Issue 1 | Volume 104

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University September 17, 2024

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The Tragedy of Apalachee High School Shadimon Smith

“A mixture of fear and devastation,”

class 30 minutes prior under the

News Editor

said Kathryn Lowe, a junior marketing

guise of needing to go to the office.

Mason Schermerhorn and Christian

major. “I wanted to feel for those peo-

Law

enforcement

received

the

Angulo, both 14 years old, along with

ple, but I can not relate personally. As

first distress call around 10:20 a.m.

Richard Aspinwall and Cristina Irimie,

like, someone who will one day have

and arrived at the school short-

math teachers, lost their lives in a brutal

kids in school and being someone who

ly after with the school resource

school shooting on Sept. 4 at Apalachee

has went to public school, its terrifying.”

officers.

High School in Winder, Georgia.

The shooter was Colt Gray, a 14-year-

fronted Gray, and he surrendered.

students

old student, who has now been charged

Before the shooting, the school

and one teacher were injured and

with four counts of felony murder.

was notified by Gray’s mother, around

An

additional

hospitalized

after

eight the

resource

officer

conMugshot of Colt Gray | Barrow County Sheriff ’s Office

should find him. The school officials searched for Gray but did not lo-

around

9 a.m., that she had received a mes-

cate him in time to stop the attack.

10:15 a.m. Gray left his algebra

sage from her son and that the school

See APALACHEE | Page 3

The

shooting.

They all are expected to survive.

A

shooting

started

PARIS 2024: THE PARALYMPICS SONGS OF THE SUMMER Emma Jow

Despite the original in-

Molly Goff

at my job, which happens to be

Contributing Writer

tention for the two games

Staff Writer

on the beach,” said Nadia Cofer,

Whether tuning in via Spotify,

a sophomore nursing major. “You

Apple Music or radio, this sum-

always want to listen to it when

mer was defined by the songs that

it’s sunny, it’s an upbeat song, and

soundtracked

moment.

a universally happy experience al-

in

From the sultry beats of Sabrina

together. That’s what summer is.”

The Paralympic Games

the 2024 Paris Olympics,

Carpenter’s “Short n’ Sweet” to

For many GCSU students, the

include many events simi-

Team USA moved into

Charli XCX’s rebellious anthem

summer was filled with jobs, in-

lar to those of the Olympic

the Paralympics, continu-

ternships, beach days and road

Games modified to accom-

“Brat,”and Billie Eilish’s viral al-

ing to break records and

modate athletes with im-

bring home medals. Team

in athletics, and 10 golds

bum “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” the

trips with friends. In this atmo-

pairments, however, where

USA placed third in over-

in swimming, with Matt

season saw fierce competition for

sphere, upbeat and motivating

there are 40 total Olympic

all standings with 105 total

Stutzman breaking the

the title of song of the summer.

tracks dominated playlists. Car-

sports, there are only 28 total

medals, including 36 gold,

World Record in men’s

Music influenced the sum-

penter’s “Espresso” from her al-

sports in the Paralympics.

42 silver and 27 bronze.

archery, also being the

mer experiences of many GCSU

bum “Short n’ Sweet” quickly be-

students.

sun-soaked

came a favorite among students

beach trips, late-night drives

for its catchy beat and relatable lyr-

and

and memorable moments with

ics. Carpenter’s ability to capture

and 170 teams. The word

time Paralympic med- Christie Raleigh-Cross-

friends, students found them-

a carefree, adventurous spirit of

“para,”

“along-

alists, and 29 athletes ley set world records for

selves repeatedly hitting play on

summer resonated with listeners.

side,” was introduced to the

securing multiple med- their respective swim-

their favorite tracks, solidify-

name in 1989, and is includ-

als,” according to the Unit- ming events, and the

ing them as summer anthems.

The Paralympics are an international,

multi-sport

competition

following

to be equal, the Paralympic athletes are often regarded as overshadowed or underap-

the Olympics that allows

preciated by their able-bod-

disabled athletes to com-

ied Olympic counterparts.

After

pete in a variety of events.

First introduced in the 1960 Roman games, the Paralympics this year are a hub for over 4,400 athletes meaning

ed in order to demonstrate how the Olympics and Paralympics work together

Paris 2024 Games Official Stamp

“A total of 127 U.S. first-ever armless archer medalists graced the po- to win a Paralympic gold. dium, including 53 first-

Leanne

ed States Olympic and USA

Smith

“‘Espresso’ uniquely

is

the

mature

cheeky,

sound

of

“‘Adventure of a Lifetime’ was

taking the keys to your par-

Committee. volleyball team claimed

played the most because it just

ents’ car and driving down to

Team USA secured 2 a third consecutive title.

feels like a song you would hear

the shore,” said Rolling Stone.

at the beach, and I played it a lot

See SONGS | Page 7

golds in archery, 10 golds

women’s

With

sitting

Paralympic

in harmony to encompass all international athletes.

dominating

every

See PARALYMPICS | Page 5

Opinion: Harris-Trump Debate

We, The People, Deserve Better Samantha Paton

hands and walked mindfully

Contributing Writer

back to their podiums. Fast

How did we get here?

forward to now, in 2024, I

How did Americans create this election? To understand this, we must understand the major events that have happened between the first 2024debate and

watched a very different nar-

the most recent one. July 13th,

rative unfold. I observed two

shortly after the presidential

candidates who offer very dif-

debate between former Presi-

ferent futures to the American

dent Donald Trump and Pres-

a bizarre trend of ear bandag-

where Trump announces his

tor Mitt Romney and former

people, step up on stage, awk-

ident Joe Biden, Trump was

es being worn by Republican

long-awaited running mate,

President Barack Obama. I

wardly shake hands, and begin

nearly killed at a rally in Penn-

supporters all over America.

— JD Vance — and proud-

leaned towards my television

to fight and argue, further di-

sylvania. The outcomes of this

This event shortly tran-

ly accepts the Republican

screen as both candidates

viding the American people.

were criticism towards federal

scends

stepped onto the stage, shook

So, how did we get here?

security and protection, and

can

Twelve years ago, I watched my first debate. It took place in 2012, and it showcased a tournament between Sena-

NEWS | PG. 2

2024 NURSING RECRUITMENT FAIR

As GCSU prepares the nurses of tomorrow, this fair helps these students build connections and network.

Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris face off on ABC

into

National

the

Republi-

Convention,

nomination

for

President.

See DEBATE | Page 11

SPORTS | PG. 4

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7

OPINION & MISC. | PG. 10

As the Bobcats begin their fall seasons, what teams are projected to be frontrunners and who has some work to do?

PAWS was updated over the summer. Do returning students find it easy to navigate, or are seasoned seniors struggling to find their schedules?

Some love the cast of Season 33, and others take issue with a few casting choices.

What makes someone a “Star?”

GCSU FALL SPORTS PREVIEW

PAWS UPDATES

DANCING WITH THE STARS

2

SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR EMMA ESLINGER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.17.2024

NEWS

GCSU’s 2024 Nursing Recruitment Fair Shadimon Smith News Editor Nursing at GCSU has been a prominent major since its establishment in 1987. This has led to thousands of students coming to GCSU to study nursing.

“Nursing was a field I felt I could help the most people out,” said Christeena Rinker, a senior nursing major. “I love people and being around people and helping them.”

One way GCSU helps its students is by hosting nursing recruitment fairs, which this year was held on Monday, Sept. 9.

It was held in Magnolia Ballroom, starting at 11 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m.

nurse placing a line

The fair opened with nursing majors standing outside the doors with their resumes and backpacks ready to meet the many healthcare professionals from over 25 different medical facilities. Some present were Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Northside Hospital, Shepherd Center, Ethica Rehab, Wellstar Health System and Emory Healthcare.

Students attend these events looking for future positions and internships.

They all dressed to impress with slacks and button-ups or even their scrubs from their clinicals.

“Today we came so that we can talk to hospitals to find our jobs for the rest of our lives,” said Rinker. “I am an extern in labor and delivery.”

All the employers in

attendance had tables filling the room. Each table was decorated with tablecloths displaying the names of each of the respective hospitals. Many had pens, business cards and information pamphlets to hand out to the nursing students of GCSU. “It is a wonderful event,” said Rai Harris, chief nursing officer at Regency Hospital. “I come every time they host it just to be able to get connection with the up-and-coming nursing students. And really be able to promote our hospital and what we do in hopes that we can find the right match.”

There are many different paths for students

in the nursing major to take. After graduation, they can work in labor and delivery as a Family Nurse Practitioner, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, a Nurse Educator or in Nurse Midwifery. At GCSU, students build the skills needed to enter the work field through clinicals, lectures and simulations.

“I am looking for nurses that are looking to get a foundation in both critical care and medical-surgical,” Harris said.

“We [Regency Hospital] are a critical illness recovery hospital. So we’re able to offer the best of both worlds, if you will.”

At the fair, there

were even some GCSU Alumni at a table for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, or CHOA. “We went to school here, me and Anna Catherine,” said Jenny Brightwell, a Certified Nurse 3 at CHOA. “And we wanted to come back and tell people how much we love working at CHOA and how nursing is a great career.”

Recruitment fairs are to help students at GCSU build their networks and allow them to see the different routes they can take after graduation. Building these face-to-face connections helps recruiters to build a stronger connection with the future nurses of the world.

Increases to Milledgeville’s water & sewer rates are on the horizon Cali Snodgrass

Contributing Writer A new ordinance was passed for an 18-month, three-phase plan to change how the fees and rates for water and sewer services charge residents in Milledgeville.

The new ordinance was discussed on Aug. 27 and is based on the size of pipeage each residential or commercial building uses. The rate increase will also be determined if the home is within city limits or not — water charges are less expensive to homes inside of Milledgeville city limits than those outside. This ordinance will also affect water and sewer tap-

ping and connection fees and changes to deposits or other related fees.

Sewer tapping is the main place where the home’s sewer line connects to the main sewer line. Then these changes will change how much each person’s deposits will be.

“All residential water and sewer customers have ¾ inch or 1-inch size lines,” said Milledgeville Mayor Mary Parham-Copelan. “Therefore, more than 85% of the lines are 1 inch or less. The water and sewer fees on a 1-inch line, on average, will increase by about 55%.”

This means that residents of Milledgeville will have higher water bills.

Sarah Crowder, a sophomore criminal justice major, was worried her rent might increase.

“Since I rent, I could be paying more for this,” Crowder said.

“We got this house because it was so cheap, and for us to be told it could be not as cheap really sucks because the house is not that good for it to not be cheap.”

Other students were not as worried due to the nature of their leases.

“My landlord covers water,” said Livi Langston, a junior English major. “So it wouldn’t affect me, but it would affect him, and per our lease, he can’t increase rent on me.”

Parham-Copelan has

VOLUME 104 | NO. 1

Editorial Board

Kate Verity......................... Editor in Chief Paige Blakemore............Managing Editor Julia Jensen....................... Art Director Shadimon Smith.............News Editor Emma Eslinger................ Asst. News Editor Brennan Schmitz........... Sports Editor Benjamin Clark............... Asst. Sports Editor Kylie Rowe.........................Arts & Life Editor Mary Ciucevich...............Asst. Arts & Life Editor Delaney Derry..................Opinion Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Matthew Malkowski..... Digital Media Editor Rebecca Ocampo..........PR Manager Kassie Arps.......................Ad Sales Manager Eva Galova........................ Faculty Adviser

*All Opinion columns are the opinion of the columnist, not of The Colonnade.

offered some insight on where the additional funds from this new ordinance would go.

“The funds generated by water and sewer fees goes into the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund to be used for the costs associated with providing water and sewer service to City of Milledgeville Water System customers,” Parham-Copelan said. “These costs fall into the category of water and sewer treatment, delivery, collections and maintenance.”

Milledgeville has a history of struggling with water contamination due to old pipes that have rusted or damaged over the years. However, these funds might be

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

used to ensure a better quality of water for the people of Milledgeville.

The ordinance shows that facilities with the largest pipes could see their rates increase by hundreds of dollars.

“The city never takes lightly increasing fees on its residents,” Parham-Copelan said. “But water and sewer rates have not increased since 2010, while necessary costs have increased fairly significantly, at least in the last 4 years. The

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increase is necessary to maintain the system and to make necessary improvements in the water treatment plant and delivery infrastructure.”

The first phase of this ordinance will begin on Jan. 1, 2025, followed by the second phase on July 1, 2025 and then the third and final phase beginning July 1, 2026. The information on the exact changes in price will be published in Section 90-8 of the Milledgeville Code of Ordinances.

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3

SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR EMMA ESLINGER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.17.2024

NEWS APALACHEE

used it in the shooting on Sept. 4.

“How did a kid get a gun in the

Continued from page 1

school?” the anonymous GCSU fac-

In May 2023, Georgia sheriff had vis-

ulty member said. “Why aren’t there

ited Gray’s home and spoke with both

metal detectors already in the schools?

Colt Gray and his father, Colin Gray,

The school’s not paying attention.”

in reference to anonymous threats of

Colt Gray’s mother released an

a school shooting. Colt Gray denied

open apology to the people affected

knowing about the threats and law en-

by the shooting. In the apology, she

forcement determined that there was

says that her son is not a monster.

no probable cause for arrest at the time.

“If I could take the place of Mason

“If the parents knew about the is-

and Christian, I would without a sec-

sues and they constantly had to move

ond thought,” Marcee Gray wrote, re-

and the father knew as well, why would

ferring to the two 14-year-olds who

he buy his son a gun; why would he

died in the attack. “As a parent, I’ve

allow him to have access without his

always said that the loss of one of

guidance?” said one anonymous GCSU

my children would be the only thing

faculty. “And why would you not let

that I wouldn’t be able to come back

your school know ‘Hey, he has issues,

from. I feel all of your pain and dev-

he’s got problems can you help me?”

astation. I grieve and cry with you.”

Colin Gray, 54, was arrested in

Some

feel

as

though

connection with the shooting, as he

parents

need

to

be

Apalachee High School is in Winder, Ga.

both

arrested.

GCSU’s economic impact

knowingly allowed his son to possess

“If the father knew the son had

the firearm used in the attack. He has

issues and they already moved,”

been charged with four counts of in-

said an anonymous source. “She

Emma Eslinger

voluntary manslaughter, two counts

knew about the problems and she

Asst. News Editor

of second-degree murder and eight

should have been arrested too.”

counts of cruelty to children. He has

Apalachee High School is the 45th

recently asked for separation from oth-

school shooting to take place in the

er inmates due to fear of being harmed.

United States this year. Georgia of-

As a result of GCSU’s local impact, Central Georgia’s regional economy has increased

Gray’s

ficials are looking into new policies

comment-

– policies that will help students’

to $308 million. The

ed on the arrests of his son-in-law

mental health, detect guns and en-

amount

and grandson, blaming Colin Gray.

courage people to store guns proper-

by 1.8% over the last

pen-

ly. Lawmakers are also looking into

year and $26 million

of

creating a “red flag” law that allows

over the previous three

Gray.

the state to temporarily remove guns

Colt Gray was given an AR-15 style

from individuals who are display-

years. GCSU has creat-

as well. Thinking about

sites across the Great-

rifle for Christmas by his father and

ing concerning mental health issues.

ed 2,838 jobs, both on

the summer when stu-

er

and off campus. These

dents are gone, many

Some work sites in-

jobs provide income

businesses will experi-

cluded Bike Walk Bald-

ence a decrease in profits

win, Georgia War Vet-

due to a decrease in the

erans Home, Georgia’s

number of consumers.

Old

These could be profits

Center at the Depot, Inc.,

that are essential to the

LLC and Stepping Stone

business

Child

Charles

Polhamus,

maternal

grandfather,

“He

needs

the

alty,”

the

his

son-in-law,

Colt

death

grandfather

said

Colin

has

grown

for college students and people in Milledgeville.

“Creating more jobs

ALLISON EVERETT OCTOBER 5

directly impacts the region surrounding us because of how this

2024

affects the economy,” said Keeley Casalou, a junior marketing major and economics minor.

“More

people

work-

ing means increased income for all those people.

8:00 AM

That

money

10:00 AM

approximately

year, GCSU and its sur-

$120,000 worth of stu-

rounding area are highly

dent-donated

impacted. Whether this

Macie

labor.

McCollough,

cal Boys and Girls Club.

Baldwin County without

“I enjoyed GC Gives

GCSU,” said Cullen Wal-

Day when it came down

lace, an assistant profes-

to meeting new people

sor of economics. “Obvi-

in my grade and major,”

ously, a good number of

McCollough said. “I feel

faculty, staff and students

like it didn’t relate to my

would not live here and

major and it wasn’t super

would

contribute

correlated to what I’m

to the local economy. It

passionate about. I think

must be true that because

it impacts the communi-

GCSU exists, there are

ty around Georgia Col-

benefits to Milledgeville

lege more than we think

and

surrounding

it does because a lot of

economic impact on the

area; however, I’m doubt-

hands does a lot of work.”

profits of local business-

ful that we can precisely

It is clear that GCSU

es,” Casalou said. “When

estimate this impact.”

makes a big impact on

school is in session it

During GCSU’s Week-

the region through GC

of

end of Welcome each Au-

Gives Day. Through the

students pouring mon-

gust, the incoming fresh-

amount of labor that

ey into the local com-

man class participates in

GCSU

munity. This is a very

GC Gives Day. Groups

community, GCSU in-

positive effect. Howev-

of students spent the day

evitably

er, there are downsides

working at 37 different

the

profits

for

business

and

potentially

more

job

even

openings.”

Baldwin,

Bibb,

Hancock, Jones, Putnam, Washington and

brings

@GCSUESC

gen-

would be to imagine

lead to a big increase

counties.

ket, GCSU has a large

MORE INFO:

erated

Day

board games at the Lo-

“Besides the job mar-

Intramural Lots; Enjoy music, vendors, & more!

ports

the

Gives

about GCSU’s impact

small

businesses, etc. It will

into

ALL AM

GC

year. Her group sorted

industry,

Wilkinson

SPONSOR MARKET

GCSU holds and sup-

“The best way to think

rant

pact from GCSU goes

Pavement, light trails, grass; $20 for students, $30 for others, t-shirt included

It is estimated that

in GC Gives Day this

This economic im-

5K START TIME

Sexual Assault Center.

faculty

throughout

and

and income for families.

ket which means more

All-pavement course; $15 for students, $20 for others, t-shirt included

and

Advocacy

gy major, participated

in demand in the mar-

9:20 AM

students

Heritage

omy or providing jobs

housing market, restau-

1 MILE FUN RUN

With the amount of

Capital

area.

a

rounding region in the

Intramural Lots, GCSU West Campus

functioning.”

Milledgeville

be through the econ-

goes back into the sur-

DAY-OF REGISTRATION BEGINS

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

thousands

not

the

freshman

provides

biolo-

the

makes

quite

economic

dent.

4

BRENNAN SCHMITZ, SPORTS EDITOR BENJAMIN CLARK, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

09.17.2024

SPORTS

The early weeks of college football are in the books Hudson Taylor Staff Writer Week one and two of the 2024 college football season have concluded, and although fans were not anticipating any upsets, they would be pleasantly or unpleasantly surprised.

The first game of the season kicked off in Aviva Stadium located in Dublin, Ireland between No. 10 Florida State and unranked Georgia Tech.

This was supposed to be the redemption game that Florida State needed after controversially missing out on the College Football Playoff a little less than eight months ago, but Georgia Tech was ready to play spoiler with quarterback Haynes King under center.

Florida State started hot, scoring on their opening drive thanks to a 28-yard touchdown by redshirt senior running back Lawrence Toafili.

Georgia Tech would answer quickly by scoring on their first drive as well. Right before halftime, Florida State kicker Ryan Fitzgerald nailed a career-long 59-yard field goal to tie the Yellow Jackets with a score of 14-14.

Georgia Tech came out in the second half committed to stopping the pass, as they shut

out the Seminoles in the third quarter. Late into the fourth quarter, the Seminoles tied the game with a touchdown run

by Roydell Williams. The game came down to the last play to decide the winner. With only seconds to go, Georgia Tech kicker Aidan Birr sealed the deal with a 44-yard field goal, winning 24-21.

Kirby Smart and No. 1 Georgia picked up right where they left off last season, defeating No. 14 Clemson 34-3. What was a competitive game in the first half quickly got out of hand for Dabo Swinney’s Tigers, as they allowed five touchdowns in the second half.

New SEC teams No. 3 Texas and No. 16 Oklahoma rolled, outscoring their opponents collectively 103-3.

After revamping their offensive line, the Colorado Buffaloes won their season opener 31-26. With Heisman hopefuls Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter returning, there will be a lot of points put up this year for the Buffaloes. Sanders threw four touchdowns, with three of those going to Hunter.

To cap off the first week of football, the No. 23 USC Trojans faced off against the No. 13 LSU Tigers. Without former Heisman Trophy

winner Caleb Williams, USC came in with high hopes and were ready for a new start. LSU, without their former quarterback Jayden Daniels, also a Heisman winner, was ready to prove Ve-

Kylie Rowe | Arts & Life Editor

Benjamin Morrison, Jalen Milroe and Travis Hunter

gas right, as they were a 4.5-point favorite.

With both teams scoring ten points in the second quarter, the game was tied 10-10 at halftime. Late into the third quarter, LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier threw his second touchdown of the game, giving the Tigers a 17-13 lead going into the fourth quarter.

USC scored a touch-

GCSU fall sports preview Brennan Schmitz Sports Editor With the beginning of the fall semester, GCSU’s fall sports teams are starting their 2024 season campaigns. All of the Bobcat teams look to improve on their progress from the previous season, as well as collect some hardware to add to the trophy cases.

After finishing the 2023 season with a 1417 overall record and a disappointing 1-11 conference record, the Bobcats’ volleyball team will need to be more effective in conference play. Luckily, the team can look to players like sophomore right-side hitter Rosa Fisher and junior rightside hitter Camryn Carlton, who led the team in kills last year with 77 and 71, respectively.

In the 2024 season, Fisher has already posted some impressive performances, tallying 49 kills and 11 digs in the Bobcat Classic. GCSU volleyball looks to improve upon its current 3-5 record at Francis Marion University on Sept. 20.

“We did a lot of team-building off the court,” said Sarah Pipping, a junior outside hitter. “We worked on establishing a standard for the team and what level of excellence we were going to strive for.”

The Bobcat women’s soccer team has had an excellent start to the season, boasting a 3-1 record, most recently shutting out Valdosta State University 3-0 on the road.

down mid-way through the fourth quarter, taking the lead 20-17.

With one minute left in the fourth quarter, LSU kicker Damion Ramos kicked the game-tying field goal. The celebra-

tion was short lived, as USC scored a touchdown with eight seconds left in the game, going home with a win in week one.

“I was in shock, had such high expectations going in and was disappointed,” said Andrew Gardner, a junior marketing major and LSU football fan. “Losing the first game of the season for the fifth straight time

was not a good feeling.”

ESPN’s college gameday crew took a trip to Ann Arbor, Michigan in week two, where No. 3 Texas would take on the defending champions, No. 10 Michigan. New head coach Sherrone Moore is looking to prove that Michigan is still a top team in college football.

This game went from bad to worse for the Wolverines, as they fell into a 24-3 hole going into halftime. With little room for error in the second half, Michigan kicked a field goal midway through the third quarter, trying to inch their way back into the game. However, Texas QB Quinn Ewers threw his third touchdown of the game late in the third quarter, and that would be all she wrote for the Wolverines, as they would lose 31-12.

“Texas beating Michigan at the Big House in a blowout was a very impressive win,” said Tyler Gardner, a senior finance major. “As a Georgia fan, Texas seems like their biggest threat to win a national championship.”

No. 8 Penn State, No. 15 Oklahoma and No. 16 Oklahoma State all won their games by very close margins.

Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty ran for 257 yards and six touchdowns in week two. He followed

THE RACE FOR WNBA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

Kate Briesemeister

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, two well-known WNBA players, are in competition for the “Rookie of the Year” award for the 2024 season.

Clark is a well-rounded point guard for the Indiana Fever, and Reese is a talented forward player for the Chicago Sky. The WNBA season will come to an end on Sept.19 as the playoffs begin on Sept. 22.

Caitlin Clark is known for her record-breaking college career which led her to be the first draft pick in the WNBA. Clark has a multitude of career accomplishments and records at the University of Iowa. Her most note-worthy awards include National Player of the Year award in the 20232024 season and the all-Big-Ten award

In Clark’s first professional season, she has recorded 18.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, 8.4 assists, and 1.4 steals. Reese’s averages include 13.3 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.3 steals.

Clark leads the WNBA in assists, even as a rookie. She also already set the record for most three-pointers made.

Reese recorded the league’s best single-season record for rebounds as well as broke the double-double record. (10 or more in two of 5 statistical categories) The opinions on whether Clark or Reese should win the upcoming award of “Rookie of the Year” are extremely varied among students at GCSU. A few random students passing on the college’s campus had their own thoughts on the rivalry.

Some students have strong opinions on Clark winning the award.

“Clark deserves the award more due to her recent season statis-

Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever guard

Angel Reese, Chicago Sky forward

for the first time in Iowa history.

From playing at the University of Maryland to playing for Louisiana State University, Reese made a huge impact in the women’s basketball community. Reese received the SEC Player of the Year award in 2024 and led the SEC in scoring and rebounds in the 2023-2024 season.

tics and her sportsmanship compared to Reese,” said Trey Celaya, a junior marketing major student.

Other students believe Reese is the only viable option to win.

“Reese should win due to her presence on social media and her ability to help lead her team,” said Sarah Richardson, a junior exercise major.

Staff Writer

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics

Senior Morgan Amrozowicz readies kicks the ball

The team will play through their schedule with a chip on their shoulder this year, as they were knocked out of the Peach Belt Conference Tournament by Columbus State University in the quarterfinals in the 2023 season, giving up five goals in the loss.

The Bobcats return all of their leaders in points, a stat headed by senior forward/midfielder Morgan Amrozowicz and junior forward/midfielder Ava Martin, who both had six. This should be an advantage in getting wins this season and setting an example for the younger players.

The GCSU men’s and women’s cross country teams were both picked to finish fourth in the PBC. They began their 2024 seasons with races at the Eye Opener in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where the women placed seventh out of 17 teams, and the men placed ninth.

The Bobcats’ top performer for the women’s race was Lauren Thisdale, who posted a time of 19:57.5 and placed 51st

overall. Evan Rehrauer led the men with an 8K time of 27:00.0, which earned him 43rd place.

Last season, the men’s cross country runners ran two races last season where they placed second, which were their best overall performances of the year. They will need to place high more consistently this season to bring in some hardware.

The women also never placed higher than second, but they seemed to find more consistent success in their races, as they also ran races where they placed fourth and sixth.

The golf team recently opened their season at the Bearcat Fall Invitational, hosted by Lander University. They for 11th place with a score of 587.

The Bobcats are coming off of a lackluster 2023-24 season, but they have the chance to improve on their game on Sept. 23, where they tee up again at the Mizuno Intercollegiate hosted by the University of North Georgia.

that up by rushing for 192 yards and three touchdowns against No. 7 Oregon. Averaging 10.2 yards per carry and over 200 yards per game, Jeanty has entered that elite category of Heisman candidates.

Coming off one of the biggest wins in school history, No. 23 Georgia Tech dropped their game to unranked Syracuse 31-28.

The game of the week came from South Bend, Indiana, where No. 5 Notre Dame would take on Northern Illinois. Notre Dame was fighting for their lives in an extremely unexpected game facing a team who was picked to lose by 28 points.

Notre Dame QB Riley Leonard opened the scoring early into the first quarter with an 11-yard touchdown run. Northern Illinois fired back with an 83-yard touchdown reception by Ethan Hampton. Going into the third quarter, Northern Illinois had a surprising 13-7 lead. Both teams had trouble on offense, and Notre Dame had a 14-13 lead late into the fourth quarter. With just seconds to go, Northern Illinois made a 35-yard field goal to take the lead 16-14. Notre Dame could not score, and they would lose at home.

5

BRENNAN SCHMITZ, SPORTS EDITOR BENJAMIN CLARK, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

09.17.2024

SPORTS PARALYMPICS

When the media coverage and promotional coverage for the Paralympics

Continued from page 1

is already limited, it can be damaging

Although Team USA has secured

for the small amount of exposure re-

these victories, amongst many others,

garding disabled athletes to be negative.

the vast majority of the U.S. popula-

The

tion is completely in the dark regard-

tional scale but also within small-

student-athlete, stated they had not

er,

watched any of the Paralympic games.

where disabled students can go to re-

Olympics,” dedicating the most time to

ceive aid allowing them to achieve

track, volleyball and ping-pong. These

their full potential academically. The

are all sports that are present in the

much less by Americans, especially Americans who showed interest in the Olympics. This speaks volumes when considering the popularity

of

disability

representa-

tion in sports in the United States.

Two

GCSU

students

shared

that they did not watch any of the

communities.

Student Disability Resource Center

ley Smith stated he watched “the whole

The Paralympics were viewed so

individualized

GCSU does have an acclaimed

Cross country student-athlete Ship-

spite seeing a few promotions for them.

has

looked, not only on the interna-

four GCSU students, including one

he did not watch any of the games, de-

community

long struggled with being over-

ing the Paralympics. When asked,

Paralympics, however, Smith stated that

disabled

University does not, however, offer Nicky Nieves (sitting volleyball) and Steve Serio (wheelchair basketball) were the flag-bearers for Team USA last summer

isted,” said Sarah Peek, a fresh-

Young people consume news and

man mass communication major.

information at the highest rate from

“I’ve never seen anything about it.

social media. This presents a discon-

I think it’s a good thing, though.”

nect, when the official Olympics In-

“Yeah, I agree,” said Alexis Pel-

stagram account has 11,700 posts

legrini, a freshman environmental

and 12.9 million followers, while the

science major. “I saw some promo-

Paralympic Games have no Instagram

tion for the Olympics on my Insta-

account at all, official or unofficial.

gram but I’ve never seen anything for

The Paralympics seem to be a

the Paralympics. It seems cool.”

step behind in regards to expand-

The

Paralympics

are

any services for disabled students to participate in physical outdoor sports.

As an NCAA Division 2 program, GCSU places an extreme emphasis on sports, with over 60% of students also participating in intramural sports. Despite this, there are no disability-specific sports at GCSU, nor are there specific programs for disabled students to play in standard sports programs.

Whether it be on an international

seeming-

ing their audience and raising view-

Olympics, beyond this, they ex-

ly underrepresented in media, with

ership. In continuation, oftentimes

pressed that they had never even

the limited representation providing

the small amount of media cover-

lacks representation, which houses a

heard of the Paralympic Games.

no opportunity for the event to ex-

age the Paralympics receives is hin-

variety of negative ramifications for the

“I just didn’t know that they ex-

pand beyond a set of select viewers.

dering rather than helping them.

state of disability progress in the U.S.

or local scale, the disabled community

Surprises and excitement in the NFL Bryan Cohen

Contributing Writer The start of the 2024 NFL regular season gave fans a match-up of the ages: the reigning 2023 NFL most valuable player, Lamar Jackson, led his Baltimore Ravens against the 2022 NFL MVP, Patrick Mahomes, leading his defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.

Both teams took home their division titles in the previous season, with the Ravens snagging the most wins in the American Football Conference, or AFC. However, the Ravens’ win total was not a sure advantage, as the Chiefs won the AFC Championship game over the Ravens by a touchdown, propelling them to win the Super Bowl two weeks later.

Unsurprisingly to fans, this game made a good case for the best of the opening weekend, with the Chiefs once again winning by a single touchdown, with a score of 27-20. However, the Ravens put up a fight until the very end, only losing on a toe-scraping touchdown that was overturned by the referees.

Week one had a lot planned this year, with the day following the AFC Championship rematch being another rivalry game between the Philadelphia Eagles, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, and the Green

Bay Packers, led by QB Jordan Love. This game was like no other seen in NFL History, as it was the first NFL game to be played in Brazil.

Both these teams had a lot to prove as well.

The highly-touted Eagles tailed off in momentum towards the end of the 2023 season, falling in the Wild Card round to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while the Green Bay Packers made it to the divisional round last winter.

Both teams put up a fight, yet Philadelphia pulled off the first NFL win in Brazil with the Eagles debut by star offseason acquisition Saquon Barkley and his 109-yard, 2-touchdown performance.

Many teams performed well during week one’s festivities, yet some did not meet their fan base’s expectations.

The Buffalo Bills took down the Arizona Cardinals with a score of 34-28 after trailing by a touchdown at half. The main story of this game was that fourth overall draft pick, potential star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., only received three targets during the game, finishing with a reception total of one for four yards.

A QB match-up of two former top draft picks, the Houston Texans against the Indianapolis Colts, ended in a shootout, with both teams scor-

ing two touchdowns in the final fifteen minutes.

Nevertheless, Houston pulled out the victory.

The start of the Broncos and Seahawks game featured two field goals and two safeties for Denver, as well as a field goal and touchdown with a missed point after touchdown, or PAT, kick for Seattle. Despite a slow start, Seattle would win this game by six over Denver.

Former Cleveland Brown Baker Mayfield played excellently in the Buccaneers’ win over the Commanders, throwing for four touchdowns. If Mayfield continues passing like this, all-time wide-receiving talent Mike Evans may be on the fast track to tie Hall-of-Famer Jerry Rice’s consecutive 1,000-yard receiving season record of eleven.

Tension hit the Miami Dolphins this weekend as star receiver and player-voted number one player in the NFL, Tyreek Hill, was detained by the police hours before their game against Jacksonville. Luckily for the Dolphins, Hill suited up against the Jaguars, collecting seven receptions for 130 yards and a touchdown, to which he promptly did a handcuff celebration in the endzone with his teammates.

After the game, fans seemed upset with the Jaguars’ performance.

“They’re going to suck,” says Max Krapf,

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes

a freshman math major and a skeptic Jacksonville fan, not showing too much support after his team’s week one performance.

The NFL’s number one overall draft pick, Caleb Williams, struggled in his debut, only amounting for 93 yards with zero touchdowns and a 48% completion rate. Yet, Chicago’s defense told the story of this game, sacking sophomore QB Will Levis three times and picking him off twice.

The defense also scooped and scored a blocked punt, amounting for two defensive touchdowns in the win over Tennessee.

The first overtime game occurred in Detroit. It involved a matchup of QBs who used to play for the opposing team: Matt Stafford and Jared Goff. Both QBs had similar stat lines, with the reigning NFC North champion Lions winning the year’s first Sunday

Night Football game with a final score of 26-20.

For the Atlanta Falcons, the start of the season did not go as planned, with a loss by eight to the Steelers, whose offense is called by former Falcons head coach Arthur Smith.

“They’re going to be good,” said Coleman Jones, a freshman finance major and Falcons fan.

The first Monday Night Football of the year hosted the New York Jets at the San Francisco 49ers.

Both teams looked to push deeper into the season this year. Jets QB Aaron Rodgers only made one passing attempt the previous year before tearing his achilles tendon against Buffalo. The 49ers were on the losing side of Super Bowl LVIII in the previous year and are looking to bring home the Lombardi trophy for the first time since 1994.

On paper, both teams have some of the best rosters in the NFL. However, the question is if they can put everything together and win out.

Rodgers played more than four snaps in his opening game this year, but that did not change anything for the 49ers who continued to outplay their opponents, winning 32-19 over New York, even without being able to start last year’s Offensive Player of the Year, Christian McCaffrey.

Even after a big win against New York, 49ers fans are still wondering how the San Francisco juggernaut can improve.

“They need a committed wide receiver,” says Gunnar Stringfield, a freshman finance major and 49ers fan.

Fans will need to continue to watch the NFL in the coming weeks in order to find the answers to questions raised in weeks one and two.

6

KYLIE ROWE, A&L EDITOR MARY CIUCEVICH, ASST. A&L EDITOR

09.17.2024

ARTS & LIFE

Herty Hall’s Hidden Gem MILLY SUMMER RECAP events once the muse-

Staff Writer

fossils, dating back 25 to

um reopens. A celebra-

36 million years, include

tion is being planned

rhinoceroses, horses and

to mark the 25th an-

camels — species that

niversary

2025.

As part of the uni-

natural specimens from

Milledgeville many

exciting

long-awaited

changes

many students and locals alike excited for the upcoming fall season. popular

tropolis

museum is dedicated to

and

this summer that had

The

across the globe. The

saw

restaurant,

located in downtown Milledgeville,

ences, with a focus on

the big move into the

and

vacant

re-

made

building

on

North Wayne Street,

mains a hidden gem for

announced in March

the Milledgeville com-

of 2024 and complet-

munity. They are open

ed before the summer

Monday through Friday

break. Students who

from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30

left for the whole sum-

p.m., and offer free ad-

mer that barely got to

mission to the public.

enjoy the restaurant’s new upgrades are now

The museum’s col-

back and taking full

lection features every-

advantage

thing from vertebrate and

invertebrate

of

them.

In addition to a new

fos-

location,

sils to preserved mam-

Metropolis

has undergone a sig-

mals, reptiles and birds.

nificant transformation

“We’ve tried to con-

to a more sophisticated and modern atmo-

centrate the displays to

on Earth,” said Ashley Quinn,

a

collections

manager for the museum.

Popular exhibits include dinosaur fossils, eggs and the massive Père David’s Deer, which

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

ica. Closer to home,

versity’s

the

outreach,

museum

displays

fossils from Brunswick

Indian

cuisine,

with

regularly

hosts

new

additions

add-

biology,

tal science and mu-

other prehistoric animals.

These

collections

highlight GCSU’s unique

tors due to its antler size.

position as both a re-

Students play a sig-

search institution and

nificant role in the mu-

a repository for signifi-

seum’s ongoing research.

cant historical findings.

Over the years, they have

The museum is recog-

contributed to fossil ex-

nized as an official re-

cavations and published

pository for the Nation-

peer-reviewed

al Park Service, further

papers. One notable col-

solidifying

lection includes Plio-

tance in the scientific

cene fossils from the

community,

Santa Fe River in north-

to the GCSU website.

ern Florida that are ap-

Herty Hall is set to

its

impor-

according

proximately 2.5 million

undergo

years old. To obtain the

which will close the

fossils, students were re-

exhibit space for two

quired to scuba dive in

years. The collections,

order to retrieve them.

however,

renovations,

will

remain

environmen-

seum studies classes.

“My freshman year,

a restaurant my friends and I have gone to for ers, a junior marketing

historical

ge-

ology, and we’d go to the museum often to look at certain items.

It’s honestly really cool and I think everyone

major. “The reopening was so exciting, and we love the new additions.

‘Metrop’ will continue to be a regular spot for us.”

Along with the move

should go to it at least

of Metropolis, the ac-

once,” said Clay An-

cessory

derson, a senior, management

information

systems (MIS) major.

Some students have

store

Eclec-

tic relocated from its previous

location

to

a building neighboring the new Metropolis on North Wayne

even been lucky enough

Street. The announce-

to go into the full-dome

ment

planetarium

move took place in

features

which

state-of-the-

art graphic projection.

of

the

shop’s

March, while the shop’s

re-opening occurred in late June of 2024.

Eclectic maintains an affinity for unique gifts and its eclectic accessories, now with a building that offers more space.

The store continues to sell a variety of jewelry, gifts and home accessories.

Outside of downtown Milledgeville, the long-awaited Publix opened on June 26, 2024.

News broke in spring of 2024 that the grocery store’s doors would be opening soon, exciting many students and locals.

“Once I heard that a new Publix was opening this year, I got really excited,” said Hut Fahnestock, a senior business major.

“I couldn’t wait to finally get ‘Pub Subs’ and all my other groceries there,” On opening day, any customers who entered the store were greeted by the brand new isles of food, the bakery, the deli and sub area and a plethora of self-checkout stations to accommodate any grocery needs. Since then, the new Publix has enjoyed great success, thanks to a friendly and welcoming staff.

“The staff at Publix is always so helpful and kind,” Fahnestock said. “They do whatever they can to make sure you get what you want.”

Along with Publix, located in the new Lakeside Commons, multiple

small

shops

have

opened up as well. Vacant shops are left in the

shopping

center,

waiting to be occupied by potential businesses.

Since the move of Metropolis, many shops have opened up including a vibrant new sandwich shop called Doc’s. Doc’s offers handcrafted toasted sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, and drinks along with a variety of sides.

“Our shop is rooted in the belief that the best sandwiches start with the freshest ingredients and a love for the craft,” said Sammy Roberts, owner of Doc’s Sandwich Shop.

Aside from the opening of Doc’s, another new shop called Da’Ville has opened up, serving brunch and breakfast.

Da’Ville

offers

tradi-

tional breakfast items like pancakes and eggs, while also serving special breakfast and lunch dishes like their Lakeside Special and Camilla Slater’s Lamb Chops and Grits.

The opening of new restaurants

like

Doc’s

and

Da’Ville

bring

unique

and

famil-

iar foods and flavors to downtown Milledgeville.

Milledgeville

is constantly evolving, and with the growing populations of both locals and students, new businesses and restaurants open every year.

The museum’s role as a research hub and

mate-controlled rooms.

near Gordon, Georgia,

“We have about 40,000

dating back about 36

specimens that will be

million years. These local

stored in the collections

fossils give insight into

room, and everything in

the history of Georgia

the museum will be cov-

dents, faculty and the

and underscore the im-

ered to protect it from

community. The mu-

portance of the region in

damage

con-

seum remains a cor-

paleontological research.

struction,” Quinn said.

nerstone of academic

also

The museum’s exhibit

life at GCSU. In many

boasts collections from

spaces will remain closed

ways,

distant locations, such

to the public and stu-

stands as a testament to

as

National

dents until renovations

the collaborative work

Park in South Dako-

are complete. Despite

between faculty, stu-

ta. Starting in 1983, the

the closure, plans are al-

dents and the broader

collection is one of the

ready in place for special

scientific

Badlands

“Metropolis has been

taking

from the kaolin deposits

museum

its re-opening in May.

years,” said Kelsey Sand-

safely housed in cli-

The

ed to the menu since

second semester, I was

Another collection is

during

of Mediterranean and

muse-

which include Colombian mammoth bones and

serves the same variety

the

and Gordon, Georgia,

is often a hit with visi-

journal

um

academic

sphere. Metropolis still

memory,

make it easy to see the change in life over time

-Kelsey Sanders

Me-

the study of Earth scipaleontology,

The reopening was so exciting, and we love the new additions. ‘Metrop’ will continue to be a regular spot for us.

recent

extensive collection of

evolved in North Amer-

in

Staff Writer

In

Herty Hall, houses an

memory,

tory, located in GCSU’s

recent

Museum of Natural His-

In

The William P. Wall

memory,

museum’s oldest. . These

recent

Jaylen Mahayag

Chloe Sanders

In

The William P. Wall Museum of Natural History

its unique collections, which are uncommon in

the

Southeastern

United States, make it a vital resource for stu-

the

museum

community.

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

7

KYLIE ROWE, A&L EDITOR MARY CIUCEVICH, ASST. A&L EDITOR

09.17.2024

ARTS & LIFE

STUDENT OPINIONS ON AN UPDATED PAWS spending their last one or two years confused while attempting to find their information. memory,

During the summer of 2024, someone made the decision to update PAWS. Whether that was GCSU’s decision or up to the University System of Georgia (USG), this update has frustrated many on the GCSU campus.

In a Front Page update in March of 2024, students were warned that Banner version 8 was being replaced with version 9 by GCSU’s IT team.

The update was mandated by the USG IT, which means that every student in the USG had to relearn the new PAWS system.

While it may not seem like a big deal that the format of a website changed, GCSU students have had difficulty adjusting to certain aspects.

difficult because I am used to the old system.”

Though GCSU gave an alert of the change in March, when the site was being changed officially, they never gave any direction or crash course to the students. Rubin felt that the Front Page post was not enough.

“I wish the school gave us a heads up the system was changing because I remember last registration period, it was difficult to find my course schedule, find out what time classes were offered, etc,” Rubin said.

This USG-forced step into the future may make PAWS easier to navigate for future generations that do not remember the original setup, but for those bobcats that are stuck in their ways, the adjustment means

ianna Martin, a senior psychology major. “It is also more confusing to navigate. Especially

recent

A&L Editor

“I think it was hard to figure out at first and there was not a lot of direction of how to get to the things I needed like my schedule,” said Gracie Hagen, a senior mass communications major. “Eventually, I figured it out. It was just a learning curve that felt unnecessary.”

GCSU students are fighting left and right to adjust to the new process.

Seniors, especially, are finding the switch difficult after spending three years learning a certain way of doing things and having to adjust abruptly.

“It’s difficult to navigate and tricky to find what you are looking for,” said Nicole Rubin, a senior marketing major. “I’m a senior this semester, so having this sudden change has been

In

Kylie Rowe

Julia Jensen | Art Director

“I think the new PAWS is a lot less visually appealing,” said Il-

considering the loss of C.A.T.S., which made it really easy to browse all

the classes GCSU offers.”

However, not all students think that the PAWS update is the worst. GCSU’s attempt to rebrand into a more modern college atmosphere is arguably unsupported by the PAWS update.

“I find the new PAWS update to be more modernized and to represent our university, which is constantly adapting to student preferences and changes to better our college and campus,” said Eve Briscoe, a junior English major.

“Personally, it has taken some getting used to as I used the previous PAWS frequently, but the update is easy to navigate and less ‘busy’ than the previous system.”

Whether students love or hate the new PAWS, it seems that it is here to stay.

GCSU attempts world’s largest Tamia Dance Line Ryan Grant Staff Writer On Thursday, Sept. 12, the first-ever World’s Largest Tamia Line Dance event was held in GCSU’s Magnolia Ballroom, and the music took over central campus. This event was hosted by the Office of Inclusion and Belonging; along with the Black, Latino and Asian Student Alliances.

Any student or staff member was welcome to the event to emphasize The Hub’s goal of inclusiveness. During the event, volunteers with OIB asked that attendees sign their names and collect any of The Hub. merch that included calendar lists and button pins in the ballroom lobby.

There was an incredible turnout of the practice

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

event held the week before. The volunteers were

gy was very high and everyone that went was very

it out,” said Jayden, an attendee at the event.

given the chance to teach line dancing to whoev-

excited to be there and win fun door prizes. Current

er attended the main event. A GCSU Department

students can include themselves in future events like

Some people gain awareness of events like

of Theatre and Dance instructor, Desaree Murden

this to help teach the GCSU community about cul-

played a large part in making this event both authen-

tural activities that would otherwise go unknown.

tic and inclusive to anyone willing to learn the dance.

“It requires a lot of intricate footwork, but it’s so popu-

“A culture of connectedness on campus that fos-

lar in African American community circles,” Birch said.

ters positive morale and mutual respect for all

The popularity and culture behind the dance,

students, faculty and staff ” said Jennifer Birch,

she says, is what inspired this event that she ran.

coordinator at the Office of Inclusion and Be-

The overall turnout of the event was less than ex-

longing, when asked about the goal of the event.

pected with only 20 people showing up. In the mid-

At GCSU, the OIB promotes the belief that every

dle of the scheduled event, there were a total of 15

student matters no matter how small a group may be.

people dancing in the ballroom to popular music.

Without the inclusion of the event’s backup location

During the event, there was popular, lively mu-

“I know someone on the board for the Black

on campus signs, students were not well informed

sic drawing in students and staff. The overall ener-

Student Alliance and he recommended to check

on whether or not the event would have continued.

SONGS

Continued from page 1 For many, summer is synonymous with freedom and creating lasting memories, particularly on trips to the beach.

These moments become intertwined with music, and certain tracks can evoke powerful memories long after the season ends. For some students, the summer was not just about fun but also about empowerment.

“It’s hard to pick just one song to capture my summer experience, but two that stick out to me are ‘Flowers’ by Miley Cyrus and ‘Wannabe’ by the Spice Girls,” said Ansley Youngerman, a se-

nior history major. “Both of these songs have girl power vibes, and I spent this summer spending time with friends making memories.”

The resurgence of empowering, nostalgic tracks like “Wannabe” played a big role in shaping the summer soundtrack for many students, especially those looking for a mix of modern hits and throwbacks. Whether it was reliving the 90s or finding new ways to celebrate female empowerment, songs like these resonated deeply with listeners.

In addition to pop, there was a significant resurgence of alternative, rock and folk genres this summer. What were

once considered niche genres gained mainstream traction, especially among younger listeners who were exploring a wider variety of music. “‘Love Your Guts’ by Happy Landing is my favorite song of the summer because I got really into folk music, and it has that modern folk music vibe I really like plus it’s fun to drive to,” said Sonni Stephens, a sophomore Spanish major. “ I think the song of the summer has to be a song that fits the energy of how you want your summer to be, and something that is upbeat and enjoyable to listen to.”

The growing popularity of alternative and folk music is indicative

of how this generation’s music tastes are expanding beyond traditional pop. Whether it is the sunny, breezy vibe of indie folk or the rebellious energy of alternative rock, the variety of genres making their way into students’ playlists reflects a shift toward more eclectic listening habits.

As the summer of 2024 comes to a close and students settle back into their academic routines, this year’s summer soundtrack left a lasting impression. For GCSU students, the songs that defined their summer were not just catchy tunes — they were a reflection of their moods, experiences and memories.

From nostalgic

this

through

recommendations

and

friends.

“Usually, I first start going to campus events to hang out with friends that go to them,” said Elijah Reyelts, who likes to go to events hosted by The Hub. Unfortunately, Reyelts did not attend the event, but would have been more likely to in the case that the event was brought up by a friend.

The event was downsized and moved because of the weather that moved in Thursday afternoon.

Julia Jensen | Art Director

throwbacks to girl power anthems and the growing prominence of alternative and folk genres, the songs of the summer told the story of a generation finding its musical identity.

Whether you were

dancing with friends to Miley Cyrus or cruising down the highway to “Happy Landing,” the soundtrack of the summer of 2024 will continue to resonate as the weather cools and fall approaches.

10

DELANEY DERRY, OPINION EDITOR

09.17.2024

OPINION

What did you do last summer?

Delaney Derry

year I studied abroad and took two courses in Par-

Opinion Editor

is. My second summer, which was this previous

Ladies and gentlemen, school is in session! It is gotime. The long-awaited summer break we all crave semester after semester is officially over. Life is back to long hours in the library and late-night cram sessions the day before a quiz. What did summer look like for GCSU students? Is it all the beauty and aesthetic we see on Instagram or is the reality less glamorous?

On social media, summer is always fun pictures at the beach with friends, campfires and s’mores or simply sleeping in on a Tuesday when any other month you might have had to wake up early and finish that essay you had been procrastinating for the past week… yeah no, that has never happened to me either.

Whatever the case, summer does not seem to truly be the end of the semester the way it once did in elementary or middle school. College is just an endless void of work, assignments and going from one place to the other, but in the busyness of being a college student, when should we truly settle down and rest? We certainly do not spend all of June and July just relaxing. School may be out, but

Summer 2024, I went on a beach project for eight weeks while working a 40 hour week job at a hotel.

Now, I am not saying all students should be like me and fill their summers with busy schedules and leave no time for rest. Finding the right ways to rest, especially after a really chaotic semester, is really important. But it is beneficial to students to continue the grind even after the semester is over.

“I went on this really cool thing called Summer Leadership Project,” said Emily Granier, a junior environmental science major. “I am a part of Campus Outreach at GC and they do this trip to help students learn the gospel and grow in their faith. I feel like this summer was a good way for me to catch up on making money since I do not make a lot during the semester.

It was cool to take that opportunity through Campus Outreach to work and get out of my comfort zone.”

Granier went on the same trip that I did this past summer, and I can attest that it truly was the coolest opportunity ever. It personally helped me to develop new skills while working at a very fast-paced and quick-thinking kind of job, and I am confi-

Delaney Derry | Opinion Editor

that do not have to mean taking the whole summer off. The break can be a fun-filled time with friends while also keeping you productive. But summer break is definitely much needed. Students are in desperate need of time to just breathe every now and then, but summer can be a great time to not just keep

we are still at work. Whether it is actually working a

dent that the same can be said for other students

job or taking more classes, summer is not a time for

who spend their summers doing something pro-

us to just rest up for the next school year. Is it really

ductive. I do feel like my own experience of keep-

beneficial for us to just take the entire summer off?

ing my summers filled with activity has helped me

According to the “Stanford Report”, having a summer

during the academic year. I feel as though I can fo-

job may actually make a difference in improving aca-

cus my attention more on the tasks at hand and not

demics because it encourages better ways of thinking.

have to struggle so much adjusting to a new and full

I whole-heartedly agree. When you are out of

schedule of balancing classes, work and a social life.

No one ever got anywhere standing still, and is

school, I think it is more beneficial to keep your-

“If I were to have stayed home all summer and just

that not the whole reason we are in college — to get

self busy with things rather than just taking the

rested, I would have gone crazy,” Granier said. . “I

somewhere? So, when you think about it, what did

whole summer off. Since I have been in college, I

think it is better to find rest academically, but it was

you do this summer that can be useful for the new

have not had a summer completely free with zero

more beneficial for me to keep working and go on SLP.”

semester? And what might you do next summer to

responsibilities. The summer after my freshman

There are ways of finding rest during the summer

advance yourself in ways beyond the classroom?

up the pace but also get ahead. Whether through taking classes, working, going on a trip or even learning in a different country, take advantage of the summer and broaden your horizons, get out of your comfort zone, make a little money or even just find something to keep yourself from going crazy from boredom.

On this season of Dancing With the Stars...

Delaney Derry

lowed a convicted felon

tion, but attention is still

Opinion Editor

on the show. They always

earning them views, and,

talk about the celebrities

by extent, money. May-

and their backstories,

be they knew from the

and I am just interest-

beginning that Sorokin’s

ed to see what they’re

inclusion was going to be

going to tell her story.”

met with mixed reviews

In an interview with

but chose to include her

Entertainment Tonight,

anyway to get the at-

the interviewer asked So-

tention of people who

rokin if she was going to

do not usually tune in

be bejeweling her ankle

each season? Even if this

monitor for the show, and

was the motive, it stills

she said yes and that her

leaves me questioning.

dance partner, Ezra Sosa,

Is it even ethical to

was going to do it for her.

have Sorokin on the

Guess what? She re-

show? I am not entirely

“Dancing

with

the

Stars” is back again for Season 33. The season premiere is Tuesday, Sept.

17, and the new cast for this next season is quite

Dancing With the Stars logo

lineup.

of buzz for the show, and

prison but was released

orous outfits and dance

You have your run-

that is Anna Sorokin,

on good behavior in

complicated numbers. It

of-the-mill actors and

otherwise known by her

2021. Sorokin has told

is so fun. However, if it

actresses like “Beverly

moniker “Anna Delvey.”

the media that she was

is cool to let a convict-

Hills, 90210” star Tori

According to ABC

given special permission

ed felon compete on a

Spelling, who I am per-

News, Sorokin is known

from the U.S. Immigra-

show that is meant to be

sonally excited for. Then,

as the “fake heiress”

tion and Customs En-

wholesome and fun en-

you have your reality

who

nu-

forcement to leave house

tertainment, then what

stars like Joey Graziadei

merous financial crimes

arrest to be on the show.

are the standards for

from

Bachelor.”

and whose gilded life-

Now, both she and the

casting someone for the

ally meant it. Sosa got

sure about that, but I do

Finally, there are your

style inspired the Em-

show are receiving a lot of

show and what makes

to work. She now has a

know that the show is

athletes, like Olympic

my-nominated

Netflix

backlash for her casting.

someone a true celebri-

rhinestone ankle moni-

about dancing with the

gold medalist Stephen

show “Inventing Anna.”

“Looking at the eth-

ty? Just because Sorokin

tor ready to match each

“Stars.” I do not think

Nedoroscik, who I think

Sorokin was convict-

ics of the whole thing,

is well-known, can she

of her dazzling dance

that Delvey is a star. I

could be considered a

ed on eight counts. She

I do not think letting

be considered a celeb-

costumes. Who does she

am interested to see how

reality star because the

scammed countless peo-

someone who just got

rity? I know she already

think she is? Lindsey Lo-

they will tell her sto-

2024 Paris Olympics felt

ple, hotels and banks and

out of jail to dance on

has a whole show about

han? No one could pull

ry, and if there will be a

more like a reality show

made her way using in-

a show is a great idea,”

her life, but is that even

that look off again. It

turnaround in the view-

than a decades-old com-

valid credit cards or fake

said Jack Ulrich, a ju-

actually a good thing?

was just too iconic. It is

ers’ opinions of her in-

petition, but do not even

bank statements to create

nior management ma-

“I love Dancing with

like they are trying to do

clusion in the show. For

get me started on that…

the illusion of wealth.

jor. “Also, wasn’t Carol

the Stars,” said Lexie An-

something with Sorokin

the show’s sake, I hope

Regardless, this new

She even scammed peo-

Baskin on it one year?

derson, a Milledgeville

and appeal to the young-

so because it is one that I

season is cast with a per-

ple by creating a private

Whatever racks in the

resident. “I love seeing

er viewers, but I just do

have enjoyed since I was

fect range of celebrities

club and art foundation

most views, I suppose.”

my favorite celebrities

not think we are react-

a kid. At the very least,

with diverse claims to

called the Anna Delvey

I really enjoy “Danc-

dance and have fun out-

ing the way the show-

I am positive that this

fame. Well, it is almost

Foundation

entice

ing with the Stars.” I

side of their normal con-

runners

anticipated.

season will be one that

perfect. In this new sea-

wealthy donors and fur-

love seeing celebrities I

text, but I am confused

Or maybe we are?

is very entertaining and

son, there is one “celeb-

ther her brand. She was

know compete against

by Anna Delvey. I just

Maybe

producers

definitely one that fans

rity” that is creating a lot

sentenced to 12 years in

each other, wear glam-

don’t know how they al-

expected negative atten-

will not quickly forget.

an

interesting

“The

committed

to

the

11

DELANEY DERRY, OPINION EDITOR

09.17.2024

OPINION DEBATE

Continued from page 1 But the show is far from over. On July 24th, Biden, the incumbent and expected Democratic nominee, withdrew from the race. It was assumed that Biden would throw his support behind current Vice President Kamala Harris, but some democratic players, such as Nancy Pelosi and Barack Obama, took much longer to endorse Harris.

Nonetheless, Harris was confirmed as the nominee at the Democratic National Convention where performances such as Lil Jon’s, ‘Down for What’ and Stevie Wonder’s ‘Higher Ground’ set the tone for what will be the most historic election in American history.

The handshake felt around the world So much has changed, yet so much is still the same. Eight weeks from Election Day both candidates are working endlessly to convince America that they would be best fit to carry the nation on their backs for the next four years. The purpose of debates is to create that personal connection

Abortion

Transfer of power, January 6, and

this is related to affordable health care.

After many minutes of quarreling,

Elections

Harris turns it back to be on topic, and

the two prospective leaders of the free

Would it be a debate if Jan. 6, 2021

this time, the topic sticks with Trump.

world then move on to discuss one

was not mentioned? Of course not; it’s

Since its adoption during the

of the more divisive topics: abortion.

2024. A peaceful transfer of power is a

Obama administration, the Affordable

Trump, highlighting the Democrats’

big topic for the American people as we

Care Act has been eternally up for dis-

failure to get legislation passed secur-

watched hundreds of Americans storm

cussion. According to Trump, the Af-

ing student loan forgiveness, proph-

the United States Capitol on January

fordable Care Act was lousy but should

esied that Harris would fail at passing

6th, 2021. Harris stands her ground,

only be changed if there is something

legislation to protect abortion too..

saying Trump was fired by 81 million

Trump appeared to seek to modern-

people and is having a hard time deal-

better. Harris rebuttals with a plan to

ize his stance on abortion but strug-

ing with it. Trump’s response was to

gled to find a sturdy middle ground.

blame Jan. 6 on Nancy Pelosi and, of

In an attempt to deliver her message

course, circle it back to immigration.

to the American people, Harris deliv-

When asked what the country needs to

ered a strong argument on the need

ensure a peaceful transfer of power next

for abortion protection in a way Biden

January and fair elections Trump says,

was never able to. She highlights cas-

“We need a wall and good elections.”

es where women are struggling to

Foreign Policy

receive care in instances where they

My personal aspiration is a ca-

are actively seeking to have a child,

reer in national security, so my ears

and did well presenting her case in-

perked up a little bit more when the

stead of attacking her opponent.

topics of Ukraine and Gaza surfaced.

Immigration

Since Biden has been in office, we have

In every question, Trump will make

pulled our troops out of Afghanistan

sure he incorporates immigration,

and are no longer directly involved in

except, of course, when the question

any major global wars. I care deeply

is related to immigration. Once im-

about America’s involvement with our

strengthen healthcare while keeping private insurance. We then hear another famous Trump line, outlining that “he has a concept of a plan, but he is not president yet.” I guess we have to wait and see what happens if he gets elected.

What ‘The People’ still want We have discussed the topics that were mentioned, but what about the topics that were not mentioned? As a native Georgian, I find it insulting that there was no mention of the school shooting at Apalachee High School and that there was no mention of gun control and discussion surrounding gun laws in America.

As a young first-time voter, there were very few topics that simply ap-

with the American people and allow

plied to just me. In comparison to the

them to see how you would best lead.

last debate in July, where a question

I looked forward to seeing who pre-

related to education turned into a con-

pared the best policies and who would

versation about which candidate was

best take care of the American people.

better at golf, there was no semblance

Instead, I witnessed what seemed to

of a question related to education or

be the most uncomfortable and awk-

job retention opportunities. I will be

ward handshake ever presented to my

graduating in two years, and along with

eyes. This was the first handshake in a

many of my peers, I am worried about

presidential debate since Trump and

the job market and a stable economy.

Hillary Clinton squared off in 2016.

Another topic that I and many

This was a bold move on Harris’ part

other young voters are concerned

and one that definitely stuck with the

about is mental health care. The num-

American people. She set her tone

ber of people struggling with men-

for the debate, and Trump set his.

tal health problems are way too high

Economy

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump

and prominent an issue, especially in

The moderators started strong with a

migration is the subject of the ques-

foreign allies and adversaries, and I

question related to one of the most im-

tions, Trump’s answers seemed to

can admit that I am concerned about

portant issues facing the American peo-

shift to Harris rallies, World War III,

the current status of American for-

ple: the economy. Harris is promising

how he fired his staff and how the De-

eign affairs. This was also presumed

the American people she will cut taxes,

partment of Justice has failed him.

to be an advantage for Trump and his

especially for middle-class families, but

Trump was not the only candidate

team going into the debate; howev-

after 30 seconds of her deliverance, she

who failed to deliver solid answers

er, this, like everything else, turned

blamed Trump for the broken economy

on the topic of immigration.. Besides

into a weapon to be used against him.

that preceded her administration. She

the single mention of the unpassed

Trump continues name-calling and

stated that if he comes back into office,

border bill, Harris turns this ques-

attacks Harris’ foreign strategies and

Trump’s policies will blow the deficit.

tion into a narrative of her own by

potential policies. However, on the flip

Trump makes no hesitation to de-

inviting Americans to attend Trump

side, I feel that Harris’s foreign policies

fend his policies and delivered one of

rallies, claiming Trump wants to ter-

do not strike me as significantly stron-

his infamous Trumpisms, saying that

minate the Constitution and then in-

ger. She is far from a saint in the battle

the Biden-Harris administration’s plan

sisting we turn the page on the same

of name-calling and insults, claiming

for the economy is “like Run, Spot,

old playbook of American politics.

“Putin would eat Trump for lunch.”

Run” in a not-so-clear comparison

But there was one comment in

(I wonder how that meal would go.)

to the simplicity of a children’s book.

particular that surprised the Ameri-

Harris stands her ground though,

In between his insults towards his

can people. In the last eight years that

asserting that she has met with Zel-

opponent, Trump promises to cut

Trump has been in the political spot-

ensky five times and is actively work-

taxes, which seems to be a trending

light, there have been some just objec-

ing for our foreign adversaries to

and Trump, who has made it clear that

approach, in addition to foreign tar-

tively wild phrases to leave his mouth,

stabilize the global sphere of power.

he believes the Department of Justice

iffs towards adversaries such as Chi-

but most pale in comparison to the

Healthcare, climate change, guns,

has failed at their job, has said nothing

na and Russia. Trump also made sure

accusation that immigrants are eating

what…

outside of the fact he was not given a

he did not move onto the next topic

“the dogs, the cats, and the pets.” But

Why is it that healthcare and cli-

fair trial. What about the millions of

without throwing one last insult to-

hey, his voice is once again trending on

mate change always come last? I sit

Americans who might feel similarly?

wards Harris, or more so her father,

TikTok as people make videos of their

tirelessly, waiting for the debate to be

To close, I have a message for both

by calling him a Marxist. He even

pets’ reactions to what Trump is saying

over, when I suddenly learn that Har-

Trump and Harris: I am one of the

offered to send her a MAGA hat.

with a new trend of users satirically

ris and running mate Tim Waltz are

American people, and I have had

Trump really seems to love his merch.

(and safely) putting their pets in pots.

both gun owners. I am unsure how

enough. We, the people, deserve better.

the younger demographic, for a potential president to not talk about. I, and many others, would be intrigued to hear what either candidate will do to tackle the mental health epidemic that I see creeping into this country.

Both candidates love to talk about crime rates, but what about criminal justice reform? Let’s talk about overcrowded prisons we have and the slow-moving justice departments all over America. I also found it surprising that, even four years after the widespread protests surging the nation about police reform, that there was no focus on police brutality or police system reform. Harris, being a former prosecutor and district attorney, should at least acknowledge that the system is broken,