Issue 1 | Volume 106

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University September 16, 2025

Single Copies Free

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Kendrick Lamar at the 2025 Superbowl

Student predictions on 2026 Superbowl Halftime Show Jane Carr Staff Writer In 1967, the NFL presented its first Super

and local drill teams

expect. Jackson’s set was

some of music’s biggest

dition alive, each add-

in Super Bowl history.

entertained the crowd

watched by an estimated

names, including Diana

ing their own style and

His show opened with

during the game’s break.

133.4 million viewers in

Ross, Prince, The Black

statement to one of the

actor Samuel L. Jackson

It was not until Mi-

the United States and 1.3

Eyed Peas, Katy Perry,

world’s biggest stages.

dressed as Uncle Sam,

Bowl, and the halftime

chael

iconic

billion worldwide, set-

Shakira

and

Jennifer

show looked very dif-

performance at Super

ting the standard for all

Lopez.

More

ferent from what fans

Bowl 27 in 1993 that the

see today. Back then, student marching bands

Jackson’s

Lamar’s

acting as an antagonistic

recent-

2025 halftime perfor-

figure warning Lamar

halftime shows to follow.

ly, artists like Rihanna,

mance currently holds

of being “too loud, too

halftime show became

Since then, the half-

Usher and Kendrick La-

the record as the most-

reckless, and too ghetto.”

the cultural event we now

time spot has hosted

mar have kept the tra-

watched halftime show

See HALFTIME | Page 5

Buffalo Wild Wings

THE FALL OF JAKE PAUL OPINION

In

recent

memory,

Molly Groff

Opinion Editor Jake Paul. Cody Ko. David leen

Dobrik.

Col-

Ballinger.

Trisha

is the reincarnation of

countability,” said Clare

Benjamin Clark

clear, responding police

Stone with a gunshot

the late Ozzy Osbourne.

Thoman, a junior psy-

Sports Editor

assume that the incident

wound. He was later ad-

The question is how do

chology major. “I think

began inside the restau-

mitted to Atrium Health

these influencers make a

This past week, a fa-

influencers are able to

rant and progressed to

Navicent

comeback after a cancel-

tal altercation occurred

come back because the

the parking lot, where

Milledgeville, where he

lation? Who do we think

at Milledgeville’s own

internet loves to band-

Buffalo Wild Wings.

the police were then

was pronounced dead.

wagon and say the same

A fight had broken

thing the next person is.”

out between two em-

I agree with Thoman

ployees of the popular

in that we really do feel

Paytas. What do all of these celebrity influencers have in common?

Yes. That’s right, the concept of cancellation to comeback pipeline.

These

influencers Julia Jensen | Art Director

Dobrik in a legal law-

of when this happens?

suit to a weight loss

“I think of Tana Mon-

that

shocked

geau and how she had a

the internet, all the way

lot of drama surrounding

to people believing Tr-

her but was able to come

isha Paytas’ new baby

back after taking ac-

Micha

in

Shannon

Brown was arrested un-

Brown’s twin brother,

der charges of malice

chain restaurant. The

William Shannon Brown,

murder, felony murder,

something bigger even

manager of the estab-

arrived at the restaurant

aggravated assault and

if it is for a negative situ-

lishment was shot dead

during the fight and re-

possession of a fire-

as the fight escalated.

portedly assisted in the

arm during the com-

begin-

initial physical assault

mission

ning as an argument

of Stone. He was lat-

According

between Store Manag-

er arrested on charges

meGrade.org,

er Nytavious Stone and

of aggravated assault.

geville, GA, is ranked in

itive. I think that people

cellations, from David

called by an onlooker.

Baldwin

time,

ation rather than a pos-

have had massive can-

journey

Kendrick

shouldn’t be canceled if they take accountability and apologize, as long as it is well intentioned and actions follow their words going forward.

See JAKE PAUL | Page 8

Originally

Restaurant

During

this

Responding

Employee

officers

Micha Shannon Brown,

were already en route

it progressed into a

when the fight was up-

physical

altercation.

graded to a shooting.

While reports are un-

There, they discovered

of

a

felony. to

Cri-

Milled-

the 29th percentile for safety, meaning it is less safe than 71% of counties in the United States.

See BUFFALO | Page 2

How GCSU decorates their dorms For students living on-campus, dorms can be a difficult space to decorate – cramped layouts, standard-issue furniture and a cream-colored, wood-veneer color palette can leave little room for personal expression. But this fall at GCSU students got creative, bringing some of their favorite craft projects and retail finds to transform residence halls into spaces that feel more like home.

LillyAnn Hancock, a freshman living on West Campus, used a cork board craft project to bring warmth

and familiarity to her new room.

“I have a big cork board that I decorated right before move-in that has a bunch of pictures of my friends from home and my family.

I decorated it to be really aesthetic and match my room,” said Hancock.

In addition to her cork board project, Hancock shopped at a variety of stores to round out her decorations. While residence hall room comes furnished with an extra-long twin size bed, desk and chair, dresser and bookshelf, all other furnishings are

NEWS | PG. 3

Shooting Hoaxes around the nation Anonymous calls are making univeristies scared of shooting

left up to students to provide.

“I got some stuff at Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Target – especially Target, I love Target - and the At Home store,” said Hancock.

Bella Barksdale, a freshman nursing major, said her roommate used craft materials to make their dorm door personalized.

“My roommate made us little minion name-tag things to put on the outside of our dorm – so we have like, Bob and Stewart, on the outside of our door,” said Barksdale.

See DORMS | Page 6

Reaghan Sehee | Digital Media Director

SPORTS | PG. 4

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7

OPINION & MISC. | PG. 8

Traditions of Fantasy Football

MORNING GRIND EXPANDS BUILDING

BALANCING COLLEGE LIFE

The ins and outs of Fantasy Football for GCSU students

Localcoffeeshopheldreopeningon Aug.14afterexpandingitbuildbuildi

A how-to on balancing the highs and lows of being a college student

2 AMELIA MCEWAN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA T YLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.16.2025

NEWS

Shooting hoaxes shock the nation Amelia McEwen News Editor Universities

across

the United States have recently

experienced

shooting hoaxes, sparking uncertainty in students enrolled in college.

Even locally in Georgia, the University of Georgia (UGA), went through this exact situation in August. The university received an anonymous call indicating that there was an active shooter in the

nior Nursing major. “It

viding readily available

tal health services at

ing exercises with the

es where we’re not,” said

causes unnecessary pan-

mental health resources.

GCSU and highlights

Department of Home-

Chief Hardin, Director of

ic and misdirects the

There is a 24/7 men-

their quick responsive-

land Security and the

Public Safety and Chief

tal health support line,

ness. This resource gives

Department of Justice,

of Police at GCSU. “We

be on what we are here

free

confiden-

students the opportuni-

ensuring the availabili-

depend

for:

tial counseling, online

ty to relieve their anx-

ty of up-to-date equip-

not reactive patrol to be

counseling

iety symptoms during

ment and maintaining

out in places, because

attention

that

should

our

education.”

Schofill’s

feelings

about the hoaxes reflect a broader conversation.

Not only have schools had to halt instructional hours to shelter in place, the students and faculty also begin their days wondering if the next report will be real.

and

and

con-

ence that is a deterrent.”

wide array of options a

Chief Hardin says the

healthy

community should re-

outlet for students to

port what they see as a

utilize in times of need.

“Every emailed

time the

proactive,

sometimes it’s just a pres-

sultation services. This

establishes

on

way to efficiently deter

I’ve

crime. By doing so, the

counsel-

students at GCSU can

ing services to schedule Police surround a college campus impacted by the shooting hoaxes.

an appointment, they

preserve its education-

This shifts focus from

a full staff to have top-

al atmosphere that the

investing time into a

notch manpower in the

hoaxes aim to weaken.

valuable education to

event of an emergency.

Though the shooting

cident was later con-

worrying about one’s own

Despite these avail-

hoaxes have begun to

firmed to be a hoax after

safety. Luckily, GCSU

able resources, public

die down, the threat is

dozens of other hoax-

has a variety of mental

es shocked the nation.

health outlets available

library, prompting an investigation. The in-

With

safety still depends on Lively college campus

these

fearful

events.

GCSU

stu-

to ease the effects of anx-

get back to me with

visiting

UGA

iety-inducing scenarios,

an eagerness to help,”

On top of its mental

frequently,

concerns

such as shooting hoaxes.

said Sarah Waldron, ju-

health focus, GCSU has

have

been

present.

The school has worked

nior Sociology major.

a multitude of safety pre-

“It

made

me

sad

throughout the years to

Waldron has an ap-

cautions in place. Some

when I heard about it,”

better its environment

preciation for the men-

of those include; vari-

said Anna Schofill, ju-

for the students by pro-

dents

VOLUME 106 | NO. 1

Editorial Board

Mary Ciucevich.............. Editor in Chief Managing Editor Rylee Holland............

Julia Jensen...................... Art Director Amelia McEwen............ News Editor Emma Tyler....................... Asst. News Editor Benjamin Clark............... Sports Editor Bryan Cohen.................... Asst. Sports Editor Kate Walker...................... Arts & Life Editor Sydney Williams............. Asst. Arts & Life Editor Molly Goff......................... Opinion Editor Isabella McComis.......... Digital Media Editor Reaghan Sehee.............. Digital Media Editor Reagan Robinson.......... PR Manager Haley Quimby................. Ad Sales Manager Kerry Neville..................... Faculty Adviser

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

the people themselves to

prevent

situations,

such as school shootings, from happening.

“We depend on our community to be our eyes and our ears in plac-

ous active shooter train-

@TheColonnade

still relevant. GCSU has created an environment that prioritizes students and their needs, but it is imperative that students continue to stay informed, report suspicious activity and make use of the resources at hand.

@TheColonnade

Contributing writers are always welcome at The Colonnade. Contact thegcsucolonnade@gmail. com for more information.

If you have a tip or wish to contact The Colonnade, email thegcsucolonnade@gmail. com or message our Instagram @thecolonnade.

The Colonnade is now primarily published online. Read at issuu.com/thecolonnade or on bobcatmultimedia.com.

Ad Disclaimer The Colonnade is not responsible for any false advertising. We are not liable for any error in advertising to a greater extent than the cost of the space in which the item occurs. The Colonnade reserves the right to edit or reject any advertising copy submitted for publication. There is no guaranteed placement of ads. The Colonnade does not accept advertising concerning firearms nor guarantee ads concerning alcoholic beverages.

Corrections

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Contact Us Office: Terrell 301 thegcsucolonnade@gmail. com bobcatmultimedia.com

3 AMELIA MCEWAN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA T YLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.16.2025

NEWS BUFFALO Continued from page 1 GCSU students speak to their personal sense of security on campus and within Baldwin County.

“I feel like Milledgeville has been like that for a while,” said Jane Walmsley, a junior English major. “Baldwin County is just incredibly

impoverished

and I’ve never felt super safe

in

Milledgeville.

On campus, I do (feel

establishments. The pre-

Campus officials have

sumed safety on campus

also addressed the inci-

grounds stems from the

dent. Director of Pub-

students’ trust in local

lic Safety and Chief of

safety resources, such

GCSU Police, Wes Har-

as the emergency call

din, noted that while

boxes (blue lights) pro-

the shooting occurred

vided by the University.

off-campus, the univer-

Other students feel a

sity is taking precau-

growing sense of com-

tions to reassure students

placency

surrounding

and increase awareness.

gun violence and the

“It’s a team, it’s a team

growing prevalence of

effort,” said Chief Har-

violence as a whole.

din. “We depend on the

The

has

GC

communication,

conversations

whether it be the vice

about off-campus safety,

president, or Cavalier, or

especially for students

people like you with the

who work in local busi-

Colonnade, we get the in-

and dangerous people

nesses. Many students

formation, then you push

tend to stay off campus.”

rely on restaurants, re-

the

safe), I mean, we have the blue lights, everything is very well lit

Students

information

out.”

ration between law en-

heard

say,

violence at Buffalo Wild

forcement,

university

‘Hey, I don’t feel safe,’

Wings has reignited diffi-

leadership and student

or, ‘Hey, this incident at

cult conversations about

media.

For

students,

this sense of coordinated effort offers reassurance that while tragedies may occur off campus, the university and lo-

to

tail and service jobs to

perspective

support themselves fi-

marks display the im-

cal law enforcement re-

on the relative safety

nancially,

can

portance of communica-

main united in prior-

of

compared

bring them into conflict

tion between university

itizing

to the insecurity felt in

with the risks of work-

Milledgeville’s

ing

echo

this

seem

sparked

shooting

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

campus

various

in

which

Milledgeville.

Chief

Hardin’s

re-

student

anybody

Buffalo Wild Wings has me concerned.’...

I ha-

ven’t noticed anybody asking questions about that,” said Chief Hardin.

Chief Hardin’s perspective

reflects

both

confidence in campus security measures and trust

gun violence in Milledgeville and its impact on the local community.

While crime statistics paint a troubling picture for Baldwin County, the university’s emphasis on communication,

vigi-

safety.

in the systems and net-

lance and collaboration

resources and highlight

“As we walk across

works already in place.

offers reassurance for

the necessary collabo-

campus… I have not

The tragic escalation of

the campus community.

Loan changes for college students Rylee Holland Managing Editor

tinued to recover from

Administration

Sav-

a junior finance major.

drop from the previ-

Assistant Plan (RAP).

the pandemic and estab-

ing on Valuable Edu-

This change does not

ous cap of $138,500,”

While RAP is not

lished new repayment

cation (SAVE) plan is

currently affect borrow-

according

to

programs to help stu-

ending. The plan was

ers already in the SAVE

Lilia

Anderson,

dent borrowers,” said the

an income-driven re-

plan,

have

sophomore finance ma-

may

student

Economy Policy Institute.

payment plan for fed-

until 2028 to change

jor expressed thatshe can

with a standard plan.

loans, ending a five-

This expired on Janu-

eral student loans that

plans. The plan is no

see how hard this change

be-

ary 1, 2025, so the Trump

aimed to provide lower

longer available to any

may be for some people.

gin, the Federal Reserve

gan at the onset of the

administration has now

monthly payments and

potential

newcomers.

“The no interest and

Bank of New York es-

COVID-19

directed

faster loan forgiveness.

An additional ma-

the loan forgiveness have

timates that more than

jor change was made

helped so many people

nine million student loan

to federal student aid

be able to get through

borrowers will face sig-

regarding loan borrow-

school,” Anderson said.

nificant drops in credit

ing

Beginning

“And for people who

score once delinquencies

July 1, 2026, borrowing

need grad school for

appear on credit reports

limits will be lowered

their career, they had

in the first half of 2025

for graduate students.

the opportunity to get a

with

PLUS

loan large enough to help

seeing a reduction in

Julia Jensen | Art Director

Loan allows students to

them, but not anymore.”

credit scores by more

ments of Education and

Republican lawmak-

borrow up to the cost

Treasury to resume col-

ers argued that the plan

lections from borrowers.

On May 5, the Department of Education resumed on

collections

defaulted

year

pause

that

pandemic.

the

Depart-

but

limits.

The

Since

March

2020,

payments and interest on most federal student loans have been paused, providing a break to millions of borrowers.

“The Biden administration extended this pause as the U.S. con-

they

current

monthly

payments

be

“As

lower

collections

some

than

be-

borrowers

than 150 points associat-

of their graduate pro-

changes to student aid

ed with new student loan

was too generous and fell

gram, but it is being shut

that are being put in

delinquency,” the Econo-

Following that, on July

on tax payers too much.

down this time next year.

place to help with the

my Policy Institute said.

4, the One Big Beautiful

“Yeah I think that

“After that, grad stu-

end of the SAVE plan.

To find out if these

Bill Act was signed into

plan just affected the

dents’ borrowing will

The repayment op-

law, resulting in more

taxes a lot, there are bet-

be capped at $20,500

tions for borrowers are

contact the GCSU Fi-

changes to some feder-

ter ways to make col-

a year with a lifetime

changing

dramatically

nancial Aid Office for

al student aid programs.

lege more affordable,”

graduate

loan

with an option for a stan-

any questions you may

said Graham Simmons,

limit of $100,000, a big

dard plan or a Repayment

have.

The

Biden

Harris

are

a

as generous as SAVE,

other

school

There

NPR.

changes

impact

you,

478-445-5149

4 BENJAMIN CLARK, SPORTS EDITOR BRYAN COHEN, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

09.16.2025

SPORTS

Fantasy football Emma Jow

are standard and sim-

Jackson before him yet

Contributing Writer

ple, fantasy football fans

again is more enjoy-

can always look for-

able than winning. For

ward to a unique expe-

the rest of the roster, I

rience, with new players

tend to just put my faith

and strategies in every

in the projected points

draft. Every individual

and hope for the best,”

has their own drafting

Jack, however, does

method, often based on

have one strategic fall-

their level of knowledge

back, explaining that he

and interest in the NFL.

favors drafting receivers,

Whether it be detailed

as they’re the most versa-

data collection, random

tile players. Beyond co-

things up. Oftentimes if

jor Cade Steel shared

part of the NFL nfl cy-

selection or baseless aes-

medic enjoyment, there

certain players do better

his opposing experience

cle- rookies turn to sol-

thetic appeal, there is en-

are a variety of different

than expected one year,

with dynasty drafting.

id players, players turn

joyment to be found for

strategies a player can

they’ll be drafted by a dif-

“I did multiple dy-

to legends, and legends

every kind of viewer. This

employ while drafting.

ferent person the next.”

nasty leagues and I pret-

diverse range of Fantasy

“In drafting, I’ll look

eventually get worse.”

Max and his friends

ty much only do them

Football fans is extreme-

online to see what other

to have more fun by

exclusively for a couple

In stark contrast, how-

ly prevalent at GCSU.

people have done in my

choosing a traditional

of reasons,” said Steel.

To help understand

draft position,” said Max

league, allowing them

“The first being that dy-

the broad range of Fan-

Gohn, a senior Finance

to embrace the sponta-

nasty has a higher skill

tasy Football enjoyers,

major. “I have a few play-

neity of Fantasy sports.

ceiling then tradition-

GCSU students shared

ers in my head to choose

In a traditional league,

al redraft leagues as the

their

experi-

if they’re still available

players create an entirely

good and bad decisions

ences with their drafts.

after a few rounds, but

grown from just 500,000

new draft every season,

essentially

“I honestly don’t know

going with the highest

in 1988 to 62.5 million

whereas a dynasty league

across seasons (like a real

much about football,”

available-ranked

play-

requires players to keep

team lol) so in redraft if

in 2022. Fantasy football

said Jack Roach, a se-

er is often a safe bet.”

their roster from season

you’re terrible at fantasy

is by far the most popu-

nior psychology major,

a

to season, setting them up

you could just get lucky

lar of all fantasy sports,

“so when I draft, I pick

more strategic drafting

for long term game play.

in the draft one year be-

with 79% of those 62.5

my friends’ favorite play-

route, Max also values

million

play-

ers to mess with them.

the community aspect.

football.

I’m more interested in

“We chose a tradition-

Among these millions

fantasy football to have

of players, 65% are men,

a

Fantasy Football is a

decades-old

tradi-

tion, starting in 1962 and quickly garnering millions of fans. Often lauded as one of the most thrilling activities for die-hard sports fans, NFL viewers create their own ideal draft of players from a variety of teams.

Each week, players face off against someone else in their league and play for points. The player with the most points wins and this process is repeated weekly for the duration of the season.

According to the Fantasy Sports and Gaming Association, the number of Fantasy players has

ing

players

fantasy

unique

While

following

Fantasy Football Logo

Where

compound

traditional

cause you get to draft

leagues value the ex-

an entire new team.”

that he is very interested in aging talent. “On the one hand you have a guy that could be performing still near elite top 5-15 at his position but he’s also like 34 and about to croak, so a lot of them end up falling in dynasty league drafts but end up being great value if they aren’t completely cooked.”

With

every

Fanta-

ever-changing

In response to a ques-

al league rather than a

nature of football, dy-

tion about aging talent

sy Football fan experi-

experience

dynasty league- we like

nasty leagues encourage

in the NFL, Max Gohn

encing a unique jour-

and 48% are between

with friends, so seeing

to start fresh every year,”

strategy and deliberate

was unconcerned, say-

ney this season, 2025

the ages of 18 and 34.

my roommate get mad

said Gohn. “ The draft is

foresight. Senior histo-

ing, “I think the aging

is set to be a thrilling

Although the rules

that I drafted Lamar

a really fun way to switch

ry and philosophy ma-

talent pool is a natural

year for all football fans.

cross

so far,” said Sloane Vick,

never had the oppor-

shared

citing,

ever, Cade Steel shared

GCSU’s new generation of athletes Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor With every new season comes a new firstyear class of college athletes, and this year, Georgia College & State University has brought in a lot of new-generation first-year athletes.

The men’s and women’s cross country teams have brought in a combined 15 first-year athletes to begin the season, which to some coaches may be seen as a negative for their teams, as freshmen are less expe-

able and very responsive

of nowhere, but it was

to everything that we’re

really impressive to see

country, which brought

a freshman guard for the

tunity to enjoy a colle-

doing. We rely a lot on

how well he ran in his

in the most freshmen

women’s basketball team.

giate athletic experience.

the upperclassmen, and

1st college race. Nolan

out of the GCSU sports,

As a first-year student,

“I think the facilities

we’ve got a really good

Lane is somebody who

women’s basketball also

many athletes have their

are great and the com-

group of sophomores

in workouts has looked

brought in quite a few

four years of eligibility,

munity is really sup-

that

gone

really good and really

new first-year students,

allowing them to focus

portive. The other girls,

through it, and so they

strong and we kind of ex-

but also brought in a

not only on their cur-

especially Bridget John-

know exactly what we

rent season, but also on

son, have been extremely

want,” said Alexander

the following seasons

supportive and helpful.

Bruno, the head coach

as well and focus on

They have helped me

of the men’s and wom-

their future endeavors

through this transition

en’s cross country teams.

as a collegiate athlete.

and made me feel really

country

“I’m hoping to do real-

welcomed in our team,”

team brought back many

ly well in conference play.

said Kaisa Fagerström,

returning

upperclass-

Last year, we finished

a freshman defender for

men, and they’re show-

fourth, which was really

the women’s soccer team.

The

have

just

cross

ing a lot of responsibil-

Aside

from

Courtesy of Alexus Duncan

good for Georgia College.

First-year

athletes

ity when helping along

pected that.” said Bruno.

new coach in interim

So, hopefully, we can

will be a significant con-

to their upperclassmen;

the first-year students.

Bruno and the GCSU

coach Catrina Green.

repeat that, or do even

tributor to the success

however, cross country

“Some of the kids who

teams

“We have a pretty new

better sometime when

of the GCSU athletic

head coach Alexander

stepped up really, real-

have a group of first-

team, a lot of transfers

I’m here,” said Vick.

programs this year, and

Bruno is ready to ap-

ly well on the freshman

year students that they

and freshmen, and a new

On the other side is

not only the coaches but

proach this season with a

side. Carl Ritzler was, I

are determined to de-

coach. So it’s definite-

women’s soccer, which

also the athletes them-

positive mindset towards

think, our 2nd runner

velop, and they have

ly different from what I

brought in nine new first-

selves are determined

his large first-year class.

as a freshman. I don’t

already shown signs of

saw before, but I like it

year athletes this sea-

to excel on the court

“They’re very mold-

want to say he came out

success on the track.

a lot and I’m enjoying it

son—athletes who have

and field this season.

rienced in comparison

cross

country

5 BENJAMIN CLARK, SPORTS EDITOR BRYAN CLARK, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

09.16.2025

SPORTS HALFTIME

cently announced her engagement to

world at the time, and it was ground-

issue in the United States in his lyrics.”

NFL star Travis Kelce. “I know there

breaking, especially with the guest stars.”

With students’ top picks rang-

are some rumors that she would, which

Ella Bowen, a junior mass commu-

ing from pop superstars to alterna-

Continued from page 1 The rapper pushed back, declaring, “The revolution’s about to be televised.

You picked the right time but the wrong

would be awesome!” Barnhart added.

Carly Walker, a senior psychology

guy.” His set included a surprise appearance from Grammy-winning R&B

major, said she would love to see Kes-

artist SZA and nods to his public feud

ha take the stage. “Her tour has been so

with rapper Drake, sparking online

awesome, and I think everyone would

debate for weeks after the game. With

get really excited about it,” Walker said.

such a long history of iconic perfor-

Students also shared which past half-

mances, students at GCSU were eager

time shows left the biggest impression

to share who they would like to see next.

on them. Many pointed to Lamar’s 2025

“I would love to see Taylor Swift per-

performance as the most memorable.

form, especially following her amazing

“I really enjoyed Kendrick Lamar’s

run during the Eras Tour,” said Sarah

performance, which is strange for me

Barnhart, a junior mass communica-

Taylor Swift at the Eras Tour

nications major, agreed. “...just the so-

tive icons, one thing is clear: GCSU

since I don’t love rap,” Barnhart said.

cial discourse around everything going

students

tions major. Swift, who is currently the

“I thought his performance was a great

on with his beef with Drake. He also

show-stopping

highest-grossing live music artist, re-

take on the cultural happenings in the

had a lot of symbolism with the racism

the Super Bowl rolls around this year.

are

ready

for

another

performance

when

GCSU volleyball & soccer open their seasons Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor

sation, and we want to

ing to see those juniors

cited about, and I think

son, a sophomore setter

nation to shake up the

be hosting a postseason

step up,” said Marchant.

all the girls feel that, too.

for the volleyball team.

conference

The Georgia College

game again,” said Jack

The women’s volley-

There’s an environment

While the previous

“We’re

this

year.

disciplined,

& State University wom-

Marchant,

GCSU

ball team finished 8-21

where everybody wants

season may have been

and we’re ready to fight

en’s soccer and women’s

women’s soccer coach.

overall and 0-8 in the

to work hard and work

a struggle for the Bob-

against

volleyball seasons have

The women’s soccer

previous season losing its

hard for each other,” said

cat

team,

teams,” said Parkerson.

gotten underway. The

team graduated 14 se-

final seven contest, and

Abigail King, the GCSU

King brings a mind-

To begin the year, the

team

women’s volleyball coach.

set that could help al-

women’s soccer team has

looks to improve upon

The women’s volley-

leviate the team’s woes

opened up to a 1-2-1 re-

its semifinal appearance

ball team also brought

from the prior season.

cord. However, its first

in the Peach Belt Confer-

in many new players,

“When we leave the

win was a big one, with

ence Tournament from

including first-year stu-

court, win or lose, we

a 4-0 victory over the

women’s

the

soccer

previous

the

volleyball

these

bigger

season,

Blazers of Valdosta State

and the volleyball team

University, and the wom-

looks to skip the play-in

en’s volleyball team sits at

tournament

5-3, winning three of its

The

altogether.

women’s

soc-

cer team finished 9-7-3

niors in 2024, leaving

falling to Augusta in the

a significant gap in ex-

first round of the Peach

perience for the play-

Belt Conference Tour-

ers. The women’s soccer

nament; however, with

team brought in a new

every new season comes

first-year class of eight.

fell

overall in the previous year, with a 4-3-2 record in conference play, hosting and defeating

four contests at the Bob-

Courtesy of Alexus Duncan

cat Classic and splitting the four games at the Valdosta State Tournament.

Courtesy of Austin Zschachv

The women’s soccer

transfers.

make sure that the team

team’s next home game

the ability to make some

“We’ve started very,

on the other side of us

will be its first conference

“I’ve been really im-

noise, and it seems that

very hopeful for the sea-

had to play the best

contest,

0-2 to Columbus State

pressed with the upper-

the women’s volleyball

son. We have a great,

that they possibly could

Sept. 20, at 1 p.m. against

in the following round.

classman. They’re start-

team is ready to shake

brand-new

We

to beat us,” said King.

Clayton State. The wom-

“We had our best sea-

ing to lead the way, and

things up this season.

brought in a bunch of

The mindsets of the

son in nine years last

teach the younger ones

“I feel good about the

new freshmen and trans-

players have changed,

next home game will be

year, finishing fourth,

and allow the young ones

new season. I think the

fers that all bring new

seeing

struggles

its first conference con-

and that’s the goal again

to be who they are and

mentality in the gym has

strengths to the team

of the previous year,

test, with a Friday night

this year, being in that top

go perform on the field.

made a very big shift. So

that we hadn’t had be-

and turning them into

6 p.m. match-up against

four, being in the conver-

It’s been really pleas-

that’s what I’m very ex-

fore,” said Sadie Parker-

a fierce new determi-

Lander on Sept. 26.

Clayton State 2-1 in the quarterfinals,

but

dents

and

team.

the

en’s

on

Saturday,

volleyball

team’s

6 KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

09.16.2025

ARTS & LIFE DORMS Continued from page 1 When it came to hanging decorations, Barksdale had to navigate the same housing policies that apply to all students. “We used a lot of command hooks – or we tried to, and only some stayed up, and we used really tiny nails,” she said.

As students decorate

or

apartments,

versity

Housing

Uni-

to hang lightweight dec-

repairs, such as patching

out-

orations and over-the-

or painting over damage,

lines

clear

guidelines

door hangers provide an-

as these can result in ad-

about

what

materials

other safe option without

ditional charges if staff

can and cannot be used.

risking paint damage.

determine that attempts

“My roommate has

were made to conceal

According

to

the

Georgia College Uni-

these

hooks

wall or furniture issues.

versity

and

that you can put up on

Even with restrictions

Residence Life Policy

the wall, and I think

in place, there are plen-

Handbook, “Wall hang-

those

really

ty of creative ways for

ings, large nails, screws,

well,” Hancock shared.

students to make their

bolts, wall anchors, and

This year’s handbook

Housing

cleaning

blanket or rug provides

supplies, as well as dec-

the comfort of home

orative furnishings like

in a new environment.

wall art, curtains, rugs

“I brought my baby

and extra seating such

blanket from home, so

as chairs or futons. To-

just having that little

gether, these pieces help

ing guidelines. Beyond

fixtures are prohibited.

their Community Ad-

brightening up the space,

cies and restrictions de-

3M

hooks/Command

visor (CA) or Commu-

decorations can also help

piece of comfort in my

transform bare residence

signed to prevent dam-

strips or similar prod-

nity Director (CD) if

ease the transition from

bed,”

Barksdale.

hall dorms into person-

age charges and ensure

ucts may be used to af-

they have any questions

home to campus life.

Students often bring

alized spaces that reflect

safety. While students

fix things to the walls.”

or concerns about their

For many students, the

both practical items for

the

are encouraged to per-

Students are also per-

decorations. It cautions

simple act of hanging

community living, such

needs of the students

against

photos, stringing lights

as

who call them home.

their

rooms

mitted to use small tacks

encourages

welcome

and

dents to check in with

sonalize

also

feel

fridges

the walls, furniture or

university housing poli-

on

dorms

or setting up a favorite

while adhering to hous-

have to keep in mind

tape

work

Bella McComis | Digital Media Director

stu-

their rooms, they also

double-sided

sticky

do-it-yourself

said

microwaves,

mini

personalities

and

“The Summer I Turned Pretty” : series finale Who do GCSU students think Belly will end up with?

Margaret Scarbrough ters undergo physical, ter himself and JeremiContributing Writer Amazon Prime’s top hit television series, “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” has taken social media and college culture by storm. Each episode showcasing Isabel “Belly” Conklin and her two love interests, brothers Jeremiah and Conrad Fisher, leaves fans wondering what will happen next. One question, however, divides fans into two categories: Team Jeremiah or Team Conrad?

For college students nationwide, the show

emotional

either of them. I think

ly known term where

tual changes that help

However, some have

liams value characteris-

it’s too messy and she

friendship and romance

Similarly,

not always stayed loyal to

tics such as maturity and

should just walk away,”

blur together, and it can

many college students

one team. “I’m definitely

accountability in a part-

said

Mainor,

be difficult to determine

experience

the

Team Conrad. As a lover

ner, which they think are

a

psychology

which is which. While

changes

throughout

grow.

same

This

week,

can be tied to her emo-

students had a lot to

cide between two peo-

also serves as a remind-

say about the love tri-

ple can be difficult, but

er of the ups and downs

angle that has college

as Mainor said, it can

of dating in college.

students hooked. When

be an escape from dra-

Among GCSU stu-

asked

their

ma and mental health

dents, which team wins?

many

students

chose

struggles down the road.

While all three inter-

Conrad over Jeremiah.

The common theme

opinion,

“I’m Team Conrad

immaturity,

viewees

chose

it

team

among the students who

Conrad, they noted that

chose team Conrad is a

both brothers have their

desire for more complex

strengths

relationships during a

nesses that make them

transition

adult-

complex and relatable

hood. In the dating world,

characters. In the end, it

college students like Bel-

depends on the viewer’s

ly find comfort in the

values and dating histo-

predictable and stable.

ry. For now, however, the

In the show, Belly’s

show continues to spark

situation with both boys

late-night watch parties

is similar to the “talking

and

Julia Jensen | Art Director

because he is the better brother and he actually

night, but also explores

major. “I wouldn’t date

the ups and downs of

either of the brothers

growing

through

because they both have

characters.

stuff they need to work

Throughout the three

on, but Conrad is put-

charac-

yourself

indecisiveness

tional

a freshman psychology

the

Choosing

Belly’s

when having to de-

friends on a Saturday

seasons,

junior

GCSU

self,” said Hailey Paige,

relatable

Bridget

and philosophy major.

their young adult life.

thy TV to watch with

up

the common-

sponses, Paige and Wil-

took time to better him-

just

stage,”

ah is not,” she admitted.

bingewor-

isn’t

(Belly) to end up with

spiri-

them

and

Looking at their re-

ting in the effort to bet-

of “The Summer I turned

essential for a healthy,

Pretty,” I’ve kind of pro-

long-term

gressed. I used to be

Paige also mentioned

team Jeremiah, but then

how neither is perfect,

slowly I realized that

but a person who learns

Conrad was the better

from their mistakes is

option after seeing how

relationship.

better than one who

mature he was,” said Syd-

has no desire to change.

ney Williams, a fresh-

“I’m Team Conrad,

man marketing major.

but I don’t really want her

into

and

campus

weak-

debates.

7 KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

09.16.2025

ARTS & LIFE

MORNING GRIND’S GRAND REOPENING Lucy Nunez

had

limited

seating

er at Morning Grind. “It

ditions ever since the

accounts captured the

Staff Writer

inside

and

outside.

can be stressful during

reopening.

Morning

painting and organizing

owners, Bridgette and

the

ex-

busy times, but it makes

Grind’s Instagram and

behind the scenes for cus-

Jared Smith, have been

pansion was huge for

my day seeing smiling

Facebook

fea-

tomers to keep up with

the business and has

faces walking in and out.”

very involved through-

tured

announcements

the expansion process.

out the expansion pro-

of baked goods and

“A benefit of the ex-

cess. Both are normally

restocks.

pansion is that it offers

A few days after the ex-

plenty more tables for

at Milledgeville’s location

Morning Grind, a local coffee shop favored

by GCSU students and

Therefore,

families in Milledgeville,

have

merchandise

Georgia, had a grand reopening for its expansion on Aug. 14. Within minutes of opening, the coffee shop had a line out the door of excited students.

pansion, Morning Grind

students

announced an expansion

to dine and chat,” said

menu via Instagram and

Dorie McKown, a ju-

Facebook. This menu is

nior management major.

still available and features

Morning Grind announced on Instagram July 24 that they would reopen their coffee shop on

and

Morning

families

Grind’s

some new coffee, tea

staff has seen how the

and refresher creations.

expansion has brought

“I am so proud of

more of the Milledgeville

Aug. 14, 2025. Fans liked

Morning

and shared the post and

pansion. I am currently

They are incredibly ex-

were eager to see Morn-

drinking the Oh Honey

cited to see how Morn-

drink, featured on their

ing Grind continues to

expansion menu. It is a

thrive in the near future.

honey, vanilla and cin-

“I come to Morn-

namon shaken espresso

ing Grind many times

Reaghan Sehee | Digital Media Editor

ing Grind’s new layout.

Aug. 14 came, and

increased

the

Grind’s

ex-

community

together.

Morning

Grind’s

once a week and made a special appearance at the

grand

Bridgette

reopening. has

also

shared individual Instagram posts with her followers about her excitement over how far Morning

Grind

has

come since the beginning. Her posts are filled with smiles, regular customers and her employ-

num-

Morning Grind’s ex-

Morning Grind had plen-

ber of patrons interest-

pansion has continued

ty to share with every-

ed in the coffee shop.

to sell artisan baked

one. Fresh sourdough,

Over the last few weeks,

breads, plants and mer-

with oat milk,” said Ar-

during the week, and I

Grind has been a Milled-

flowers, clothing, plants,

Morning Grind’s staff

chandise.

Introduc-

ianna Basille, a sopho-

always run into some-

geville favorite since its

giveaways, live music and

has enjoyed welcoming

ing these additions has

more philosophy major.

one I know. Yesterday I

opening in Oct. 2022. Its

ribbon cutting were ac-

familiar and new fac-

opened better revenue

Customers of Morn-

ran into my friend Paige,

expansion marks anoth-

tivities enjoyed by GCSU

es back to their shop.

for the Morning Grind

ing Grind also recognize

and we had an amazing

er chapter in a journey

ees at Morning Grind.

Overall,

Morning

students

and

locals.

“I have loved working

staff and business as well.

the staff ’s hard work.

time catching up togeth-

defined by loyal cus-

Before

the

expan-

at Morning Grind,” said

Customers have been

Morning Grind’s Face-

er,” said Delaney Derry,

tomers and a growing

Morning

Grind

Alyssa Marie, a manag-

enjoying these new ad-

book

a senior English major.

community

sion,

and

Instagram

presence.

How to be a good roommate Jane Carr

ity. Simple habits such

and guests, can save a

about keeping score; it’s

Staff Writer

as

after

lot of stress later on.

about building a living

communi-

“Going in with clear

environment where both

Whether you grew

cleaning

yourself,

up

up as an only child or

cating clearly and be-

expectations

of

spent your childhood

ing mindful of shared

household

expecta-

fighting for space with

space go a long way to-

tions will be split was a

looked element of being

siblings, living with a

ward keeping the space.

true lifesaver,” said Ella

a good roommate is em-

experi-

Bowen, a junior mass

pathy. Everyone has bad

ence, I found setting

communications major.

days, busy weeks or mo-

boundaries

early

on

“Since we are already

ments when they slip up.

benefits

roommates

friends and share a friend

Giving your roommate

group,

guests

grace when they make

hasn’t been a problem.”

mistakes and asking for

just a few of the realities

But even the best-

it when you do can help

of having a roommate.

laid plans require flex-

preserve the relationship.

ibility. Sharing a space

At the same time, re-

means adjusting your

specting personal space is

to handle on your own,

able when clothes are

routines,

compromis-

crucial. Not every shared

most universities have

left on the floor.’ It is a

ing on preferences and

living situation turns into

resident assistants, com-

lot more approachable

sometimes

go

a built-in best friendship,

munity advisors or con-

and doesn’t make your

of minor frustrations.

and that’s okay. You don’t

flict-resolution resources

roommate feel targeted.

“Compromise! You’re

have to be joined at the

that can help mediate.

It creates better ground

sharing a space with

hip to coexist peaceful-

Jones, who helps me-

someone, so it’s im-

ly. Sometimes, being a

diate student conflicts on

Living with a room-

portant to come to de-

good roommate simply

campus, also encourages

mate can be one of the

“Through

college roommate can be a shock. Beds a few feet apart, shared microwaves, piles of dishes and early-morning “hey guys” reminder texts are

Roommate stories

are

long-term,” said Joshua Jones, a Communi-

...setting boundaries early on benefits roommates longterm

horror practically

a rite of passage. Scroll through social media or ask around campus, and

-Joshua Jones

you’ll quickly hear about passive-aggressive sticky notes,

blaring

alarms

that go unanswered and

ty Advisor for GCSU.

having

how

letting

people feel comfortable.

Another

often-over-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

for

understanding.”

debates over whose turn

“Through setting bound-

it is to take out the trash.

aries, you can avoid sit-

cisions together!” said

means knowing when to

students to approach dis-

most challenging and

But while conflict is

uations that would’ve

Scarlett Cueto, a junior

give each other privacy.

agreements thoughtfully.

rewarding parts of the

common, it doesn’t have

originally caused issues

English and mass com-

Finally, take care of

“One way to navigate

to define your experi-

in

munications

major.

yourself. It’s easier to

roommate conflicts is to

With a mix of respect,

Honest communica-

Compromise can look

show up as a considerate

use ‘I feel’ statements,”

communication

disagree-

tion can prevent small

like agreeing on quiet

roommate when you’re

Jones said. “For exam-

compromise, you can

ment but to make sure

annoyances from grow-

hours, alternating who

managing

own

ple, instead of saying,

avoid becoming some-

you’re doing your part

ing into major argu-

cleans common areas or

stress, staying organized

‘You always leave your

one else’s horror story

to be a good roommate.

ments. Setting expec-

meeting in the middle

and advocating for your

clothes on the floor.

and maybe even create

That starts with re-

tations early, especially

when decorating your

needs. If problems be-

It’s disgusting,’ you can

a friendship that lasts

spect and responsibil-

around cleaning, noise

shared space. It’s not

come too overwhelming

say, ‘I feel uncomfort-

beyond move-out day.

ence. The goal isn’t to avoid

every

the

relationship.”

your

college

experience.

and

8 MOLLY GOFF, OPINION EDITOR

09.16.2025

OPINION JAKE PAUL

(bad behaviors being made public).”

The biggest issue I see with influenc-

standing was the cause of the backlash.

In the attention economy of so-

ers who have been cancelled and make

This is another factor that comes

Molly Groff

cial media, consumption is power,

a comeback has to be the lack of em-

into play. Celebrities will have good

Opinion Editor

and we have the power to choose

pathy, business-minded attitudes and

intentions in their work, while the

where we invest our viewership

no self-awareness. There’s a saying that

audience

time. I think cancellation is the pow-

bad press is still good press because

“I personally don’t really “can-

er of consciously using that power.

it is press, but I don’t believe that is

cel” others,” Benyak said. “People

Our voices need to be heard, and

the case here to foster a loyal fanbase.

will sometimes do or say things that

“For me, when I think of a “cancelled

I may not agree with but that’s ok.

celebrity,” I think of Jason Aldean,” said

I also do think that it’s our job to

Emily Benyak, a junior environmental

use our words wisely and to build

science major. “He’s probably my favor-

each other up rather than break oth-

ite music artist. In 2023 he released a

ers down with what we say or do.”

song called “Try that in a small town”.

Ultimately, the “cancellation to

The rest of the quote explains that

comeback pipeline” is a testament to

the song was intended to be about com-

the fluid and often unpredictable na-

community-driven action. This collec-

munity strength and mutual protection

ture of online culture. It shows that

tive effort is often framed as a way to

in small towns, but it was misinterpret-

while public opinion can be swift and

ed as promoting racism and violence.

unforgiving, it is also capable of change.

Continued from page 1

“We cancel people because the internet has become our whole space. It takes up all of our mental space and leaves no room for anything else. We begin to think that any small mistake is

sometimes that is from making sure

who that person truly is. It may also be a way to feel a part of something bigger, to

adoption of “cancellation,” transform-

People will sometimes do or say things that I may not agree with but that’s ok

ing it from a solitary judgment into a

-Emily Benyak

gang up on one person,” said Thoman.

It’s this very desire to be part of a collective that drives the widespread

interprets

it

otherwise.

demand accountability, leveraging a

someone who has a large platform

group’s collective power to influence a

knows what they have done is right or

This misunderstanding led to him be-

The most successful comebacks are

celebrity’s public standing and career.

wrong. That being said, online com-

ing “canceled” by many people. How-

not just about weathering the storm

“We cancel influencers to hold them

munities can become toxic where we

ever, the controversy made the song

but about demonstrating a willing-

accountable for actions and behavior,”

get what is right and wrong skewed.

incredibly popular, ultimately resulting

ness to learn and adapt. For the pub-

said Olivia Langston, a senior English

It is important to know when it is

in a significant comeback for him. Ben-

lic, it raises a question about the pur-

major. “It functions similar to a boycott,

appropriate to spread awareness, cre-

yak believes that these comebacks often

pose of cancellation itself, is it a tool

where we withhold our payment (views)

ate merchandising and film certain

occur when a celebrity’s original intent

for permanent removal or a tempo-

because of poor business practices

content with intention and humility.

was not to cause harm and a misunder-

rary lesson designed to elicit growth?

Beauty in balance Molly Goff Opinion Editor Whenever I go to a family event, the common questions I get asked are “How’s college?” and “Are you staying balanced in college?” I never

majors and two jobs,

TV show to unwind

and sometimes it can

your mind, and enjoy.

get hectic. When I stay

5.

Spend

time

ahead in class, I feel like

with friends in com-

I understand the les-

fortable

silence.

sons more and have a

Comfortable silence is

little less stress off of me.

so valuable because it de-

time for

termines which friends

reading or meditation.

are the “all around” ones

Sometimes all we need

versus friends that are

monly asked, until I dove

to stay calm is to breathe.

casual! Spending time

deeper into my schedule.

Normally an hour be-

with friends by just

Balance seems like

fore bed, I try to read a

being with them real-

a simple concept, un-

few chapters of a book

ly energizes my soul.

I am reading for plea-

When we dive deeper

sure or take some deep

into the concept, there

breaths and have time to

is so much beauty in

things at once: academ-

reflect. Reflection helps

balance. Our minds are

ically, socially, mentally,

me stay on top of things

at ease and our bod-

physically,

and regulate my mind.

ies can finally relax.

was sure why those questions were the ones com-

til we apply it into our day-to-day

lives.

We

are juggling so many

emotional-

ly and even spiritually.

When I think about balance,

I

personally

have a combination of taking a mid-day nap, working on a craft project in my apartment,

2. Plan

3.

cre-

Now, what do we do to

ative project I enjoy.

find balance? Some rest,

Creativity is key for

keep up with hobbies

my

Start

balanced

a

sched-

ule. It is a way I turn off my mind, and I can do that while painting,

or just simply meditate.

“The best way I relax is wallowing in bed.” said Andrea Barnett, a se-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

ing, there can be peace as

peace

by

themselves,

for a walk with me or

well as balance in spend-

while others find so-

go to the gym. In my

ing time with friends.

lace in the company of

free time I love going to

“It honestly depends

others. Finding balance

the gym, playing pickle

on how I feel at the time,”

isn’t a one-size-fits-all

said Sonni Stephens, a

solution; it’s a person-

junior world languages

al journey that looks

and cultures major. “I

different for everyone.

personally love spend-

“I try to stay balanced

ing relaxation time with

by setting aside time in

friends, and I try to

my day for myself and

spend downtime with

making an effort to keep

the people I’m close

up with my friends,” said

with. It helps me to re-

Amanda Feeney, a junior exercise science major.

ball or watching movies with my friends. I’m also teaching myself guitar and I love playing with the shelter dogs here.”

There is something so valuable in college and in life about really figuring out who you are, whether that is through

or even doomscrolling

writing or doing a puz-

nior management infor-

lax by either hanging out

on my phone. Here are

zle with my roommate.

mation systems major.

and talking with them

“Sometimes school can

some of the other things

4. Catch up on a show.

“Actually, it’s cooking. It

or to just be in the same

be overwhelming and it’s

I do to stay balanced:

There are so many

keeps my mind at ease,”

room as them doing

hard not to let school and

you balance it all because

platforms

While peace can be

something individual, at

work take over. When I

at the end of the day,

schoolwork.

and services to catch

found in solo activities

least for me personally.”

feel overwhelmed I al-

we are human and need

I currently have two

up on in 2025. Find a

like rotting and cook-

ways call a friend to go

time to rest and recharge.

1. of

Get

ahead

streaming

Some

people

find

hobbies, clubs or life experiences. The key is how