Issue 1 | Volume 108

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University September 15, 2026

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BUFFINGTON’S RESTAURANT CELEBRATES GRAND RE-OPENING Avery Geary

we had to replace the

remodel the restrooms,

Pendergast,

entire roof,” said G.W.

which the owners felt

one of BRG’s owners.

Brooks, one of Buffing-

were not one of Buff-

Both owners were very

ton’s owners. G.W. is

ington’s

notable

pleased with the multi-

also an owner within the

features due to quali-

ple improvements made.

after

Brick Restaurant Group

ties such as their size.

They expressed that they

undergoing months of

(BRG), which consists

“Some of the juniors

renovations

centered

of

The

and seniors had experi-

will make Buffington’s

around

repairs.

Brick, Black Sheep, Buff-

enced the old bathrooms

an even better place for

“The roof was having

ington’s and Greene’s.

that were a little dicey.

GCSU students and Mil-

Brooks

quite a few troubles that

While being closed

That was a more notice-

lidgeville locals to con-

To

turned out to be more

for repairs, they also

able investment than the

gregate, both in terms of

restaurant’s

than just a few leaks, so

took the opportunity to

roof itself,” said Frank

appearance and function.

opening after the renova-

Asst. News Editor On

Friday,

August

14, local Milledgeville restaurant ton’s

Buffing-

reopened

roof

Milledgeville’s

most

hope

the

another

renovations

Courtesy of Buffington’s

“The most important part is that we are dry and able to have customers in here safely,” G.W. emphasized. celebrate grand

tions, Buffington’s offered free burgers to the first 100 customers. One customer who received this

the

offer was Caesar Cruz, a

re-

junior philosophy major.

See BUFFINGTON’S | Page 2

NCAA Volleyball preseason rankings versus reality Ava Flores

Sports Editor The first weeks of the 2026 NCAA women’s volleyball season have shown that preseason rankings can predict some things,

but

not

everything.

Kentucky sits at No. 3 with a 5-1

Behind Nebraska, the presea-

record, while Stanford is No. 4 at

son top five included Texas, Ken-

4-0 and Louisville has moved from

tucky, Pittsburgh and Stanford.

No. 7 in the preseason to No. 5.

Only a few weeks into the sea-

While some teams have lived up

son, that order has already changed.

to or exceeded preseason expecta-

1

tions, others have struggled early.

with a 4-0 record in the Sept. 7

Texas entered the season ranked

AVCA poll, but Pittsburgh has

No. 2 but has fallen to No. 9 after

the top spot through the opening

made one of the biggest ear-

a 3-3 start. Wisconsin, which be-

weeks. The Cornhuskers received

ly moves. The Panthers began

gan at No. 6, is also 3-3 but re-

57 first-place votes in the pre-

the year ranked No. 4 and have

mains inside the top 10 at No. 6.

season poll, putting them com-

climbed to No. 2 after starting 6-0.

See NCAA VB | Page 5

Nebraska entered the season ranked No. 1 in the AVCA preseason poll and has held onto

Nebraska NCAA D1 Volleyball

fortably ahead of No. 2 Texas.

Nebraska

remains

No.

New Donut Shop

Bringing a small-town feel and fresh flavors Ansleigh Hester Contributing Writer Milledgeville Donuts and Coffee, a new donut shop that opened in late August located on North Columbia Street, has a GCSU professor and local Milledgeville residents raving about the donuts and breakfast sandwiches offered.

Professor Douglas Bassett, assistant director of Bridge Scholars, thoroughly enjoyed trying the newly opened donut shop and attests that it would be a great breakfast place for GCSU students, but it could be a place

that anyone could love.

“I do think that it’s like a good place to go and get breakfast,” Bassett said. “If you want donuts and coffee, then I think that it doesn’t just target college kids, it targets everyone. I think that they’re open early, so it’s definitely good for people that want to go early and get d o n u t s . ” Bassett had wonderful interactions with the employees.

“I thought that the people that worked there and the owner was nice,” Bassett said.

“I also liked their as-

sortment of donuts.”

While Milledgeville Donuts and Coffee has an excellent food selection up to par with Bassett’s tastes, he feels that the shop might need to add more seating to draw in more college students.

“I don’t know if it has a lot of seating options for activities like going and hanging out, but that might change with time,” Bassett said.

He could see the distance the business is from the college being an issue because many students might not want to walk that far for a donut.

See DONUT SHOP | Page 8

Emilie Theado | Digital Media Editor

NEWS | PG. 2

SPORTS | PG. 4

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 6

OUTREACH | PG. 9

How some officers are misusing the car scanning technology, and how it affects GCSU students.

The effects of poorly scripted advertising and how it can change an entire brand image,.

A global icon, Hall of Fame country singer, actress, and businesswoman.

The Queen of Country did it all.

The first edition of our monthly meeting with President Cox. We brought questions, she brought answers.

MISUSE OF FLOCK CAMERAS

GOOD GOOD GONE BAD

DOLLY PARTON TRIBUTE

QUESTIONS WITH CATHY

2

ANNALIE PARKER, NEWS EDITOR AVERY GEARY, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.15.2026

NEWS

Misuse of Flock cameras raises student questions Annalie Parker

she said. “It tarnishes the

News Editor

idea, especially since it’s

of these cases come

in these communities.

pur-

out, more and more in-

“These things help

supposed to help others.”

pose of Flock cameras,

vestigations, and more

us work together where

encourages

According to Macon’s

also referred to as AL-

and more audits will be

we’re able to bring our re-

to remain open-mind-

WGXA News, this inci-

PRs (automated license

ed and educate them-

dent is not the first occur-

plate

selves

rence of Flock misuse in

monitor and document

the Milledgeville region.

traffic events and viola-

Sellers’ arrest occurred

tions such as speeding,

just days after three Bibb

collisions and other ve-

County officers were ar-

hicular crimes. However,

rested on similar charges.

according to the Interna-

This recent surge in in-

tional Justice Database

vestigations has raised

of ALPR Abuse, there

concerns among some

have been 77 instances

students about the com-

of Flock misuse docu-

monality

misuse.

mented in Georgia alone

Aly Baynes, a junior

since October of 2023.

education major, feels

Despite this number,

that while the Milled-

Wes Hardin, director of

geville Police Depart-

Public Safety and Chief

ment has addressed the

of Police here at GCSU,

issue properly, it does

shared

justice

not negate the possi-

outlook on the future

major and the presi-

bility of other events

of Flock camera usage

forcement

dent of the Criminal

like this in the future.

based on the increased

technology like Flock

within the Milledgeville

uses can visit the Flock

Justice Club, shared her

“I don’t think the in-

number

investiga-

cameras helps police de-

Police Department re-

website, as well as the

thoughts on the incident.

tegrity of the entire de-

tions and the adequa-

partments remain inter-

mains ongoing, and local

university

“It really disappoints

partment [is in question],

cy of prosecution for

connected and increase

news network 13WMAZ

of Public Safety locat-

me to see a police de-

but that doesn’t necessar-

the violations thus far.

the speed and efficien-

has stated that they will

ed in Hall House at 301

partment misuse Flock,”

ily mean it’s an isolat-

“As more and more

cy of protecting people

continue to cover updates

W.

On Tuesday, August 11, Milledgeville Police major Brandon Sellers was charged with the misuse of Flock cameras after an investigation revealed that he had been using his camera access for non-work-related

purposes.

Sellers was charged both for violating his public service oath and for

unauthorized

use

of license plate data.

He was fired from his position with the department

immediate-

ly following his arrest.

Sarah Crowder, a senior

criminal

BUFFINGTON’S Continued from page 1

“I got the Mac Daddy burger, with the mac and cheese and bacon. It was really good. I would recommend it,” Cruz said.

Ella Brandon, a senior environmental science major who had been to Buffington’s before its renovations, noted the positive changes the restaurant had made and the effects those changes have had.

“I like the way it’s changed this year. I feel like it’s got a better atmosphere,” she said.

Freshman geography major Sawyer Roberts also had things to say about his recent Buffington’s experience.

“This is my first time being in [Buffington’s], but it’s nice.

of

ed event,” Baynes said.

The

intended

readers),

of

to

optimistic

It’s

been great here,” he said.

The renovations are not the only thing new about Buffington’s. The restaurant has begun to host events like Wednesday night trivia at 8:15 p.m., and free Monday movie nights starting at 8:00 p.m. Some customers believe that this decision has increased Buffington’s popularity.

“I feel like there’s a lot more people here. Especially with their BOGO (buy one, get one free) appetizers, so you can get food and drinks and do trivia,” Brandon said. “I like how they have a package if you want it. I loved it.”

While the events may be new, Buffington’s presence in Milledgeville is not.

The building itself formally belonged to another Milledgeville restaurant, The Brick. In 1999, G.W. Brooks’ father and his paternal uncle bought the building

VOLUME 108 | NO. 1

Editorial Board

Bryan Cade....................... Editor-in-Chief Jane Carr............................ Managing Editor Jayden Lewis....................Art Director Annalie Parker................. News Editor Avery Geary...................... Asst. News Editor Ava Flores..........................Sports Editor Nina Bartlett.....................Asst. Sports Editor Sydney Williams.............Arts & Life Editor Rosalyn Chapman.........Asst. Arts & Life Editor James Cordero................ Outreach Editor Reaghan Shehee............Digital Media Editor Emilie Theado..................Digital Media Editor Reagan Robinson.......... PR Manager Mikkel Christensen....... Faculty Adviser

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

an

is

There are bad apples everywhere, but that does not mean the whole department is bad.

-Sarah Crowder

on the story as it unfolds.

Until

then,

Crowder students

on

the

issue.

“We have to remember

the

purpose

[of

Flock] and that most officers use it for good, as intended,” Crowder said. “There are bad apples everywhere, but that does not mean the whole department

is

bad.”

As technology condone,” Hardin said. “Any-

sources together,” he said.

body that’s in violation

“It cuts down the amount

of this will be removed,

of time we spend investi-

and this will not be an

gating these crimes, and

issue

forward.”

it helps us clear these

expressed

cases a lot quicker and

that from a law en-

a lot more effectively.”

going

Hardin

perspective,

The

investigation

after The Brick chose to expand. They decided on the name of the restaurant as a nod to the history of Milledgeville.

“Buffington’s is named after a historical Milledgeville figure that, rumor has it, ran a hotel, or a bed and breakfast, and was a teetotaler. [He] was anti-alcohol,” Pendergast said. “And so my brother and [G.W.’s] dad thought it really funny to name a bar and grill after a historic Milledgeville curmudgeon (tough, stubborn person).”

Pendergast was also inspired by the past when implementing Buffington’s new events. The idea comes from his previous experiences where he encountered a close community that was centered around an establishment like Buffington’s, where people would connect and relax while enjoying good food and drinks.

@TheColonnade

tinues to develop and change, its impact on public safety and on the community remains an important topic for education and discussion.

Students interested in learning

more

about

Flock cameras and their

Department

Montgomery

St.

“I spent a little time in London, and every neighborhood had a pub, the public house, the place where people could gather and hang out,” Pendergast said.

This is what he and his family wanted to replicate in Milledgeville.

“We’re trying to give people not just great food, great service, great beer, but some other reasons to come out and interact with the community,” he said.

Students who want to experience Buffington’s for themselves can visit at 120 W Hancock Street from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to midnight on Sunday. Interested students can also visit the Buffington’s Instagram page @buffingtonsmilledgeville for information about their weekly events.

@TheColonnade

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3

ANNALIE PARKER, NEWS EDITOR AVERY GEARY, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.15.2026

NEWS

Renovations approved for juvenile detention center Lawrence Flournoy

but had a few concerns.

gia State Reformatory,” as

ing the kids a better

up to eight youth offend-

market in Milledgeville.

Staff Writer

“I think the funding

it was originally named

chance to turn things

ers, leading to a possible

The last time work

early

August,

makes sense if the extra

when it opened in 1905,

around,” Kilgore said.

40-resident

Georgia Governor Brian

space is actually needed,”

served as a detention

The project will be

Kemp signed an execu-

said John Tyler Carlton,

center for youth under

completed

tive order to demolish

a junior biology major.

outdated buildings at

expansion.

was done on the facility

“The new facility will

was in 2014-2015, ren-

phases,

include a dining hall,

ovating an existing unit

16 years old who had not

starting with phase 1,

educational classrooms,

into a 30-bed “Intensive

However, Carlton also

been sentenced to life in

which will tear down

and a recreation area, all

felt that funds should

prison. The 181 acres still

10 resident units at the

Treatment Unit.” Ag-

designed to meet cur-

gressive and high-risk

Campus,

rent juvenile justice best

youth from other facil-

which will be replaced

practices,” said Glenn

with new facilities to ex-

Allen, the Director of

pand capacity and bring

Communications at the

the facility up to mod-

Department

ern standards. The Bill

nile Justice. “These im-

Ireland

Devel-

provements will create

opment Campus was a

an environment where

rehabilitative center for

our young people can

youth committed to the

improve

In

the Bill Ireland Youth Development

Youth

in

of

their

Juve-

lives.”

custody of the Georgia

20 years ago, the fa-

Department of Juvenile

cility also employed 300

Justice. It held approxi-

staff members, but now

mately 300 people in its

has as few as 60. The new Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

prime, but it has been

buildings and expand-

ities were transferred into this unit for the best possible treatment and state-of-the-art

facili-

ties. Now, the renovations focus once again on

increased

intake.

Overall, students feel that the new facilities could offer the chance for juvenile offenders to be more comfortable. As the campus itself expands, students

Decem-

primarily go to prevent-

have 82 structures on

front of the property. A

ed capacity could po-

ber of 2009. The build-

ing juveniles from end-

the property, with plenty

new building with stan-

tentially create jobs for

ings being demolished

ing up in the detention

of room for expansion.

dard juvenile justice fa-

Milledgeville

date back to as early as

center. “I think there

James Kilgore, a fresh-

cilities will replace the

In

the 1930s and have not

should be more focus

man criminal justice ma-

units being torn down.

closed during the Great

tion of juvenile crimes

been in use for a while.

on preventing kids from

jor, supports the plan and

Now, with the execu-

Recession when Baldwin

will exapnd as well.

When asked about the

ending up in the system

emphasizes the impor-

tive order to improve the

County was struggling to

For more information

plan to bring the cam-

in the first place, not just

tance of giving offenders

campus for the youth,

offer government jobs.

on the developments,

pus to modern juvenile

creating more room for

the means for a better life.

the facility will hold up

With

justice standards, GCSU

them once they’re there,”

help

to 48 residents. Current-

a

students were in support

Carlton said. The “Geor-

the community by giv-

ly, the campus can hold

closed

since

“This

could

2009,

residents.

the

facility

hope that the amount of community outreach dedicated

to

preven-

the

expansion,

students can visit the

significant

increase

Georgia Department of

could improve the job

Juvenile Justice website.

Students impacted by record freshmen class size James Cordero

the promise was not

of resources is a problem

make more connections.

too. Students predict that

if the institution wants

Outreach Editor

fully delivered on due

comes from the idea that

“As a club president

this pattern of growth

to admit more students.

The

to both the class size

the school is growing too

that wants to focus on

will continue and, with

“Within the next few

man class of 2030 is a

and

student-to-pro-

fast for where it is, raising

recruiting, I think it’s a

it, an increase in fight-

years, I could see us

record-breaking

1849

fessor

ratio

being

concerns that there aren’t

great thing to have more

ing for seats in classes.

bringing in 2000 stu-

students,

last

larger

expected.

enough professors for

freshmen coming in so I

year’s record of approx-

“ [ Ad m i n i s t r at or s ]

the number of students

can expand my club and

imately 1801 students.

would say ‘I haven’t had

or enough spaces to

have more members,”

This is the third year in

a class with over 40 peo-

have upper-level classes.

Kuipers said. “But as a

a row that the freshman

ple,’ and that’s just not

“I think they are do-

student that came here

class has been a record

true,” said Ava Miller, a

ing a good job [of ac-

for a smaller atmosphere,

size. Some students wor-

junior marketing major.

commodating] for what

it hurts a little bit.”

ry that GCSU will not

“I’ve had lectures with

they can,” Kuipers said.

On the other hand,

be able to keep the small

way more than that.”

“I think it’s a core prob-

clubs

school feeling that at-

Students note both

lem of them overesti-

with a limited number

negative

mating what they can

of spots are having to

“One of the appeals

aspects of the growing

do for dorms, park-

turn down more peo-

of GCSU is that we’re

incoming classes. Many

ing, classes and teacher

ple because they don’t

not huge,” said Matthew

students see the lack

loads. It’s going to be a

Kuipers, a junior envi-

of resources necessary

big shock when they hit

ronmental science major.

to handle the intake of

their carrying capacity.”

“We can have a similar

people as the problem,

education as a big school

not the increase itself.

lieve

without the size and prob-

“I think it’s a good

will

lems that come with it.”

thing,” said Ava Wil-

people

Many students were

liams, a freshman biolo-

and helping the com-

promised a small school

gy major. “It means peo-

with an intimate education, but feel that

GCSU

beating

fresh-

tracted so many of them.

positive

than

and

and

sororities

“[I

would

predict]

dents, if not more,” Miller

that the school will keep

said. “The less people that

Within the next few years, I could see us bringing in 2000 students, if not more -Ava Miller

growing,” Williams said.

get into UGA, the more

have space and there

“That growth is kind of

people are going to want

is

competition.

neutral, but I could see

to come here because

“It’s just not fair to

how it could be a bad

we are a good school.”

more

be-

girls to say ‘we love you,

thing

increased

Students who feel or

more

freshmen

but we can’t give you a

competition for things.”

do not feel that there is a

equate

to

more

bid because we’re not

Students at GCSU wel-

problem with the number

joining

clubs

allowed to,’” Miller said.

come new students and

of people coming to the

competi-

appreciate people want-

school compared to what

munity, meaning that

tion for limited spots is

ing to come to the school,

is available should make

ple are getting smarter.”

smaller clubs get more

not just something that

but they also see a need

their opinions heard in

The belief that the lack

attention and people can

affects clubs, but classes

for change in the school

whatever way they can.

Some

students

Potential

with

4

AVA FLORES, SPORTS EDITOR NINA BARTLETT, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

09.15.2026

SPORTS NCAA VB

Continued from page 1 The early changes show

ly, Laney Choboy, and Andi

nents such as Kentucky, Wis-

Jackson are going to do ev-

consin, Kansas, and BYU. This

erything they can to get the

has pushed them two spots

job done for their senior year.”

above their preseason ranking.

how competitive the 2026 season could become as teams move toward conference play.

“I think that this is going to be a really competitive

Nebraska’s

experienced

Fernandez

said

Pitt

roster was one of the big-

could be one of the big-

gest reasons for the program’s

gest

threats

to

Nebraska.

preseason expectations. The

“I also think that Pitt is

Cornhuskers returned Murray,

a team that people need to

Reilly, Choboy and Jackson as

look out for,” Fernandez said.

part of a veteran group looking

“Olivia Babcock and Izzy

to finally win a national cham-

Stark are a great duo that

pionship after getting second

is going to be hard to stop.”

place in 2023 and losing to

Pitt returned Babcock, the

the 2025 national champi-

two-time national player of

to finish the season on top.

ons Texas A&M in elite eight.

“I think my early pick for

season with a lot of evenly matched teams,” Aundrea Fernandez, a sophomore Bi-

NCAA Rankings

al teams making early moves

one another, the rankings are

outside the preseason top five.

likely to continue to change.

Florida jumped from No. 17 in

“I can’t wait to contin-

the preseason to No. 10, while

ue to watch how things

Tennessee moved from No. 22

play out,” Fernandez said.

the year, and its early results

to No. 17 after beginning the

For now, Nebraska remains

Pittsburgh has also quickly

have supported the presea-

season 5-0. Colorado, ranked

exactly where voters expected

the winner is Nebraska,” Fer-

established itself as a cham-

son belief that the Panthers

No. 23, has also started 6-0.

it to be, but the movement be-

nandez said. “They have a

pionship contender. The Pan-

would again be among the

With conference play still

hind the Cornhuskers shows

stacked roster and I think

thers’ undefeated start includes

country’s strongest programs.

ahead and many of the nation’s

the 2026 national champion-

Harper Murray, Bergen Reil-

victories over ranked oppo-

There have also been sever-

top teams scheduled to face

ship may be far less predictable.

ology student said. “It feels like the level of play just gets better and better each year.”

Fernandez

said

Nebras-

ka remains her early favorite

Good Good Gone Bad Nina Bartlett

ground after she reached

a bad ad,” Banta said.

one without the oth-

CEO Brian Rolapp de-

helped build its brand.

Asst. Sports Editor

for the club. Good Good

“Truly, I think it was

er,”

said.

scribed the video as

With more than 2

said the advertisement

a pretty terrible ad.”

Callaway ended its

“concerning” and said

million YouTube sub-

was intended as a paro-

Banta said the sound

partnership

Good Good’s response

dy of the horror movie

of Miestowski hitting

with Good Good on Aug.

to the situation was “dis-

scribers,

“Obsession,” but the vid-

the ground and scream-

27, days after the ad-

appointing.” Good Good

ing made the scene feel

vertisement drew heavy

then withdrew as title

more like actual vio-

criticism. The compa-

sponsor of the PGA Tour

lence than staged com-

ny also announced a

event scheduled for Nov.

edy. He compared it to

$1 million donation to

12-15 in Austin, Texas.

a Snickers commercial

organizations

featuring Betty White

on preventing violence

business

being

against

Good Good Golf built its name by bringing a younger audience to the sport through YouTube videos, and

merchandise

professional

golf

partnerships. Now, the company is trying to re-

eo drew widespread criticism for its depiction of violence against women.

Good Good removed

build its brand after a

the advertisement and

controversial advertise-

apologized. Clark later

ment led to the end of its

posted an eight-minute

partnership with Calla-

apology video, calling

way, its withdrawal from

it “the worst ad known

a PGA Tour sponsor-

to

ship and the departure

the video was not rep-

of two top executives.

resentative

man”

and of

saying what

saying

the difference was that the

Courtesy of Arturo Anez

tackled, older

advertise-

Banta

three-year

has built much of its following through social media and online golf content aimed at younger viewers. Banta said it is difficult to know

relationships

whether the advertise-

and

have faced similar dis-

ment will have a lasting

survivors.

ruption. Golf Channel

effect on that audience.

The split further es-

canceled its planned sea-

“I think this is a vi-

women

supporting

brand’s

ment made the physical

calated

be-

son of “Big Break x Good

tal time for them to

comedy more obvious.

tween the two compa-

Good,” while retailers

The controversy also

nies. Good Good CEO

including Dick’s Sport-

rebuild

raised questions about

Matt Kendrick publicly

ing Goods, Golf Galaxy

who was responsible for

criticized Callaway’s re-

and PGA Tour Super-

the advertisement. Call-

sponse in a post on X,

store

away CEO Chip Brewer

highlighting

Good

acknowledged that the

company had approved

Those changes have

company reviewed and

the advertisement before

come as Good Good’s

Good’s following could

approved the video be-

ending the partnership.

own leadership has shift-

help the company move

fore it was posted, despite

The post went viral, re-

ed. Kendrick and Presi-

forward and allow the

Good

produc-

ceiving millions of views.

dent Joe Flannery left the

attention

ing the advertisement.

Kendrick later told

company on Sept. 2, and

ing the advertisement

video

Front Office Sports that

co-founder Nahid Giga

to

was produced by Good

the post was a “reaction-

was named interim CEO.

Good, it was approved

ary” response to backlash

For Good Good, the

by Callaway prior to

directed at his family. He

controversy now pres-

posting,” Brewer said.

also said he had not seen

ents a greater challenge

“That approval should

or approved the Calla-

than addressing a sin-

Good

“While

the

tensions

The

that

the

removed

Good

merchandise.

Good Good stands for.

promoted a co-brand-

For Josh Banta, a se-

ed Callaway driver and

nior environmental sci-

never have happened.”

way driver advertisement

gle advertisement. The

featured

Good

ence major, the concept

Banta said that shared

before it was posted.

company has to repair

co-founder Garrett Clark

itself was not neces-

involvement made it dif-

shoving

Good

Good

sarily the biggest prob-

Girls

member

Alex-

lem. The execution was.

is Miestowski to the

“I think it was just

Good

Good

other

focused

advertisement

The

Good

their

brand,

get back to their roots and reset,” Banta said.

Banta

said

return-

ing to the content that originally

built

Good

surround-

eventually

fade.

For a company that built its identity around making and

golf

more

rebuilding

younger accessible,

that

iden-

tity may depend on

advertisement’s

relationships with busi-

whether

ficult to place the blame

reach quickly moved be-

nesses and organizations

can regain trust with-

solely on Good Good.

yond Good Good and

in golf while protect-

out losing the audience

Callaway.

ing the audience that

that made it successful.

“You

can’t

have

The

PGA

Tour

Good

Good

5

AVA FLORES, SPORTS EDITOR NINA BARTLETT, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

09.15.2026

SPORTS

Whole new ball game

GCSU hires new head softball coach for the 2026-2027 season Bryan Cade

first time as a Bobcat.

Condland and Maddie

finishing with second

runs scored, 325, in 2026.

2.86 earned run average.

Editor-in-Chief

“My goal as a coach

Todd. The Bobcats fin-

place in the East Divi-

In that same season,

Caban led the confer-

is to win a natty, and

ished with the three-

sion and the 2nd most

Graziani led an offense

ence in opposing bat-

I want to get gato-

seed in the conference

wins in the program’s

that scored an astound-

ting average with .177,

rade dumped all over

in 2026, with a 29-20

fast-pitch era in a season.

ing 36 runs in a shutout

and

me,”

said.

overall record and 16-

Graziani’s finished her

victory over Elizabeth

suit with a seventh-place

Graziani has high as-

11 in conference play.

UNCP career with the

City State University on

finish in the category.

pirations for this team,

“[The team is] a very

highest conference win-

Feb. 11, 2026. This was

GCSU, even without

with the Bobcats never

tight-knit group,” Gra-

ning percentage in school

a contest in which the

a per se pitcher’s coach,

having won a nation-

ziani said. “They’re very

history at .592, and men-

team scored half their

looks to repeat their im-

al

the

hungry. They want to

tored

All-Con-

runs in the second in-

pressive

closest they’ve come is

win, and those are a lot

ference selections, two

ning and later culmi-

in the pitchers’ lane for

2003, when they lost the

of the same characteris-

All-Defensive

team

nated in a five-inning

a consecutive season to

National

Champion-

tics that I have as well.”

members, 22 Academ-

no-hitter from Braves

anchor the team’s de-

ship to UC Davis. The

As head coach at

ic All-Conference hon-

pitcher Summer Bullard.

fensive side of the ball.

last time they won the

UNC Pembroke, Gra-

orees, and All-Region

“What I do like with

“They’re great young

conference was in 2006.

ziani led the Braves to a

standout Chloe Locklear.

Luckily for Graziani,

99-107 record overall,

ference at the Pat Peter-

“Offense is my favor-

she steps into the role as

but a 58-40 conference

son Museum Education

a leader of a team that

Room in the GCSU Rus-

Georgia College & State

University

an-

nounced

that

former

University

of

North

Carolina

Pembroke

Head Coach Stephanie Graziani will take over the Bobcat softball program in place of Brittany Johnson, aiming to lead GCSU to the pinnacle.

Director of Athletics Wendell Staton and University President Cathy

Graziani

championship;

nine

performances

women,” Graziani said.

staff] as a whole is their

“They’ve been so pa-

ite,” Graziani said. “I love

supportiveness,”

Gra-

tient in this transition,

record in the Conference

hitting. We can be dan-

ziani said. “I am not

and every day that we

looks almost the same

Carolinas. She conclud-

sell Library on Aug. 18,

gerous. I’m very much a

the pitching expertise,

get to work, it’s been

as the previous season,

ed her final season with

allowing Graziani to ad-

line drive, hard ground

so we’re looking for a

that one percent better.

except for the departures

a 33-18 record over-

ball, type mindset. We’re

pitching coach to come

When they’re present,

dress the media for the

of

all, 20-8 in conference,

gonna be aggressive and

in, but what I’ve been

they’re locked in, and

fast on the base paths.”

providing is more of

they are working hard.”

Graziani looks to im-

that mentality mindset.”

While Graziani may

plement her previous of-

GCSU softball pitch-

lean toward the offen-

fensive statistics into the

ing, led by a tandem of

sive side of the sport,

GCSU system, with her

aces in junior Sydney

an overarching desire

former team, UNC Pem-

Garrett and senior Tif-

to win leads her style of

broke, setting the all-

fany Caban, paved the

play, and GCSU is pre-

time program record for

way in the circle during

paring for another run

both single-season team

the previous season, with

at the conference cham-

batting average, .329, and

the two combining for a

pionship

participate in fewer matches than varsity, but they also compete in a handful of tournaments. Club athletes say the travel time to tournaments is valuable for team bonding and for having a great time.

“We try to schedule at least 2 away trips every semester,” Manion said.

“We try to do it based on where you think fun cities would be.”

“We have two or three tournaments that we travel to,” said Jenna Claire Hendley, junior psychology major and women’s volleyball club president. “For each tournament we probably play five-plus games.

It’s an all day, Saturday event. Our first tournament’s actually Sept.19 at UGA, so we’re looking forward to that.”

For sports like women’s volleyball, which have varsity levels, clubs are an excellent solution for students who wish to stay competitive but do not want the amount of commitment varsity entails. “...when I came here and saw that they had a club team, and it was less commitment and just more fun in my opinion, I thought that that was a great alternative to varsity,” Hendley said.

For sports without varsity counterparts such as ultimate frisbee, men’s soccer, rugby and lacrosse, club sports serve as the most competitive groups on campus.

Club sports are able to be much broader than

varsity in their offering of specialized sports like wrestling, equestrian, powerlifting, bass fishing, and disc golf. Having these high-level options in various sports appeals to students who want to keep honing their skills post high school sports.

In terms of monetary cost, club teams do ask for dues from their members to cover fees for refs and other related expenses.

“There are dues each semester, but they’re nothing compared to frat dues,” Manion said.

For IMs, participants must purchase either a $25 year-round pass or a $15 single-semester pass from IMLeagues.

Although some nonvarsity students stick to participating in either intramurals or club, others like to participate in both.

“I do play intramurals, still; I do both,” Guillory said. “Usually, I just schedule my intramurals at 10 or 9 after practice. I like being active.”

'Through my sorority we do intramurals,” Hendley said. “I’m not doing them this semester because I’ve got so much classwise on my plate. I have done them the past two years.”

GCSU’s various sports offerings provide strong options for students to get involved at the commitment level that works for their schedules.

Whatever athletic programs GCSU students participate in, it is clear they receive a valuable source of fun, fitness and fellowship.

seniors

Stephanie

Bryan Cade | Editor-in-Chief

GCSU

followed

pitching

Cox hosted a press con-

[the

Garrett

this

spring.

Between varsity and intramurals

Why GCSU students chose club sports Luke Bergrab Staff Writer GCSU students have plenty of opportunities to stay active and continue their athletic careers beyond high school sports.

Intramurals (IMs) provide a more casual and flexible sporting environment, and at the top level, GCSU’s varsity sports programs are competitive and rigorous.

However, club sports fill the middle ground between IMs and varsity. They provide an outlet for students who desire high-level competition in a specific sport without the demands of playing varsity.

Club sports teams are Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) that train together in their specific sports and then travel to play matches and tournaments against other universities’ club teams.

Generally, club sports require more commitment than intramurals and less commitment than varsity sports.

Intramural sports are the most flexible and convenient option for students in terms of time investment.

“If I have a softball game at 6 o’clock, I roll into the parking lot at 5:55, put my cleats on and go play,” said Riley Chapman, junior exercise science major.

In contrast to IMs, club teams schedule weekly practice sessions.

“We practice twice

a week; we scrimmage on Sundays, so it’s a pretty heavy time commitment,” said Kyle Guillory, sophomore geography major and club ultimate frisbee and club disc golf player.

Varsity sports naturally require the most buy-in.

“Usually, we lift weights twice a week; we do conditioning twice a week, and we do practice every day usually, at least an hour, an hour and a half to two hours,” said Rachel Black, junior biology major and varsity tennis player.

In exchange for this higher level of commitment, club sports members say it helps create a strong, closeknit team culture.

“I’ve been a part of it all four years; it’s been a great experience,” said Jack Manion, senior finance major and men’s soccer club vice-president.

“The closest friends I’ve ever had are on the soccer team.”

Varsity athletes report similar experiences.

“Sometimes it can be hard balancing … but it’s been really worth it,” Black said. “[It] keeps you outside, keeps you moving … It teaches you a lot about time management, discipline, teamwork.”

Levels of competition increase as you go from intramurals to club to varsity as well. Intramurals can be competitive, but there is less pressure to perform.

“I have so much fun playing a sport that there are no high expecta-

tions for me anymore, so that’s why I like IM’s,” said Lucas Fernandes, junior finance major.

“I think it’s a great way to be competitive in something that’s really not that serious at the end of the day,” said Lauren Harper, sophomore exercise science major.

“It’s also a great way to build community.”

mural and club coordinator. “Some of them are like, ‘I’m chasing a championship’ and some are like, ‘I’m chasing this camaraderie.’”

As RSOs, club sports are directed by students and are eligible to receive funding from the university. These funds are typically used for travel expenses.

Courtesy of Emilie Theado

There is more pressure for club teams since they represent the school, but club athletes report a sense of control as a team about how much they want to invest.

Individual clubs have unique cultures, and together they set goals for themselves.

“It’s subjective to the clubs on what they view as success,” said Hunter Payne, GCSU intra-

in contrast to varsity, students in club sports are responsible for organizing their matches with other teams.

“The school doesn’t help us schedule our games; it’s us reaching out to other school’s Instagrams to schedule games,” Manion said.

“Everything’s student led, which is really cool; it gives us a lot of freedom.”

Generally, club teams

6

SYDNEY WILLIAMS, A&L EDITOR ROSALYN CHAPMAN, ASST. A&L EDITOR

09.15.2026

ARTS & LIFE

Dolly Parton tribute

Jayden Lewis | Art Director

Hannah Ransom Staff Writer Singer and songwriter Dolly Parton passed away on

the car, watch all of the Dolly movies and read her

“I love country music, and I grew up lis-

books together. Dolly was a huge part of my childhood.”

tening to Dolly’s music,” Fetty said. “I got my

in-

music taste from my dad, and we loved lis-

music.

tening to her together. She has music for every sit-

“I think she helped show that women could be

uation in life, and her music can touch anyone.”

successful and independent in an industry that was

Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, an associate profes-

mostly dominated by men,” Colson said. “She cre-

sor of music at GCSU, said she was saddened by

ated a gateway for more female artists by proving

Parton’s passing. She was introduced to Parton

major. “Her spirit and energetic attitude always put

that women could write their own music, have con-

through her film “9 to 5,” which Gorzelany-Mo-

me in a better mood. When I feel homesick, I listen to

trol over their careers and still become successful.

stak views as a story about women’s empowerment.

her music because it brings me back to my childhood.”

I think many women in country music today have

Gorzelany-Mostak also gave insight into why

Mar-

been influenced by the path that Dolly helped create.”

Parton’s legacy resonates with younger generations.

cel Pariseau, the cause of death was cancer.

Blythe Baker, a junior environmental sci-

“Her appeal kind of transcends any understanding

Earlier this year, Tennessee lawmakers named Jan.

ence major, said Parton’s music was always play-

of a generational cohort,” Gorzelany-Mostak said. “She

18 “Dolly Parton Day” in recognition of her birth-

ing in the background while she was growing up.

kind of is a quintessential American success story.”

day. Following her death, fans are calling for Sept. 25

“Beyond her music, I think Dolly will be re-

to be recognized as “9 to 5 Day” in honor of Parton.

membered as an influential and amazing person,”

true legacy lies in her philanthropic work.

Colson, who grew up listening to her music,

Baker said. “In the current split state of Ameri-

“I think for a lot of people, Dolly Parton, with her

was shocked when she heard about Parton’s death.

ca, I think Dolly’s passing went beyond politics

philanthropy, planted that seed that could lead to

“It felt like a nightmare hearing about it,” Col-

and issues going on right now. She was known

greatness for so many people,” Gorzelany-Mostak said.

son said. “I thought Dolly would live forever.”

as America’s sweetheart, who everyone loved.”

“I think ultimately, that is what she leaves behind: the

Tuesday, Aug. 25, at the age of 80, prompting GCSU students to share their shock and sadness over the loss.

“She created opportunities and hope for others, whether it was someone she directly knew or a fan, like me,” said Rebekah Colson, a freshman marketing

According

to

Parton’s

publicist,

“My mom introduced me to her music,” Colson said.

“I remember we would always put her on the radio in

Colson fluence

also

addressed

the

genre

on

Katherine

Fetty,

a

of

Parton’s country

sophomore

Gorzelany-Mostak

said

that

Parton’s

manage-

ability for more people to find their own ways to grow

ment major, also took the news to heart.

into who they are, and who God means for them to be.”

GCSU students navigate life as micro-influencers Sydney Williams

fun,” Carias said. “I enjoy putting the

“Making a video about my daily rou-

A&L Editor

clips together, just showing what I do

tine was something I could easily do

GCSU students are turning ev-

while keeping it colorful and whimsy.”

without having to put in a ton of effort,”

eryday college experiences into Tik-

Amna Torluck, a freshman mar-

Ringham said. “It was something sim-

Tok content, using “day in my life”

keting major, said creating con-

ple I could try, and I thought it would

(DIML) and “get ready with me”

tent gives her an opportunity to

be fun to potentially receive some fun

express

worrying

products or opportunities from it.”

about how others may perceive her.

As Ringham continued creating

“I love doing my own thing,” Tor-

videos, she found that the creative

luck said. “I really don’t care what

process itself was part of the appeal.

other people think about me. If I put

“I am also a very artsy person and

myself out there and make my own

feel like I have an eye for certain things,”

kind of videos with my own style, then

Ringham said. “So I found it fun to ex-

maybe other people would be more

periment with different types of content

comfortable with being themselves.”

and see what people enjoyed watching.”

Torluck said being a college creator

The content also allows viewers to

also gives viewers the chance to see expe-

get a glimpse into routines and expe-

riences that may differ from their own.

riences outside of their own. Ring-

“Being a college student opens up

ham said seeing different lifestyles can

a new demographic for your Tik-

give people ideas for their own lives.

and interests to experiment with con-

Tok feed,” Torluck said. “Just so other

“Everyone has a different experi-

tent creation and connect with viewers.

people know what your experience

ence,” Ringham said. “These videos

For Carias, creating DIML con-

looks like, but also knowing that not

give people a way to see what life is

tent is not only about recording her

everyone’s experience is the same.”

like for someone else and maybe even

tent does not always need to be elab-

sopho-

find inspiration for their own routine.”

orate to gain attention. Sometimes,

videos and finding ways to incorpo-

more biology major, started cre-

While each creator has a different

an ordinary day is enough to give

rate her personality into each post.

ating content as a simple way to

reason for posting, DIML and GRWM

viewers something to watch, relate

experiment

videos provide a way for GCSU stu-

to or even take inspiration from.

(GRWM) videos to showcase their routines, creativity and personalities.

“I like posting DIMLs,” said Brianna Carias, a sophomore criminal justice and psychology major. “It is kind of like vlogging what I do every day and just trying to put that out there.”

Micro-influencers, or creators with smaller but engaged audiences, are becoming more common on social media as users look for content that feels personal and relatable. At GCSU, creators are using their daily routines

routine. She also enjoys editing her

“The editing style, I think it’s just so

herself

Katherine

without

Ringham,

with

a

social

media.

Emilie Theado | Digital Media Editor

dents to share parts of their lives while developing their own creative styles.

For some, content creation is a hobby, while others see it as an opportunity to build an audience, explore their interests or encourage viewers to be themselves.

As social media continues to influence how people document their lives, these creators show that con-

7

SYDNEY WILLIAMS, A&L EDITOR ROSALYN CHAPMAN, ASST. A&L EDITOR

09.15.2026

ARTS & LIFE

The return of Dancing with the Stars Camdyn Thigpen

son, while Hough joined them in

Staff Writer GCSU

season

students

29,

following

eager-

sons

of

dancing

ly await season 35 of “Dancing

ning

six

Mirrorball

with the Stars,” premiering Sept.

15

and

16.

17

and

experiences have left them both

sea-

with

win-

sional

profes-

it is that big of a deal,” said Logan

training.

Miller, a sophomore finance major.

believe

To earn a spot as the next pro-

that this gives some contestants

fessional dancer, “Dancing with the

an

Stars: The Next Pro” premiered on

Trophies.

years dance

Critics

With the excitement of the cast reveal, there has been some backlash

of

and

unfair

fans

alike

advantage.

Shum

and

Students anticipate watching notable

influencers,

July 13. The spin-off show had 12 con-

and

testants competing to land a coveted

chefs pair with professional danc-

spot on the increasingly popular show.

ers and take on ballroom dancing.

Adele Zaikman, a competitive Lat-

This

celebrities

previous training, but I don’t think

season’s

competitors

in ballroom dancer, was crowned

were revealed on “Good Morn-

the

winner

and

earned

a

full-

ing America” on Sept. 2, and some

time spot as a professional dancer

notable new faces are Connor

in the newest “Dancing with the Stars”

Wood, Julia Stiles, Guillermo Ro-

season. She has been paired with Con-

driguez, Tyler Cameron and more.

ner Leavitt, who is the husband of last

“I am excited to see Connor

season’s semi-finalist Whitney Leavitt.

Wood because my best friend is ob-

“I had never heard of her before

sessed with him and I never got

the cast announcement, but I am ex-

the opportunity to watch him

Jayden Lewis | Art Director

cited to see a new dancer and how

on his podcast, so I am excited

over unfair casting. Jenna Dewan, an

Dewan pushed back, saying they

she takes on her first year,” said Av-

to see his partnership with Rylee

American actress, started her career

are not trained in ballroom and it is

ery Shaw, a sophomore history major.

[Arnold] this season,” said Jordyn

as a backup dancer for Janet Jack-

like learning a whole new language.

For students interested in watch-

McRobert, a sophomore nursing major.

son, Pink and Christina Aguilera.

Longtime judge Inaba stepped in to

ing the two-night premiere, ex-

Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Ton-

Harry Shum Jr. has also had

defend them, saying that the style

citement

ioli and Derek Hough are return-

extensive

ing to the judge table to assess the

starring

dances. Inaba and Tonioli have been judging since the first sea-

dancing Keys

and

and

backup

has its own form and placements.

season. It will air on ABC and stream

Beyoncé,

Alicia

“I think it’s weird that the pro-

live on Disney+ at 8 p.m., then will be

These

ducers brought on dancers with

available on Hulu the following day.

Jennifer

Lopez.

Rosalyn Chapman

about what they should wear.

“On social media, everything

Asst. A&L Editor

“I think a lot of people are excit-

is being passed down a lot quick-

ed to thrift and make use of what

er, and things are able to change

they have,” Agulló said. “I think

much faster,” Mayfield said. “So

this is rising more and more.”

I think that influences opinions

student fashion trends change faster than ever; however, students are noticing that following current trends is losing its spark.

“I feel like fashion trends are dying out in some sense because of the increasing social media presence that is encouraging individuality,” said Eowyn Agulló, a secondary education major in her first year of a master’s degree.

Fashion trends come and go based on what is trendy and popular. A trend that is having a resurgence, especially on social media, is bringing back the style of the early 2000s, which is referred to as the Y2K style.

Today, many rely on social media to assess what the current style is, but according to stu-

As

social

media

influenc-

ers continue to shape fashion trends and create new ones, the idea of microtrends becomes a topic of conversation.

A microtrend is defined as a niche aesthetic that gains viral

popularity

before

quick-

ly dying off of the internet.

“I think fashion trends are dying out because we are seeing more microtrends, which tend to look less like an actual trend and more like a fascination for a short period of time,” said Caroline Mayfield, a sophomore political science major.

Since microtrends have circulated the internet and are rapidly

changing,

some

stu-

dents seem to lean toward their

dents, they may be moving away

personal style more and care

from what is trending to a more

less about what is trending.

personal,

individualistic

and

around campus for the upcoming

Are fashion trends dying?

Through the seasons, GCSU

online

is not as easy as people think and

training

“Glee” for

buzzing

from

dance on

is

about what is trending now.”

Apps

like

TikTok,

Insta-

gram and Pinterest contribute to the rapid change of trends.

“I feel like fashion trends are not dying out, but being reused because everyone circles back to them over and over again,” said Rylee Jennison, a sophomore nursing major.

The idea of trends being in constant rotation can also lead to trend fatigue, which dissuades ing

people trends,

from

follow-

overconsuming

and even shopping in general.

Sometimes

fashion

trends

can either amplify someone’s individualistic style or change it because of the pressure to follow what is trendy online.

“If something is trending and I really like it, I am going to dress

style.

“I think people care; it just looks

“I think the trend of Y2K is

a lot different,” Mayfield said.

still appealing because it en-

“Since there is more out there, there

on my personality,” Jennison said.

courages a unique style of us-

are more ideas circulating, such

Whether GCSU students fol-

ing what was old,” Agulló said.

as being more bold than usual.”

low microtrends or have trend

“It is less about being trendy and

Traditional fashion trends are

fatigue, fashion trends will al-

more about being sustainable.”

being replaced by what is trend-

ways come and go. It is just a

The more sustainable peo-

ing now because of how accessible

matter of who chooses to fol-

ple become in today’s world, the

social media is, not only to stu-

low them and who will stay

more aware students become

dents, but to anyone with a phone.

true to their personal style.

like that, but I try to dress based

8

SYDNEY WILLIAMS, A&L EDITOR ROSALYN CHAPMAN, ASST. A&L EDITOR

09.15.2026

ARTS & LIFE DONUT SHOP

other

Continued from page 1 “It might be a little outside of where people want to walk, depending on if you live closer to the shop,”

Bassett

said.

However, if a student decides to drive to the donut shop, Bassett

believes

they

parking date

have

enough

to

accommo-

potential

customers.

“I think that it’s in a good lo-

donut

business.

has changed, and I don’t like those do-

cuits,

“I haven’t had a good donut

nuts as much anymore...I don’t feel

sants,” Pham said. “You can put

since Ryal’s Bakery, so I gave it a

like this new business’ donuts are very

try, and it met my expectations,” Anne

sweet...you

can

still

enjoy

it.”

crois-

on

those sandwiches.”

said.

In the future, Laquanna wants to try the

Pham and his employees make al-

Anne said the new donut and coffee

available coffees that the shop provides.

most everything on the premises.

business strays away from a commer-

Angel, a local citizen, recently tried

“We come in at 2 a.m. and

cial vibe toward a small-town, local

Milledgeville Donuts for the first time.

open at 5 a.m., and we bake every-

feel. Anne shared her favorite sweet-

“I enjoyed the chocolate sprinkle

thing fresh,” Pham said. “Barely

treat items that she orders on repeat.

donut,” Angel said. “I would probably

“The bear claws and the apple frit-

try the fruity pebble donut next time

ters were really good,” Anne said.

or the one with the marshmallows.”

Pham noticed that the local cus-

Laquanna, another local Milled-

Angel sees the new donut joint

tomers enjoy eating the glazed donuts and any of the sprinkled donuts.

anything away,

amaz-

as a place to chill, and she said

port

the

ing reviews about the new donut

it adds a variety of donuts and

downtown area, but also the lo-

shop on social media, so she decid-

other options to the Milledgeville

cream

cal community based on its location.”

ed to stop by and try some of the food.

area that were not there before.

are

Anne, a resident that has lived

“Well, I ended up getting the

college,

and

breakfast

geville

from

biscuits

anything

cation,” Bassett said. “It can suppatrons

other

resident,

read

the

Owner

of

Milledgeville

Do-

is

we

“Apple

usually

fritters

thrown sell

and

it

the

old-fashioned my

favorite,”

Pham

all.”

sour donuts

Pham

meticulously

said.

searched

twen-

regular, glazed donuts, and I did

nuts and Coffee, Sam Pham, shared

for a location to start his business,

ty years, gives insight into her main

try the white frosted donuts with

the various breakfast and dessert

and Milledgeville caught his eye.

in

Milledgeville

for

motivation

over

to

try

an-

Emilie Theado | Digital Media Editor

sprinkles on top,” Laquanna said.

options

within

that

“I looked at the size of the

“They were both good, but my fa-

set his shop apart from commer-

town and it has around 8,000 res-

vorite one was the glazed donut.”

cial

idents

businesses

his

in

store

Milledgeville.

and

three

colleges

here,”

Laquanna compared Krispy Kreme

“The difference is we have breakfast

Pham said. “I know there is

and other local commercial do-

kolache sandwiches,” Pham said. “You

Krispy Kreme and a Dunkin’ Do-

nut shops to Milledgeville Donuts

can get sausage and cheese, sausage jala-

nuts, but I thought Milledgeville

and Coffee. Previously, she enjoyed

peno and cheese breakfast sandwiches.”

could use a mom and pop shop.”

Krispy Kreme and their donuts, but

Pham sells a Boudin breakfast

For any student or resident look-

she believes that this new spot adds

sandwich, which is a Cajun pork

ing for a locally owned business

something more to Milledgeville.

and rice sausage sandwich with

that makes their food in-house,

“I think it’s right for Milledgeville,”

egg and cheese from New Orleans.

Laquanna said. “I feel like Krispy Kreme

“We got bagels, breakfast bis-

Coffee

said.

Armstrong said. “...Then on Thanks-

to yourself in the summer that

Monaco is also waiting for a

giving night, we watch ‘Elf ’ to get in the

cool fall day to visit a record store

holiday spirit, so I’m also excited for that.”

and enjoy a fall-themed drink at

Shipley Smith, a junior man-

Milledgeville is

the

Donuts place

and to

go.

GCSU FALL HOPES Eleanor Gillispie

nicer

Contributing Writer Recent

high

temperatures

and

humidity

in

Milledgeville

have

caused

some

GCSU

wish

for

the

students

cooler

to

weather

that fall brings and for other characteristics of the season, such as seasonal

beverages,

traditions

and

“Especially

holiday

colorful those

leaves.

trees

near

the library,” said Julia Plunk, a junior environmental science major.

“They it’s

get

really

all

nice

orange

and

just

sit.”

to

For students like Plunk, leaving campus is not necessary for enjoying the upcoming fall season.

Plunk said that one of her favorite

on-campus

fall

activi-

weather,”

Monaco

“Pumpkin spice lattes are pop-

environmental looking

forward

biking ing

science

the

to

major, going

is trail

agement

then

and

information

destroying

them

afterward.

ular for a reason,” Monaco said.

“It’s a good excuse to hang out

Other students, like Plunk, would

with friends and do an activi-

agree with this sentiment. Plunk said

ty you don’t get to do otherwise,”

that one of her favorite things to do

Smith

during fall is to get seasonal drinks

Although fall weather and ac-

with her friends and shop at the mall.

tivities are exciting to many GCSU

Seasonal Monaco

menus and

like

the

Plunk

said.

one

students, some have pointed out

mentioned

things about summer that they

frequently

include

varieties

of

will miss as the seasons change.

pumpkin

spice,

spiced

ap-

“At the end of fall it gets cold

and

cinnamon-fla-

ple,

maple

vored drinks during the fall season.

Some

activities

and

tradi-

son. Aiden Armstrong, a freshman

freshman

psychology

prefer

warmer

able

to

wear

Milledgeville

still

shorts.” has

feel

more

like

temperatures

fall,

for her yearly rewatch of “It’s the

80

to

degrees

90

with to

be with all my friends,” Smith said.

“I don’t like the summer weather.”

Monaco also said that the end of summer isn’t sad because fall is a new experience and summer will come again next year.

Whether

students

are

holding

on to the last remnants of summer or are ready to move on to fall, the upcoming season will bring change to on-and off-campus life at GCSU.

be

Fahrenheit.

Brown”

Other students may miss different aspects of summer. Arm-

cooler

weather.

“My family always watches the

strong said that she’ll miss the

freedom and a way to see the

“I get to come back to campus and

ear-

and “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” and

and returning to the GCSU campus.

high

enjoy-

Halloween

fall weather means a new semester

some

through projected

Peanuts

ning of fall. For students like Smith,

time to go until it will begin to

October

Charlie

weather,”

Plunk said. “And I’ll miss being

ly

Pumpkin,

is

I

excited

Great

major,

and

and

“I like that it gives you some

While some students may miss

carving pumpkins with friends,

tivities to do during the season. a

said.

nity to get outside and enjoy the area.

tions are exclusive to the fall sea-

Monaco,

fall,”

ers are more excited about the begin-

out their favorite off-campus acCosmo

Armstrong

the

tems major, is looking forward to

seasonal drinks like these in September.

pointed

during

Monaco, fall can bring an opportu-

changing colors of the leaves. also

get

summer weather and freedom, oth-

ties is to sit outside and enjoy the students

don’t

sys-

a coffee shop. For students like

Coffee shops typically start offering

Other

you

Thanks-

freedom she had during the summer.

giving specials around this time,”

“You get so much more time

Jayden Lewis | Art Director

9 09.15.2026

JAMES CORDERO, OUTREACH & STUDENT LIFE EDITOR

OUTREACH & STUDENT LIFE

Questions With Cathy

The Colonnade’s Monthly Meeting With President Cox return to the newspaper.

write all the time,” Cox

Eventually, Cox ran for

cover

“I was so embar-

said. “I thought lawyers

state governor and lost.

lege, but I use bits and

murder scenes,” Cox said.

rassed to be that igno-

just talked and argued,

That loss left her avail-

dent Cathy Cox in some

pieces of all three degrees

Cox was so dedicated

able for the presidency

way or another: either as

every week,” Cox said.

to finding the best an-

of Young Harris College,

gle and being up close

where she turned it from

in the action that she

a two-year to a four-year

went through training

school and introduced

to be a certified vol-

herself to the world

unteer firefighter. She

of

James Cordero

never thought about do-

partments out into the

Outreach Editor

ing when I was in col-

countryside

Students know Presi-

simply the president of

Cox

didn’t

know

to

Georgia College & State

what she wanted to do

University or the south-

when she went into col-

ern selfie-taking former

lege, but her love for

Secretary of State. What

plants led her to first

many students may not

major in agriculture, fo-

know, however, is that

cusing on horticulture.

she is a strained volun-

After her first degree,

teer firefighter and hor-

Cox majored in jour-

ticulturist who tries to

nalism and got a job

use her connections to

working for a newspa-

help Baldwin County.

per in Gainesville. Cox

Cox obtained three

was tasked with follow-

warm and kept me pro-

degrees earlier in her

ing first responders to

tected so I could get clos-

Study things that interest you, because those interests will open doors for you...

-Cathy Cox

higher

education.

wanted to understand

“I lost,” Cox said. “And

the actual work of fire-

it was the best thing

fighters and get up close

to ever happen to me.”

After

and personal to the fire.

10

years

at

“I got turnout gear,

Young Harris and spend-

the equipment firefight-

ing some time back at

ers wear that keeps them

Mercer, Cox came to

protected, which kept me

GCSU,

enamored

by

Selfie with President Cox | James Cordero

the liberal arts experi-

rant of the law,” Cox

but then I found out

ence. She has used her

er to a fire and get bet-

said. “That’s why I decid-

lawyers write, and I love

education and connec-

ter pictures,” Cox said.

ed to go to law school,

to write, so I became

tions to help the school,

Cox covered not only

and I thought I would

a

lawyer.”

the city and the county.

on-scene action but also

go back to the paper.”

After moving back

“My experience is not

court cases relating to

Cox fell in love with

home to southern Geor-

abnormal for students

She

being a lawyer after

gia, Cox was the first and

today who are going to

was lost in the court-

spending some time in

only practicing female

change jobs so many

room; she knew almost

school and learning what

lawyer in 13 counties

times, but still students

nothing about the law

lawyers actually do. Af-

and took many jobs as

stress about what they are

criminal

activity.

practicing

life: agriculture, jour-

scenes like car crashes,

or the legal process.

ter school, she started

a family lawyer before

going to major in or their

nalism and law and

murders, fires and any

She had to ask the

practicing law at a firm

moving into politics. Lat-

first job as if it’s going to

finds ways to use all of

other criminal activity.

judge or an attorney for

in Atlanta, where she

er, she was elected Geor-

be their job for life,” Cox

them in her job as Pres-

“Every day and night,

help understanding what

learned how to do ev-

gia’s first secretary of

said. “It’s okay to stress,

ident of a university.

I had to sleep with a po-

was happening. Ashamed

erything before moving

state, where she built her

but study things that in-

“I’m doing things to-

lice scanner and follow

of her ignorance, Cox

back to her hometown.

connections and even

terest you, because those

day that I would have

police and sheriff ’s de-

went to law school to

“I got to law school

set up electronic vot-

interests will open doors

earn another degree and

and found out lawyers

ing systems in Georgia.

for you in the future.”

What Makes Milledgeville: The Ham-Man James Cordero Outreach Editor Hamilton Sule is a

sources he could use.

influenced a lot by; art-

and stardom, Sule makes

“I’ve always wanted

ists like Mac Miller or

school his top priori-

Chance

Rapper.”

ty. He is genuinely pas-

to make music, but I’ve

the

sophomore business ma-

just never had the ini-

Sule uploaded his first

sionate about his mu-

jor at Georgia College &

tiative,” Sule said. “Until

video on April 18, 2026,

sic and uses it to find a

State University, but stu-

I found out there was a

and his social media

stable balance between

dents are more likely to

recording booth in the

page has been growing

both

library and decided to

ever since. With over

“I don’t consider music

20 thousand likes and

to be a chore or difficult;

250

views,

I really do have a pas-

Sule finds himself being

sion for it which makes

recognized

constantly.

[balancing both lives]

ating his family-friendly

“It’s a crazy feeling,”

much easier,” Sule said.

rap about Milledgeville

Sule said. “Last semester

Sule is in the process

and all of Georgia, try-

I couldn’t go anywhere

of working on more

ing to speak on his own

without

recog-

tracks for the Deep Roots

personal

experience.

nized or someone want-

Festival, but to find his

recognize him by his alCourtesy of Hamilton Sule

ter ego and social media

he came to Milledgeville

tend to be a rapper’,

make music on a whim.”

name: Ham-Man. After

for school, he thought

and then people started

Ham-Man takes in-

starting to release music

he would pretend to be

in the spring semester of

a rapper as a joke, but

2026, this Milledgeville

as time passed, he found

rapper and social me-

himself becoming the

dia celebrity amassed

character

he

created.

taking it seriously. So now it’s kind of hard to separate the character from my personal life.”

Sule had a passion

spiration

from

many

2010s artists when cre-

thousand

of

his

worlds.

a large fan base while

“Ham-Man is just a

reaching over 250 thou-

character I made as a

sand views on TikTok.

joke,” Sule said. “So, I

but hadn’t created any-

“Think of it as chill

ing to take a picture.”

old works, students can

Sule grew up around

thought, ‘let me try to

thing until he came to

rap,” Sule said. “Rap

To focus on the bal-

find him on TikTok un-

Metro Atlanta, and when

make a song and pre-

GCSU and found re-

from the 2010s is what

for music all his life

ance

being

between

school

der the name Ham-Man.

10 JANE CARR, MANAGING EDITOR

09.15.2026

The Caterwaul CATERWAUL: a shrill howling or wailing noise like that of a cat; commonly associated with a bobcat

“When I walk by” By: James Cordero Keys, Id, an explanation…

My grandparents, my uncles, my “cousins”

All things I make sure I have when I see a police officer

People that came before me,

Keep your head down, walk with purpose, pretend

Who taught me to be the man I am.

Like you belong…

Who reminded me…

Thoughts I have when I pass a black and white My melanin marks my skin But that doesn’t mean they can stand above me that doesn’t mean I don’t belong…

What I have to tell myself every morning I walk the streets…

Seeing people who told me I wasn’t enough Who taught me to hate the texture of my hair, the shape of my nose, and the size of my lips.

Seeing people who know what happens to a dream deferred.

Be loud, make yourself known, don’t ever let your head fall.

Don’t let them forget where you come from.

Remember the people who raised you, Who fed you black eye peas and collard greens, Remember what they mean: Thoughts that I refuse to forget.

Thoughts that echo with my ancestors.

Thoughts I wish every brown and black child had.

Thoughts they want us to forget .

A message from the Colonnade staff On behalf of The Colonnade staff we would like to present our submission column, “The Caterwaul.” This is an opportunity for students to share their poetry, flash fiction, photography, drawing, comic strips and more. We are extremely excited to give students more of a place in the paper and for their creativity to be acknowledged and published. We encourage any and all students to reach out and ask questions. In the spirit of GCSU’s mascot, Thunder, the name of this column takes inspiration from all that is a bobcat. Caterwauling is the noise bobcats make often, and that is what The Colonnade intends to do with this column: make noise with your voice.

Interested in submitting?

If you are interested in submitting your work to be featured in The Caterwaul, consider this general info!

1. The content relates to or is catered toward GCSU students.

2. Your specific piece has not been published anywhere else.

3. Examples of submissions include; Photography, drawing, flash fiction, comic strips, poetry and more!

Follow our instagram @thecolonnade or scan the QR code

4. Submissions are due on Fridays to be included in the following Issue.