Feb. 1, 2024

DATE DATE 1, FEBRUARY DATE 2024

Walkways to be replaced with concrete on Court, Union Streets The brick intersection of Court Street and Union Street, Jan. 22, 2024 in Athens. (ABBIE KINNEY | ART DIRECTOR)

SUZANNE PIPER FOR THE POST Bricks play a big role in the homey feel of Athens, but they push people with disabilities away with their uneven placements on walkways.

The bricks at the intersection of Court Street and Union Street will be replaced with concrete, hoping to become more accessible, and the construction for the repaving will begin soon after the Spring Semester, Deputy Service-Safety Director Andrew Chiki said.

Chiki said completion of the pavement should be in late summer or early fall 2024.

However, the improvements to the Court and Union Street intersection are part of a bigger city project; the Ath-uptown Area Improvements, Phase 1, will improve sidewalks, crosswalks and streetscapes throughout the uptown area. Chiki said most of the concentration is toward the north end of Court Street.

The Court and Union Street intersection is the exception to the project, and he said this area is likely to get prioritized to get redone because of how highly it affects those navigating through the uptown area.

“Many people who have physical disabilities have a problem going across the crosswalks — and those are intersections — because of the unevenness of the bricks,” Councilmember Jeffrey Risner, D-2nd Ward,

said. “People who are in wheelchairs or walkers or other devices, just have a hard time negotiating that.”

The Athens City Commission on Disabilities has recommended that the city make adjustments for easier walkway travel.

“People get stuck on them all the time,” Chairperson on the Disabilities Commission Davey McNelly said. “I’ve been stuck on a brick multiple times.”

As someone who uses a power wheelchair, McNelly said people who have disabilities don’t even come uptown because of the bricks. ​​“When people think of Athens they think of Court Street,” McNelly said. “When people with disabilities think of Court Street they think of potholes and not being able to get around.”

McNelly said the intersection of the two streets violates the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; curb cuts are supposed to be ¼ of an inch off the sidewalk, but some areas of the intersection are about 2 inches. It also violates the act, he said because there should be a continuous surface between one curb cut to the next, but with crushed, missing and misplaced bricks along the road.

“It’s just one of those things that, in the past, no one paid attention to, but now, people are more aware of it,” Risner said.

Risner said this has been on the city’s mind since Steve Patterson became mayor in 2016.

“The issue has always been finding the time, the financing, getting it up on the list of priorities and things that need to be done immediately,” Risner said. “That’s finally risen to the top and now we can act on it.”

Many bricks have one-to-two-inch gaps between them, which McNelly said could call for a major lawsuit against the city.

“Some years ago, my faculty adviser was walking over to Lindley Hall, and I believe her shoe got caught in one of those cracks and it tripped her and she fell down and broke her arm,” Risner said. “That’s just from a person with no disabilities at all; you know accidents happen.”

The Disabilities Commission is hosting a “Walk, Talk, and Roll” event on Court Street in April to show problem areas to business owners, city officials, and engineering and public works employees.

“We take a walk with people who have disabilities to show specific areas and things that are going well, and things are not going well,” McNelly said. “We do this specifically to point out certain things.”

McNelly said he hopes with this event, more people will become aware of accessibility issues in the city.

Change is a lot for people, like Ohio University students who think the bricks are what gives Athens its “feel.”

“The brick roads and everything are a very big part of Athens’ story and it’s a big part of the history,” Ashlyn Welch, a firstyear student studying English—literature, culture and writing, said.

However, to not lose that aspect, the Streets Department determined they would simulate the look of bricks on the concrete.

“The plan is to hire a person from the city to put stamp concrete to look like bricks,” McNelly said. “It provides a smoother surface for people walking without tripping or stepping into a place where a brick is missing.”

A tradition for OU seniors is to take a brick when they graduate, leaving an empty hole in the street, and causing issues for people with disabilities who could potentially get stuck.

“It would be safer than having to replace bricks all the time,” Welch said.

@_SUZIEPIPER SP249021@OHIO.EDU

COVER BY EMMA MCADAMS | ASST. ART DIRECTOR

2 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

Fake ID collected, stalker reported KENDALL WRIGHT FOR THE POST Stuck in the middle of it A crashed vehicle was found stuck in the median on U.S. Route 33 in York Township, according to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies made contact with the uninjured driver. The Ohio State Highway Patrol then responded to the scene and took a report.

What kind of items…

An individual went to the Sheriff’s Office to report a breaking-and-entering, which occurred in his home over the weekend.

The man told officers that he was out of town over the weekend, and once home, he discovered his residence had been invaded and items were stolen.

GET A BETTER HOBBY, FREAK A menacing offense was reported by the Ohio University Police Department.

An individual reported that they were currently being stalked by someone they knew for a period of time.

Shoulda changed the paint job During an investigation of a trespassing complaint at Creekside Apartments in Chauncey, Athens County Sheriff’s Office deputies discovered a vehicle in the parking lot that matched the description of a stolen vehicle.

The vehicle in question was recently reported stolen from Nelsonville, and with further investigation, the vehicle was a confirmed match.

The Sheriff’s Office contacted the Nelsonville Police Department, who continued the investigation.

Dorm showers are bad enough already Destruction of property at Jefferson Hall was reported to the Ohio University Police Department.

A report was filed for damage done to a restroom shower.

AHHHH! AHHHHHH! A structure fire on Oak Street in The Plains was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies assisted The Plains Fire Depart-

ment in putting the fire out. Deputies returned to patrol.

Venmo or Zelle?

A fraud offense was reported to OUPD. A report was taken for an unknown individual trying to solicit money via text message.

I’m lyin’ here!

A man lying in a parking lot on East Fourth Street in The Plains was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the man, who said he was waiting for an individual to get off work. Once officers talked to management, it was decided that the man would be escorted off the property.

The man was given a trespass complaint and taken into the City of Athens. No further action was needed.

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Friday, February 2 HOCKEY OHIO v. PITT 7:00 pm Bird Arena Campfire & Smores 7:00 - 9:00 pm Ridges Challenge Course *Tickets Required Saturday, February 3 Bobcat Tabletop 12-hour board game event: scheduled gaming events, Magic the Gathering draft 10:00 am-10:00 pm Living Learning Center Register on Bobcat Connect

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Who tryna be on an order?

A fake ID was collected for destruction at Jefferson Hall, according to the Ohio University Police Department.

OPEN MIC

NIGHT

Week of February 1st - February 8th Friday, February 2

Bow bow bow *dog noises* The Athens County Sheriff’s Office reported an animal complaint on Brown Road in New Marshfield.

Officers found two dogs without collars.

The Dog Shelter was then contacted and picked up the canines.

I believe in him.

A suspicious man on Brimstone Road was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

While talking to deputies, he told them he was walking to the east coast. Officers did not notice anything wrong with the man, so they resumed patrol.

CAMPUS EVENTS Thursday, February 1

Maybe they should’ve taken the car with them…

A trespassing at the TNT on Old State Route 33 was reported to the Athens County Sheriff’s Office.

After arriving, officers found a vehicle outside with the doors open. It was determined that the suspects fled the area, and as of Saturday, there is no further information.

The vehicle was towed by Curtis Towing.

Sorority & Fraternity Life

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Interfraternity Council Recruitment Week various events VIEW on Bobcat Connect

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OU, University of Bayreuth partner, create first global sports management degree OLIVIA GILLIAND FOR THE POST With help from the College of Business at Ohio University and the College of Law, Business and Economics at the University of Bayreuth, in Bavaria, Germany, a double-degree program in sports management has offered students a new take on studying sports business.

David Ridpath, a professor of sports business and director of the sports management double-degree program, said OU and the University of Bayreuth lead the field of sports management, making it an obvious choice for partnership. “(The University of Bayreuth) was the very first sports management program in Europe and is very highly rated,” he said. “(OU’s) was the first program in the world, and I thought this would be a great connection.”

The program, which is entering its third year including the study abroad opportunity, is designed to allow students from both universities to receive a bachelor’s degree in sport management from OU and a Bachelor of Science in sport, business and law from the University of Bayreuth, according to a university press release.

“The College of Business has a longstanding sport management partnership with the University of Bayreuth,” OU College of Business Dean Jackie Rees Ulmer wrote in an email. “Together, we look forward to providing continued academic and experiential learning opportunities that will enable our students, faculty and staff to become future global leaders in the business of sport.”

During the first academic year, OU and the University of

Bayreuth students would stay at their home institutions. The following year, the German students would come to OU, and the American students would also stay in Athens. As they enter junior standing, both groups of students would attend Bayreuth for a full academic year.

After the third year, American students return to the U.S. for their final year. Because traditional German bachelor’s degrees only require three years, German students have the option of returning to the U.S. for a fourth year.

“We’ve made it incredibly affordable for the Germans,” Ridpath said. “For the Ohio students, they’re going to pay normal tuition all four years, even when they’re abroad.”

He said the dual program offers students the opportunity to have more networks and experiences in sports business, which is what sets the program apart from others.

Charlie Delfs, a junior from the University of Bayreuth, credits the double-degree program with her decision to attend the University of Bayreuth and study sports management.

“I declared a second major,” Delfs said. “That is a lot easier here than back home. I started additionally pursuing business analytics, and that has been only made possible because of the program.”

Delfs also said studying sports management in the U.S. has given her a greater understanding of the globalization of sports, especially with the rise of American football in Germany.

“My international perspective on sports, which is obviously hugely affected by globalization, continues to expand,” she said. “It is really, really interesting.”

Tim Ströbel, professor in marketing and sport management, was also part of creating the double-degree program, and he is also monitoring the growth of sports across continents.

“I think that the idea of our double-degree program … preparing students for this global sport industry is exactly what the NFL is doing at the moment,” Ströbel said.

In recent years, the program has partnered with brands like Adidas to give students practical experience in the industry.

“They were pretty excited about this opportunity (of having international students),” Ströbel said. “(Students) are in Herzogenaurach at the Adidas headquarters solving a real case problem they have.”

Outside the classroom, Ridpath and Ströbel have collaborated on events such as the inaugural American Football Summit, which was held at the University of Bayreuth in November, according to a university press release.

Speakers such as former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck, former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue and Alexander Stein, head of NFL Germany, headlined the event, covering topics like football techniques and sports legalities.

“I think it is something that could grow into a yearly event … I do think that we will see the day of permanent NFL franchises in Europe, and the sport itself will be more global,” Ridpath said. “My hope is that Ohio and Bayreuth students are on the cutting edge because of the things that we have done for the past 15 years.”

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Ohio Senate Bill 83 set to change state universities regarding DEI MAGGIE AMACHER FOR THE POST Ohio Senate Bill 83, known as the Ohio Higher Education Enhancement Act, may bring significant changes to universities, specifically regulating the content taught by professors, hindering diversity, equity and inclusion training within universities and restricting partnerships with China.

Sponsored by Sen. Jerry Cirino, the bill passed the Senate in May 2023. The House Higher Education Committee passed SB 83 by an 8-7 vote in December 2023, and it will now move to the House for a full vote. Lawmakers have until the end of 2024 to pass this version of the bill.

Currently, the bill is on its eleventh revision; previously, it prohibited any institution from mandating diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, training. However, institutions can now teach DEI, but only in circumstances related to the university’s accreditation, licensing and grants.

In an article written by Cirino, some of the topics he argues the bill will execute include promoting open and thorough intellectual study in education and providing free speech protection to students, faculty and staff.

Aligning with Cirino’s sentiments, sec.

3345. 0217. of the bill mandates a strict evaluation process for professors to ensure they allow students to make their judgments regarding controversial beliefs and not instruct social, political and religious ideas.

The bill defines controversial beliefs and policies as, “climate policies, electoral politics, foreign policy, diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, immigration policy, marriage or abortion.”

Lauren Staigers, former Student Senate minority affairs commissioner, shared her frustrations concerning political discussion restrictions in universities.

“I find it extremely infuriating just because one of my majors is women’s, gender

The Ohio Statehouse in Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 21, 2024. (JACK TATHAM | FOR THE POST) and sexuality studies, and that as a whole is controversial itself because it talks about queer theory,” Staigers said. “Everything can be political. That is a right-wing mitigation effort to inhibit liberal arts and humanities.”

Nerissa Young, an associate professor

This is the exact opposite of what education is supposed to be, specifically, higher education,” - Nerissa Young, associate professor of journalism of journalism, also expressed her concerns regarding SB 83 and the importance of academic freedom in education.

“This is the exact opposite of what education is supposed to be, specifically, higher education,” Young said. “Every academic unit is at risk. Not talking about it isn’t going to make these things that upset them so much go away. They’ll just go underground for a while, and then they’ll come back out with protest movements.”

Throughout the bill, the wording of “in-

tellectual diversity” is used, which means, “multiple, divergent and varied perspectives on an extensive range of public policy issues.” While opponents of the bill spoke against this language calling it vague, supporters said the term said faculty must allow intellectual diversity to be expressed.

However, critics of the bill, such as Gary Daniels, chief lobbyist of the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio, argued the bill may weaken historical accuracy by mandating professors to teach all sides of historical events, such as U.S. slavery and the Holocaust.

The bill also seeks to prohibit academic and financial ties between Ohio’s higher education institutions and those in China due to national security concerns unless certain safeguards are in place.

However, the ban does not extend to admissions, allowing Chinese students to attend Ohio colleges and universities. Existing relationships between universities in China and Ohio may still exist but must be reported to the chancellor.

Additionally, students would be required to pass an American government or history class for graduation, with a reading list that includes the U.S. Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, the Federalist Papers, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address and Letter from Birmingham Jail.

In May 2023, Ohio University collaborated with state legislators and the Inter-University Council of Ohio, or ICU, which represents all Ohio four-year public universities, to provide input and voice their concerns about the legislation.

While acknowledging the bill’s benefits, such as diversity of thought and faculty protection, IUC also noted concerns like increased government regulation in universities.

“Any limiting or mandating what may or may not be taught or how it may be taught in the classroom is a violation of academic freedom and the First Amendment of the United States Constitution,” according to an IUC press release.

OU said they have advocated for the university’s core values and will continue working with IUC to address their concerns with SB 83.

“I cannot, in good conscience as a journalism professor, ignore things that have happened that are relevant to course content; that are preparing journalism students to be better at what they do; that are relevant to having a liberal arts degree; that are relevant to being global citizens,” Young said.

@MAGGIE.AMACHER MA657122@OHIO.EDU

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 5

‘The Coaching Life Podcast’ stresses importance of athletics

CAMI SEYMORE FOR THE POST Chris Stewart, an Ohio University professor and the Operations Manager for the Scripps College of Communication, hosts “The Coaching Life” podcast with Pat Martin, where they discuss all things sports, with a particular focus on coaching and player development.

Stewart and Martin met while coaching their kids’ youth baseball teams, prompting them to start the podcast in 2019. The pair has since released episodes weekly, amassing over 160 in total.

Martin, an applications system analyst at OU, discussed the origin of the pair’s friendship and how it led to the creation of the podcast.

“We started to meet for lunch for a few years talking about the issues with youth sports and the things that we’ve done wrong, primarily in our experiences,” Martin said. “We had that shared passion and we just one day said, ‘Hey, we should start recording and preserve this conversation.’”

Before starting the podcast, Stewart published two books on coaching, parenting and athletics. “Building Champions: Coaching, Parenting, and Playing to Win in What Really Matters” was published in March 2018, followed by “Coaching Life: giving your best so others can be theirs!” in December 2018. The latter served as the inspiration for the name and central theme of the podcast.

The pair originally only planned to do a limited number of episodes but quickly realized they had more to talk about. Between the two, Stewart and Martin both have an extensive background in youth sports, coaching baseball, basketball, football and track. Through their podcast, the two discuss their experiences as coaches and as parents of young athletes.

“In your life, everybody is a coach,” Martin said.

“Your kids, your peers, your family members, everybody has kind of served in that role and everyone gets coached. There’s a lot of life lessons that kids take 6 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

A sign outside “The Pod” room in Schoonover Center at Ohio University in Athens, Oct. 20, 2023 (ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)

away from sports. Kids learn how to handle struggle, challenges and how to handle success.”

Stewart chimed in on the importance of coaching and its impact on players and their lives outside of sports.

“I think the reason why coaching is so valuable is because of the relationships that you build, but also the relationships that are needed,” Stewart said. “But we recognize that in many ways often, we’re the only father figure that some of these kids might have … Ultimately, we’re coaching people. We’re not coaching a sport.”

As former coaches themselves, Martin and Stewart understand the challenges and rewards inherent in guiding kids’ athletic development. They don’t just focus on their success as coaches but also make sure to discuss their failures and how their listeners can learn from the pair’s mistakes.

“We talk about our mistakes and a lot of things we’ve done wrong as coaches and as parents,” Martin said. “We want other people to hear those, so they can maybe not make those same mistakes.”

Besides coaching, the podcasters frequently examine the importance of youth athletics and how prioritizing physical activity promotes overall well-being.

Additionally, they emphasize the correlation between achieving athletic success and being a good human being.

“One of the big things we always talk about and push our kids to understand is that in order to be the best player you can be, you must strive to be the best person you can be,” Stewart said.

Over the course of their 160 episodes, the duo has often invited guests to include other perspectives and create more conversation. The pair hosted current and former OU athletes, retired OU softball coach Kenzie Roark and Jimmy Burrow, father of Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.

“Anytime we have a guest on, it’s the best episode we’ve put out in a while,” Martin said. “It’s always enjoyable to bring (guests) in and have a different perspective.”

By sharing ideas through lively discussions with coaches and athletes on “The Coaching Life” podcast and using sports as a springboard for vital life lessons, Martin and Stewart believe youth coaches have a platform to make a difference well beyond the playing field.

@CAMISEYMORE CH525822@OHIO.EDU

‘Heroes in Color’ series to display action, representation ABBY JENKINS ASST. CULTURE EDITOR The Athena Cinema is preparing to host the “Heroes in Color” film series each week in February, featuring movies that provide classic heroic action and celebrate people of color in the film industry. Students, Athens residents and movie lovers alike are all invited to have a drink, a box of buttery popcorn and enjoy these upcoming beloved films.

According to The Athena’s website, its mission for the “Heroes in Color” series is to show “a kaleidoscope of cinematic heroes who reflect the spectrum of human stories, backgrounds and aspirations, we strive to redefine heroism, proving that anyone, regardless of their origin, can rise to greatness.”

The film series kicks off with its first showing of “Black Panther” on Feb. 1, followed by “Blade” on Feb. 7, “Everything, Everywhere, All At Once” on Feb. 15, “Spiderman: Across the Spider-verse” on Feb. 22 and “The Last Dragon” on Feb. 29. Admission is $7.50 for all the films and they will all start at 7:30 p.m. on the designated dates.

The series is supposed to spark the imagination and also encourage the viewers to learn something new, according to Alexandra Kamody, director of The Athena.

“A lot of different venues talk about entertainment and engagement, where we can learn, we can make learning fun and we can make learning happen through something

like going to the movies, that we just all see as an exciting, fun opportunity,” she said.

Gordon Briggs and Brandon Thompson came to Kamody with the idea for the series.

The trio wanted to include both fan-favorite movies and movies that some people may not have seen before. In addition to coming up with the list of movies, they also worked to create themed trivia, drinks and raffles for each viewing to give this series the classic Athena touch.

Briggs, an English professor at the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College, came to Athens in 2005 with a passion and love for films. He said he believes the Athena is one of the crown jewels of Athens.

“We are so blessed, and we are so grateful that we have the state of cinema back open, first of all, that they are showing movies from all around the world that tell all these different stories from all different kinds of people, foreign films, small films, short films, animation, so they are a place for the community to come,” said Briggs. “And they're a place for people to see stories from all different types of people, which I think is very important.”

Thompson has a multitude of jobs around Athens, including working as an outreach coordinator for the Survivor Advocacy Outreach Program, but his love for film has been present since his childhood. Organizing this series has been an exciting experience for him, and he looks forward to seeing how Athens will respond, hopeful people will

The marquee of the Athena Cinema on Court Street in Athens, Ohio Jan. 26, 2024.

(ETHAN HERX | FOR THE POST)

want more events like these in the future.

“I grew up in Athens, going to the Athena way back in the day, and I have been watching movies my entire life,” said Thompson.

“Typically, it's been the same type of person on screen, you know, not a person of color.

And if they were, there weren't a lot of roles.

And so, giving all these movies together allows people of color something different to see and root for.”

Briggs emphasized the importance of having film series such as “Heroes in Color,” not only for its educational aspects, but also for the pure enjoyment and entertainment that a movie brings forth.

“Usually superhero films, or historically superhero stories, have revolved around strong white men,” he said. “I love Batman, I love Superman, but if the superhero is aspirational and inspirational, there's something wrong if they only look a certain type of way.

So we're giving stories from people who are LGBT, who are people of color or people who are immigrants.”

Kamody, Briggs and Thomspon all emphasized the uniqueness of this series and for anyone interested to come and take part in the festivities.

“I think (everyone) should come because they will have a wonderful experience,” Kamody said. “This will probably be the highlight of their week. I think it's going to be something that … you won't have the chance to do. It's not happening anywhere else.”

“Heroes in Color” is looking to show some highly acclaimed films with a chance to experience them on the big screen all over again at The Athena.

“There are ways where these kinds of superhero stories become metaphors,” said Briggs. “I can think of them as mirrors that reflect something about our own experiences and are sometimes not shown in other movies.”

@ABBYJENKS18 AJ205621@OHIO.EDU

IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS The Post Publishing Board is accepting applications for EDITOR-IN-CHIEF for the 2024-2025 school year.

INTERESTED? *full proposals are not required at this time*

Please submit the following by 5 p.m. on FEB. 9, 2024: 1. A resume 2. A one-to-two page cover letter that briefly explains • • • •

Why you want to be editor of The Post?

What qualifies you to be editor of The Post?

What you hope to accomplish as editor of The Post?

In what ways do you see yourself facilitating coverage that connects with many communities across campus?

You can email your resume and letter to turnerm4@ohio.edu. You can also drop it off at the front desk of the journalism suite on the second floor of Schoonover Center for Professor Turner. If you have questions, feel free to contact him by email or at (740) 593-2587.

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 7

Rise & Grind: Athens’ newest coffee spot can be hard to stand out from the crowd and get people to try new things. Buckley said the thing that sets Rise & Grind apart from the rest is its mobile, on-the-go service Brandon Buckley has always seen the potential of a coffee and the type of coffee it sells.

Rise & Grind serves Dirty Girl Coffee, a coffee company truck. The Athens local owns a pizza food truck, A-Towns Pies and Fries, but cold weather during the fall festival sea- with a “social mission to support women’s economic progson led him to the idea of coffee and other specialty bever- ress in Ohio’s Appalachia and beyond.” The company offers responsibly sourced coffees that support pay equity. Buckages.

The Rise & Grind truck is new to Court St., offering quick ley said this is something customers notice.

“A lot of people really appreciate that,” service for students on the go or anyone he said. “No one uses Dirty Girl Coffee upwanting quality coffee. Often parked outtown.” side Alumni Gateway, the intersection of Word has spread fast about the truck, Court Street and Union Street serves as a eliciting a chain reaction of people coming hub for students in search of caffeine.

You’re not only selling to support the small business.

People visit the truck expecting to try Katy Ternovan, a freshman studying a new beverage but walk away with a new a product, you are strategic communications, heard about favorite drink and the feeling of a true conselling your brand,” Rise & Grind from friends in her sorority nection. and said she knew she had to try it.

“You’re not only selling a product, you “I think they offer like a lot more flavor are selling your brand,” Buckley said. “You - Brandon Buckley options,” she said, “And it’s a small busiwant people to feel comfortable to come ness.” talk to you and have a little conversation.”

As for the menu, there is a variety of specialty lattes and Buckley said he purposefully forms a relationship with each customer, something that is evident by the truck’s long drinks to choose from, with a rotation of new flavors and creative drinks, such as the cinna-roll drink. Lattes have a lines and the presence of regular customers.

“I make people talk and get out of their comfort zone,” standard price of $5 for a small, $5.50 for a large and $6.50 Buckley said. “They enjoy it and then they come back be- for an extra large.

The truck also offers Red Bull infusions and refreshers cause they want to have another conversation.”

With so many coffee options uptown to choose from, it in addition to a selection of muffins.

ELIZABETH TALAGA FOR THE POST

Athens Rise and Grind Coffee food truck’s owner Brandon Buckley poses in front of his food truck on Court Street.

Mon. January 22, 2023 (ZOE CRANFILL | PHOTO EDITOR)

Autum Hicks, a freshman studying chemical engineering ordered the honey vanilla latte after finally getting the chance to stop by.

Whether one is looking to try a new drink or just wants to support a locally owned, growing business, Rise & Grind has something for everyone.

“It’s the only truck that I’ve seen,” Hicks said. “I just thought it was kind of cute.”

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Political Polling Students discuss political engagement GABRIELLE CABANES FOR THE POST With the primaries starting to pop up in several states, it really is starting to feel as though the 2024 election is right around the corner. Although some students will wait just a little longer to jump into the election news cycle, which can sometimes be slightly stressful, other students have decided to follow the news and pay attention to this important part of American democracy.

For viewers, it felt as though the election process started with the Republican debates held last fall. Since then, the Iowa Caucus and the New Hampshire primary have solidified that this election may be closer than one may think. In the race today, the principal candidates for the Republican Party include former U.S. ambassador at the U.N., Nikki Haley, as well as former President Donald Trump.

Cassandra McFadden, a junior studying sociology and political science, said she believed it was super important to follow what was going on in the elections not only for her classes, but also as a person living in the U.S. She said one of the big things she has been following is which states may or may not ban former President Donald Trump from the ballot in the primaries which could potentially have an impact on him being the Republican nominee.

“That’s been really interesting to see as someone who’s studied constitutional law, actually understanding the various interpretations of it,” she said.

McFadden said she believes it is very important to follow the election before it is down to only two candidates as you learn so much more about certain issues and the way elections work beforehand.

“I think it’s really important for other people because you get to see more of that than you do in the presidential debates once it’s down to two candidates,” she said.

McFadden said the things she would suggest that people follow when trying to learn more about the elections include social media, the debates and third parties.

“I feel like third parties can be more reflective of specific issues closer to the people’s hearts,” she said.

Oliver Sarver, a junior studying creative writing, said although he has been busy keeping up with the conflict in Gaza, he will eventually pay more attention to the elections and what is going on.

He said he found that paying attention to elections was very important because policies have a direct influence on people in the country.

“If you have the option to get some sort of say in how decisions are made, you should take it,” Sarver said. “It is important to do so.”

Kore Bourbeau, a sophomore studying journalism, said although they have been paying attention to other world news, they are starting to pay more attention to the elections.

They said paying attention to elections is important as those elected directly impact important aspects of everyone’s lives.

“The people we’ll be electing will be directly influencing job searches after getting out of college,” Bourbeau said. “With the 2024 election, I’m going to graduate in four years and those are the people that will impact me as I’m trying to find a job, especially in the journalism field, which is very political oftentimes.”

Mo Martens, a sophomore studying geography, said although she is trying to pay attention a little bit, the subject can sometimes bring up anxiety so it’s not

ALAINA DACKERMANN | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

something she pays attention to at all times.

“I think a lot of people have their opinion on how things should end up,” she said. “I’m fine (thinking) a little bit (about politics) but not too much because I also think it can be really stressful and frustrating to get too involved in it.”

Martens said it is important to follow the elections but that not everyone will be able to and that is OK as well.

“If you’re in a place mentally where that’s something that you can tolerate, I think it’s very important to just understand what’s going on,” she said. “Being naive and ignorant can be damaging even if that’s not your intention but then it’s also not fair to expect everyone to be fully involved when it’s a very stressful, polarizing topic.”

@GABRIELLECAB1 GC183621@OHIO.EDU MIA PISHOTTI | FOR THE POST

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 9

Ohio is playing its best basketball of the season

Aidan Hadaway (10) goes up for a shot against Eastern Michigan at The Convo, Jan. 20, 2024. (JENNA SLYMAN | FOR THE POST)

ROBERT KEEGAN III SPORTS EDITOR Ohio knew that the start of its Mid-American Conference schedule would be tough.

The team had to take on the likes of Toledo, Bowling Green and Western Michigan in three of its first four games. All three teams now hold winning records in the conference with about nine games left.

During the opening four games of MAC play, Ohio finished with a record of 1-3. From the outside, doubts began to arise regarding the team's ability to compete in a basketball conference that was flourishing with talent.

Since this moment of doubt, Ohio has played its best basketball of the season, winning four of its last five games. Ohio’s only loss came at the hands of Akron, who is cur10 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

rently tied for the lead in the MAC with an 8-1 conference record. Ohio’s best win during this stretch was against Central Michigan, who currently ranks third in the conference with a 7-2 record.

Ohio has not only been tallying wins in the conference, it has been dominating teams and looking like a cohesive unit on both offense and defense.

Three of the Bobcats’ last four wins have come by a margin of 12 or more points.

It hasn’t been one particular player who has propelled the team to a handful of impressive victories but rather contributions from every player to create a winning environment.

The culmination of the team’s success came against Buffalo on Tuesday night in The Convo when Ohio recorded its largest

margin of victory so far this season by a final score of 91-70.

The Bobcats’ win against the Bulls was thanks to five players recording 10 or more points. Jaylin Hunter, Ohio’s leading scorer entering the game, found a way to impact the game in a way that wasn’t scoring. While Hunter still tallied 10 of his own points, the senior guard led the team in both assists and rebounds.

That’s what it’s been for Ohio’s players over this stretch, affecting the game in any way they can. Any time Ohio has a subpar shooting night, it makes up for it with a great defensive effort.

Against Buffalo, the team put it all together. The team scored 91 points, more than it has against any other MAC school this season. The team also forced 12 turnovers on

defense and scored 22 points off those turnovers.

For the first time all season, Ohio is playing as a complete team, and it’s doing so when it needs to most. After a slow start to the year overall, the team needed to find itself; it has done just that.

“I mean, I’d say we had a rough start, and we learned from all of our mistakes and it’s finally starting to show,” junior AJ Clayton said. “Our defense has taken five steps in the last three weeks. We talk about it all the time; it all starts with our defense. Once we start deafening, the offense gets going, too.”

@ROBERTKEEGAN_ BK272121@OHIO.EDU

How Ohio has controlled the interior on defense despite its size LOGAN ADAMS FOR THE POST It’s no secret that height matters in basketball, especially on defense. With greater length, a team can take up more of its opponent’s space on the court, contest shots better from range and in close and get hands in passing lanes.

Ohio is on a three-game win streak despite its tallest rotation player, Kate Dennis, standing at 6 feet, 1 inch and playing out on the perimeter on both ends. Most of Ohio’s rotation pieces fall between the range of 5-foot-10-inches and 5-foot-11-inches, making up eight of its 14 roster spots. Despite this, Ohio has been winning on the defensive end, especially against players who may be taller than anyone on the Ohio roster.

Ohio’s streak started against Eastern Michigan and 6-foot-3-inch center Tayra Eke. The proposition of playing against the Eagles’ height advantage was daunting. Eke herself had been dominant in Mid-American Conference play, averaging 13.8 points per game, 9.8 rebounds per game and 4.2 blocks per game on 65.9% shooting from the field in the five MAC games leading up to Eastern Michigan’s matchup against Ohio.

However, from almost the moment the ball was tipped off, it was evident that Ohio and coach Bob Boldon had a game plan for how to stop the interior force.

On Eke’s first post-up attempt, Kennedi Watkins battled with her down low, putting herself between Eke and the ball and getting a steal. On her second, she was able to cleanly catch the ball, but the Bobcats immediately sent three players to her with a fourth sliding down to take away a clean pass out.

For the rest of the game, clean catches in the post for Eke were tough to come by.

The Bobcats sent two right at her as soon as the pass was thrown; they’d front her and back her up to the baseline, giving her little opportunity to create and a smaller window to get the pass through. Eke wouldn’t play a minute in the fourth quarter, planned out of the contest, and the Bobcats would win by 10.

Ohio would employ the same concept against Central Michigan and 6-foot-5-inch Rochelle Norris. The Chippewas came into the game with an injury-riddled roster, forcing Norris to step into a more centric role.

Through the same tough interior defense, Norris was swarmed and unable to impact the game to her typical degree. Norris finished with more turnovers than field goals made and the Chippewas were only able to play her for 19 minutes.

This swarming style works for one reason in particular. Although the Bobcats don’t have exceptional length, they have exceptional quickness. Their quickness allows them to make up the ground they aren’t naturally taking up and can be a surprise for slower-footed bigs who are used to seeing help come from smaller, less imposing players.

When it came to the “Battle of the Bricks” last Saturday, Ohio faced off against its longtime rival Miami, and the team was once again facing off against a force down low. At just 6-foot-1, the Redhawks’ leading scorer, Jadyn Scott, isn’t as imposing as the massive bodies down low the Bobcats had to deal with in their previous two games. However, Scott is another player who likes to play with her back to the basket, finding windows for her short- and mid-range shots with her finesse and high release.

While Scott reached her season average against the Bobcats, with 10 points on 4-of-8 shooting, it was a rather unspectacular game from her where Miami struggled to get her involved, especially in the post. She finished with more turnovers than assists and fouled out, having played the fewest minutes in Miami’s starting five.

Ohio’s complex switching, toughness and quick rotations have been the key to its winning streak, taking out three conference rivals by 10 or more points consecutively. The streak has come at the perfect time, as the Bobcats embark on their toughest streak of conference play, looking to hold onto a spot in the MAC tournament.

@LOGANA_NBA LA486821@OHIO.EDU THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 11

The Post Predicts: Oscars 2024 winners AYA CATHEY, GRACE KOENNECKE AND THE BEAT STAFF FOR THE POST The Academy Awards, otherwise known as the Oscars, is arguably film's biggest night. With a tight race of contenders this year, it only made sense for The Beat to unveil our predictions for some of the night's biggest categories before the ceremony on March 10.

From underdogs to box office blowouts, here is a compiled list of our predicted winners for the 96th Academy Awards:

Best Picture (by Grace Koennecke): Predicted winner: "The Holdovers"

Unbeknownst to many of its competitors, "The Holdovers" has proven to be the underdog of this award season, recently beating out many major blockbusters of the year at the Golden Globe Awards and Critics' Choice Movie Awards. A story that follows a satirical, troubled prep school student Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa) and his budding friendship with an infamous professor known for his cranky stubbornness (Paul Giamatti), the movie proves how opposites can attract, even in a period like the 1970s.

What makes this movie worthy of Best Picture is that each character's performance proves how loss, in many forms, can change someone's outlook on life in an instant. While Angus struggles with the loss of his father to mental illness, his professor is grappling with the loss of his desired career aspirations. Meanwhile, other characters, like Mary Lamb (Da'Vine Joy Randolph), who

does not want to forget the son she lost in the Vietnam War, are stuck in loss. However, while the film deals heavily with the subject of loss, it also shows how new relationships can help others heal and move on, which is the most heartwarming theme that beats out ones found in "Oppenheimer" and "Maestro."

With incredible acting, especially from first-timer Sessa, "The Holdovers" may seem simple on the outside, but it is an incredibly complex, heartbreaking and accurate story once you're invited into the world director Alexander Payne has created. It deserves to win because it has proven you don't need major promotion or an A-list cast to tell this story, but the direction and script to transport you into the past and present the thoughts of its diverse characters.

Best Actor (by Trey Barrett): Predicted Winner: Paul Giamatti in "The Holdovers"

While this year's Best Actor nomination race has been highly competitive for its five nominees, the win likely comes down to a two-horse race between Cillian Murphy and Paul Giamatti.

Currently leading the race is Cillian Murphy, who starred in Christopher Nolan's biographical thriller film "Oppenheimer" last year. Murphy's performance as the titular physicist earned him many nominations across the critic circle and major industry awards, including a well-earned win in the drama category at this year's Golden Globes.

Paul Giamatti has received equal acclaim for his role as Paul Hunham in the independent feature “The Holdovers.” Giamatti has been nominated at many of the same award competitions as Murphy. However, Giamatti would go on to secure both a Golden Globe and Critic's Choice Award for his comically driven performance in the holiday classic.

Both Murphy and Giamatti could snag their first win at the Academy Awards, but I believe Giamatti could be the one taking it home March 10. "Oppenheimer" seems to be the consensus favorite for many Oscar categories this year, including Best Picture, Director, Supporting Actor, Score and Sound.

However, Murphy's winning odds struggle to keep up with Giamatti's more charismatic and heartwarming performance.

Giamatti's role is more dynamic than Murphy's turn as Oppenheimer. His character's arc is more pronounced, giving Giamatti more visible layers to his performance than Murphy. Likewise, Giamatti's televised win at the Critic's Choice could help him sway a few voters his way ahead of the final Oscars voting period beginning Feb. 22.

There are still many factors that could change the race ahead of March's Oscars ceremony, such as the BAFTAs and Screen Actors Guild Awards in February. Both ceremonies have some overlap with Academy voters and are quite predictive of the Oscars.

Yet, Giamatti's odds, according to sites like Variety and GoldDerby, indicate a powerful win for Giamatti.

and collected woman who loves her culture and her family. As the people she loves most are torn away from her by her husband, her collected nature is maintained in public but slowly stripped away at home. It doesn't help that she almost dies as well after her husband poisons her insulin.

The moment that broke me was not every time she cried when another murder happened, nor was it when she lost her sense of reality as the poison overtook her. It was when she finally confronted her husband at the end of the film, calmly asking, "What did you give me?" Despite her understated demeanor, Gladstone somehow conveys so much heartbreak by doing almost nothing.

It should be illegal to be that good at acting.

So if Gladstone doesn't win the Oscar, we ride at dawn.

Best Original Song (by Sophia Anness) Predicted Winner: "What Was I Made For?" by Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell ("Barbie")

A plethora of phenomenal original songs have been produced in movies this past year.

It is hard to say which one will win it all, but I believe "What Was I Made For?" will win the Academy Award.

"What Was I Made For?" was written and performed by Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell for the most successful movie

Best Actress (by Arielle Lyons): Predicted Winner: Lily Gladstone in "Killers of the Flower Moon"

The conversation of this year's Best Actress nominees was notably overshadowed

by Margot Robbie. I was initially upset at the snub because it's not often that a performance — not the plot — moves me to tears.

Robbie did just that.

However, I realized I couldn't complain about the snub if I hadn't seen the nominated performances, so I gave them a watch.

Although I maintain that Robbie should have been nominated, it wouldn't matter anyway because she would have lost to the other performance that made me cry.

Lily Gladstone's portrayal of Osage murder survivor Mollie Burkhart is somehow more heartbreaking in her subtle moments than in her breakdowns over the deaths of her loved ones.

Gladstone portrays Mollie as a cool, calm ALAINA DACKERMANN | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

12 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

of the year, "Barbie." The song outlined the meaning of the entire movie and encapsulated many relatable feelings. This moment in the movie moved audience members to tears and left a mark on many people. Therefore, it is the most deserving and most likely to win the Oscar.

"I'm Just Ken," written by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, impacted "Barbie" fans for different reasons. The song itself is more of a parody and holds less power than Eil-

of digital cameras. On top of that, the film did not use CGI. The film crew had to create all of the particle and element scenes themselves, relying on sand and light-up spinning props.

For scenes where the tension is coming from Oppenheimer's perspective, the cinematography perfectly highlights his inner struggles with creating the bomb. This was highlighted perfectly during both Oppenheimer's post-bombing speech and during

ish's and O'Connell's "What Was I Made For?" While audiences love the song, it goes against what the "Barbie" movie stands for.

If it wins the award, the Academy will have missed the entire point of “Barbie.”

"The Fire Inside" (Flamin’ Hot) and "It Never Went Away" (American Symphony) were the wild card nominations for the Oscars.

Neither movie has received much recognition during this award season. "The Fire Inside" is a fun song, but it is unlikely that it will be enough to take home the Oscar. "It Never Went Away" is more powerful and meaningful, but it is likely to be overshadowed by other performances.

"Wahzhazhe (The Song for My People)" was written by Scott George and performed by the Osage Tribal Singers for the movie "Killers of the Flower Moon." The song has many powerful voices in it, and the movie has done well this award season. If I had to make a guess, this song would be a front-runner for the award, but it would not win against "What Was I Made For?"

the Gray Board's interrogation. Manipulating light and using projectors to make the background look as if it's shaking demonstrate the emotions of Nolan's film.

"Oppenheimer" isn't just shot well, it's shot beautifully. All the other nominated films are shot thoroughly, but they don't stand out. They don't do anything that hasn't been done before. "Oppenheimer" stands out among the rest for how well the film was put together, how realistic it looks and how it makes you feel.

Best Cinematography (by Griffin Shavitz): Predicted Winner: “Oppenheimer”

With great use of 70mm IMAX and pure black and white cameras, "Oppenheimer" is the clear candidate to win cinematography. What sets "Oppenheimer" apart from the other nominees is the way many scenes were shot for the movie. For the scenes in black and white, Christopher Nolan used experimental black and white film made by Kodak, which hasn't been done due to the rise

car for costume design in the film Gladiator (2000), is known for her work in films such as "House of Gucci," "Prometheus" and "The Martian." Yates has created thousands of costumes alongside David Cross, who has design credits for many high-profile movies such as "The Batman," "1917," "Rogue One" and many of the Harry Potter movies.

Crossman created over 4,000 military uniforms that were used in the film. The combined efforts of Yates, Crossman and their team resulted in thousands of uniforms, hundreds of outfits for civilian background characters and dozens of extravagantly detailed ensembles for the aristocrats in the film. The most breathtaking being the coronation scene.

Designer Jaqueline West, known for her work on "Dune," similarly put great research and time into making something elaborately detailed and authentic to the story of "Killers of the Flower Moon." Not only creating something visually beautiful but staying true to the culture of the Osage people.

Working with Osage Costume Consultant Julie O'Keefe, West created a historical representation of Native Americans and the way their traditional dress is shown in the mainstream, setting a precedent for Native representation in fashion.

While I believe that these two movies both deserve to win, I am placing my bet on "Napoleon." The extravagance and details in the costuming were breathtaking. It has a great chance of taking home the Oscar.

Best Makeup and Hairstyling (by Cami Seymore): Predicted Winner: "Poor Things"

cosmetic innovation and authenticity. Between all the films nominated, the race for the Oscar is tight.

"Maestro" and "Oppenheimer" are both master classes in aging through makeup.

"Maestro" head of makeup and prosthetics, Kazu Hiro, ages composer Leonard Bernstein (Bradley Cooper) through five decades of his life, solely through makeup and prosthetics. "Oppenheimer" flashes back from the 1960s to the 1920s, impressively aging the cast for present-day scenes. Makeup Department Head Luisa Abel and Hair Department Head Jaime Leigh McIntosh accurately capture the 1920s through their impressive use of makeup and hairstyling. "Golda" and "Society of the Snow" are stunning examples of prosthetic makeup, both of which completely transform the appearances of their respective cast members.

However, the most impressive feat in makeup and hairstyling is achieved by Yorgos Lanthimos' "Poor Things." Bella (Emma Stone) is a gender-bent Frankenstein, exploring the world and learning about herself in the process. Hair, makeup and prosthetic artist Nadia Stacey utilizes hairstyling to showcase Bella's childlike innocence. Bella's hair is long and unkempt, as she is unaware of the societal expectations of how a woman should dress and act. Stacey's prosthetic work on Baxter (Willem Dafoe), the mad scientist who created Bella, is unmatched.

While each film is capable of taking the award, "Poor Things" plays with hair and makeup in an innovative, outside-of-the-box way that none of the other films achieve.

Though not a major category, the Academy Award for Excellence in Makeup and Hairstyling honors the film which displays

Best Costume Design (by: Nyla Gilbert): Predicted Winner: "Napoleon" In the past year, we have seen a reju-

venation in the fashion world. Even recently with the newest releases from Paris Fashion Week, the public's focus on attention to detail and creative expression through clothing is at an all-time high. The Oscars is no different.

Many have been talking about Margot Robbie's wardrobe both in "Barbie" and during its press tour. Designer Jacqueline Durran started a pink uprising in 2023. The use of clothing in "Oppenheimer" has seen praise for its contribution to the film's storytelling, in which costume designer Ellen Mirojnick did a fantastic job. However, when it comes to the conversation of costume design in the past year, the works of Jacqueline West (Killers of the Flower Moon) and Janty Yates and David Crossman (Napoleon) have been quiet.

Janty Yates, who previously won an OsTHEPOSTATHENS.COM / 13

MULTILINGUAL COVERAGE

Diving into a new journey ALYSSA CRUZ CULTURE EDITOR

About 2,000 miles away from Athens lies Guanajuato, Mexico. On paper, Ohio and the state of Guanajuato do not seem to have much in common. Guanajuato’s economy was built on its silver mines and currently leads the nation in the manufacture of shoes.

It is about a quarter of the size of Ohio and has a population of a little more than a quarter of Ohio’s. Despite these differences, the two states have one thing in common: both are home to Astrid Pichardo.

Pichardo is a true freshman diver and has certainly made a name for herself in the short time she has been at Ohio. The team is currently 7-0, dominating its final meet of the regular season against Ball State 219-81 on Saturday.

This meet was a critical one for Pichardo, as she received a score of 291.30 in the 3-meter dive. This score earned her a spot in the NCAA Zone C diving competition where she will have a chance to compete for a spot at the NCAA Championship in March. Pichardo also won the 1-meter event with a score of 275.33.

Experiencing success was not abnormal for Pichardo, as she has consistently placed at meets all season. Thanks to her performance against Marshall with her second-place finishes in both the 3-meter and 1-meter event, Pichardo was named Mid-American Conference Diver of the Week on Jan. 10.

Regarding her journey to Ohio, Pichardo said other schools in the U.S. were interested in her, but it was Talisa Lemke, the Ohio diving coach, who made her feel like Ohio was the right choice.

“I really felt connected when she started to send me messages,” Pichardo said. “I believe here is where I belong.”

As she has spent more time on campus and more time with her teammates, Pichardo said she has had a wonderful experience forging friendships in and out of the pool.

“There are a lot of emotions every time I share more time with my team – it's the most beautiful thing,” said Pichardo.

Pichardo said she has been a diver for 10 years, and one of the hardest things about diving is maintaining consistency. Like many sports, she said diving is more of a mental game, one where the athlete must be locked in the entire time. She said her main goal as the season wears on is to channel her emotions into her diving.

“I'm learning again how to lead with my emotions when I'm in competitions,” Pichardo said. “It has been being consistent in my diving.”

Pichardo said there are not a lot of opportunities for women’s diving in Mexico, and she had always thought of attending a university in the U.S. as a lofty goal, not a reality.

“I don't think I ever believed it was possi14 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

ble,” Pichardo said. “For me, it was not a very concrete idea, really.”

She said the work she had done in Mexico along with the support and insight from her peers back home made it possible. Additionally, her parents were ecstatic for her.

“The truth is that they were very happy,” she said. “It was some of the best news they've ever had.”

She said it was a relief for her parents, knowing how much time and effort she had devoted. Additionally, they were happy she could continue doing what she loves while receiving an education.

Regarding what she misses from Mexico, Pichardo said she of course misses her parents, her dog and her friends, as well as her giant swimming pool. Despite this, she said the support she has received here has been fantastic, and her teammates are some of the best people she knows.

“The atmosphere here is very nice,” she said. “I love it here.”

It seems the sky's the limit for Pichardo, with big opportunities on the horizon. Next on the docket for Ohio is the 2024 Ohio State Winter Invite in Columbus, Feb. 16-18.

Ohio University diver, Astrid Pichardo, Jan. 7, 2024, at the Bobcat’s home meet against Ball State. (MORGAN CLARK | FOR THE POST)

Logros lejanos Lee el reportaje en español: A 3200 kilometros de Athens, se encuentra el estado de Guanajuato, Mexico.

El estado de Ohio y el estado de Guanajuato no parecen de tener mucho en común.

La economía del estado de Guanajuato se construyo de las minas de plata y lidera a nivel nacional en la producción de zapatos.

El estado de Guanajuato se compone de la cuarta parte del estado de Ohio y tiene una población de poco más de una cuarta parte de la de Ohio. A pesar de estas diferencias, los dos estados tienen una cosa en común: el hogar de la clavadista Astrid Pichardo.

Pichardo es una clavadista y está en su primer año de la universidad. Sin duda, ella ha sido una diferencia en el Equipo de Natacion y Clavados. El equipo tiene un récord de 7-0, dominando su última competencia de la temporada este sabado en contra de Ball State 219-81.

Esta competencia fue crítica para Pichardo, porque recibió una calificación de 291.30 en el clavado de 3 metros. Este calificación le valió un lugar en la competencia de clavados de la Zona C de la NCAA, donde tendrá la oportunidad de competir por un lugar en el Campeonato de la NCAA en marzo. Pichardo también ganó el clavado de 1 metro con una calificación de 275.33.

Tener éxito es común para Pichardo, ya que se ha desempeñado consistentemente en las competencias durante toda la temporada. Gracias a sus calificaciónes en contra de la Universidad de Marshall, Pichardo fue nombrada la clavadista del MAC de la semana de 10 de enero.

Respecto a su paso al estado de Ohio, Pichardo dijo que otras universidades en los EE.UU. estaban interesadas en ella, pero fue Talisa Lemke, la entrenadora de clavados, quien la hizo sentir que esta era la opción correcta.

“Realmente, me sentí conectada cuando ella empezó de mandarme mensajes,” ella dijo. “Creo que aquí es donde pertenezco.”

Como ha pasado más tiempo en el campus y más tiempo con sus compañeros de equipo, Pichardo dijo que ha tenido una experiencia maravillosa haciendo amistades dentro y afuera de la alberca.

“Son muchas emociones cada vez que comparto más tiempo con mi equipo– es lo

más bonito,” dijo Pichardo.

Pichardo dijo que ha estado en el deporte de los clavados durante diez años y que una de las cosas más difíciles de este deporte es mantener la consistencia. Como muchos deportes, dijo que este deporte tambien es más un juego mental, uno en el que el atleta debe estar concentrado todo el tiempo. Dijo que su meta principal de la temporada es manejar sus emociones en sus competencias.

“Estoy aprendiendo otra vez como liderar con mis emociones cuando estoy en competencias,” dijo Pichardo. “Ha sido constante en mis clavados.”

Pichardo dijo que no hay muchas oportunidades para ser una clavadista en México y que siempre había pensado de asistir a una universidad en los EE.UU. era un sueño.

“Creo que nunca me crea posible,” Pichardo dijo. “Para mi, era una idea no muy concreta la verdad.”

Dijo que el trabajo que había realizado en México junto con el apoyo de sus compraneros y familia lo hizo posible. También, sus padres estaban emocionados por ella.

“La verdad es que se pusieron muy felices,” ella dijo. “Fue una de las mejores noticias que han tenido.”

Dijo que fue un alivio para sus padres saber cuánto tiempo y esfuerzo habían dedicado. Además, estaban felices de que pudiera seguir haciendo lo que ama mientras recibía una educación.

Respecto a lo que extraña de México, Pichardo dijo que por supuesto extraña a sus padres y amigos, así como su alberca gigante. A pesar de esto, dijo que el apoyo que ha recibido aquí ha sido fantástico y que sus compañeros de equipo son algunas de las mejores personas que conoce.

“Es muy lindo el ambiente aquí,” ella dijo.

“Me encanta estar aquí.”

Parece que el cielo es el límite para Pichardo, con grandes oportunidades en el horizonte. La siguiente competencia en la agenda para el Equipo de Natación y Clavados de la Universidad de Ohio es la invitación de invierno del Universidad Estatel de Ohio 2024 es en Columbus el 16-18 de febrero.

@ALYSSADANCCRUZ AC974320@OHIO.EDU

Ohio looks to take on Iowa State MEG MCCLEARY FOR THE POST Last weekend, Ohio split a two-game series against Maryville. The team now holds a 21-8-3 record which puts them at No. 6 in the ACHA. Ohio hopes to improve from last weekend and sweep its series this weekend against Iowa State.

Here is everything you need to know about this weekend: Series information: Opponent: Iowa State (8-7-0) Date and Time: Friday, Feb. 2, and Saturday, Feb. 3 at 7 p.m.

Location: Bird Ice Arena (Athens) History: This is the first time Ohio and Iowa State will have played each other this season. The last time the Bobcats took on the Cyclones was in 2023. Ohio took home the victory, winning 10-7. With Iowa hoping for redemption and Ohio hungry for another victory, this will be a competitive game.

Statistical Leaders: Total Points: Everett Bestland (15) Goals: Bestland (8) Assists: Mitch Krebsbach (8) Penalty Minutes: Joseph Pacana (34)

Hello Athens, We’re Rumpke Waste & Recycling and We Can’t Wait to Serve You!

Player to watch: Everett Bestland is an Iowa State player to keep your eye on. Bestland has the most points on the team (15), as well as the most goals (8) and the second-most assists (7). He has also played 14 of 15 games this season and will likely have a lot of time on the ice this weekend against the Bobcats.

MM401222@OHIO.EDU (Below) Ohio forward Luc Reeve (8) goes after the puck with Maryville defense Ben McArthur (7) during a game against Maryville University in Bird Ice Arena Jan. 27, 2024 in Athens, Ohio. (ABBIE KINNEY | ART DIRECTOR)

On January 2, 2024, Rumpke Waste & Recycling will start collecting trash, recycling and compost from homes in Athens. We’re thrilled to serve you and would like to introduce ourselves and let you know what you can expect from us.

More than 90 years ago the Rumpke Family began picking up trash for Ohio families.

Today, that tradition continues. Founded on the core values of teamwork, quality, perseverance, growth and responsibility, Rumpke is determined to bring the best service solutions to Athens.

Our local team of more than 50 people will service the area from our hauling offices in Nelsonville. If you want to be part of our team, Rumpke is hiring. If you’re interested, please apply at Rumpke.com. We offer paid training and free CDL certification.

While Rumpke may have gotten its start in Cincinnati, we are proud to be an active corporate citizen in both Athens and Hocking counties. We own and operate the AthensHocking Landfill. In fact, all trash collected in Athens will be disposed there. Meanwhile, Rumpke will continue to take recycling and compost to the Athens-Hocking Recycling for processing. We look forward to working toward helping meet the community’s sustainability goals.

We thank you for the opportunity to service your homes and businesses here in Athens, and we are beyond proud to do it!

Open the camera on your phone and scan this QR Code for information about your new Rumpke service. Watch your mailbox for more details in the coming weeks.

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 15

‘Saltburn’ is more than what the media make it Kaylin Pickett In November 2023 the movie “Saltburn,” directed by Emerald Fennell, was released and quickly became a significant pop culture phenomenon. The movie blew up on social media because of a few controversial and relatively disturbing scenes. Even though many people think that the movie is weird, I feel that in a few years, this movie will become something of a cult classic.

Throughout the movie, there are many references to Greek mythology and classic literature like Shakespeare. The plot of the movie is based heavily on the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur. The movie takes place over the summer at a wealthy European family’s house — Saltburn — and much like the labyrinth in the myth, there is a maze in the yard.

Oliver, the main character, is friends with the eldest child, Felix, and is spending the

ter in the film, Venetia, is a great example of that. Throughout the movie, there are many parallels between Venetia and the character Ophelia from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”

In “Hamlet,” Ophelia is a girl whose life is controlled by others and she has very little autonomy. She is seen as young and naive and incapable of taking care of herself. At the end of her story, she drowns and no one is sure whether she did it to herself or if she was murdered.

In “Saltburn,” Venetia’s story is played out similarly, she is seen as an irresponsible girl who throws herself at every man she meets.

Even her death parallels Ophelia’s, Venetia is found in the bathtub after Felix dies with her wrists cut making it appear as though she killed herself. However, when Oliver reveals everything that he did to the family it makes the audience question whether it

summer at Saltburn. In the climax of the movie, Oliver is seen walking through the maze to find Felix and finds him at the center underneath a statue of the Minotaur, much like when Theseus goes through Daedalus’s labyrinth to slay the Minotaur. Oliver and Felix have a confrontational conversation and Felix is found dead in the maze the next morning.

After his death, the rest of the family begins dying off one by one and in the end, Oliver is left to run Saltburn. This is also what happens in Theseus and the Minotaur, after Theseus slays the Minotaur the royals all begin to die until Theseus ends up on the throne. It is later revealed that Oliver was, in some way, responsible for almost all of the family’s deaths.

In the movie, there are also a lot of references to Shakespeare’s work, and the daugh-

OFF CAMPUS

was truly done by Venetia’s own hands.

These are just two examples of the parallels between the movie “Saltburn” and different forms of classic literature and Greek mythology, but there are so many more woven into the story. Once you get past the rather disturbing scenes in the movie it is easy to see that Fennell has created a beautiful work of cinema that should be studied in the future.

Kaylin Pickett is a sophomore at Ohio University. Please note that the opinions expressed in this column do not necessarily reflect those of The Post. Want to talk to Kaylin about her article? Tweet her @KaylinPickett.

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A trial in Michigan may change responsibility in school shootings

Claire Schiopota An ongoing trial in Michigan may redefine responsibility in school shootings across America. Ethan Crumbley was sentenced to life in prison for murdering and injuring his classmates at Oxford High School in Detroit.

Now, Ethan’s parents, James and Jennifer Crumbley, face trials of their own over their son’s behaviors.

The Crumbley parents face up to 15 years in prison, according to CNN. Both of them are pleading not guilty to four charges of involuntary manslaughter. As Ethan’s parents, the prosecution alleges they had an alleged role in their son’s crime.

The shooting at Oxford High School happened Nov. 30, 2021, and Ethan was only 15 years old. The case alleges his parents knew of Ethan’s disposition and gave him access to firearms. Social media have played a large part in revealing these details, including father-son trips to the gun range, firearms left freely accessible and ignored warnings regarding Ethan’s mental health.

The two were even called into the school the day of the shooting after a suspicious drawing was recovered by a teacher. His parents declined to take Ethan out of school or inform staff about his access to guns. When the two found out about a school shooting at Ethan’s high school, Jennifer even texted

Ethan, “Don’t do it.”

The prosecution alleges this collection of evidence proves James and Jennifer’s negligence, which means they are directly responsible for the events at Oxford High School.

This isn’t the first time parents have been charged for their child’s actions; in the past, this has looked like child neglect charges or failure to lock up firearms. This case is historic as it would mean the Crumbley parents are responsible for the killings themselves, in addition to Ethan.

A motion was filed to hold separate trials for Jennifer and James in November which was approved. James’ trial is tentatively set to begin March 5 and the Detroit Free Press reports Jennifer’s trial is in its fifth day of testimony. Jennifer’s extramarital affairs have even been brought up in the courtroom as her lawyers search for a defense against the hard evidence from the prosecution.

It seems as though Ethan will not have much influence on either of his parents’ trials. NBC News reports Ethan’s lawyers are not encouraging him to testify, partially due to his ongoing appeal.

The results of this trial could set a new precedent, and change the way parents in America are held accountable in school shootings. It is unclear when we will know the outcomes of this trial, but it’s worth keeping our eyes on Detroit for the time being.

Claire Schiopota is a senior studying journalism. Please note that the opinions expressed in this column do not reflect those of The Post. Want Claire to cover a certain topic or talk about her column? Email her at cs123719@ohio.edu or tweet her @CSchiopota.

Everyone should learn campus etiquette THE PEST STAFF WRITER I won’t waste any time here and get straight to the point: where have everyone’s manners gone? I got back on campus about two weeks ago and it’s like everyone decided to forget the basic etiquette they learned back in kindergarten.

I’m going to air out my biggest on-campus pet peeves and share with you ways you can avoid feeling my wrath. If this doesn’t do the trick, then this university needs to step in with a class on some manners because some of you need a refresher.

1. Slow Walkers We’ve all experienced the inconvenience of a slow walker on campus in one way or another. Whether it’s people taking their sweet old-time sauntering places with no sense of urgency, icky hand-holding couples who look as though they time out their hugs once they are out of class or the gargantuan friend groups who think the middle of the sidewalk is the best place for a conversation, we’ve all seen it.

Maybe I just walk fast, but we all need to pick up the pace a bit. Have some awareness

for the people behind you, we’ve got places to go people. The Pest has covered dealing with slow walkers in a previous article, but my best solution is making your presence known to the slow walker, and taking any chance to cut in front when possible. Worst case, I will step on the back of your precious Ugg slipper. Walk faster, or that slipper gets it.

2. Walking on the wrong side I’ve got a pop quiz for you; what side of the road do you drive on in the U.S.? If you said the right-hand side, then you would be correct. So because this is the case, you would think to walk on the right-hand side of the sidewalk too right? This is the correct way; however, some of you have decided to be super quirky and different, and I will not stand for it.

Walking on the right side keeps the sidewalk traffic flowing nicely. If you decide to take the left side, you are disrupting the flow of traffic. Your friend you walk with from class to class isn’t going to disappear if they walk behind you as opposed to next to you.

When I have to sidestep awkwardly into the grass because you are disrupting the flow of traffic, I am most certainly unhappy about it.

Take the right side. Or else.

3. People who don’t hold the door open Hold the door open for the people behind you. Please.

There is maybe nothing I hate more than when I’m on my way to enter Baker University Center, and the person in front of me decides to just slip through the closing door as if they are on a secret mission and the door is suddenly made of lasers.

There are many ways to keep the door open for the person behind you. It is actually quite simple. You could go the gentleman route, and stand to the side with the door open if you have some time to kill. You can patiently wait an extra two seconds and stand in the doorway and hold the door open. Finally, if you’re in a rush, you can even just throw that door open, because there is a good chance there is someone behind you.

Lastly, when I hold the door open for you, say, “Thank you.”

4. Laundry room hoggers So there’s this really cool app on your phone, it’s called the Timer App. This app is actually super cool because when you have things that take a certain amount of time, you can actually set a timer to know exactly when it is going to be complete. A good example of this would be setting a timer for when your laundry is finished in the washer or dryer.

Now that you know about the super cool Timer App, use it, please. So when my laundry is sopping wet and is in need of drying, it doesn’t have to sit in the washer for 30 more minutes waiting for some lazy person down the hall to come get their laundry from the dryer. Then my socks get mildewy. I hate mildew. Please let me conduct my Sunday reset in peace.

The Pest is a satirical column and does not reflect the views of The Post.

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 17

House Bill 68 irresponsible to pass Content warning: this article discusses mental health issues that may be upsetting for certain readers. Read responsibly.

For years, there has been a growing rhetoric of disinformation about the transgender community. Recently, these myths have begun to center around children and how the media, Disney, books, the green M&M, whatever, are colluding to make your child gay or transgender.

The reality of the situation is that transgender individuals only account for 1.03% of the adult population in the U.S. and 1.8% of America’s youth.

House Bill 68 takes aim at transgender youth, an already vulnerable minority of children. The bill would ban minors from accessing gender-affirming care and prevent transgender girls from participating in girls’ and women’s sports teams. To further isolate transgender children is dangerous as transgender children are more prone to mental health struggles and suicide in their formative years.

Many transgender people experience gender dysphoria, or emotional distress as a result of their physical characteristics not matching that of their gender identity. Gender dysphoria in minors specifically is on the

rise. In 2018, 17.5% of transgender youth experienced gender dysmorphia, which rose to 20.4% in 2020. Dysmorphia is overwhelming for transgender adults which means extra care must be taken with transgender youth experiencing it. When youth and adolescents cannot access gender-affirming care, they may be at a greater risk of suicidal thoughts.

Already, transgender youth and adolescents are more than four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their cisgender peers. Roughly half of the 41% of LGBTQIA+ young people who have seriously considered attempting suicide are transgender or nonbinary.

Because hormone therapy, hormone blockers and other gender-affirming care are proven to improve the mental well-being of transgender and nonbinary youth, the passage of House Bill 68 would be detrimental to these children and teens.

Even if a transgender teen or child were to survive without gender-affirming care, there are a slew of other related challenges that they will be predisposed to that will still weigh heavy on their quality of life.

Not only are transgender children and adolescents at a greater risk of suicide, but also substance abuse, risky sexual activity and eating disorders. Transgender youth

specifically are four times more likely to develop an eating disorder than their cisgender peers, with around 15% having elevated scores on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, which is widely used to assess eating disorder symptoms. Of the 15%, 63% reported “purposeful weight manipulation relating to affirming their gender.”

There is a strong tie between body dissatisfaction in terms of both gender and weight in transgender youth. Among transgender girls, restricting and dieting usually centers around looking thin and having a more traditional feminine physique. Among transgender boys, restriction is often to reduce the appearance of secondary sex characteristics such as the growth of hips and breasts, something that hormone blockers and gender-affirming care help with.

Those pushing the passage of House Bill 68 think they are protecting children but they are doing damage on a scale that they simply cannot and do not care to comprehend. Its passage would be detrimental to the mental and physical well-being of transgender and nonbinary youth.

Editorials represent the majority opinion of The Post’s executive editors: Editor-in-Chief Katie Millard, Managing Editor

Editor-in-Chief | Katie Millard Managing Editor | Emma Erion Equity Director | Alesha Davis EDITORIAL News Editor | Madalyn Blair Asst. News Editor | Donovan Hunt Culture Editor | Alyssa Cruz Asst. Culture Editor | Abby Jenkins Sports Editor | Bobby Gorbett Sports Editor | Robert Keegan III Opinion Editor | Tate Raub Asst. Opinion Editor | Megan Diehl The Beat Editor | Aya Cathey Asst. The Beat Editor | Grace Koennecke Projects Editor | Hannah Campbell Investigative Editor | Alex Imwalle Copy Chief | Addie Hedges Slot Editors | Arielle Lyons, Jackson McCoy, Ashley Pomplas, Tre Spencer ART Art Director | Abbie Kinney Asst. Art Director | Emma McAdams Director of Photography | Alaina Dackermann Photo Editor | Zoe Cranfill DIGITAL Director of Web Development | Tavier Leslie Audience Engagement Editor | Logan Jefferies Asst. Audience Engagement Editor | Jenna Skidmore Director of Multimedia | Cole Patterson Asst. Director of Multimedia | Kendall Timms BUSINESS Media Sales | Gia Sammons, Molly Wilson Director of Student Media | Andrea Lewis 18 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

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Director Spotlight: Greta Gerwig deserves more recognition for her directing CAMI SEYMORE FOR THE POST Despite her recent Oscar nomination snub for Best Director, Greta Gerwig’s contributions and accomplishments in the film industry are exemplary. From “Lady Bird” to “Little Women” to the recent blockbuster “Barbie,” Gerwig produces hit after hit, continuously proving herself to be one of the best directors of the 21st century.

Though commonly known for her directing, Gerwig actually got her start in acting.

Gerwig’s initiation to filmmaking began in collaboration with filmmaker Joe Swanberg, where Gerwig starred in “Hannah Takes the Stairs” (2007) and “Nights and Weekends” (2008), for which she shared a directing credit.

Gerwig has since collaborated with her now husband Noah Baumbach on several films. The two met when Gerwig was cast in his 2010 film “Greenberg”. Baumbach and Gerwig started dating shortly after in 2011, and the pair started collaborating on projects together. Gerwig continued acting but also started producing and directing alongside Baumbach in “Frances Ha” (2012), “Mistress America” (2015) and “White Noise” (2022).

Gerwig’s other acting credits include “Damsels in Distress” (2011), “To Rome with Love” (2012), “Maggie's Plan” (2015), “Jackie” (2016), “20th Century Women” (2016) and “Isle of Dogs” (2018).

However, Gerwig’s true prowess in the film industry comes from her direction. Gerwig made her solo directorial debut in 2017 with “Lady Bird,” a coming-of-age film starring Saoirse Ronan as the titular character, Lady Bird, and her complicated relationship with her mother, played by Laurie Metcalf.

The film is semi-autobiographical, mirroring her upbringing in Sacramento, California, while attending Catholic school. Gerwig commented on the similarities in an interview with IndieWire.

“I really wanted to make a movie that was a reflection on home and what does home mean, and how does leaving home define what it is for you and your love for it,” Gerwig said. “I felt like it was a love letter to Sacramento, and I felt like, what better way to make a love letter than through somebody who wants to get out, and then realize that they loved it?"

“Lady Bird” was an instant hit classic and is an emotionally layered look into mother-daughter relationships, teenage angst, growing up and leaving home. Gerwig’s directorial debut received five Academy Award nominations at the 2018 Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, Best Actress (Ronan) and Best

Actress in a Supporting Role (Metcalf). However, the film didn’t win any of the categories for which it was nominated.

In 2019, Gerwig directed “Little Women,” the seventh film adaptation of the novel of the same name written by Louisa May Alcott. The story chronicles four sisters - Meg (Emma Watson), Jo (Saoirse Ronan), Beth (Eliza Scanlen) and Amy (Florence Pugh) during the Civil War era. The sisters grow up, learn about love and navigate a society in which women are disregarded.

Gerwig’s take on this classic is unmatched in its emotional complexity. The love and care that went into this film are obvious, with each actor delivering deeply emotional performances. The film received six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actress (Ronan), Best Supporting Actress (Pugh), Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Score, and won for Best Costume Design.

With “Lady Bird” and “Little Women'' under her belt, Gerwig’s knack for directing was clear. Gerwig was recognized for her ac-

complishments, being included in the Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world in 2018.

But Gerwig’s biggest and most celebrated film is ultimately the 2023 global phenomenon “Barbie.” The live-action “Barbie” movie was announced in 2009, with development beginning in 2014. The film went through several casting and directorial changes but ultimately landed on Gerwig as the director.

“Barbie” follows Barbie (Margot Robbie) and Ken (Ryan Gosling) as they venture out of Barbie Land and into the real world. “Barbie” was a smash hit, raking in $1.365 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of the year.

Despite the film’s success, Gerwig did not receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Director. "Barbie" was also the highest-earning live-action movie globally from a female director ever, and for her to not be recognized for her overall creative direction and vision for the film was shocking.

Though Gerwig was snubbed for Best Director, "Barbie" collected nominations in

several other categories, including Best Picture, Supporting Actor, Adapted Screenplay, Costume Design, Production Design and Original Song ("I'm Just Ken" and "What Was I Made For?").

Gerwig has a knack for bringing out incredibly emotional performances from her cast. This skill ultimately makes her a celebrated director and why her films are so uniquely powerful.

Although female directors often go unnoticed in the film industry, Gerwig makes herself known, consistently directing instant classics. Gerwig is set to direct and write at least two film adaptations of “The Chronicles of Narnia” for Netflix, which is sure to be yet another smash hit in Gerwig’s filmography.

Though her talents were overlooked for the 2024 Academy Awards, Gerwig’s directing is ahead of its time and deserving of any and all accolades she receives.

@CAMISEYMORE CH525822@OHIO.EDU

EMMA MCADAMS | ASST. ART DIRECTOR

THEPOSTATHENS.COM / 19

The mob wife aesthetic:

Looking at the cause and effect of microtrends

KENZIE CALLAHAN FOR THE POST

Fur coats, red lipstick and not-so-subtle nods to organized crime are taking over TikTok in favor of the newest trend: the “mob wife” aesthetic.

Upon closer inspection, the style takes inspiration from the flashy glamor of Italian culture as depicted in media like “The Sopranos.” The “mob wife” trend is a major switchup from the most recent trending aesthetics, such as “coquette” and “clean girl,” which revolve around feminine accessories and light colors.

As a result, many young women are switching out their hair ribbons for a teased, bigger hairstyle and their “no-makeup” makeup look for a smokey eye.

This drastic change in fashion trends seems to have reignited the growing concern about microtrends and fast fashion among many fashionistas and planet-lovers.

With the vast majority of Generation Z on social media, trends are more fast-paced than ever, many coming and going so fast they don’t even reach mainstream media. The term “microtrend” has become increasingly relevant for social media trends that don’t last more than a few weeks before dissipating.

These microtrends are empowered by fast-fashion giants such as SHEIN, Forever 21 and ZARA, which sell cheap products for an even cheaper manufacturing price, making a quick profit while contributing immensely to fossil fuels.

The low quality of these clothes might have caused issues for these brands if the consumers planned to wear them more than a couple of times.

Instead, the clothing ends up being donated or thrown away, ultimately ending up in mass graves such as one in Chile, made up of an estimated 30,000 tons of illegally dumped waste.

Many have also voiced concern about the impact of microtrends on young women, specifically on self-esteem and individuality.

Young women have shared their struggles with fitting into the newest aesthetic. An article 20 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

by Rayne Fisher-Quann perfectly describes the phenomenon, depicting the desire of young women to fit into a box to make their flaws more consumable.

“It’s easy, as a woman, to compactify illness into a consumable package- to whittle at the edges of pathology until it becomes little more than smudged eyeliner and wild sex,” Fisher-Quann said. “Childhood trauma becomes daddy issues, suicidal depression becomes mystique, selling your pain is easier than living with it.”

While her article, “standing on the shoulders of complex female characters,” ref-

erences the more niche labeling of eras throughout life, the same principle seems to apply to the ever-changing trending aesthetics in which bolder fashion choices are curated into an aesthetic in which they are more consumable.

The desire to compartmentalize one’s style or “vibe” into aesthetics like “mob wife” likely stems from the conflicting desire to stand out while fitting in by being unique in a cool way. For many women, the easiest way to do this is by straying from whatever’s trending in the mainstream.

In a study conducted by The Standard on

internalized misogyny, 73% of student and faculty members agree or strongly agree that feminine items and ideas are seen as inferior to masculine ones.

The effort to stray from the newest female craze or trend as a way to combat this results in the quick-paced microtrend culture that is currently fueling the fast fashion industry and niche trends such as the “mob wife.”

@KENZIECAKE8 KC389422@OHIO.EDU

ABBIE KINNEY | ART DIRECTOR

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Most anticipated films of 2024 LOGAN HUMPHREY FOR THE POST From long-awaited sequels to daring remakes and original works, plenty of exciting films are coming out in 2024.

Many of these films were delayed due to the Writers’ Guild of America, or WGA, strike last year. Now that the strike has ended, films are pressing play once more this year.

Here are some of the most anticipated films of 2024:

“The Garfield Movie” (May 24) Chris Pratt is set to star in another animated feature, this time as the iconic lasagna-loving feline Garfield. The Jim Davis universe expands as a new character is introduced in the film, Garfield’s father, played by none other than Samuel L. Jackson.

“Argylle” (Feb. 2) This action-packed comedy is packed with a cast full of stars, including Bryce Dallas Howard, Bryan Cranston, Sam Rockwell, Samuel L. Jackson and more. From “Kingsman” director Matthew Vaughn comes a film about a spy novelist whose books turn out to be more than fiction.

“Inside Out 2” (June 14) Nine years after Disney’s “Inside Out” comes the highly-anticipated sequel. The story follows Riley as she enters her teenage years. Plus, a new emotion joins the gang: Anxiety, played by Maya Hawke of “Stranger Things.” Notable cast changes were made to two original emotions, with Tony Hale now voicing Bill Hader’s Fear and Liza Lapira voicing Disgust, once played by Mindy Kaling.

“Lisa Frankenstein” (Feb. 9) From “Jennifer’s Body” writer Diablo Cody comes a horror rom-com about a teenage girl and her crush – who happens to be a corpse from the Victorian era. It takes components of the original Mary Shelley story but places them in the 1980s.

Lisa Frankenstein stars Kathryn Newton (“Freaky”) and Cole Sprouse (“Riverdale”) in the film’s gothic romantic duo.

“A Quiet Place: Day One” (June 28) Following John Krasinski’s “A Quiet Place” franchise is this “Day One” prequel. It will focus on the beginning of the alien invasion, providing many answers for the post-apocalyptic franchise. “A Quiet Place: Day One” will star Lupita Nyong’o, Joseph Quinn and Alex Wolff, guided by “Pig” director Michael Sarnoski.

“Madame Web” (Feb. 14) The next installment in Sony’s “Spider-Man” movie franchise is the female-dominated “Madame Web.” The titular character, played by Dakota Johnson, will be joined by “Euphoria” actress Sydney Sweeney as Spider-Woman.

The film follows Johnson’s Cassie as she discovers her powers to see the future. In her discovery, she crosses paths with three young women who are consistently put in danger.

The four work together to intercept the villainous workings of Ezekiel Sims dressed in a dark version of the classic “Spider-Man” costume.

“Despicable Me 4” (July 3) A fourth main installment in the “Despicable Me” franchise will be released this July. In this go-around, Gru struggles to connect with his tormenting newborn son, Gru Jr. The newest additions to the cast include Will Ferrell and Sofia Vergara, both coming in to play nemeses of Gru.

“Dune: Part Two” (March 1) The long-awaited part two of Frank Herbert’s notorious sci-fi novel “Dune” will finally be released this March. The sci-fi thriller adds more big names to an already impressive cast, with Florence Pugh, Austin Butler and Christopher Walken joining the original ensemble of Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya and Josh Brolin.

“Deadpool 3” (July 26) Ryan Reynolds returns as the wisecracking Deadpool in this third installment of the Marvel character. Now intended to be part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it will be the first in the universe to have an R-rating. “Deadpool 3” is expected to have Hugh Jackman reprise his long-running role as Wolverine.

“Beetlejuice 2” (Sept. 6) Fans of this Tim Burton cult classic from 1988 have waited years for this sequel. Now, 36 years later, Michael Keaton will finally reprise his role as the titular “bio-exorcist” alongside loveable gothic scene-stealer Winona Ryder. Jenna Ortega, who starred in Tim Burton’s “Wednesday,” joins the cast, as well as famed actor Willem Dafoe.

“Joker: Folie à Deux” (Oct. 4) “Joker: Folie à Deux” follows Todd Phillips’ award-winning “Joker.” Awarded an Academy Award for his role in the first film, Joaquin Phoenix reprises his role as the DC Comics villain. This time, fellow Academy Award winner Lady Gaga joins to take on the role of DC villain Harley Quinn.

“Wicked: Part One” (Nov. 27) One of the most beloved Broadway musicals comes to the big screen this year – “Wicked: Part One.” “The Wizard of Oz” prequel is split up into two part releases, with the first being released this year and the next in late 2025. Tony-winner Cynthia Erivo is starring as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. Alongside Erivo is Grammy-winner Ariana Grande, starring as good witch Glinda.

“Nosferatu” (Dec. 25) More than 100 years after the initial release of this classic silent film comes this 2024 remake, starring modern horror figure Bill Skarsgård in the titular role. Lily Rose-Depp of HBO’s “The Idol” will play Ellen Hutter, the woman Nosferatu is infatuated with. Other notable castings include Willem Dafoe, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Nicholas Hoult.

@LOGANHUMPHREY_ LH129720@OHIO.EDU

“Mickey 17” (March 29) From “Parasite” director Bong Joon-ho is this sci-fi thriller starring Robert Pattinson. Pattinson stars as an expendable space traveler who is sent on a dangerous mission to outer space. Other notable actors in the cast include Mark Ruffalo, Toni Collette and Steven Yeun.

“Challengers” (April 26) Another Zendaya film this year is the romantic sports drama “Challengers.” From “Call Me by Your Name” director Luca Guadagnino, this film follows Zendaya’s character Tashi Donaldson as a tennis prodigy turned coach. She coaches her husband Art (Mike Faist) to become a tennis champion, who ends up down on his luck. Art eventually finds himself in a match against a former friend and Tashi’s ex-boyfriend (Josh O’Connor).

“The Fall Guy” (May 3) Based on the 1980s TV series The Fall Guy, the film will star Oscar-nominated actors Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt.

Gosling plays a veteran stuntman who is dragged back into the industry when the star of a huge film goes missing.

22 / FEBRUARY 1, 2024

ALAINA DACKERMANN | DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

5 ways to stay ahead of the curve for internship, job season GRACE KOENNECKE ASSISTANT EDITOR OF THE BEAT For many students, internship and job season is a terrifying time of the year. Slowly beginning in the early months of winter and ending in the spring, it can be challenging to stay ahead and put your best foot forward when it comes to applying for that opportunity you really want.

However, by being prepared and proactive, there are many ways you can secure an internship or job. Here are five ways to stay ahead of the curve for this current internship and job season: Update your resume as soon as possible Most internship and job applications require you to submit or upload a resume during the application process, and you do not want to use one from the last year. Your resume should be updated on a monthly basis, as this ensures you won’t forget to list any past or present opportunities, awards or experiences you’ve acquired. You also should make your resume meet the requirements, as some companies prefer resumes in certain layouts, colors and fonts.

An updated resume saves so much time in the application process. By having one that is easy to access on your phone or computer, you can also know where it is at all times, preventing you from having to make a new one all over again.

Use career resources on campus Luckily, Ohio University has a multitude of career-based resources for all majors on campus, with staff that can help you find specific internships or job opportunities.

These resources can also help look over your resumes, cover letters or CVs, as well as provide advice on what career path to go down. You can even practice your interviewing skills by participating in mock interviews, which can greatly strengthen your application.

OU offers Career Services, which has many links to specific areas you may want to focus on during this time of year, including Career Coaching, Experiential Learning, Handshake and more. You can schedule appointments online.

Constantly check career websites If you are nervous about missing out on an opportunity, make an account on career websites like Handshake, LinkedIn or Indeed. These websites can be tailored to your specific career interests, matching you

SAV

Apply, apply, apply Even if you do not think you’ll get through the first round of the application process, always apply for an internship or job that interests you. It’s all about having the confidence and willingness to learn, and employers will appreciate the effort you put forward.

It also teaches you an important lesson about how to accept rejection, which is more common than it seems in the professional world. Overall, apply to opportunities that may be out of reach. You never know what will happen. Take the risk, and you may get the opportunity you’ve been searching for.

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with positions that may be what you need to graduate. You can also search for internships on these sites and directly reach out to hiring employers.

It’s a good idea to look up the companies you want to work for via a quick Google search. Doing this regularly lets you see if companies have posted new open positions.

Ask for help from professors or advisers Asking for help may seem intimidating, but it’s important to reach out and get the help you need when it comes to the opportunity you want. By scheduling an appointment with your professor or adviser, meeting with one of them may help you navigate your search for the internship or job you want.

These individuals can also serve as references for your resume application, which can be crucial to the process. You always want to ask for permission for references before filling out an application, so establishing consent during your meeting will also save time and energy when filling out applications.

MARCH

th 2024

ED ATE

PUBLIC RECORDS PANEL & WORKSHOP FOR STUDENTS AND JOURNALISTS

GRACE_KOE GK011320@OHIO.EDU

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