BOBCAT INSIDER: SCOTT MACLEOD 2025 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
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 of GCSU athletics since 1978.
“I started broadcasting in Ka-
lamazoo, Michigan, while I was still going to college at Western Michigan University,” MacLeod said. “I moved down here to Milledgeville in 1977 and began broadcasting tape-delayed football because it was a daytime-only radio station.”
Producers of Bobcats athletics recognize the seamless flow of MacLeod’s broadcasting, as if he’s comfortably engaging in conversation with the viewer during the
game; however, MacLeod has a much more humble approach toward his broadcast beginnings.
“It was in September when we came down here,” MacLeod said. “That was my first-ever playby-play experience. I was awful. I mean, terrible. It was no fun. I’m glad I had a couple of good people to help guide me through it and get me started.”
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 fall drinks come out. I feel like there have been longer lines and I’ve seen more people walking around with drinks,” said Rhianna Jenkins, a freshman elementary education major.
Some students even admit they are one of the first in line when the 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 visa delays, 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 University and Arizona State University, have seen changes. The GCSU campus is therefore feeling the ripple effects of
the national climate.
“The situation is definitely scary for all nonU.S. citizens, but it has not impacted my experience personally,” said Sam Samiya, a sophomore data science major.
“This situation is not in our control, so all international students I know are focusing on what they can control: keeping up with their studies.”
According to the U.S. State Department, the new visa process includes expanded vetting and mandatory social media screenings for all F-1, M-1
and J-1 visa applicants.
F-1 visas are issued to academic students, M-1 visas to vocational students and J-1 visas to participants in cultural exchange programs.
Applicants are now required to set their social media profiles to public before interviews. Officials defend the policy as necessary to protect national security, though universities nationwide have expressed concern about the effect on student enrollment.
At GCSU, the International Education Center (IEC) serves as the main
al students. The
Julia Jensen | Art Director
Courtesy of GCSU Atheletics
See MACLEOD | Page 4
Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor
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 the drug less accessible.
Seven Hydroxy, or 7-OH, has been a topic of debate due to growing evidence that the substance can cause dependency and withdrawal.
It comes from a plant native to Southeast Asia called “kratom.” The plant is used by indigenous people, who chew their leaves to manage pain, boost energy and minimize fatigue.
Recently, in the United States, kratom has been sold in tablets or capsules found in grocery stores and gas stations. Despite the similarities it shares with opioids, it has not yet been federally regulated.
While some students at GCSU are noticing the prevalence of the Seven Hydroxy around
them, others are not yet aware of the drug and the risks that come with it.
“I have never heard of Seven Hydroxy,” said Abby Lowrey, a sophomore marketing major.
Lowrey’s comment highlights the unaware-
7-Hydroxymitragynine works by binding to opioid receptors and is metabolized in the liver, which creates more severe psychoactive effects.
Archstone Behavioral Health, an addiction treatment and mental
at gas stations, and they are an energy supplement, but not much else,” said Zoey Hooper, a sophomore mass communication major.
Hooper represents a demographic of GCSU’s student population that
ing access to Seven Hydroxy include: labeling requirements, controlled display and concentration limits. Violations of the KCPA can lead to either misdemeanor fines or, in more severe cases, felony charges.
ness of this drug in relation to college students. On the other hand, some students are aware of Seven Hydroxy because of social media.
According to the University of Virginia School of Medicine, Kratom contains 7-Hydroxymitragynine, an alkaloid that is responsible for the effects of the plant.
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Editorial Board
Rylee Holland..................
Bryan Cade.......................
Isabella McComis..........
health center, explains that the withdrawal symptoms of Seven Hydroxy mimic those of traditional opioid withdrawal. They list physical symptoms, such as muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and tremors. Psychological symptoms include anxiety, depression, cravings and irritability.
“I know they sell them
knows of the supplement but is not fully aware of its addictive elements.
Although Seven Hydroxy is not yet federally regulated, Georgia has put in place the Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) to narrow the reach of the drug.
Aspects of the KCPA designed to protect those under 21 from gain-
By enforcing that companies must include information regarding serving size and limiting the concentration of 7-Hydroxymintragynine in the product, Georgia is making the drug less accessible. The state is taking the first steps in minimizing the negative effects of a drug that bears so many similari-
ties to traditional opioids.
According to the Advanced Opioid Dependency (ANR) Clinic, “Research indicates that 7-OH is approximately 13-46 times more potent than morphine as an analgesic (pain reliever).”
Evidence indicates that regular consumption may lead the user to develop a dependency, thus causing withdrawal symptoms.
“I have seen Seven Hydroxy primarily on TikTok,” said Val Pelaez, a sophomore political science major.
Some students have come across TikToks in which the creator urges viewers to be cautious of the brands advertising the product, while others attempt to assure viewers that Seven Hydroxy is safe to consume.
The state of Georgia reinforces the importance of regulating substances, even those that are newer and have only recently begun to show harmful consequences.
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Amelia McEwen | News Editor
POLICY
Continued from page 1
“What I can say is that we are unsure of where enrollment will go in the future,” said Jason Wynn, assistant director of International Student and 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 families are local families who volunteer to support international students, often building bonds that last
well beyond their time at GCSU.
The IEC also provides immigration guidance for students on both J-1 and F-1 visas. Wynn detailed that the office keeps students informed of national policy changes, directs them to official resources such as the Study in the States website and offers personalized support to help them understand how the policies apply to their individual situations.
For many international students, that support has been crucial. Samiya described how the IEC, along with the International Club, helps students adjust to campus life and deal with uncertainty.
“We have our international office, also known as the Bone House, which has advisors who help us with any issues we face,” Samiya said. “The Interna-
College student Trey Reed found hanging from a tree
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
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-
tional Club is also helpful, as senior international students provide guidance that makes the transition much easier.”
For other GCSU students, the presence of international peers adds to the richness of campus life.
“I’ve had international students in my government classes, and they bring in perspectives about their own governments and systems,” said Mia Simmons, a sophomore political science major and history minor. “It brings a lot of diversity of thought, which is really beneficial.”
Despite fears about stricter visa enforcement, Simmons said she does not expect GCSU’s community to shrink and adds that the US will always have international stu-
dents regardless of the guidelines.
Nationally, universities have warned that these policy shifts could discourage future international enrollment, 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 restrictions will impact enrollment remains unclear, but for now, international students at GCSU are working to stay grounded in their studies.
Murder-Suicide on Pritchard Street
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
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
“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.
at the GBI Crime Lab in Macon, Georgia.
Delta State University Flag
Reagan Shehee | Digital Media Director
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 broadcasting from right behind the backstop at Kurtz Field. After about a year, maybe two, it was before the bleachers were there—it was just a hill, and Coach Kurtz put a platform for me to broadcast from. Probably to keep me away from making so much noise and distracting everybody.”
In the previous season, MacLeod made a call on an impressive half-court
shot made by James Nichols III. The call was simple, but effective for the shocking event, stating, “Etter—baseball Pass.
Half-court shot. He got it!” Broadcasters, at least those inducted into the Hall of Fame, such as MacLeod, manage the balance between speaking in depth about a subject and keeping it simple. MacLeod has mastered the balance.
“Shantayana Keys is going into the Hall of Fame,” MacLeod said.
The art of pitching
Bryan Cade 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 the job. This is where baseball goes from checkers to chess.
While every pitcher is assigned the same position when they step onto the baseball diamond, every single pitcher has unique qualities that allow them to do their job. In recent years, Major League Baseball and its lower divisions have seen those same qualities become even more
ing peak velocity of about 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 its way to many pitchers’ repertoires, such as Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Carlos Rodon of the New York Yankees. The newest addition to pitch types is the brandnew “kick-change,” which Clay Holmes, a newly implemented starting pitcher for the New York Mets, reinvented his pitching ideology for.
While fastballs are exciting,
prevalent. A large percentage of pitchers’ fastballs sit around or over 95 miles per hour, with a large percentage reach-
it is the pitches the pitchers mix in with their fastball to “tunnel” the batter’s vision, making it seem like another fastball is
“Great person, excellent athlete. I remember her getting the record for most points. That was it, Pembroke, up in the crow’s nest, watching her. It had a bird’s-eye view, seeing her hit that free throw and break the record.”
Being the “Voice of the Bobcats” for so long has given MacLeod numerous opportunities to witness the development of Georgia College & State University around him. Seeing many different
“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 to do it, to continue to allow me to do it, and I guess I’ll keep doing it.”
coming until the breaking ball dips away from the bat. William Arthur “Candy” Cummings is credited with creating the curveball, the first breaking ball, debuting the pitch in 1867 after tossing seashells and seeing how they moved in the air.
It is an art that pitchers work day in and day out to perfect; however, not only is it essential for the pitchers to know their limits on the mound, but it is also essential for the manager to know not only the physical, but also the mental state of their pitcher on the mound.
“The best managers, the best head coaches, they do it before it gets bad,” said Jeff Pelkey, head coach of the Bobcats baseball team. “That’s the ultimate goal: how can we make sure we’re pulling the trigger too soon or too late.
If you constantly pull guys too early, they lose confidence
in themselves, and they think the coaching staff doesn’t have confidence in them. So it’s definitely a balancing act when it comes to dealing with the players’ emotions.”
Pitching, at times, can be seen as the loneliest position in sports. Having a bad inning on the mound can be detrimental to a pitcher’s confidence.
“What I tell our guys, if we are processed driven and we are consistent on that day in and day out, the results take care of themselves,” Pelkey said. “There’s going to be days where you’re you’re feeling great, your stuff’s very good, but then the umpire is going to squeeze you on a pitch.”
Pelkey explained that pitchers need to have a process-driven mindset, and sometimes things may not go their way. However, one of the best ways to look at it is
to say, “So what, next pitch.”
When many watch the sport of baseball, they often analyze a pitcher by looking directly at their velocity or the specific pitch a pitcher throws, such as a curve or a slider. Still, it can 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.
“If you want to go deep in a playoff run or win a lot of baseball games, you can’t just rely on a handful of pitchers,” Pelkey said. “You gotta have you gotta have a staff.”
GCSU Hall of Fame players and future potential Hall of Fame-level athletes.
Courtesy of GCSU Athletics
Courtesy of GCSU Athletics, Photo by McKinsey Lewis
Courtesy of GCSU Athletics, Photo by McKinsey Lewis
UFC Spotlight: Canelo V. Crawford
On Sep. 13, 2025, the boxing spotlight converged in Las Vegas, where a crowd of more than 70,000 fans witnessed a historic showdown between Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez and Terrence Crawford.
The power of the fighters and the narrative leading up is what made the clash truly remarkable. Canelo, a long established legend of the boxing world, came into the fight as the undisputed super-middleweight champion. Crawford stepped into the middleweight league rather recently, accepting the challenge for the UFC title.
Throughout the buildup and hype around the fight, Crawford pushed for the fight aggressively on social media and in his training. He reportedly declined concessions from the UFC, insisting to meet Canelo on his terms, according to ESPN.
Canelo’s weight and size advantage made him the favorite on paper, and many expected that his strength and power would carry him through the fight. Notably, Crawford’s ambition, in tandem with his storied record at lower weight classes, made this more than a rematch, but a potential passing of the super-middleweight title.
Crawford’s victory was historic; in beating Canelo, he became the first male boxer in the modern era to win undisputed championships in three different weight classes.
The long-dominant force of Canelo Alvarez now walked away without a title. In his remarks after the fight, he admitted he could not “figure out” Crawford’s Style, according to MMA Mania.
However, Canelo put up an extreme-
ly good fight. From the opening bell, it was clear that this would be a war of attrition.
“I was surprised it went the full 12 rounds,” said Dhillon Staples, a sophomore accounting major. “I expected a knockout within five or six. After the fight, I definitely respect Crawford much more, I mean I don’t watch much boxing, but I’ve always respected Canelos legacy.”
Crawford fought the entire match southpaw (primarily left handed), using sharp jabs and controlled footwork to keep Canelo guessing. Canelo attempted to assert his physicality early, attacking Crawford with mixed hooks and a stalwart defense.
For a brief period in the fourth and fifth rounds, Canelo had pushed the balance of power with a sharp punch, briefly stunning Crawford before he could establish a counter.
The pivoting point of the fight came in round six. Crawford, while bruised, still stood firm, landing effective inside shots and connecting a clean hook to Canelo’s chin that caused an opening for further attacks.
Round 9 featured an escalation when a clash of heads opened a cut over Crawford’s eye; even so, he responded by landing a crisp combination and engaging in an aggressive exchange with Canelo.
In the later rounds, Crawford’s control tightened. He had outpaced Canelo, often trading freely without showing signs of fatigue or hesitation. In round eleven, Crawford outlasted Canelo decisively, while the following round displayed a closing flurry from Crawford, resulting in the sounding of the final horn.
The judges rendered a unanimous decision: 116-112, 115-113, 115-113, all in Crawford’s favor.
While many in the boxing world predicted Craw-
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 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 can outweigh pure size or strength. Many agree that Crawford’s composure under pressure and his ability to absorb Canelo’s powerful blows all underline why his victory is not just an upset, but a masterclass.
However, questions in the boxing community remain. At age 37, many argue that Crawford will end his career holding the undisputed super-middleweight status. Many also ask whether Canelo can adjust and reinvent himself after this fight, or if his loss has shifted the balance in the sport.
Zaxbys Player of the Week: Evan Rehrauer
Senior men’s cross country runner Evan Rehrauer opened up his season with an impressive start, winning Zaxby’s Player of the Week, while helping the team start on the right foot and set a new personal best at the University of North Georgia Cross Country Invitational.
Rehrauer won the individual title at the UNG Invitational, capturing the 8K race on the UNG cross country course with a new personal best of 26:25.1, six seconds faster than the next nearest competitor in the race. Rehrauer’s accomplishment is the first time a GCSU cross country athlete won an individual title since Quillian Holland captured the award in 2021 at
the Bobcat Invitational.
“It wasn’t till about 30 seconds later when I was getting up and was walking,” said Rehrauer. “I thought, ‘Oh, I actually just did that.’ I actually just won. I was extremely excited in the days that followed, and it was really cool. I won the race, but it’s just one step in our season. We have much bigger fish to fry coming later this season. So I won’t linger on it for too long.”
Not only did Rehrauer add to his list of individual accomplishments, but he also led the Bobcats to the team title. It was the first team title for GCSU since the team won the Border Clash at the Winthrop Invitational at the beginning of the 2017 season.
“It was really great to
see all the hard work that he put in over the summer, as well as the payoff with the start to this season,” said Jack Aurelia,
a freshman men’s cross country athlete. “For the team, it’s been great. We have a great group of guys that came in as freshmen,
and we have a big second group that sticks together during the workout, so it’s great to see them grow out there and put together a win at UNG.”
In the past few years, GCSU’s cross-country team has drawn large freshman classes, with both the men’s and women’s teams bringing in a combined 15 freshman athletes. Leadership is always necessary, especially for large first-year courses like this one.
“I’m excited to go compete and run well at conference, as it’s our home course,” Rehrauer said. “Going to defend the home turf. Over the last three years, I have not been able to put together a strong regional race, and I’m feeling confident this year that I can produce one that will be really good for me.”
Since winning Zaxby’s Player of the Week, Rehrauer finished 44th out of 116th, with a 29:06.0 in the 8K at the Bobcat Invitational in Milledgeville, helping GCSU to finish 2nd out of 13 on the new Bobcat Cross Country Course on Friday, Sep. 26. Men’s Cross Country returns Oct. 10 in Charolotte, North Carolina at the Royals Cross Country Challenge.
“I would say he leads a lot more by example than anything,” said Noah Boys, a senior men’s cross country athlete. “He’s one of those people who steps into the role, naturally. By doing things, by getting out there, and showing people how to do things and what to do, and how to do them properly.”
Benjamin Clark Sports Editor
Bryan Cade
Asst. Sports Editor
Courtesy of GCSU Athletics , Photo by Elizabeth Smith
Ben Clark | Sports Editor
ARTS & LIFE
Fighting the Flu: vaccine clinics at GCSU
Kate Walker A&L Editor
On Wednesday, Sept. 24, the GCSU School of Nursing and Department of Public Health hosted a flu vaccination clinic at the Make-a-Wish Fountain on Main Campus, offering students and faculty free flu vaccines. This fall, GCSU has already seen an influenza outbreak, but the flu season is just getting started.
“We’ve already had a big wave of flu B, which came through in August. There’s different strains of flu, and the flu vaccine actually provides coverage for several different strains of flu, which is nice,” said Dr. Kim Griffin, a nurse practitioner at GCSU Student Health Services and the flu clinic organizer.
Griffin explained that because flu strains circulate at different times throughout the season, even students who have already been sick this year still benefit from getting vaccinated.
“The flu vaccine doesn’t necessarily keep you from getting the flu, but it definitely
keeps it from becoming severe,” Griffin said.
While students might originally miss a whole week of classes, those who are vaccinated often have milder symptoms, missing just a day or two. Besides reducing the se-
is very contagious, so whenever there is an outbreak, you have an increased immunity if you choose to get your flu shot,” When someone receives the vaccine, it introduces weakened or inactive viruses direct-
sized that choosing to get a flu shot protects the overall community, especially those who are more at risk of catching the flu or having complications should they get infected.
“It also helps protect your communi-
vention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older, especially those at higher risk of complications, receive a flu vaccine every season. However, the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics report-
verity of illness, the vaccine can also help prevent infection altogether.
“Flu shots are important because it’s a sense of prophylaxis, you’re preventing the chance of getting the flu.” said Madison Townsend, a senior nursing major administering vaccines at the clinic. “The flu
ly into the bloodstream. This triggers the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against the virus without causing illness. If the patient encounters the actual virus later, these antibodies are already present and ready to recognize and neutralize it.
Griffin also empha-
ty, the people that you are around, like other students, your teachers, and then of course when you go home on break, your families, especially the older, more vulnerable family members, like grandparents,” Griffin said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Pre-
ed that only 43.1 percent of adults received a flu shot in the past year.
“The most common misconception that I hear is that the flu shot gave me the flu.” Griffin said. “So, what I tell people is that the flu shot itself is a dead virus. There’s no way it can give you the flu.”
Another misunderstanding is how long the virus takes to be effective, as students may get vaccinated but still catch the flu shortly afterward.
“I tell the students that come in to get the flu shot, okay, it’ll take two weeks for you to be fully armed and ready,” Griffin said. Students will have several more opportunities to get vaccinated this fall. The next flu clinic will be held on Oct. 22 at Main Campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In addition, the university is piloting a Mobile Flu Vaccine Clinic this year, bringing services directly to students at various campus locations. On Sept. 29 and Oct. 9, Griffin and her team will rotate between the Make-a-Wish Fountain (10–11 a.m.), Chick-fil-A (11 a.m.–12 p.m.), the Bobcat Head (12–1 p.m.) and the Residence Hall Reflection Pool (1–2 p.m.).
Students are encouraged to bring their insurance cards, either physical or digital, but if students do not have insurance, then the vaccination is free.
Scholastic Book Fair made a return at GCSU
Rylee Holland 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 College Student Engagement held the book fair in the Dunahoo Lounge from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Just like a normal elementary school book fair, they had a range of children’s books, toys, pens and pencils for sale.
“I was browsing around and saw the Diary of A Wimpy Kid series and it made me feel so nostalgic,” said Peyton Eley, a senior business management major. “I used to love those books so much.”
Not only was the book fair to bring back nostalgic memories for college students, but for the students in Baldwin County schools to come with their families as well.
“As a team we were able to set the book fair up and prepared to open on Monday at 10 a.m.,” said Sara Goodleman, the Student Engagement Program Coordinator at GCSU. “The students were the ones who helped decide the layout, traffic pattern and check out process to have an easy flow for people who visited the book fair.”
According to Goodleman, the book fair event also collaborated with Communi-
ties In Schools, donating all funds to them.
CIS of Milledgeville/Baldwin County is a local affiliate of a national nonprofit organization.
lege students to have a mental break.
“Seeing the college students attend the book fair allowed them to step out of whatever stressor they were feeling and just be brought back to a time where education was not so stressful,” Goodleman said.
Sydney Williams| Asst. A&L Editor
For the 2024-2025 school year, GCSU had a presence in all of the public schools in Baldwin County, serving grades kindergarten through 12th grade.
“We are unique in that we are the only CIS affiliate that is embedded within a university,” Goodleman said. “We primarily focus on literacy support and basic needs to enable students to focus on their education.”
GCSU Student Engagement thought the event could be a much needed for col-
The book fair got much attention on social media which drew in a lot of people. Some, though, had too busy of a week to stop by.
“I occasionally bought books but I was always jealous of the kids who got the cool toys and things,” said Patricia Dowling, a sophomore psychology major. “I was curious about the GCSU book fair and would’ve gone if I had time, but it didn’t work out.”
Some students even went not for themselves, but for family.
“I did buy two books, but sadly neither of them were for me – they were both kid’s books to put up until Christmas for my family,” Eley said.
Many students have made it known that the Scholastic Book Fair should be a staple at the school from here on out.
“I think this would be such a good addition to the list of events going on around campus throughout the year,” Eley said.
Student Engagement noted that the book fair was a huge success, and is an event they would like to continue hosting as the years go on.
ARTS & LIFE
FALL DRINKS
Continued from page 1
Fall drinks also tend to get tied to certain moods and routines. For a lot of students, they bring out feelings of comfort or even seasonal traditions.
“I associate fall drinks with studying and with cozy mornings watching shows like ‘Gilmore Girls’,” said Maeve Conner, a freshman undeclared major.
For others, the drinks are linked to memories that feel a little more 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 right setting. The warm lighting, seasonal decorations and overall atmosphere of a coffee shop can shape the whole fall experience, and students have strong opin-
Dancing with the Stars
ions about which local cafes capture that mood best.
“I love how all the local shops here decorate to capture the ‘fall feeling,’” said Katie Lish, a sophomore marketing major. “Morning Grind has been a recent favorite. They just redid the inside, and it is so cozy in there.”
Students also tend to look for a more calm-
er or relaxing vibe in local coffee shops.
GCSU students’ thoughts and reactions
Jane Carr Staff Writer
The latest season of “Dancing with the Stars” (DWTS) kicked off on Tuesday, Sept. 16, bringing a new group of celebrities to the ballroom and drawing reactions from audiences across the country, including 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 taking their first spins across the dance floor, sparking plenty 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 and theatre minor. “A lot of the dances were mediocre at best, but that’s what we come to expect from the premiere.”
For Harris, the show’s first week reflected both the excitement and uneven performances that fans have come
to associate with the opening episode. But despite mixed early impressions, many students said they enjoyed the spectacle and entertainment value of seeing celebrities outside their usual comfort zones.
“I was super shocked but 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.
-Emma I loved getting to see the hosts again and all of the new contestants.
For some students, the combination helps make the show relevant across generations.
“My favorite duo is Robert and Witney.” Brown said, referring to wildlife conserva-
“I feel like Blackbird has the best fall vibes because their drinks are really good and the inside is nice and calming,” Conner said.
A quick stop for a seasonal drink on the way to class can make campus feel just a little more festive. On busy mornings, these drinks can give students a small moment to pause and enjoy the season.
“I love going before class with friends so we can enjoy our drinks on the way,” Lish said.
These drinks do not just taste like fall, they help add a special touch to the campus experience.
“Sipping on my fall drink allows me to romanticize college in the best way,” Hartzheim said.
Seasonal drinks will remain available at campus and local coffee shops throughout the fall semester, alongside the traditions and activities that mark the season at GCSU.
tionist Robert Irwin and his professional partner, Witney Carson. “He is very charismatic and talented. Their premiere dance had my jaw drop.”
Harris agreed that Irwin stood out as a strong performer.
“Robert.” Harris said. “He was my favorite contestant coming in, but I did not expect his rhythm and ability to dance in general.”
The younger Irwin, known for continuing the legacy of his late father Steve Irwin, quickly emerged as a fan favorite among student viewers. His combination of personality, natural movement and familiarity with audiences appears to have struck a chord.
Other contestants, however, drew attention for defying expectations.
“I was very surprised by Corey Feldman,” Brown said. “Older folks usually get poorly stereotyped, but I was very impressed.”
The 1980s actor, best known for roles in films like “The Goonies” and “Stand by Me,” demonstrated energy and precision that some students said challenged the
perception of older contestants struggling to keep up.
Still, not every star impressed. Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, whose athleticism seemed to promise an edge in the ballroom, underwhelmed some college viewers.
“I expected Jordan Chiles to be better than she was, given that she’s a gymnast,” said Ella Bowen, a junior mass communication major.
Bowen added that, for her, the competition’s front-runner is already clear.
“Robert Irwin because he has the skill and the fan votes,” Bowen said.
The blend of personalities and varying levels of dance experience has been a hallmark of DWTS since its beginning. That unpredictability, who will shine, who will struggle and who might surprise everyone, continues to keep audiences engaged, including college students who weren’t even
Despite the rise of streaming platforms and new entertainment formats, the program still provides a form of communal viewing that feels different from watching on-demand shows. Premieres, eliminations and viral performances continue to spark real-time conversations both online and on campus. That social element may be part of why DWTS has managed to stay relevant to younger audiences. As social media clips circulate after each episode, even casual viewers often find themselves drawn into debates about which contestants have the most talent, charisma or fan support. With another season underway, students will continue to tune in, not only to see who wins but also to join the larger conversation that has surrounded the show for nearly 20 years.
born when the show first aired.
Hanging disco ball.
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Director
Parasocial relationships:
Why some might be in love with objects or beings
Molly Goff Opinion Editor
Last week in my class, the topic of parasocial relationships were brought up. At first, I remembered my 2016 phase of being obsessed with Shawn Mendes - then soon after realized how my “obsession” is not exactly the parasocial relationships being glorified online right now.
Our class discussed how a 28-year-old woman confessed that she is in a committed relationship with her AI chatbot. Her story sparked a conversation beyond my class about this growing trend, where people form one-sided emotional bonds with a celebrity, or in this case, a computer.
“Parasocial relationships have become an integral part of our society today,” said Ryan Gue, a senior philosophy major. “There is a fine line between a good, healthy online relationship versus an unhealthy
obsessive relationship.”
and communicating.
Due to relying on screens and devices for comfort, I am afraid of this reliance becoming more emotional as well.
Some students believe these relationships can be beneficial if boundaries are set, but others express concern over the potential for people to
has made these one-sided relationships more common. While many people form small ties to their favorite celebrities - whether following their instagrams or joining a fan page - the emotional investment if exacerbated can become so deep that a content creator’s absence can
The woman, who spends $200 dollars a month to maintain the relationship with her AI “boyfriend,” told People magazine that she believes her connection to the chatbot is real and authentic. This phenomenon highlights a societal shift where many people are turning to technology for emotional fufillment.
We live in a generation where Covid-19 halted our growth socially. Where students all around the world benefitted from connection in a classroom, we were forced to see a more virtual side of learning
disconnect from reality.
“Some people do go too far when obsessing over celebrities, like people who stalk celebrities or go to their houses and stuff,” said River MacIntyre, a sophomore english major.
The rise of social media and online content
trigger feelings of sadness or even betrayal.
“I have always felt that people who are pursuing parasocial relationships are doing so because they feel inadequate during in person conversations with others,” Gue said. “That feeling of inadequacy leads
them to only pursue online relationships where they can fully transform themselves away from how they act during in person interactions.”
The more we focus on virtual connections, the more we detract from genuine human interaction. We are meant to communicate face-toface, in order to pick up true emotion and body language with others.
“I think that parasocial relationships have, in a way, detracted from our actual social relationships,” Benoit said. “They make people feel connected with virtual strangers online in often unhealthy ways.”
While people have free-will to engage in these relationships, there is a worry about the long-
term effects of this societal disconnection. Will being outside and having a real human conversation have any intrinsic value to someone’s life, or will we be wrapped up in all things online?
Ultimately this rise of parasocial relationships evokes a deeper look at our need for connection.
As we navigate a world that is exponentially dominating in screens and devices, it is essential to remember that we can only be truly fulfilled by genuine human connections and self-love.
The key to a healthy emotional life, on and off the screens, is not a one-sided digital connection, but the time and effort we invest in real-world friendships and relationships.
Person scrolling on social media app
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