Issue 3 | Volume 106

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University September 30, 2025

Single Copies Free

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BOBCAT INSIDER: SCOTT MACLEOD 2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

GCSU’s favorite fall drinks Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor

Seasonal drinks have made their way back to campus and students are lining up to get their hands on the first pumpkin spice latte of the season. For many, the start of fall is not marked by cooler temperatures or changing

leaves,

but

by the release of these long-awaited

drinks.

“There is lots of hype happening when the

Courtesy of GCSU Atheletics

Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor There are two essential parts to every sports broadcast in 2025: the visual, which allows us to watch our team on the field, and the audio, more importantly, the commentary provided by the broadcaster.

Scott

MacLeod,

who

has

earned the title “Voice of the Bobcats,” has been a crucial part

fall drinks come out. I

lamazoo, Michigan, while I was still

game; however, MacLeod has a

going to college at Western Michi-

much more humble approach

gan University,” MacLeod said. “I

toward his broadcast beginnings.

moved down here to Milledgeville

“It was in September when we

in 1977 and began broadcasting

came down here,” MacLeod said.

tape-delayed football because it

“That was my first-ever play-

said Rhianna Jenkins,

by-play experience. I was awful.

a

was a daytime-only radio station.”

Producers of Bobcats athletics recognize the seamless flow of MacLeod’s broadcasting, as if he’s

of GCSU athletics since 1978.

comfortably engaging in conver-

“I started broadcasting in Ka-

sation with the viewer during the

feel like there have been longer lines and I’ve seen more people walking around with drinks,” freshman

elemen-

I mean, terrible. It was no

tary education major.

fun. I’m glad I had a couple of

Some students even

good people to help guide me

admit they are one of

through it and get me started.”

the first in line when the

See MACLEOD | Page 4

fall menus are released.

“I am definitely part of

the population that waits for the fall drinks to drop and orders it the day of,” said Karly Hartzheim, a senior biology major.

Whether it is pumpkin spice, apple, maple, pecan or even chai-flavored, students say there is a certain cozy vibe that these drinks bring when sipped on the way to class or studying in the library.

“Sipping on a fall drink while on campus really makes me remember that there’s more than just the stress of class happening,” Jenkins said. “Even after studying, making that quick drive to 7 Brew or tarbucks, the coffee always hits differently. It’s like a little treat after being tortured with work.”

See FALL DRINKS| Page 7

Federal policy changes for international students Kate Hollowell

Contributing Writer Recent federal policy changes have brought heightened scrutiny to international

students

through

delays,

visa

stricter monitoring and unexpected

denials.

While GCSU has not reported a significant drop

in

international

student enrollment this semester, other schools around the nation, such as

Harvard

Universi-

the

national

climate.

and J-1 visa applicants.

“The situation is defi-

F-1 visas are issued

nitely scary for all non-

to academic students,

U.S. citizens, but it has

M-1 visas to vocational

not impacted my expe-

students and J-1 visas to

rience personally,” said

participants in cultur-

Sam Samiya, a sopho-

al exchange programs.

more data science major.

Applicants are now re-

“This situation is not in

quired to set their social

our control, so all inter-

media profiles to public

national students I know

before interviews. Offi-

are focusing on what

cials defend the policy

they can control: keeping

as necessary to protect

up with their studies.”

national security, though

According to the U.S.

universities nationwide

State Department, the

have

expressed

con-

ty and Arizona State

new visa process in-

cern about the effect

University,

have

seen

cludes

expanded

vet-

on student enrollment.

changes.

The

GCSU

ting

and

mandatory

At GCSU, the Interna-

campus is therefore feel-

social

media

screen-

tional Education Center

ing the ripple effects of

ings for all F-1, M-1

(IEC) serves as the main

Julia Jensen | Art Director

resource for internation-

offers advising, academ-

al students. The center

ic support and com-

munity

programming.

See POLICY | Page 3

NEWS | PG. 2

SPORTS | PG. 4

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7

OPINION & MISC. | PG. 8

Georgia implents new laws against the drug Seven Hydroxy.

How important is baseball and softball pitching to the game?

A new season of the hit show Dancing with the Stars kicks off.

A deep dive into parasocial relationships.

IS SEVEN HYDROXY SAFE?

PITCHING AS AN ART

DANCING WITH THE STARS NEW SEASON

PARASOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS

2

AMELIA MCEWEN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA TYLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.30.2025

NEWS

Unregulated drug prescence in Georgia Sophia Abad Contributing Writer

Seven Hydroxy is becoming increasingly popular due to claims that it can boost energy and minimize pain, however, the state of Georgia is beginning to implement laws designed to make

them, others are not yet

7-Hydroxymitragynine

at gas stations, and they

ing access to Seven Hy-

ties to traditional opioids.

aware of the drug and the

works by binding to

are an energy supple-

droxy include: labeling

According to the Ad-

risks that come with it.

opioid receptors and is

ment, but not much

requirements, controlled

vanced Opioid Depen-

“I have never heard

metabolized in the liver,

else,” said Zoey Hoop-

display and concentra-

dency

of Seven Hydroxy,” said

which creates more se-

er, a sophomore mass

tion limits. Violations

“Research indicates that

Abby Lowrey, a sopho-

vere psychoactive effects.

communication

major.

of the KCPA can lead

7-OH is approximately

more marketing major.

Archstone Behavior-

Hooper represents a

to either misdemeanor

comment

al Health, an addiction

demographic of GCSU’s

fines or, in more severe

highlights the unaware-

treatment and mental

student population that

cases,

Lowrey’s

felony

charges.

Hydroxy,

Clinic,

13-46 times more potent than morphine as an analgesic (pain reliever).”

Evidence

the drug less accessible.

Seven

(ANR)

indicates

or

that regular consump-

7-OH, has been a topic

tion may lead the user

of debate due to growing

to develop a depen-

evidence that the sub-

dency,

stance can cause depen-

withdrawal

dency and withdrawal.

symptoms.

Hydroxy primarily on

native to Southeast Asia “kratom.”

causing

“I have seen Seven

It comes from a plant

called

thus

TikTok,” said Val Pe-

The

laez, a sophomore po-

plant is used by indige-

litical

nous people, who chew

science

major.

Some students have

their leaves to man-

come across TikToks in

age pain, boost energy

which the creator urges

and minimize fatigue.

Amelia McEwen | News Editor

viewers to be cautious

Recently, in the Unit-

ness of this drug in rela-

health center, explains

knows of the supplement

ed States, kratom has

tion to college students.

that

withdrawal

but is not fully aware of

companies must include

been sold in tablets or

On

hand,

symptoms of Seven Hy-

its addictive elements.

information

capsules found in gro-

some students are aware

droxy mimic those of

Although Seven Hy-

serving size and limit-

cery stores and gas sta-

of Seven Hydroxy be-

traditional opioid with-

droxy is not yet federally

ing the concentration of

tions. Despite the sim-

cause of social media.

drawal. They list physical

regulated, Georgia has

7-Hydroxymintragynine

ilarities it shares with

According to the Uni-

symptoms, such as mus-

put in place the Kratom

in the product, Georgia

opioids, it has not yet

versity of Virginia School

cle aches, nausea, vomit-

Consumer

Protection

is making the drug less

reinforces the impor-

been federally regulated.

of

Kratom

ing and tremors. Psycho-

Act (KCPA) to narrow

accessible. The state is

tance of regulating sub-

While some students

contains 7-Hydroxymi-

logical symptoms include

the reach of the drug.

taking the first steps in

stances, even those that

at GCSU are noticing

tragynine, an alkaloid

anxiety,

depression,

Aspects of the KCPA

minimizing the nega-

are newer and have only

the prevalence of the

that is responsible for

cravings and irritability.

designed to protect those

tive effects of a drug that

recently begun to show

Seven Hydroxy around

the effects of the plant.

“I know they sell them

under 21 from gain-

bears so many similari-

harmful

the

other

Medicine,

the

VOLUME 106 | NO. 3

Editorial Board

Mary Ciucevich.............. Editor in Chief Rylee Holland.................. Managing Editor Julia Jensen...................... Art Director Amelia McEwen............ News Editor Emma Tyler....................... Asst. News Editor Benjamin Clark............... Sports Editor Bryan Cade....................... Asst. Sports Editor Kate Walker...............

Walker.......................Arts & Life Editor Sydney Williams.............Asst. Arts & Life Editor Molly Goff......................... Opinion Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Reaghan Shehee............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.

By

@TheColonnade

enforcing

that

regarding

of the brands advertising the product, while others attempt to assure viewers that Seven Hydroxy is safe to consume.

The state of Georgia

consequences.

@TheColonnade

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3

AMELIA MCEWEN, NEWS EDITOR EMMA TYLER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

09.30.2025

NEWS

POLICY

well beyond their time at GCSU.

tional Club is also helpful, as senior in-

dents regardless of the guidelines.

Continued from page 1

The IEC also provides immigration

ternational students provide guidance

Nationally, universities have warned

“What I can say is that we are un-

guidance for students on both J-1 and

that makes the transition much easier.”

that these policy shifts could discour-

sure of where enrollment will go in

F-1 visas. Wynn detailed that the office

For other GCSU students, the

age future international enrollment,

the future,” said Jason Wynn, assistant

keeps students informed of national

presence

director of International Student and

policy changes, directs them to official

adds to the richness of campus life.

resources such as the Study in the States

“I’ve had international students

website and offers personalized support

in my government classes, and they

to help them understand how the poli-

bring in perspectives about their

cies apply to their individual situations.

own governments and systems,” said

For many international students, that

Mia Simmons, a sophomore polit-

support has been crucial. Samiya de-

ical science major and history mi-

scribed how the IEC, along with the In-

nor. “It brings a lot of diversity of

ternational Club, helps students adjust

thought, which is really beneficial.”

to campus life and deal with uncertainty.

Despite fears about stricter visa

Scholar Services. “Many students, especially those here during their first year or semester, face homesickness and troubles with cultural adjustment. To offer support, we talk to students oneon-one, encourage them to become a part of the international club and pair them with families through our office.”

According to Wynn, Connections

“We have our international office,

families are local families who vol-

of

international

peers

with consequences for both higher education and the broader economy. At GCSU, faculty and students alike say the focus remains on protecting community and connection.

As federal rules continue to evolve, GCSU’s

international

community

is adapting by leaning on each other and on the support offered by the university. Whether future restric-

she

tions will impact enrollment remains

also known as the Bone House, which

does not expect GCSU’s commu-

unclear, but for now, internation-

unteer to support international stu-

has advisors who help us with any issues

nity to shrink and adds that the US

al students at GCSU are working

dents, often building bonds that last

we face,” Samiya said. “The Interna-

will always have international stu-

to stay grounded in their studies.

enforcement,

Simmons

said

College student Trey Reed Murder-Suicide on found hanging from a tree Pritchard Street Emma Tyler Asst. News Editor Demartravion “Trey” Reed was found hanging from a tree on Delta State University’s (DSU) campus, causing an uproar from people who largely expressed their concerns on social media.

21-year-old African American student Trey Reed’s death was described in the police report as a suicide, which was later confirmed by the state medical examiner. People remain uncertain whether this autopsy result is true

not completely accurate and do not make sense.

“Colin Kaepernick offering to pay for that private autopsy is the best next step forward for Trey Reed to rest in peace and for his family to get the proper closure they need. This will be done in such a way where they can fully trust the person giving them that information,” said Fehti Ambekia, a Massachussetts resident.

The campus on which his body was found is a majority white campus and resides only 30 miles from a site associated

Delta State University Flag

as many flood social media to share their thoughts on the matter.

Social media users reported that his limbs were broken, indicating that his death was not influenced by himself; the autopsy report stated otherwise. There were no signs of lacerations, contusions, broken bones or anything of the sort according to Bolivar County Coroner Randolph Seals Jr. Reed’s family is seeking an independent autopsy upon learning this news, feeling as though the answers are

with the 1955 lynching of Emmett Till. Mississippi’s history of lynching and racial discrimination against African Americans provoked angst within many people upon learning the nature of Reed’s death.

“It just seems like it’s always a mystery around people of color’s death, especially in this country.

It’s just that a lot of things get covered up,” said Maggie Howard, a senior psychology student.

Many reject the ruling of this suicide by grounding their reasoning in the historical con-

text of racial violence.

“Black men don’t hang themselves, period. Even though mental health is very taboo within the black community, that is not a way someone would choose to go out, especially considering the history of lynchings in the South,” Ambekia said.

Furthermore, this case instills fear in many students across different campuses because of its strange nature.

The uncertainty about the autopsy results and the state in which he was found upon his death causes fear to dwell in people who attend college classes.

“It’s disheartening to hear such an event has happened and it kind of makes me scared,” Ambekia said. “I used to go to college in the South and it was a true culture shock for me. And coming back up to Massachusetts, I honestly feel a lot safer, especially with how political violence has been on an uprise,” Ambekia said.

In terms of change for the African American community, many GCSU students feel at a loss for improvement considering the racially discriminatory history and actions that still prevail in 2025.

They feel as though things are not improving when news such as this case comes to light.

“I fear things like this will never change.

Not in our lifetime, [even though] we really thought we [would] be the change for it,” Howard said.

Lucy Nunez Staff Writer The Milledgeville Police Department recently announced a murder-suicide on Pritchard Street in Milledgeville, Georgia saying man shot and killed a woman before taking his own life.

Police responded to the scene and found their bodies mid-afternoon. Upon further investigation, detectives found that 36-year-old Tavious Antwon Spencer shot Lashonda Lawrence in a Milledgeville home between the times of 7 a.m. and noon on Sept. 11, 2025.

Although there is not much detail about this case, police continue to investigate and plan to release more information at a later date.

“I am a Milledgeville resident, and on Sept.

11, my parents told me about the murder-suicide on Pritchard Street,” said Gianna Zoeller, a junior mass communications major. “We had a brief conversation covering news articles they found online describing what the detectives saw. It was reported that the police encountered previous issues with Spencer prior to this instance. Milledgeville police deputies speculate Spencer had a mental illness that further initiated his actions, but do not know his exact motive.

“I am interning with the GCSU sheriffs which is separate from the Milledgeville Police Department, however the sheriffs have told me that Spencer had quit his job the day

Reagan Shehee | Digital Media Director

before the murder and that he most likely had a mental illness,” said Sarah Crowder, a junior criminal justice major.

“It’s really depressing and sad to hear how common murders are everywhere; but especially in the state of Georgia.”

Milledgeville police are currently not looking for any suspects and say there is no threat to the public. However, they recognize the concern from residents and the rise of crime reported in the city.

The Milledgeville Police Department Facebook page attracted the majority of Milledgeville residents’ attention about the Pritchard Street murder-suicide. A post updating the public on the case on Sept. 11 brought many comments expressing concern and condolences as well.

“It’s so sad. Too much violence and killing. Prayers for those families,” said Charlotte Nolan Barber, a Milledgeville local.

Spencer and Lawrence’s bodies are currently being autopsied

at the GBI Crime Lab in Macon, Georgia.

“Hopefully police will find more information.” said Abigail Henson, a freshman marketing major. “I normally drive through Pritchard Street and have always thought it was a quiet street. Hearing about the murder-suicide makes me feel shaken.”

The Milledgeville Police Department are continuing to investigate the murder-suicide on Pritchard Street and urge the public to give them any information about the case as they work through interviews and medical examinations. In general, they recommend reporting all suspicious activity to keep Milledgeville safe and aware.

Some of the public believes Spencer and Lawrence’s case is linked to mental health issues and lack of help.

“It is important that the public recognize the signs of mental distress and help an individual in any way they can,” said Meghan Kay, a senior psychology major.

4

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

09.30.2025

SPORTS MACLEOD Continued from page 1

There’s always an adjustment period for many announcers. To come in from Michigan, all the way to Milledgeville, and become an announcer for multiple sports, while still being humble about his performance, is still a difficult task to accomplish within your first few years of moving.

“Then that following spring in 1978 was when I first started doing baseball,” MacLeod said. “We were able to do those games live. I was

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics

athlete.

GCSU Hall of Fame players and future

was simple, but effective for the shock-

I remember her getting the record

potential Hall of Fame-level athletes.

ing event, stating, “Etter—baseball Pass.

for most points. That was it, Pembroke,

a year, maybe two, it was before the

Half-court shot. He got it!” Broadcast-

up in the crow’s nest, watching her. It

bleachers were there—it was just a

ers, at least those inducted into the Hall

had a bird’s-eye view, seeing her hit

hill, and Coach Kurtz put a platform

of Fame, such as MacLeod, manage

that free throw and break the record.”

for me to broadcast from. Probably to

the balance between speaking in depth

Being the “Voice of the Bobcats” for

keep me away from making so much

about a subject and keeping it simple.

so long has given MacLeod numerous

noise and distracting everybody.”

MacLeod has mastered the balance.

opportunities to witness the develop-

In the previous season, MacLeod

“Shantayana Keys is going into

ment of Georgia College & State Univer-

to do it, to continue to allow me to

made a call on an impressive half-court

the Hall of Fame,” MacLeod said.

sity around him. Seeing many different

do it, and I guess I’ll keep doing it.”

broadcasting from right behind the backstop at Kurtz Field. After about

shot made by James Nichols III. The call

“Great

person,

excellent

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep saying it,” MacLeod said. “I’m blessed to be able to broadcast the Bobcats. I really do believe this is one of the things I was put on the Earth for.

I don’t know why, but I was allowed

The art of pitching Bryan Cade

ing peak velocity of about

Asst. Sports Editor Pitching wins championships. It is invaluable how a good pitching staff can propel a team to the top; however, the importance of having a good pitching staff also hinges on selecting the right pitcher for

98 miles per hour and above.

Besides that, we’ve seen the invention of new pitches, such as the “splinker,” which became popular with Pittsburgh Pirates phenom Paul Skenes, the “sweeper,” which is making

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics, Photo by McKinsey Lewis

the job. This is where baseball

its way to many pitchers’ rep-

coming until the breaking ball

in themselves, and they think

to say, “So what, next pitch.”

goes from checkers to chess.

ertoires, such as Shohei Ohtani

dips away from the bat. Wil-

the coaching staff doesn’t

When many watch the sport

While every pitcher is as-

of the Los Angeles Dodgers and

liam Arthur “Candy” Cum-

have confidence in them.

of baseball, they often analyze

signed the same position when

Carlos Rodon of the New York

mings is credited with creating

So it’s definitely a balancing

a pitcher by looking directly

they step onto the baseball

Yankees. The newest addition

the curveball, the first breaking

act when it comes to dealing

at their velocity or the specific

diamond, every single pitch-

to pitch types is the brand-

ball, debuting the pitch in 1867

with the players’ emotions.”

pitch a pitcher throws, such as

er has unique qualities that

new

which

after tossing seashells and see-

Pitching, at times, can be

a curve or a slider. Still, it can

allow them to do their job. In

Clay Holmes, a newly imple-

ing how they moved in the air.

seen as the loneliest position in

recent years, Major League

mented starting pitcher for

It is an art that pitchers work

sports. Having a bad inning on

day in and day out to perfect;

the mound can be detrimen-

however, not only is it essential

tal to a pitcher’s confidence.

for the pitchers to know their

“What I tell our guys, if we

limits on the mound, but it is

are processed driven and we

also essential for the manager

are consistent on that day in

to know not only the physi-

and day out, the results take

cal, but also the mental state

care of themselves,” Pelkey

of their pitcher on the mound.

said. “There’s going to be days

“The best managers, the

where you’re you’re feeling

best head coaches, they do

great, your stuff ’s very good,

it before it gets bad,” said Jeff

but then the umpire is going

Pelkey, head coach of the Bob-

to squeeze you on a pitch.”

“kick-change,”

Baseball and its lower divi-

the New York Mets, reinvent-

sions have seen those same

ed his pitching ideology for.

qualities become even more

While fastballs are exciting,

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics, Photo by McKinsey Lewis

also be seen that not only is the effectiveness and quality of the pitches that a pitcher has essential, but the mental capacity and confidence in that stuff seem to be even more critical to a pitcher’s performance.

Pitching wins championships, after all, and having the ability to trust in your pitcher, not only on the mound, but also in the bullpen, is crucial for a team’s success.

that

“If you want to go deep in

ultimate goal: how can we

pitchers need to have a pro-

a playoff run or win a lot of

cats baseball team. “That’s the

Pelkey

explained

prevalent. A large percentage

it is the pitches the pitchers mix

make sure we’re pulling the

cess-driven

and

baseball games, you can’t just

of pitchers’ fastballs sit around

in with their fastball to “tun-

trigger too soon or too late.

sometimes things may not go

rely on a handful of pitch-

or over 95 miles per hour,

nel” the batter’s vision, making

If you constantly pull guys

their way. However, one of

ers,” Pelkey said. “You gotta

with a large percentage reach-

it seem like another fastball is

too early, they lose confidence

the best ways to look at it is

have you gotta have a staff.”

mindset,

5

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

09.30.2025

SPORTS

UFC Spotlight: Canelo V. Crawford Benjamin Clark

ly good fight. From the opening bell, it was

Sports Editor

clear that this would be a war of attrition.

On Sep. 13, 2025, the boxing spotlight con-

“I was surprised it went the full 12 rounds,”

verged in Las Vegas, where a crowd of more than

said Dhillon Staples, a sophomore account-

70,000 fans witnessed a historic showdown be-

ing major. “I expected a knockout within five

tween Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez and Terrence Crawford.

or six. After the fight, I definitely respect Craw-

The power of the fighters and the narrative

ford much more, I mean I don’t watch much box-

leading up is what made the clash truly remark-

ing, but I’ve always respected Canelos legacy.”

able. Canelo, a long established legend of the

Crawford fought the entire match southpaw

boxing world, came into the fight as the undis-

(primarily left handed), using sharp jabs and con-

puted super-middleweight champion. Crawford

trolled footwork to keep Canelo guessing. Canelo

stepped into the middleweight league rather re-

attempted to assert his physicality early, attacking

cently, accepting the challenge for the UFC title.

Crawford with mixed hooks and a stalwart defense.

Throughout the buildup and hype around the

For a brief period in the fourth and fifth

fight, Crawford pushed for the fight aggressive-

rounds, Canelo had pushed the balance of pow-

ly on social media and in his training. He report-

er with a sharp punch, briefly stunning Craw-

edly declined concessions from the UFC, insisting

ford

before

he

could

establish

a

counter.

Ben Clark | Sports Editor

ford’s victory, Canelo’s resolute record held firm, creating a very split divide on who might take the title.

“I believed in Crawford before the fight, and he didn’t disappoint,” said senior finance major Brett

to meet Canelo on his terms, according to ESPN.

The pivoting point of the fight came in round six.

Canelo’s weight and size advantage made him

Crawford, while bruised, still stood firm, landing effec-

the favorite on paper, and many expected that

tive inside shots and connecting a clean hook to Cane-

his strength and power would carry him through

lo’s chin that caused an opening for further attacks.

the fight. Notably, Crawford’s ambition, in tan-

Round 9 featured an escalation when a clash of

dem with his storied record at lower weight class-

heads opened a cut over Crawford’s eye; even so,

es, made this more than a rematch, but a po-

he responded by landing a crisp combination and

tential passing of the super-middleweight title.

engaging in an aggressive exchange with Canelo.

can outweigh pure size or strength. Many agree that

beat-

In the later rounds, Crawford’s control tightened.

Crawford’s composure under pressure and his abil-

ing Canelo, he became the first male box-

He had outpaced Canelo, often trading freely with-

ity to absorb Canelo’s powerful blows all underline

er in the modern era to win undisputed cham-

out showing signs of fatigue or hesitation. In round

why his victory is not just an upset, but a masterclass.

pionships

classes.

eleven, Crawford outlasted Canelo decisively, while

However, questions in the boxing community

The long-dominant force of Canelo Alvarez

the following round displayed a closing flurry from

remain. At age 37, many argue that Crawford will

now walked away without a title. In his remarks

Crawford, resulting in the sounding of the final horn.

end his career holding the undisputed super-mid-

after the fight, he admitted he could not “figure

The judges rendered a unanimous decision:

dleweight status. Many also ask whether Cane-

out” Crawford’s Style, according to MMA Mania.

116-112, 115-113, 115-113, all in Crawford’s favor.

lo can adjust and reinvent himself after this fight,

While many in the boxing world predicted Craw-

or if his loss has shifted the balance in the sport.

Crawford’s

victory

in

However,

three

was

historic;

different

Canelo

put

in

weight

up

an

extreme-

Peterson. “His ring IQ, combinations and ability to adapt mid-fight made the difference. Canelo’s legacy is solid, but I think this result raises real questions about whether he’s past his peak.”

This bout will be studied in boxing as an example of how skill, timing, footwork and adaptability

Zaxbys Player of the Week: Evan Rehrauer Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor Senior

men’s

cross

country

runner

Evan

Rehrauer opened up his season with an impressive start, winning Zaxby’s Player of the Week,

the Bobcat Invitational.

and we have a big second

to do them properly.”

group that sticks togeth-

“I’m excited to go

er during the workout,

compete and run well

was getting up and was

so it’s great to see them

at conference, as it’s our

walking,” said Rehrau-

grow out there and put

home course,” Rehrauer

er. “I thought, ‘Oh, I

together a win at UNG.”

said. “Going to defend

actually just did that.’ I

In the past few years,

the home turf. Over the

“​​ It wasn’t till about 30 seconds later when I

see all the hard work that

a freshman men’s cross

he put in over the sum-

country athlete. “For the

actually just won. I was

GCSU’s

cross-country

last three years, I have

extremely excited in the

team has drawn large

not been able to put to-

days that followed, and

freshman classes, with

gether a strong region-

it was really cool. I won

both the men’s and wom-

al race, and I’m feeling

the race, but it’s just one

en’s teams bringing in a

confident this year that I

step in our season. We

combined 15 freshman

can produce one that will

Rehrauer won the in-

have much bigger fish

athletes. Leadership is

be really good for me.”

dividual title at the UNG

to fry coming later this

always necessary, espe-

Since winning Zaxby’s

Invitational,

capturing

season. So I won’t lin-

cially for large first-year

Player of the Week, Reh-

the 8K race on the UNG

ger on it for too long.”

courses like this one.

rauer finished 44th out of

course

Not only did Reh-

“I would say he leads

116th, with a 29:06.0 in

with a new personal

rauer add to his list of

a lot more by exam-

the 8K at the Bobcat Invi-

best of 26:25.1, six sec-

individual

accomplish-

ple than anything,” said

tational in Milledgeville,

onds faster than the next

ments, but he also led

Noah Boys, a senior

helping GCSU to finish

nearest competitor in

the Bobcats to the team

men’s cross country ath-

2nd out of 13 on the new

the race. Rehrauer’s ac-

title. It was the first team

lete. “He’s one of those

Bobcat Cross Country

complishment is the first

title for GCSU since the

people who steps into

Course on Friday, Sep.

time a GCSU cross coun-

team won the Border

the role, naturally. By

26. Men’s Cross Coun-

try athlete won an indi-

Clash at the Winthrop

doing things, by getting

try returns Oct. 10 in

vidual title since Quil-

Invitational at the begin-

out there, and showing

Charolotte, North Caro-

lian Holland captured

ning of the 2017 season.

people how to do things

lina at the Royals Cross

the award in 2021 at

“It was really great to

and what to do, and how

Country

while helping the team start on the right foot and set a new personal best at the University of North Georgia Cross Country

cross

Invitational.

country

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics , Photo by Elizabeth Smith

mer, as well as the payoff

team, it’s been great. We

with the start to this sea-

have a great group of guys

son,” said Jack Aurelia,

that came in as freshmen,

Challenge.

6

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

09.30.2025

ARTS & LIFE

Fighting the Flu: vaccine clinics at GCSU keeps it from becom-

is very contagious, so

sized that choosing to

vention (CDC) recom-

ing severe,” Griffin said.

whenever there is an

get a flu shot protects the

mends that everyone six

standing is how long the

While students might

outbreak, you have an

overall community, espe-

months and older, espe-

virus takes to be effec-

On Wednesday, Sept.

originally miss a whole

increased immunity if

cially those who are more

cially those at higher risk

tive, as students may get

24, the GCSU School of

week of classes, those

you choose to get your

at risk of catching the flu

of complications, receive

vaccinated but still catch

who are vaccinated often

flu shot,” When someone

or having complications

a flu vaccine every sea-

the flu shortly afterward.

have milder symptoms,

receives the vaccine, it

should they get infected.

son. However, the CDC’s

“I tell the students that

missing just a day or two.

introduces weakened or

“It also helps pro-

Besides reducing the se-

inactive viruses direct-

Kate Walker A&L Editor

Nursing and Department of Public Health hosted a flu vaccination clinic at the Make-a-Wish Fountain on Main Campus, offering

students

tect

your

communi-

Another

misunder-

for

come in to get the flu shot,

Health Statistics report-

okay, it’ll take two weeks

National

Center

for you to be fully armed

and

and ready,” Griffin said.

faculty free flu vaccines.

Students

will

have

This fall, GCSU has al-

several more opportu-

ready seen an influenza

nities to get vaccinat-

outbreak, but the flu sea-

ed this fall. The next flu

son is just getting started.

clinic will be held on

“We’ve already had a

Oct. 22 at Main Campus

big wave of flu B, which

from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

came through in August.

In addition, the uni-

There’s different strains

versity is piloting a Mo-

of flu, and the flu vaccine

bile Flu Vaccine Clinic

actually provides cov-

this year, bringing ser-

erage for several differ-

vices directly to stu-

ent strains of flu, which

dents at various campus

is nice,” said Dr. Kim

locations. On Sept. 29

Griffin, a nurse practi-

and Oct. 9, Griffin and

tioner at GCSU Student

her team will rotate be-

Health

Services

and

Nurse holding a syringe.

the flu clinic organizer.

tween the Make-a-Wish Fountain (10–11 a.m.),

Griffin explained that

verity of illness, the vac-

ly into the bloodstream.

ty, the people that you

ed that only 43.1 per-

Chick-fil-A (11 a.m.–12

because flu strains cir-

cine can also help pre-

This triggers the body’s

are around, like other

cent of adults received a

p.m.), the Bobcat Head

culate at different times

vent infection altogether.

immune system to pro-

students,

teach-

flu shot in the past year.

(12–1 p.m.) and the

sea-

“Flu shots are import-

duce antibodies against

ers, and then of course

“The most common

Residence Hall Reflec-

son, even students who

ant because it’s a sense

the virus without caus-

when you go home on

misconception

I

tion Pool (1–2 p.m.).

have already been sick

of prophylaxis, you’re

ing illness. If the patient

break,

families,

hear is that the flu shot

Students are encour-

this year still benefit

preventing the chance

encounters the actual

especially

older,

gave me the flu.” Grif-

aged to bring their in-

from getting vaccinated.

of getting the flu.” said

virus later, these anti-

more vulnerable family

fin said. “So, what I tell

surance

cards,

either

Madison Townsend, a

bodies are already pres-

members, like grand-

people is that the flu

physical

or

digital,

senior

major

ent and ready to recog-

parents,”

said.

shot itself is a dead vi-

but if students do not

throughout

“The

the

flu

doesn’t

vaccine necessarily

nursing

your

your the

Griffin

that

keep you from getting

administering

vaccines

nize and neutralize it.

The Centers for Dis-

rus. There’s no way it

have

the flu, but it definitely

at the clinic. “The flu

Griffin also empha-

ease Control and Pre-

can give you the flu.”

the vaccination is free.

insurance,

then

Scholastic Book Fair made a return at GCSU Rylee Holland

ties In Schools, donating all funds to them.

Managing Editor For

Generation

Z,

the

Scholastic

Book

Fair holds many great memories of childhood fun, so GCSU decided to bring it back.

The week of Sep. 15 - 19, Georgia Col-

book

a

fair,

they

normal

elementary

had

range

a

of

to

have

a

mental

break.

“Seeing the college students attend the book fair

cal affiliate of a national nonprofit organization.

allowed them to step out of whatever stressor they

For the 2024-2025 school year, GCSU had a pres-

were feeling and just be brought back to a time where

ence in all of the public schools in Baldwin Coun-

education was not so stressful,” Goodleman said.

The book fair got much attention on social media which drew in a lot of people. Some,

the Dunahoo Lounge from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. like

students

CIS of Milledgeville/Baldwin County is a lo-

lege Student Engagement held the book fair in

Just

lege

though, had too busy of a week to stop by.

school

“I occasionally bought books but I was always

children’s sale.

jealous of the kids who got the cool toys and things,”

“I was browsing around and saw the Diary of A

said Patricia Dowling, a sophomore psychology ma-

Wimpy Kid series and it made me feel so nostal-

jor. “I was curious about the GCSU book fair and

gic,” said Peyton Eley, a senior business manage-

would’ve gone if I had time, but it didn’t work out.”

books,

toys,

pens

and

pencils

for

Some

ment major. “I used to love those books so much.”

Not

was

book

for

themselves,

but

for

not family.

college

stu-

“I did buy two books, but sadly neither of them

dents, but for the students in Baldwin Coun-

were for me – they were both kid’s books to put

ty schools to come with their families as well.

up until Christmas for my family,” Eley said.

memories

fair

went

bring

nostalgic

the

even

to

back

only

students

for

Many

“As a team we were able to set the book fair Sydney Williams| Asst. A&L Editor

up and prepared to open on Monday at 10 a.m.,”

that

the

students Scholastic

have Book

made Fair

it

known

should

be

Engage-

ty, serving grades kindergarten through 12th grade.

a staple at the school from here on out.

ment Program Coordinator at GCSU. “The stu-

“We are unique in that we are the only CIS affili-

“I think this would be such a good ad-

dents were the ones who helped decide the lay-

ate that is embedded within a university,” Goodleman

dition to the list of events going on around

out, traffic pattern and check out process to have

said. “We primarily focus on literacy support and basic

campus

an easy flow for people who visited the book fair.”

needs to enable students to focus on their education.”

said

Sara

According event

also

Goodleman,

to

the

Goodleman,

collaborated

Student

the with

book

fair

Communi-

GCSU

Student

Engagement

throughout

the

year,”

Eley

said.

Student Engagement noted that the book fair

thought

was a huge success, and is an event they would

the event could be a much needed for col-

like to continue hosting as the years go on.

7

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

09.30.2025

ARTS & LIFE

FALL DRINKS

“I feel like Blackbird has the best fall vibes

Continued from page 1

because their drinks are really good and the

Fall drinks also tend to get tied to certain moods

inside

and routines. For a lot of students, they bring out

more

can enjoy our drinks on the way,” Lish said.

personal.

“To me, the pumpkin chai from Starbucks holds memories with my mom when she would always get a chai drink.” Jenkins said. “I usually don’t get chai, but when I do, it’s like having my mom with me still.”

Some say these drinks are not complete without the

said.

“I love going before class with friends so we

For others, the drinks are linked to memlittle

Conner

a small moment to pause and enjoy the season.

said Maeve Conner, a freshman undeclared major.

a

calming,”

On busy mornings, these drinks can give students

cozy mornings watching shows like ‘Gilmore Girls’,”

feel

and

class can make campus feel just a little more festive.

“I associate fall drinks with studying and with

that

nice

A quick stop for a seasonal drink on the way to

feelings of comfort or even seasonal traditions.

ories

is

These drinks do not just taste like fall, they help

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Director

ions about which local cafes capture that mood best.

add a special touch to the campus experience.

“I love how all the local shops here decorate to cap-

“Sipping on my fall drink allows me to roman-

ture the ‘fall feeling,’” said Katie Lish, a sophomore mar-

ticize college in the best way,” Hartzheim said.

keting major. “Morning Grind has been a recent favor-

Seasonal

drinks

will

remain

available

ite. They just redid the inside, and it is so cozy in there.”

at campus and local coffee shops through-

and overall atmosphere of a coffee shop can shape the

Students also tend to look for a more calm-

out the fall semester, alongside the traditions

whole fall experience, and students have strong opin-

er or relaxing vibe in local coffee shops.

and activities that mark the season at GCSU.

right setting. The warm lighting, seasonal decorations

Dancing with the Stars

GCSU students’ thoughts and reactions Jane Carr Staff Writer

to associate with the opening

tionist Robert Irwin and his

The latest season of “Danc-

episode. But despite mixed

professional partner, Witney

ing with the Stars” (DWTS)

early impressions, many stu-

Carson. “He is very charis-

kicked off on Tuesday, Sept.

dents said they enjoyed the

matic and talented. Their pre-

16, bringing a new group of

spectacle and entertainment

miere dance had my jaw drop.”

celebrities to the ballroom and

value of seeing celebrities out-

Harris agreed that Irwin

drawing reactions from audi-

side their usual comfort zones.

ences across the country, in-

“I was super shocked but

cluding college students who say the show still manages to capture their attention after nearly two decades on air.

The

long-running

ABC

competition, which first premiered in 2005, pairs celebrities with professional dancers as they compete for the mirrorball trophy. This season’s premiere

featured

athletes,

actors and TV personalities

excited.” said Emma Brown, a sophomore criminal justice major. “I loved getting to see the hosts again and all of the new contestants.”

Part of the appeal for younger audiences lies in the wide range of celebrities the show recruits each season, from trending social media figures to nostalgic TV stars.

the dance floor, sparking plen-

perception of older contes-

born when the show first aired.

said.

tants struggling to keep up.

Despite the rise of stream-

“He was my favorite con-

Still, not every star im-

ing platforms and new enter-

testant coming in, but I did

pressed. Olympic gymnast Jor-

tainment formats, the pro-

not expect his rhythm and

dan Chiles, whose athleticism

gram still provides a form

ability to dance in general.”

seemed to promise an edge in

of communal viewing that

The younger Irwin, known

the ballroom, underwhelmed

feels different from watch-

some

viewers.

ing on-demand shows. Pre-

his late father Steve Irwin,

“I expected Jordan Chil-

mieres, eliminations and vi-

quickly emerged as a fan fa-

es to be better than she was,

ral performances continue to

vorite among student viewers.

given that she’s a gymnast,”

spark real-time conversations

His combination of person-

said Ella Bowen, a junior

both online and on campus.

ality, natural movement and

mass communication major.

That social element may

stood out as a strong performer.

“Robert.”

Harris

for continuing the legacy of

familiarity with audiences appears to have struck a chord.

taking their first spins across

I loved getting to see the hosts again and all of the new contestants.

Hanging disco ball.

Other contestants, how-

college

Bowen

that,

be part of why DWTS has

competition’s

managed to stay relevant to

front-runner is already clear.

younger audiences. As social

for

her,

added the

because

media clips circulate after each

he has the skill and the

episode, even casual viewers

fan

said.

often find themselves drawn

Brown

The blend of personalities

into debates about which

usual-

and varying levels of dance ex-

contestants have the most tal-

and theatre minor. “A lot of

ly get poorly stereotyped,

perience has been a hallmark

ent, charisma or fan support.

the dances were mediocre at

but I was very impressed.”

of DWTS since its beginning.

With another season un-

best

That unpredictability, who will

derway, students will con-

known for roles in films like

shine, who will struggle and

tinue to tune in, not only

“The Goonies” and “Stand

who might surprise everyone,

to see who wins but also

by Me,” demonstrated ener-

continues to keep audienc-

to join the larger conver-

ty of conversation on campus.

“I thought it went really well for some of the stars, and not so well for the others,” said Lily Harris, a junior English major

best, but that’s what we come to expect from the premiere.”

For Harris, the show’s first week reflected both the ex-

-Emma

For some students, the combination helps make the show relevant across generations.

“My favorite duo is Robert

ever,

drew

defying

attention

for

expectations.

“I was very surprised by Corey said.

The

Feldman,” “Older

1980s

folks

actor,

“Robert

votes,”

Irwin

Bowen

citement and uneven perfor-

and Witney.” Brown said, re-

gy and precision that some

es engaged, including college

sation that has surrounded

mances that fans have come

ferring to wildlife conserva-

students said challenged the

students who weren’t even

the show for nearly 20 years.

8

MOLLY GOFF, OPINION EDITOR

09.30.2025

OPINION

Parasocial relationships:

Why some might be in love with objects or beings Molly Goff Opinion Editor

obsessive

Last week in my class,

The

relationship.”

communicating.

has made these one-sid-

who

Due to relying on

ed relationships more

the topic of parasocial re-

spends $200 dollars a

screens and devices for

common. While many

lationships were brought

month to maintain the

comfort, I am afraid of

people form small ties

up. At first, I remem-

relationship with her AI

this reliance becoming

to their favorite celeb-

bered my 2016 phase

“boyfriend,” told People

more emotional as well.

rities - whether follow-

of being obsessed with

magazine that she be-

Some students believe

ing their instagrams or

Shawn Mendes - then

lieves her connection to

these relationships can

joining a fan page - the

soon after realized how

the chatbot is real and

be beneficial if bound-

emotional investment if

my “obsession” is not

authentic. This phenom-

aries are set, but others

exacerbated can become

exactly the parasocial

enon highlights a societal

express concern over the

so deep that a content

relationships being glo-

shift where many people

potential for people to

creator’s

woman,

and

Two Computers at a table

them to only pursue on-

term effects of this socie-

line relationships where

tal disconnection. Will

they can fully transform

being outside and having

themselves away from

a real human conversa-

how they act during in

tion have any intrinsic

person

interactions.”

value to someone’s life,

The more we focus on

or will we be wrapped

virtual connections, the

up in all things online?

more we detract from

Ultimately this rise of

genuine human inter-

parasocial relationships

in a committed relation-

action. We are meant to

evokes a deeper look at

ship with her AI chat-

communicate

face-to-

our need for connection.

bot. Her story sparked a

face, in order to pick up

As we navigate a world

conversation beyond my

true emotion and body

that

class about this growing

language with others.

dominating in screens

trend, where people form

“I think that paraso-

and devices, it is essen-

cial relationships have,

tial to remember that we

in a way, detracted from

can only be truly fulfilled

our actual social rela-

by genuine human con-

tionships,” Benoit said.

nections and self-love.

“They make people feel

The key to a healthy

absence

can

rified online right now.

Our class discussed how a 28-year-old woman confessed that she is

one-sided

emotional

Person scrolling on social media app

is

exponentially

are turning to technology

disconnect from reality.

trigger feelings of sad-

for emotional fufillment.

“Some people do go

ness or even betrayal.

relation-

We live in a gener-

too far when obsess-

“I have always felt

ships have become an

ation where Covid-19

ing over celebrities, like

that people who are

integral part of our so-

halted our growth so-

people who stalk ce-

pursuing parasocial re-

connected with virtu-

emotional life, on and

ciety today,” said Ryan

cially. Where students

lebrities or go to their

lationships are doing so

al strangers online in

off the screens, is not a

Gue, a senior philoso-

all around the world

houses and stuff,” said

because they feel inade-

often unhealthy ways.”

one-sided digital con-

phy major. “There is a

benefitted from connec-

River MacIntyre, a soph-

quate during in person

While people have

nection, but the time

fine line between a good,

tion in a classroom, we

omore

major.

conversations with oth-

free-will to engage in

and effort we invest

healthy online relation-

were forced to see a more

The rise of social me-

ers,” Gue said. “That feel-

these relationships, there

in

ship versus an unhealthy

virtual side of learning

dia and online content

ing of inadequacy leads

is a worry about the long-

ships and relationships.

bonds with a celebrity, or in this case, a computer.

“Parasocial

english

real-world

friend-

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor