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The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University September 29, 2026

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Baldwin County to raise property taxes due to $15 million debt Avery Geary

ramifications for the residents of Baldwin County.

Asst. News Editor

“I think it’s going to really hurt the people

Baldwin County announced on Sept. 1, 2026,

of Milledgeville,” Larue said. “The city is al-

that it had a debt to Century Bank of $15 mil-

ready not well-off financially; they rely heavi-

lion due by the end of the fiscal year, Dec. 31,

ly on the college for a lot of things, so increas-

2026, with Baldwin County lacking both the

ing property taxes on an already struggling

funds to repay the debt and a set plan to do so.

community is not going to do anyone any good.”

According to WGXA News, the leading idea

Jessie

Folk,

GCSU

economics

profes-

with

Larue,

citing

medi-

amongst Milledgeville leaders is to increase the

sor,

property tax, which would succeed in raising enough

an income rate of the county to demonstrate

funds to meet the deadline. However, this strat-

the current state of the county’s economy.

egy holds consequences for the county’s citizens.

“The median income in Baldwin Coun-

Phillip Larue, a GCSU political science major

ty is 29.7% lower than the rest of Georgia ac-

and president of the Political Science club, believes

cording to the Census Bureau,” Folk said.

this property tax increase is going to have negative

See DEBT | Page 2

agreed

the

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

Sydney Sweeney ad with Novig

How Sweeney’s sports ad affects the depiction of women in sports Hannah Ransom Staff Writer

would expect for representing women in sports.”

Actress Sydney Sweeney faced criticism this month after appearing in an advertisement for Novig, a sports trading app, that sparked an online discussion about the portrayal of women in sports. The

features

Sweeney,

who is wearing little to no clothing, posing with various types of athletic equipment.

Sydney Sweeney at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival

Kirka

said

she

believes

this

advertise-

ment contributes to a larger issue regarding the way women are often portrayed in sports. “I think that even when you just look at uniforms, you can see that there’s a huge difference in how society views male versus female sports,” Kirka said. “I just don’t think that her commercial was representative of sports or women in general.”

Natalie Kirka, a junior mathematics major

Professional female athletes like swimmer Ari-

and member of the GCSU women’s tennis team,

arne Titmus, sprinter Amy Hunt, and rugby play-

first learned about the advertisement after see-

er Sofie Fella have all criticized the advertisement

ing another woman respond to it on social media.

in public statements. Some female athletes post-

“I went to Sydney Sweeney’s Instagram to see

ed videos of themselves training or competing

that ad, and I sat there with my jaw dropped,” Kir-

to show their perspective of women in sports.

ka said. “I thought, ‘Wow, this is really not what I

See SWEENEY | Page 6

GCSU’s Disney College Program

Did someone say Disney World? Rosalyn Chapman

are meticulously assigned to students based on

Asst. A&L Editor

where staff is needed throughout the resort.

The Disney College Program provides GCSU stu-

“I was a Character Attendant at Hollywood

dents the opportunity to spend a full semester working

Studios,” Harris said. “My favorite characters to

and living at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando,

work with were Chewbacca, Frozone, Live Ac-

Florida, gaining frontline customer service experience.

tion Ariel and Goofy. I was even lucky enough

“I absolutely loved my time in the program,”

to work with Doctor Strange on New Year’s Eve

said Lily Harris, a GCSU Disney College Pro-

and Aurora and Phillip on Valentine’s Day.”

gram participant. “I was there for a year, and I

Character

loved it so much that I am doing it again, start-

managing

ing in January. I got to work at my favorite place in

ers’

safety

Attendant’s

job

involves

lines,

maintaining

the

perform-

and

taking

photos

for

guests.

the world every day and now live here full-time.”

“Some of my favorite memories are just see-

Eligible college students across the coun-

ing the joy and magic these characters bring

try have the opportunity to apply for this paid

to guests of all ages every day,” Harris said.

internship. Though jobs are not selected, they

See DCP | Page 4

Courtesy of Lily Harris

NEWS | PG. 2

SPORTS | PG. 6

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 5

OUTREACH | PG. 3

A new food option is available for GCSU students. See how it compares to other fast food options.

GCSU faced Flagler in a Peach Belt Conference women’s soccer showdown.

GCSU theatres’ fall production opens this week. See how students are preparing for opening night.

Understand the difficulties behind childhood cancer, and learn how to best support those who battled.

JACK-IN-THE-BOX OPENS

LOSING STREAK NO MORE

THE FATE OF ANTIGONE

CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

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

09.29.2026

NEWS

Jack-in-the-Box adds another fast food option to Milledgeville Sydney Williams A&L Editor Another national fastfood chain has arrived in Milledgeville as Jack in the Box opened its newest location on Monday, Sept. 21, adding another dining option for GCSU students and the surrounding community. “I think having another option for students that’s open late at night is always a plus, since currently, Taco Bell and Cookout are really the only two options on that main stretch of road that are open late,” said Eden Frayne, a sophomore nursing major. The new restaurant, located at 1671 North Columbia Street, offers burgers, tacos, chicken, all-day breakfast and other menu items. The location also operates a drive-thru and stays open late, giving students another option for food after traditional restaurant hours. Jack in the Box is not

Jayden Lewis | Art Director

the only national fast food chain to recently enter the Milledgeville area. New and established chains have continued to add locations throughout the city, giving residents and students more options for quick-service meals. The growth of fast food restaurants has

DEBT

Continued from page 1 This means that in all of Georgia, the people who reside in Baldwin County make almost 30% less than the other counties in the state. Professor Folk used this statistic in her analysis of the overall economic impact this tax will have, not only on the citizens, but on the economic state of the city. “Tax increases typically slow the economy,” Folk said. “The tax increase means the citizens will have less disposable income, which means less money will be spent at local businesses.” The Baldwin County economy slowing down might not be the only rippling effect raising the property tax would have. The increase could impact the total population size of Milledgeville, as Folk believes it may encourage people to move out of town and fewer people to move to Milledgeville. This could possibly cause further harm to the economy, as the people who possess the means to move would typically be the

also created employment opportunities for local students. Promise Gasaway, a freshman nursing major who works at Jack in the Box, said working at a new restaurant has allowed her to meet new people and learn new skills. “Working at a restaurant new to the area has

ones facing higher property taxes. “If we do get people moving away, especially those with the high property values who will be paying more in property taxes, then that’s going to lower the tax base for the county and it can just make the problem that much worse,” Folk said. Although this property tax increase is not set in stone, in order to make the decision, the county needs to host three forums for the citizens to voice their thoughts on the matter. The forums for this decision were held Sept. 17, 18, and 25. Dr. Brandy Kennedy, a GCSU political science professor, explained that the reasoning for this is that county residents and their government have to work together to solve this issue. “Ultimately, a viable solution to the shortfall must be identified,” Kennedy said. “The local government has a responsibility to provide residents with meaningful opportunities to participate in the decision-making process.” Even if the citizens do not agree to the increased property tax rates, there would need to be an increase

VOLUME 108 | NO. 3

Editorial Board

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

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

been hectic but fun at the same time,” Gasaway said. “I have made relationships with new people, had to come out of my comfort zone and learn how to do new things.” While the arrival of another fast food chain provides additional choices, some students have concerns about the continued growth of national restaurants and what it means for local businesses. Campbell Jordan, a junior psychology major, said Milledgeville could benefit from having more locally owned restaurants instead of additional national chains. “I actually would argue that they take away from the Milledgeville community, and that we should have more local shops and more local restaurants instead of these chains; these big prominent giants,” Jordan said. Jordan also discussed the role college students play in the fast food workforce and

raised concerns about employment practices. “I think that fast food chains are able to employ predatory employment practices because of students in the area, because they know students need money,” Jordan said. “They don’t have to worry about raises because they’re only there for a short time, and they also don’t have to worry about high-skill jobs.” The Milledgeville location is part of Jack in the Box’s expansion into Georgia. The company has continued opening locations in the state as it works to expand its presence. For Frayne, the restaurant’s arrival is also notable because of its limited presence in Georgia. “It is one of the only two Jack in the Box locations currently open in Georgia, which provides novelty,” Frayne said. As a new restaurant in the area, Jack in the Box has also attracted customers who have never eaten at the chain be-

Local governments have an ongoing responsibility to ensure fiscal transparency for their residents. -Brandy Kennedy

in revenue somewhere else in order for the town to alleviate the debt. “I don’t see any outlet for the townspeople to get out of this because they’re either going to have to pay that increase in their property taxes or they’re going to deal with it in some other form of taxation,” Larue said. The dilemma has caused many citizens to re-evaluate the duties a local government has to its citizens, one being a focus on transparency. These concerns have arisen from the fact that, as reported by WGXA News, the citi-

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fore. Gasaway said the response from customers has been positive since the restaurant opened. “The customer response to the new restaurant has been amazing,” Gasaway said. “Honestly, the majority of people have never tried Jack in the Box before, so they are so excited to try it, and so many people love it.” According to Gasaway, the restaurant offers a 10% discount for students. She believes the discount, late hours and variety of menu options could make the restaurant a regular destination for GCSU students. “I think it is an awesome spot for college students, coming from a student myself,” Gasaway said. As national restaurant chains continue to expand into the area, Milledgeville’s dining options continue to change. The addition of Jack in the Box gives students and residents another choice for quick and convenient meals.

zens of Baldwin County were unaware of the debt until it was announced. “Local governments have an ongoing responsibility to ensure fiscal transparency for their residents,” Kennedy said. This responsibility was discussed in one of the three forums the town held. The local government of Baldwin County promised to adhere to a stricter budget outline, fiscal duties and transparency obligations. At the end of these forums, it was ultimately decided to raise the property taxe rate by about 35%. Students and citizens concerned about this result and its impact on Baldwin County can reach out to local government officials for more details, as well as attend the regular forums. The county hosts monthly meetings every first and third Tuesday for community input. These meetings are located at the Baldwin County Government Building, which is located on 1601 N Colombia Str., and information about meeting times can be found on the Baldwin County website. *This article was updated Sept. 29 at 4:50 p.m. The increased taxes are an act of Baldwin County, not the City of Milledgeville as was previously written. We apologize for any confusion.

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

09.29.2026

NEWS

Trump administration set to add Smithsonian signage

New signage to make visitors aware of curators’ “personal ideologies” Annalie Parker News Editor The Trump administration has announced preparations to place signs outside of the Smithsonian Museum, specifically the National Museum of American History (NMAH), to alert incoming guests to the personal ideologies of museum curators represented in the exhibits. The administration claims that this initiative is meant to uphold the objectivity and academic integrity of the museum by acknowledging and removing biases and personal beliefs. However, many GCSU students feel that this is an act of erasure and censorship. “Museums exist as part of our education system in the United States and the Smithsonian is the pinnacle of that,” said Virginia Copeland, a sophomore political science major. “One of the biggest things in the U.S. is the freedom of speech, so by creating this sort of censorship in our education, it hinders our education and it also takes away from our freedom of speech.” Copeland feels that this is a direct reflection of the state of the country and its leadership in that she believes the implication that representa-

tions of America’s history contain too much bias is discriminatory in itself. “When it comes down to it, fascists go for education first,” she said. “They go for the books, they go for the museums, because we need educated people at any level to run a healthy democracy.” The general grievances the administration has expressed toward the curation of the museum include that “visitors should be aware of Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch’s history of invidious discrimination and anti-white animus,” according to the letter written by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. GCSU students seem to disagree with this concern. “I think that there is not really any tangible evidence that actually really substantiates that [the museum] is revisionist in any way,” said Karl Weinmeister, a junior environmental science major. “In fact, you could probably make an argument that the suggestion outside of the Smithsonian might be an attempt towards a revisionist history.” Weinmeister believes that the integrity of the Smithsonian is not truly in question, and that the Trump administration’s motives for these warning signs are not from a place of good faith. How-

ever, despite his concerns that the administration is attempting a historical erasure to some degree, Weinmeister also expressed faith in the preservation of the country’s true history through continued education beyond face value. “I feel confident that we’re not at a point in our history that even silencing the people at the Smithsonian would permanently clear anything off the history books that can’t be recovered,” he said. “It’s just a matter of being vigilant, and measuring for yourself whether or not something is substantiated or primary or being sold to you. Always be aware that things are being sold to you.” Burgum and his colleagues feel that the NMAH includes more representation of nonwhite people than its white founding fathers, and that it should focus more on them and their contributions. However, Tania Sammons, an exhibition curator at the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum in Savannah, Georgia, disagrees. As a career museum curator, Sammons expressed that historical education has always come from and talked about the dominant class of straight, white

and often Christian men. “Over time as the Western world evolved and became more democratized, histories about non-white people, women and children, less-wealthy people, people of varied sexual orientations and non-protestant Christians and other religious origins, have been added to the canon,” she said. “Their stories always existed, but were rarely recognized.” The Smithsonian’s NMAH has been open since January of 1964, when it was known as the National Museum of History and Technology. Since its opening, the museum has grown to include 1.7 million objects and a massive archive of

collections detailing the origins and progression of the nation from many different perspectives. “As a museum curator, I believe sharing diverse histories and perspectives is of utmost significance and a responsibility, perhaps most importantly at the Smithsonian, America’s museum,” Sammons said. “America is not a homogeneous entity. We are diverse in people, geography, and resources, and that diversity should be reflected in the stories we tell ourselves and others.” As the country continues to develop and change, history is constantly being written from the varying points of view of all people

who are living it. It is incredibly important that students continue to educate themselves from trusted sources. For more information about the museum exhibits in question, students can visit the National Museum of American History’s website and refer to the “Learn” section. “I think the staff at the National Museum of American History should continue to do their work as best they can, touching upon American history from all perspectives and time periods,” Sammons said. “I think American citizens should contact their congresspeople to express their support of those efforts.”

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C.

The Golden Ribbon: Childhood Cancer Awareness Month James Cordero

science major and child-

a lot of people don’t re-

money and learning a

research gets a total of 4

cancer have many differ-

Outreach Editor

hood leukemia survivor.

ally have to deal with

dance; the whole point is

percent of the allocated

ent charities they can do-

September is Child-

Many children lose

this in their daily lives”

to dance for the kids who

resources that our gov-

nate to or volunteer with.

hood Cancer Awareness

their lives to cancer every

GC Miracle is a club at

can’t,” Anderson said.

ernment gives to cancer,”

These include St. Jude’s

Month (CCAM), a time

year, and many children

Aland said. “Because of

Hospital, a pediatric on-

to remember those who

are forced to watch their

lost their lives and to

friends pass away. Deal-

act in service to them. According

the

Children’s Cancer Cause (CCC),

approximately

15,000 children and adolescents, defined as anyone under the age of 20, are diagnosed with some form of cancer every year. Another estimate provided by the CCC is that 1,820 people under the age of 20 will die in 2026, with a mortality rate of about 13 percent. “At such a young age,

ing with that grief can be another factor that adds to the trauma sick chil-

GCSU that works direct-

This

month

also

ly with Beverly Knight

brings attention to the

Olsen Hospital, a pedi-

many charities and hos-

atric oncology hospi-

pitals that help families

tal in Macon. The club

affected by childhood

are giving children are outdated, all the way back to the 80s, even the 70s.” Children

diagnosed

cology hospital that does not charge families, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, a charity that works to increase funding for re-

dren face, an aspect that

with cancer have to

isn’t discussed as often.

confront terrible news,

“I made a lot of friends

and even so, many can

in that hospital,” Aland

look at their circum-

which seeks to find bet-

said. “And a lot of them

stances from a positive

ter solutions and cures

I never got to see again.”

perspective.

are

with fewer side effects.

able to stay strong in

People looking to take

important purpose by

the face of uncertain-

visible action to support

showing everyday people

ty and a grim reality.

children diagnosed with

how others are affected

“I think kids tend to

cancer and their fami-

by cancer and exposing

see brightness in things;

lies can participate in GC

the public to the realities

every child has a more

of being diagnosed with

positive outlook on life,”

a severe disease before

Aland said. “I would

CCAM

serves

I was confronted with a

even becoming an adult.

doctor telling me, ‘There

“They still deserve to

is not a 100% chance

have a happy childhood,

you are going to survive,

and we are just helping

so you need to think

in any way we can,” said

about some big things,’

Lilia Anderson, a junior

which for a 6-year-old

A golden ribbon, the ribbon for childhood cancer awareness

holds monthly meetings

cancer and work toward

and larger events lead-

finding a cure. That at-

ing up to April’s Dance

tention can bring do-

Marathon to help raise

nations to these causes,

money for the hospital.

allowing them to help

finance major and the

“We have an event

to hear is kinda scary,”

treasurer of GC Miracle.

said Gideon Aland, a

“Sharing

sophomore

computer

this, the treatments they

They

tell them, ‘That light that you find, that spark that you have, don’t let go of it; if you keep taking care of it and press-

search and treatment and the Rally Foundation,

Miracle’s annual color run, Miracle Mile on Saturday, Oct. 3. For more information on GC Miracle and their endeavors, students can visit @ gcmiracle on Instagram.

ing forward, you can

“There are so many

more people and con-

do incredible things.’”

kids in the world that

called Dance Marathon;

tinue research that could

Students hoping to

get diagnosed every year,

stories

we have an entire day of

one day find a solution.

help raise awareness or

and they don’t have to

makes it feel real because

being on our feet, raising

support children with

fight alone,” Aland said.

their

“Childhood

cancer

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

09.29.2026

ARTS & LIFE

DCP

dents a unique behind-the-scenes perspective of what it is like to make a theme park function.

Continued from page 1 She additionally expressed that this program is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Though students work tirelessly throughout each day attending to guests, they have access to exclusive perks, allowing them to explore Disney to the fullest. “All employees get a pass to the parks, discounts on resorts, merchandise and food and beverage,” Harris said. “The program itself offers classes on Disney History and facilitates special events with celebrities.”

“My favorite part of the program offerings was behind-the-scenes tours of attractions and entertainment offerings,” Harris said. “I got to tour the Haunted Mansion with my roommate before the park opened, and it was one of the coolest things I have ever done.” At GCSU, students interested in applying to the program discuss their plans with Daniella Pittman, the program coordinator and assistant director of employer relations and internships. “I like seeing students that have a passion and an interest in Disney, but also in working for such a large company,” Pittman said. “We’re doing resume reviews together, interviews and prepping for the application process.” Pittman expressed her enthusiasm for students when they get accepted to the program as well as when they return and talk about their experience. “Students returning were happy that I could intro-

Courtesy of Lily Harris

want to do it have a family member that did it, a friend that did it or just love Disney in general.” For students interested in the program but fearful that they may have to work a full semester in a job that

duce them to the program and give them a little bit of

they dislike, Harris assured that Disney provides an en-

background,” Pittman said. “The most rewarding part

joyable experience no matter what the job may look like.

of the job is seeing students with just an interest and

“It definitely is what you make of it,” Harris said. “I

then after they’ve done it they like to keep going back.”

know when you hear custodial, you immediately go

‘ew,’ but all of my friends who were given that as their

inter-

role actually enjoy it. If you choose to have fun, you are

est in the program has grown significantly.

going to have fun, no matter what or where your role is.”

Though guests may have similar experienc-

“Every semester we have on average around

Students interested in applying for the Dis-

es, riding themed roller coasters and dinner

five to 10 students that participate in the pro-

ney College Program can visit the career cen-

with Mickey Mouse, the program offers stu-

gram,”

ter and speak to Pittman for more information.

Since the Courtesy of Lily Harris

2019,

program

Pittman

when

Pittman

coordinator,

said.

“Usually

started

student

students

who

PlayStation blackout falls flat Luke Bergrab

and digital games also comes down to

Staff Writer

how they are owned. While a phys-

After Sony announced their plan to stop producing physical video games for the PlayStation to embrace an all-digital format by 2028, outraged PlayStation owners organized a weeklong boycott of digital PlayStation services, but ultimately, this fell flat. The protest, rallying behind the slogan “no disc, no buy,” was intended to push back against the shift away from physical games and raise concerns about what the change could mean for game ownership. However, the protest was not as

ical game can be kept and used independently, digital games are tied to the account they were purchased through. “Your digital games are connected to your account instead of to the console itself,” Garrett said. “When the account goes away, all your digital games also go away; if the games were actually stored on the console, it would be a completely different story.” Students

emphasized

sense

control

when

owning

they

the have

Jayden Lewis | Art Director

physically.

games; it is how games stay affordable.”

“They’re doing a form of price dis-

“You can do anything you want

The boycott had minimal ef-

crimination with the dynamic pric-

games

with it because it is physical, … you

fect

engage-

ing they’re doing through the Play-

can give it to someone, you can pass

ment, causing students to think

Station Store, where different users

it down as a family heirloom,” Gar-

Sony will not change their plans.

will get different prices for games,”

rett said. “Having something phys-

“I think they will keep on the same

Akhtar said. “They’re experiment-

is fundamentally flawed,” said Saad

ically, it makes it feel more real and

path that they are, but that’s because

ing with it, but the fact is if they

Akhtar, a junior psychology major.

more impactful that you have it.”

people will keep enabling them,” Akhtar

go all-digital, they can do that.”

big as organizers had hoped, with students saying many gamers were simply unconcerned about the issue. “I think the PlayStation blackout

PlayStation

“The issue is it’s only a temporary thing;

From

Sony’s

perspective

said. “People like to talk big about these

Akhtar shared his recommenda-

they’ll start buying the same things

business,

the

decision

clear-

things, but hardly anyone actually

tions for what people should do mov-

again. The most you’re going to do is

cut; physical discs do not make

then uses their wallet to prove that.”

ing forward to protect physical gaming.

push back the plan; you won’t stop it.”

as much profit as digital games.

Students also shared their concerns

“To make an actual proper change

Physical games can be resold, trad-

“It’s mainly about money for them,

about the possible repercussions of

you need to migrate to other sys-

ed or given away, while digital games

and if they store it digitally on their

moving to an all-digital game model.

tems, other forms of entertainment;

are tied to a player’s account. This is

store, they’ll get more money from it,”

“It’s gonna be more expensive to

just simply don’t support them,”

especially important to game pres-

Garrett said. “They already put out data

buy them, and it’s all in the company’s

Akhtar said. “Divert that attention

ervationists, who work to preserve

that says most people buy digital games.”

hands,” said Walker Hardman, a fresh-

to companies and games that are

older games so they can remain ac-

For students, the decision between

man management major. “They can take

doing what the consumer wants.”

cessible to players in the future.

physical and digital games can also come

them away or say you have to down-

Although the PlayStation blackout

“The casual consumer isn’t too

down to which option is more affordable.

load this new thing to play it. It only in-

did not result in widespread partici-

Quinton

“I prefer physical, but a lot of the time

vites the company to get more greedy.”

pation, the protest prompted renewed

Garrett, a sophomore mass com-

I end up getting digital,” Akhtar said.

Akhtar identified another con-

discussion about ownership in the dig-

munications major. “This is more

“It’s mainly whatever’s cheaper at the

cern with Sony’s move to an all-dig-

ital age. While current trends against

of an issue with more hardcore

time. Having physical games gives you

ital model, saying it could give the

physical media are prevalent, the dis-

fans

preservationists.”

more power as a consumer. Also, the

company more control over how

cussion on physical media’s value in

The difference between physical

secondhand market relies on physical

much individual users pay for games.

people’s lives is sure to be ongoing.

worried

about

and

it,”

game

said

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

09.29.2026

ARTS & LIFE

First fall production: The Fate of Antigone Camdyn Thigpen

derstand the scenes is the most rewarding part.”

Staff Writer

Backstage,

The GCSU Department of Theater and Dance will open the doors of Russell Auditorium on Wednesday, Sept. 30 for their fall play, “The Fate of Antigone,” directed by Ryan Jones, an assistant professor of theater. The department decides what show to put on by focusing on what will provide the most meaningful

opportunities

for

the

students

and what will be interesting to the audience. “Ultimately, we want a season that challenges our students while giving them opportunities to work across different styles, periods and types of theatre,” Jones said. “The Fate of Antigone” is an old Greek tragedy,

approximately

2,500

years

old.

fol-

lows a family caught in the aftermath of a war, and two people doing what they think is right. Jones wants to see what it means to tell the story now, and how the themes of power, individual truth, law, morality and the consequences of

the

production

crew

The director of each show changes with each pro-

work-

duction. While Jones is directing “The Fate of Anti-

ing just as diligently. They handle all aspects

gone,” Jeremy Lee Cudd will be directing “Cry it Out.”

behind the scenes, from lighting and sound

“That rotation is one of the strengths of our sea-

to building the sets and finding costumes.

son because students have the opportunity to work

Beatrice Ronan, a junior mass communication and

with different directors and experience different

theater major and the show’s stage manager, is the

approaches to the rehearsal process,” Jones said.

central organizer and makes sure that the proper in-

Students get the chance to learn and un-

formation is conveyed between the crew and actors.

derstand

different

“When you work on long-scale projects such as

hearsing

with

ways

acting

ever-changing

and

re-

directors.

shows, you really start to form close relationships

Director Jones is focused on making sure

with the people you meet,” Ronan said. “I come out of

that the production and students working on

every show with a new experience and a new friend.”

it get the attention and practice they deserve.

Since it is a live production, there are no sec-

“The audience may know where the sto-

ond takes. The cast and crew have to rein in their

ry ends, but the Fates would probably tell you

focus and execute everything with precision.

that knowing the ending has never stopped

The theater department does back-to-back

anyone from walking toward it,” Jones said.

shows with their next show, “Cry it Out,” opening

For students interested in seeing the final

on Wednesday, Nov. 4. The play is a comedy-drama

product, they can purchase tickets at https://

written by Molly Smith Metzler about parenthood.

gcsutheatredance.ludus.com/index.php.

BTS

our choices survive through every generation. According to Jones, the play will be different than how most remember it from English class. The production is drawing heavily from Epic Theater and is purposefully allowing the audience to see some of the theatrical machinery, rather than pretending that the onstage world is completely real. The cast has been working every weekday to make this production possible. The team works together diligently, offers constructive criticism and takes each other seriously. “The adrenaline rush that you get with the lights blazing down on you helps push yourself to work for it,” said Callie Paulk, a junior elementary education major playing the role of Antigone. “Seeing the audience clap, laugh and un-

Courtesy of Morgan Walker

“American Idol” moves production to Atlanta Ava Flores

The move comes after more than two

gram such as “American Idol” can

Host Ryan Seacrest is from Dunwoody,

Sports Editor

decades of the show being strongly asso-

provide consistent production jobs.

Georgia, while judge Luke Bryan grew

ciated with Hollywood and Los Angeles.

“It’s a long-running show with an au-

up in Leesburg, Georgia. Carrie Un-

“American Idol” first premiered in 2002

dience, a loyal audience, and it produc-

derwood and Lionel Richie are also ex-

and has helped launch the careers of

es a lot of jobs, and those are going to be

pected to return as judges for Season 25.

singers including Kelly Clarkson, Car-

reliable jobs season to season as long as

Although many details about the

rie Underwood and Jennifer Hudson.

that show’s on the air,” Fortmueller said.

“American Idol” is trading Hollywood for Georgia as the long-running

singing

competition

pre-

pares to move production to the Atlanta area for its 25th season. “In general, the production industry

“I feel like Hollywood has more of an

University

Georgia

profes-

‘American Idol’ vibe, but having repre-

sor Neil Landau also told Atlanta

sentation in Atlanta is cool,” said Jenna

News First that productions mov-

Claire Hendley, a junior psychology ma-

ing to the state can create internship

jor. “I feel like it’ll boost the economy.”

and job opportunities for college

portunity to infiltrate the industry,” said

Moving production to Georgia

students interested in the industry.

Ella Templeton, a junior double major

could also benefit the state’s growing

“For both grad students and un-

in mass communications and Spanish.

entertainment industry. Georgia offers

dergrad students, it’s a great opportu-

Fremantle, one of the companies

tax incentives to film and television

nity for internships while they’re still

behind the show, confirmed the move

productions, which have helped attract

in school,” Landau said. “And then

on Sept. 15. The upcoming season is

a number of major projects to the state.

when they get out there are jobs.”

According to the Georgia De-

For GCSU students, having the

is difficult to infiltrate, and ‘American Idol’ coming to Atlanta is a positive thing for mass communication majors in production because they have the op-

partment

state-cer-

show closer to home could make at-

receive

tending a taping or learning about

20% base tax credit and may qual-

the television industry more realistic.

ify for an additional 10% credit.

“I’m really excited that ‘Ameri-

production move are still unknown,

Atlanta has also continued to attract

can Idol’ is moving to Atlanta,” said

bringing “American Idol” to Geor-

productions.

Charlotte Norton, a senior nursing

gia adds another major television

Shows including “Shark Tank,” “Celeb-

major. “I think it’s cool that Atlanta is

production to the state and could

rity Family Feud” and “Press Your Luck”

getting a lot more production in it.”

give students interested in entertain-

have moved production from Los An-

This move could affect students

ment a closer look at how a nation-

geles to metro Atlanta in recent years.

interested in auditioning for the

ally recognized show is produced.

The move could create more op-

competition, as filming in Georgia

For students who have grown up

expected to premiere in 2027; howev-

portunities for people interested in ca-

could make the opportunity more

watching contestants receive gold-

er, details about exactly which parts

reers in television and entertainment.

accessible to students in the state.

en tickets to Hollywood, the next

of the show will be filmed in Georgia

Kate Fortmueller, a professor at

The decision to film in Georgia also

generation of “American Idol” con-

and which Atlanta-area studio will be

Georgia State University, told Atlanta

brings the show closer to home for

testants may instead find the op-

used have not yet been announced.

News First that a long-running pro-

some of its most recognizable faces.

portunity much closer to home.

tified

Revenue,

productions

unscripted

Jayden Lewis | Art Director

can

television

Courtesy of Sydney Williams

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

09.29.2026

SPORTS SWEENEY

physical

Continued from page 1 Abigail

Hirschy,

appearance

gets

judgment on the account of

more attention than their

them just being a woman.”

athletic

performances.

The advertisement has also

sophomore exercise science

“There is a double standard,

major with a concentration

and a lot of men will point

the message that these kinds

in fitness and performance,

out

of portrayals could send to

played tennis competitively and

sports because of the way

recreationally for nine years.

the women look and not

“My biggest problem is

that

their

younger

regarding

female

athletes.

“I think if a younger female athlete sees this ad,

said.

that it won’t have much of

like women in sports are

Hirschy spoke about the

an impact in the long run,

supposed to look ‘perfect’

impact that these types of

but if these types of ads

while

advertisements might have.

where women in sports aren’t

partaking in their preferred

“I don’t think it takes

accurately portrayed, then new

hypersexualized

watching

questions

athletic

that the ad makes it seem

because

they’re

raised

performance,”

Kirka

sport,” Hirschy said. “Full faces

away

of make-up, hair done and half-

accomplishments but rather

could

nude dress code aren’t typically

gives more fuel to the fire

of what a female athlete is

what you’d see a real woman

of people who don’t take

supposed to look like,” Hirschy

athlete wearing, as the makeup

women’s

said. “Children often learn

and hair aren’t functional and

and try to undermine their

wearing underwear to play a sport isn’t comfortable.”

from

women’s

sports

accomplishments,”

generations of female athletes

seriously

have

through

Hirschy

preconceptions

observation,

“I

over time if more ads like

athletes should be used to

just

think

actually

get it as accurate as possible

showcasing

the

athlete’s

and set an amazing example

talent and physical ability is far more important than how they look,” Kirka said. Hirschy

and

they will pick up on trends

said. “Women in sports isn’t

Sydney Sweeney walking down the red carpet at the premier of “The House Maid”

emphasis on athletic ability.

also

explore sports,” Hirschy said. As

female

athletes

had

suggestions for advertisements featuring

for little girls who want to

female

athletes.

“Women

sports

advertising

should

continue to respond to the Novig

advertisement,

the

discussion has gone beyond

The discourse surrounding

meant to be an ad for the male

this are put out for them.”

the advertisement has also

gaze; it’s meant to allow all kinds

Both Hirschy and Kirka

raised

questions

about

of women the freedom to play

said

sports

advertising

portrayed as true athletes,

how women are portrayed

whether

female

athletes’

their sport of choice without

should

place

and clips of real female

throughout

The Fall of Flagler

greater

Sweeney’s

campaign

sports

media.

GCSU women’s soccer beats the Flagler College for the first time in eleven years Nina Bartlett Sports Editor For the first time in 11 years, GCSU

women’s soccer beat Flagler College. The Bobcats defeated the Saints 3-0 on Sept. 19 at Bobcat Soccer Field, ending a 10-game winless streak against Flagler dating back to 2015. GCSU had gone 0-10-2 against the

corner to give the Bobcats an early lead.

because of the teams’ history and

2-0 in Peach Belt Conference play

competition

Belt.

following the Flagler game. Four days

team

Fortin, a senior exercise science

later, GCSU played Carson-Newman

knew the matchup would be difficult

major, said the history between the

to a 0-0 draw on Sept. 23, giving

but entered with confidence after

teams made the game feel different

Fortin her third consecutive shutout.

winning its previous two games.

from a typical conference matchup.

That same day, the Bobcats entered the

“I think we did view this game

United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division

differently because of our past with

II Southeast Region rankings at No. 9,

Cheely,

senior

education

major,

elementary

said

the

“Our team always goes into the games against Flagler, knowing it’s going to be a tough battle,” Cheely

Saints since its last win, a 1-0 victory on

said. “We had picked up two great

the road on Halloween 2015. The Bobcats

wins right before our Flagler game,

also entered the matchup looking for

and

a different result after Flagler ended

that we were able to build off.”

their 2025 season with a 1-0 Peach Belt

Cheely added another goal in the

Conference Tournament semifinal loss.

27th minute after Lauren Dozier

Mackenzly Cheely put GCSU on

crossed the ball into the middle, giving

the board in the eighth minute after

GCSU a 2-0 lead before halftime.

had

strong

momentum

Alayna Cobb sent the ball into the box.

Both

Cheely

and

Cheely finished the chance in the left

Fortin

consider

Flagler

Kassidy a

rival

the

Peach

Flagler,” Fortin said. “I think we really wanted to win against them since we haven’t beaten them in a long time.” The Bobcats continued to control the game in the second half while the defense kept Flagler off the scoreboard. The Saints recorded 10 shots, with six on target, but Fortin made six saves to earn the shutout. Brittany

Bakke

added

GCSU’s

third goal in the 70th minute, scoring her second goal of the season off an assist from Kat Wilber. Fortin said the win was especially important

because

Flagler

had

recently defeated North Georgia, one of the Peach Belt’s top opponents. “This result was huge for our team moving forward in conference play since Flagler had just recently beaten one of the biggest opponents in the

Courtesy of Dennis Hicken

marking the second time the program had been regionally ranked since 2018. Playing at home also gave GCSU an advantage against Flagler. Fortin said the team is more comfortable at Bobcat Soccer Field and does not have to deal with the challenges of traveling. “Playing at home always affects the team in a positive way,” Fortin said. “We are always the most comfortable at home and not having to make the long bus ride definitely helps.” Cheely said the support from the crowd added to the atmosphere. “Playing with a crowd is always so fun,” Cheely said. “We have great support from our families, so home games

are

always

great

energy.”

With Flagler set to leave the Peach Belt Conference after the

PBC, North Georgia,” Fortin said.

2026 season, the Sept. 19 matchup

The win also capped a strong week for

could be one of the final conference

Fortin. She recorded two shutouts and

meetings between the two programs.

10 saves across 180 minutes from Sept.

After more than a decade without

14-20 and was named GCSU’s Zaxby’s

a win against Flagler, GCSU finally

Player of the Week and Peach Belt

ended the streak. The Bobcats will

Conference Goalkeeper of the Week.

now look to carry that momentum

The Bobcats were 4-2 overall and

through the rest of conference play.

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

09.29.2026

SPORTS

GCSU Golf Team’s Social Media Rises to Par James Cordero

gust, Johnston began her

knit group of guys that

Outreach Editor

practicum working as the

love hanging out with

golf team’s social media

the GCSU golf team’s Instagram has become

Starting

this

year,

much more active, in

students, and the golf

tion brought to the golf

team is using these plat-

team. She also wants to

each other and have

reach more of the stu-

forms to draw attention

manager. Since then, she

that brotherly friend-

dent population by us-

to a sport that does not

has gotten to know the

ship; I’ve loved getting

ing social media to get

have as many vocal fans.

players on the team, with

to know each of them

their attention and show

“Results indicate that

and the team as a whole.”

the personalities of the

Instagram and TikTok

reviv-

players on the team.

are the most effective

out of it, I can grow the

al of the team’s social

“So much of that en-

platforms for capturing

social media a lot more, get more people excit-

part because of Lucy

the hope of understand-

Johnston, a junior mass

ing more about the team’s

communication

major

culture in the future.

who manages the ac-

“The team has 8 or 9

count for her practicum.

players,” Johnston said.

After starting in Au-

“It’s just a really close-

The

Emilie Theado| Digital Media Editor

recent

that social media reach.” Johnston

hopes

and

see the account and the team continue to grow even after she graduates. “I hope that coming

media page comes af-

gagement

focus

student attention,” said a

ter a period when the

comes from social me-

study from the Univer-

team’s social media was

dia these days,” Johnston

sity of Nebraska about

largely inactive and the

said. “So many of our

the impact of social me-

team itself did not re-

students here on campus

dia on college sports fan

ceive much attention.

are on social media, so

engagement by Lindzy

“Golf is a sport here

[having an active social

K. Cortés. “The findings

ture can grow it even

that can be a little more

media page] is import-

suggest that authentic,

further,” Johnston said.

overlooked sometimes,”

ant to get students ex-

student-centered content

Johnston said. “And the

cited about what sports

can bridge the gap be-

social media, for the lon-

and athletics are doing.”

tween digital interaction

gest time, was forgotten;

Social media, espe-

and real-world support.”

there wasn’t a lot going

cially TikTok and In-

on with it, no one was

stagram, is one of the

see growth in the future

really running it, and

most effective ways to

of the Instagram ac-

over rounds at @gcsu_

[the team] saw a need for

gain

count and in the atten-

golf

attention

from

Johnston

wants

ed about the golf team, get to know the team more and that whoever takes over in the fu-

Students

can

keep

up with the golf team, learn more about the players and track the team’s

performance

Instagram.

Atlanta’s Changing Golf Scene

Tour Championship set to leave East Lake after 20 years

Postcard of East Lake, Atlanta, Ga. Golf Course

Lawrence Flournoy Staff Writer

sad to hear the tournament

tournament kind of backs up

businesses

will be leaving East Lake.

golf in the South and Atlanta,”

The Tour Championship, which

has

held

think

when

people

said

Wesley

Lawrence,

week-long

have been calling for and

event.

have wanted, which is match

“I think there’s space to gain,

play. Two weeks, two different

think about golf in Georgia,

sophomore

management

and hopefully it doesn’t stay at

venues, but it’s cool. I think

East Lake Golf Club for

automatically it comes to the

information systems major.

the new place forever, but just

they’ve taken a big swing,

more than 20 years, will

Masters, and I think Atlanta

Georgia has hosted three

to be on a rotation schedule so

and conceptually, I think I

change

venues

starting

feels left out in a way. Which

annual PGA TOUR events for

that when it does come back,

really like it,” McIlroy said.

leaving

Atlanta.

sounds a little ‘stepbrother-

16 consecutive years, including

being sure to double down the

Stroke play is the most

East Lake resides five miles

ish,’ but to me it feels super

The Masters in Augusta, The

effort put into it and make it

common format on the PGA

east of downtown Atlanta,

important

that

Tour Championship at East

the hardest ticket to get next

TOUR, leading to the variation

offering an 18-hole course.

be a way to keep that city

Lake, and the RSM Classic

to the Masters,” Anderson said.

in the Tour Championship

relevant,”

said.

at Sea Island Golf Club.

Starting in 2028, the Tour

fans and players have been

was not about East Lake Golf

An important distinction to

California hosts six events,

Championship

feature

asking for. In stroke play,

Club itself, but rather the overall

make is that the tournament

while Florida and Texas each

two different golf courses that

golfers compete to complete

format of the tournament.

is not permanently moving

host four. Georgia will now

have yet to be determined.

the course in the fewest total

The

Tour

to a single new location.

host two events, with the loss

Players have started to weigh

strokes. In match play, golfers

has

traditionally

However, East Lake Club and

of the Tour Championship

in, including two-time masters

compete against an opponent,

stroke-play

Atlanta will still be impacted

potentially

champion

McIlroy,

with each hole won by the

by the loss of the tournament

business and tourism that

who spoke with the PGA

player who uses fewer strokes.

the

brings.

TOUR about the changes.

The Tour Championship

Around 40,000 to 60,000

“I think the PGA TOUR,

might be leaving East Lake,

2028,

been

“I

the

participating

The PGA TOUR’s decision

Championship

four-round golf

tournament

been

East

Lake since 2004. Beginning in

2028,

the

tournament

have

Anderson

annual

event.

“I think they could lose

affecting

tournament

the

will

Rory

will move to a two-week

tradition

golf fans attend the Tour

and the Future Competition

but it has the chance to return

match-play

championship.

because of Augusta, golf in

Championship at East Lake

Committee, and Brian and

one day. For more information

Milledgeville local and avid

the South revolves around

usually. Along with around

everyone involved, have really

about the changes, students can

golf fan Matt Anderson was

Georgia. Having a second

200 corporate partners and

taken on board what the fans

visit the PGA TOUR website.

and

feel

10 JANE CARR, MANAGING EDITOR

09.29.2026

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

The Ethics of Stain By: Jane Carr What does white mean if it has never met the dirt? There is a particular tenderness in washing blood from your knee— in discovering that pain does not make the body impure. And there is another kind in sitting across from someone you love, saying the difficult thing, listening to the difficult answer, and finding, somehow, that the bond survives. Or does not. Both are forms of knowledge. Water does not resent the shape of the vessel. It enters the curve, occupies the hollow, becomes itself there.

And the flower— crooked, leaning, opening where it can— does not apologize for failing to grow straight. Perhaps we should ask less whether we are good, and more whether we are willing to be changed. To remain permeable. To leave when we must. To stay when it is hard. After all, a spotless life is only a life that has never touched anything. - J.C.

Grafton Days’ performance on Saturday, Sept. 26

Photography by Bryan Cade

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