are … someone who's good at what they do and passionate and keeps going for it will make it.”
As corporations change to fit into the new administration's standards, some entertainment industry members wait to see the resulting impacts of DEI rollbacks.
@AHOPKINS909 AH875121@OHIO.EDU
Social media may increase social media narcissism
The Grecian story of Narcissus tells of a man who is so beautiful that any person who sees him falls in love. Narcissus, who rejects everyone who attempts to court him, is cursed by one of his scorned courtiers who wishes “that he may suffer the way he has made others suffer.” The goddess Nemesis, who delivers vengeance for acts of arrogance, then curses Narcissus to fall in love with his reflection.
Upon seeing himself in the reflection of a pond, Narcissus is stuck viewing a cursed gaze trying to gain his favor. Narcissus died of a broken heart knowing he could never be in a relationship with his reflection.
The Greek fable is the origin of the terms “narcissism” and “narcissist” today. Narcissistic Personality Disorder is marked by an external need for excessive and continuous validation to maintain one’s self-esteem.
With the introduction of social media into the social health of young adults, a demographic already predisposed to narcissistic traits is seeing an increase. A study published by the Journal of Personality found that college students who took the Narcissistic Personality Index had a significant increase in their scores from 1982 to 2006.
In the follow-up study, researchers found these scores had increased even further with the two noticeably different factors: an increase in “building self-esteem in young people” and the internet, with a specific focus on social media.
A single like on a social media post produces a dopamine response that triggers our brains’ reward system and can cause social media addictions. A 2022 study found young adults with grandiose or vulnerable narcissism, along with young adults with a strong need for narcissism, were at a higher risk of TikTok addiction.
Young people who use platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are more likely to have high levels of grandiose narcissism. The format of these platforms is conducive to narcissistic behaviors.
Frequent Instagram users were reported to have higher levels of vanity, exhibitionism and self-centered behaviors than those who use the app less. With the introduction of Instagram Notes, which has the ability to give quick, rapid and low-effort updates, teens are using the app as a self-promotion tool for dopamine and quick reward release versus a way of communication.
In a 2020 study, it was found that vulnerable narcissists, characterized by hypersensitivity to criticism and a constant need for reassurance, are more likely to become addicted to platforms such as Facebook. They are also more likely to suffer from insecurity and anxiety.
According to the study’s researchers, “The higher the narcissism level, the more anxiety symptoms are experienced that foster the development of addictive tendencies.”
This newer method of narcissistic gratification has been coined digital narcissism. Digital narcissism, according to Psychology Spot, is expressed through a series of extreme actions such as sharing excessive amounts of selfies or moments
on social media platforms. There is an emphasis on sharing to the degree that some, or many, of these moments can be considered intimate.
In 2021, Adam Mosseri, the CEO of Instagram, testified in front of the Senate Commerce Committee to address concerns about the social media platform's effect on teen users. Mosseri reassured the platform's goal to address the negative impacts of Instagram while also emphasizing the collaboration of policymakers and the social media industry to create universal protections for youths. "I want to assure you that we do have the same goal. We all want teens to be safe online,” Mosseri said. “The internet isn't going away, and I believe there's important work that we can do together — industry and policymakers — to raise the standards across the internet to better serve and protect young people.”
Mosseri also called for more protections and inputs from parents and regulators on content online.
"The reality is that keeping people safe is not just about one company," Mosseri said. “An external survey from just last month suggested that more US teens are using TikTok and YouTube than Instagram.”
Mosseri launched a “Take-A-Break” feature later in the year. The feature reminds users to take a break after a certain amount of time scrolling through the app, also giving them the option to set reminders for themselves. Instagram has also established parental controls and content restrictions to protect younger audiences.
With the rise in narcissistic traits in young adults, including record highs in narcissistic personality traits in college students, many researchers are faced with the task of finding a solution to this increasing concern.
Humility is described as understanding one’s true importance and accurately assessing one’s self-worth. Psychologists emphasize humility’s ability to foster empathy, compassion and pro-social behavior as it influences a person’s mental well-being and shapes how they interact with others and their behavior.
It may also be Gen Z and future digital generations' only hope in combating this problem.
NYLA GILBERT | FOR THE POST
(MIA PISHOTTI | ART DIRECTOR)
Wendy Williams’ family calls for release from conservatorship
In 2022, talk show host Wendy Williams was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, the most common form of dementia for people under 60, and primary progressive aphasia. “The Wendy Williams Show” also aired its final episode that year, amid Williams's diagnosis and appointment of a legal guardian for her.
Since then, a docuseries has been released about her condition as Williams’ family continues to fight to free her from the guardianship she is under.
After the end of her hit daytime show, filming began for a documentary about the star's life post-show titled, “Where is Wendy Williams?” The documentary was produced by LifeTime and released in two parts in February 2024. In the series, Williams is shown being confused and forgetful as she lives her daily life with the diagnosis she received in 2022.
According to reports from NPR, the A&E television network received an unsealed complaint from Williams's legal guardian Sabrina Morrisey since the documentary's airing. Morrisey argued Williams was not in the right state of mind, could not film and would not agree with how the documentary showcased her and her life post talk show. Morrisey was appointed by a New York judge to be Williams’ guardian in 2022 after her bank, Wells Fargo, raised concerns about her spending. However, Williams' family claims the guardianship is keeping her isolated in a New York Facility and have since called for her release from the conservatorship.
Williams appeared in her first interview on the radio show “The Breakfast Club,” the most listened to hip-hop and R&B morning radio show in the U.S., a year after the documentary series was released. She was joined by her niece Alex Finnie, who helped detail her life and struggles with the
conservatorship.
“The Breakfast Club” show is hosted by DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious and Charlamagne tha God, who previously worked with Williams on her radio show “The Wendy Williams Experience.” Charlamagne detailed that Williams was calling into the show because she was trapped in a conservatorship and could not leave where she was.
Williams and her niece then shared the struggles Williams has faced in the conservatorship so far, describing the place she was residing in as high security. Williams even noted that she was not allowed to have a phone as her guardian Morrisey has her old one. She explained this means she can only make calls, and no one can call her where she will receive them.
Her niece called the facility a luxury prison and said she felt her aunt wasn’t receiving proper sun-
light or getting outside of the facility enough. She also told hosts her family wasn’t allowed to see her during the filming of her documentary, declaring Williams’ family is worried she will be moved without notice to the family and they will lose contact with her.
Williams also spoke about how she was not allowed to make purchases. She said she received pushback when trying to choose her own doctors and even found out that her cats had been given away without her knowledge.
The former talk show host got emotional on the call, saying she wanted to see her father for his birthday but was afraid her guardian would not allow her to go. Williams and her niece also declared that the conservatorship limited much of what Williams could and wanted to say on air.
Williams even declared she is not cognitively impaired and feels like she is in prison. The interview ended with Finnie calling for reform to the conservatorship program and for Williams to be released.
There is a GoFundMe for Williams which shares updates on her condition and currently is just short of its $50,000 goal. “The Breakfast Club” shared this link in the caption of its YouTube video, calling on fans to support in any way they can.
The last update on the page comes from Feb. 15, stating there has been no change to William’s guardianship and she remains in one that is as restrictive as before. The page also says she was allowed to go to Florida to celebrate her father’s 94th birthday.
As the fight for Williams’ freedom from her conservatorship continues to be backed by family, fans and friends, there is no telling as to what happens legally with the conservatorship moving forward.
@CLARA_LEDER CL125221@OHIO.EDU
Shipping culture drives representation, engagement in media
“Shipping,” a term derived from the word “relationship,” refers to the desire among fans for certain characters in media to be romantically or otherwise involved, regardless of whether the original material intends this connection.
The term originated from “The X Files” (1993) with main characters Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson). The duo’s relationship started out strictly professional but later on evolved into a friendship and then romance.
Fans of the couple, who saw the potential for their relationship, referred to themselves as “relationshippers,” which was eventually shortened to “shippers.”
Ships often play a central role in the narrative of books, movies and television shows. Julia Platt, a senior studying English, discussed how potential character interactions engage audiences in the media.
“I think it gives you another reason to watch, and it makes it a little bit more entertaining, too,” Platt said. “I think that when you have something that you're waiting to happen or that you're excited about, it just makes it all the more interesting and kind of suspenseful.”
Shipping can encompass any type of relationship that is not just romantic. The characters in a ship may already have an established bond, as intended by the creators, or their chemistry may be subtle or open to interpretation by viewers.
The phenomenon is especially present in the TV show “The Bear” (2022), which is currently in production for its fourth season. Similar to “The X Files,” main characters Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) and Sydney (Ayo Edebiri) are also coworkers, but their relationship is purely platonic in the show.
“I do think that it's super like up in the air because
they aren't actually romantically involved at all in the show,” Platt said. “They have a platonic relationship, they're just friends, but there's so much tension, and I feel like it depends on the person if you notice the tension or not.”
On social media, fans frequently debate the nature of Carmy and Sydney’s relationship. Like Platt, Ashlyn Sleesman, a senior studying political science, agrees that Sydney and Carmy have some romantic undertones.
“They go through lots of hardships together, and even though they aren't together technically, I like seeing their ups and downs; the struggles, but also the good points together,” Sleesman said.
Many of these ships and tropes are commonly found in fanfiction, where fans create their own unauthorized stories featuring characters from media they love. This allows fans the freedom to take creative liberty with the original source material and add additional depth and complexity to the preexisting
plot.
The Harry Potter series is known for its fanfiction and outlandish ships. In fact, the original books sparked an entire fan-written prequel series called “All the Young Dudes” (2017) which follows James Potter, Harry’s dad, and his friends while they attended Hogwarts.
Many fans ship Remus Lupin and Sirius Black, two supporting characters from the books and movies. Their relationship has been further explored through fan creations and has even evolved into a romance.
Maddie Erwin, a junior studying hearing, speech and language sciences, discussed the lack of LGBTQIA+ couples in media and how fans often create ships like Lupin and Black to advocate for more representation.
“I feel like all the time, I'm seeing people ship two women or two men that aren't even in the same episode together or anything, just because they're so desperate to have something,” Erwin said.
Other examples of these ships include Kirk and Spock from “Star Trek” (1966), Tara and Willow from “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1999), Will and Mike from “Stranger Things” (2016), Casey and Izzie from “Atypical” (2017), Buck and Eddie from “9-1-1” (2018) and Jackie and Shauna from “Yellowjackets” (2021).
In many ways, shipping culture boosts both readership and viewership, attracting a new fanbase eager to support a particular couple.
“I think that especially with our generation, I would say less so for the older ones, but that the love for a couple or ship has transcended how much you are interested in the actual show,” Erwin said.
CLARA LEDER | FOR THE POST
(NICOLE REESE | ASST. ART DIRECTOR)
CAMI SEYMORE | FOR THE POST
(NICOLE REESE | ASST. ART DIRECTOR)
Sassy Cassie: Sports, politics cannot be separated
Sports and politics go hand in hand, no matter how much people want to keep politics out of sports.
CASSIE DYE | FOR THE POST
In recent years, teams, players and leagues have spoken up more on politics. Despite some fans wanting to “keep politics out of sports,” there is no way to separate the two.
In 2016, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick famously knelt during the national anthem in protest of police brutality. He was largely criticized for this action and was left to free agency. Kaepernick went unsigned and a narrative was passed around the National Football League that no team would sign him because of his peaceful protest. Despite leagues such as the NFL having a policy to keep politics out of sports, their actions speak differently. Every year the winning team of the Super Bowl is invited to the White House. This previously was seen as a nonpartisan celebration for the winning team, but now the visits carry the implications of support for the administration. Notably, the Philadelphia Eagles were disinvited from the White House in 2018 due to few players wanting to go, something they are repeating this year. Ultimately, their decision will cause more discussion about politics in the sports world.
On Saturday, it had been 45 years since the hockey game known as “Miracle on Ice.” This was a hockey game played between the United States and the Soviet Union during the 1980 Winter Olympic Games. The game ended with the U.S. underdog win against the USSR, the reigning gold medalist. This game not only highlighted the growing talent in the U.S. but also a memorable moment in the middle of the Cold War. International games like the Olympics often bring countries together, but they also can serve a greater political influence.
On Thursday, the National Hockey League wrapped up its replacement for the all-star break this season known as the “Four Nations Face Off.” The short
tournament concluded with Team Canada playing Team U.S.A. Although this game and tournament was meant to grow anticipation for the Winter Olympics next year, it also highlighted rising tensions between Canada and the U.S.
President Donald Trump has made multiple remarks about Canada becoming the 51st state. Since these remarks and now having paused tariffs on Canada, Canadian fans have been booing the American national anthem at sporting events in protest against the current administration. Before the final game, Trump went on the app Truth Social and said, “On toward victory tonight against Canada ... will someday, maybe soon, become our cherished, and very important Fifty-First State.”
Before the game, Trump even had a call with Team U.S.A. wishing the team good luck in a seemingly meaningless tournament. Although it is unclear if Trump mentioned making Canada a state during this call, it is clear that if the U.S. won it would’ve further pushed his agenda.
During the national anthem singing, Canadian anthem singer Chanel Kreviazuk changed the lyrics of “O Canada” from “in all of us command” to “that only us command.” Kreziauck spoke with AP and said she changed it “because I believe in democracy, and a sovereign nation should not have to be defending itself against tyranny and fascism.” After Team Canada won Thursday night, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to X, posting, “You can’t take our country — and you can’t take our game.”
From Jesse Owens in the 1936 Olympics to denying White House visits, sports cannot untangle themselves from politics. Athletes, teams and leagues’ actions inherently send political messaging to the masses.
Please note the views expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Email Cassie at cb086021@ohio.edu.
Kendall Unfiltered: Reproductive health access in Athens is limited
Despite there being clinics for people to go to for pregnancy or STD testing, there is nowhere in Athens to get an actual abortion.
KENDALL TIMMS | DIRECTOR OF MULTIMEDIA
Reproductive healthcare access is already such a battle in America, and unfortunately, it’s no easier in Athens.
Not only do people worry about abortion access, but also about where to go for pregnancy tests, STD check-ups and basic female care. This has become a real fear for many women with President Donald Trump now in office because of his policies to ban such care.
Ohio citizens voted on Issue 1 in November 2023, allowing state residents to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions. According to Planned Parenthood, however, abortion is still illegal after 22 weeks in Ohio.
Athens is a town heavily made up of college students, and if a college woman gets pregnant here, where would she go?
The ACLU lists six clinics in Ohio where someone can get an abortion, none of which are near Athens. The closest clinic is an hour and a half away, in Columbus. This is a serious problem because not everyone has the means to drive to get the care that should already be provided to them where they live.
However, there are reproductive care centers in Athens, such as Campus Care at Ohio University, Planned Parenthood and a few others, but none of these offer abortion services.
These facilities can help with care for STDs, and they offer birth control, emergency contraception, pregnancy tests and other vaccines. They also offer free counseling, which is just as important when going through these medical hurdles.
Athens’ Planned Parenthood website states: “Abortion is legal in Ohio, but isn’t offered at this health center.” Despite this, they do still have information on their page about what kind of abortions can be offered at their other clinics. For example, other clinics can provide an abortion pill up to 11 weeks into the pregnancy, which simply ends the pregnancy through oral
medication. The patient could also get an in-clinic abortion up to 22 weeks, which is a procedure done by a trained doctor. The Planned Parenthood website also provides a phone number for further information on where someone can go to get this help, and they have much more in-depth information about how each procedure works. Although this is very helpful, it still cannot be ignored that there is no way to get abortion care directly in Athens.
It’s also discouraging to know there is a place in Athens called the Pregnancy Resource Center, yet they offer anything but resources when it comes to abortion. On their website, they say it’s important to care for you and they don’t want you to feel alone, but if you go to them, they make you feel isolated.
In a Yelp review, Allison, a past patient at the PRC, said, “This place’s goal is to coerce you into keeping your pregnancy, no matter the best choice for you.” She then goes on to say the PRC is not a legitimate medical practice with your best interest at heart. Not everyone feels this way, but this establishment tries to talk you out of an abortion rather than helping you get one.
It’s already hard enough for women to access trustworthy abortion and other sexual health care in this country, so it’s frustrating that it’s made even harder in Athens. College women should not have to fear for their healthcare when they’re at school where they are supposed to be learning and growing.
Kendall Timms is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Kendall Timms about her column? Email her at kt353720@ohio.edu.
Lately with Layne: The Associated Press belongs in the White House
LAYNE REY
| FOR THE POST
The sacred and crucial watchdog role that journalists play in a functioning democratic society should never be taken for granted, but President Donald Trump is seemingly working to dismantle the Fourth Estate. Although concerns regarding Trump’s stance on free press rose during his first term, his early decision to bar Associated Press reporters from the Oval Office and Air Force One suggests a dangerous trend infiltrating his second term.
In one of Trump’s early executive actions, he changed the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. The AP, a highly-respected media organization, made the editorial decision to not exclusively refer to it as the Gulf of America.
In the decision, the AP cited the 400-year-old existing namesake as a reason to continue its use, while acknowledging the change Trump has made.
“As a global news agency that disseminates news around the world, the
AP must ensure that place names and geography are easily recognizable to all audiences,” the style guidance said.
According to NPR, this resulted in AP reporters being blocked from places such as the Oval Office and Air Force One, despite their White House press credentials. The AP sued, noting its ability to employ its own language choices without being punished by the government. For a reporter covering politics, access to press conferences is invaluable.
The White House responded poorly to the AP’s argument, framing their reporters as ideological. According to NPR, White House spokesperson Steven Cheung said, “They are clearly suffering from a severe, debilitating case of Trump Derangement Syndrome that has rotted their peanut-sized brains.”
This response shows the current administration’s lack of care for the First Amendment as a whole. Free speech and free press are of utmost importance when they are being attacked, and journalists are speaking out in support of the
AP as legal issues continue.
The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press issued a statement urging the White House to “restore the Associated Press’s pool participation and ensure that future access to White House events is not predicated on improper considerations or disagreement with editorial choices.” With signatures from over 30 media organizations, the letter holds significant power in representing a shared opinion among journalists across the nation.
Another prestigious organization, the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University released a statement regarding Trump’s decision. The statement, signed by faculty, students and alumni, rightfully regarded the decision as unconstitutional and overpowering with support for the AP.
“We agree with James Madison and the other Founders of the United States in that regard. Banning the nonprofit, nonpartisan, and unbiased Associated Press from the White House press corps,
especially for something so petty as a style guideline, is a serious violation of the First Amendment and an irrational, petulant act heretofore seen only among the world’s worst dictators,” the school’s statement said.
The AP, and every other journalist serving as a medium between the government and the public, belongs in the White House, regardless of administration shifts. Journalism, especially the proper fact-based reports from the AP, is a sacred practice that transcends political lines. This is not just a threat to journalists’ free speech rights. This is a terrifying precedent that hinders access for readers across the globe, and nobody knows what’s next.
Layne Rey is a senior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnist do not reflect those of The Post. What are your thoughts? Let Layne know by tweeting her @laynerey12.
Editorial: Erasure of DEI deepens American divide
On Friday, the University of Cincinnati posted a letter from President Neville Pinto announcing the end of the school’s diversity, equity and inclusion programs. In the letter, he referenced President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14173 titled, “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity,” and said, “In response to these mandates, Provost Kristi Nelson and I spent this week informing our deans and vice presidents of the initial steps we must take to ensure compliance.”
Pinto also referenced the “Dear Colleague” letter from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, which was sent out Feb. 14. This letter directed educational institutions of all levels to stop using “racial preferences in financial aid, hiring, admissions and other areas.” All places of education, including universities, have been given an ultimatum: eliminate DEI initiatives or risk losing federal funding.
According to NPR, president of the Council for Higher Education Accreditation Cynthia Jackson-Hammond said the letter was vague and, “There’s a fine line between removing programs that are considered to be discriminatory by race and removing programs that speak to a cultural or ethnicity support for students.”
In the “Dear Colleagues” letter, the Trump administration argues that, “In recent years, American educational institutions have discriminated against students on the basis of race, including white and Asian students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds and low-income families.” The problem with this is that many DEI programs do aid prospective low-income first generation students as well as veterans and people with disabilities.
In an email to PolitiFact, UCLA School of Education & Information Studies professor Lori Patton Davis, who’s research includes campus diversity initiatives, said, “In general, people erroneously equate DEI solely with initiatives to advance the conditions of Black people or other racial groups, LGBTQ groups and women. However, DEI boosts opportunities for low-income first generation people, veterans (and) people with disabilities.”
It is no question that the educational advancement of these groups is important and foundational in ensuring equal opportunity for all. However, the advancement of these specific groups is not the only focus of DEI initiatives. The administration’s portrayal of DEI initiatives, specifically at universities, as something that favors one group of disadvantaged students over another, serves only to deepen division throughout the country. In fact, although DEI initiatives began as a way to create racial diversity, the largest benefactors of affirmative action programs are white women.
Research also shows that workplaces with more inclusive environments experience lower turnover rates and higher employee engagement. The productivity of diverse workspaces will not continue if universities do not continue to commit themselves to the inclusion of people of all backgrounds, income levels and identities.
Ohio Senate Bill 1, which seeks to eliminate DEI efforts, passed Feb. 12. It is now up to the state’s public universities to either comply or fight both Trump’s executive order and this bill’s passing. In the meantime, Ohioans can only sit and wait.
Editorials represent the majority opinion of The Post’s executive editors: Editor-in-Chief Alyssa Cruz, Managing Editor Madalyn Blair and Equity Director McKenna Christy. Post editorials are independent of the publication’s news coverage. The Post can be reached via editor@thepostathens.com.
JACKSON PENNINGTON | COMIC ARTIST
Student
journalists
provide an important public service to their communities, and they should be recognized and fully supported. That’s why the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism is a national sponsor to celebrate #StudentPressFreedom Day with @splc on Feb. 27. Learn more: https://studentpressfreedom.org
The school celebrates Ohio University’s student journalists at:
• ACRN — All Campus Radio Network
• Athens Midday
• Backdrop magazine
• Southeast Ohio magazine
• The New Political
• The Post
• Thread magazine
• Variant magazine
• WOUB Public Media
• Next creative agency
• Black Student Communication Caucus
• Public Relations Student Society of America, OU chapter
