Issue 4 | Volume 106

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University October 7, 2025

Single Copies Free

bobcatmultimedia.com

Tie-Dye fundraiser Emma Tyler

from since students will dye their own shirts.

A unique design imprinted on the shirt will arise once the dye sets, featuring the school’s infamous bobcat mascot named Thunder and a quote which reads, “Bring on the Thunder!”

The event will continue every Tuesday and Thursday at the same time and location until supplies run out.

The class currently has 225 shirts that range

from sizes small (S) to double extra-large (2XL).

If there is a large demand for shirts in the month of October, supplies will be restocked for November.

This fundraiser will mirror small business work by allowing students in the class to separate themselves into groups with a managing director, head of marketing, head of finance and subgroups for each department.

SARAH MASON

and dedication I have put into soccer worth it.”

Mason and her teammate Kate Phillips teamed up to drive the ball down the field to finally assist Sarah King to put the Bobcats up 2-0 over Clayton State University. Later, teammate Emily Agi assisted her, as Mason put the ball into the net for the fourth GCSU goal of the contest. Mason also walked away with a stat line that included three shots, all of which were

Asst. News Editor Georgia College’s Small Business Institute Class is in partnership with the GCSU Athletic Department as they sell tie-dye t-shirts on Tuesday, October 7 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on front campus to fundraise for the women’s soccer team.

There will be white t-shirts for purchase and a separate table that will supply a variety of paint dyes to choose

Zaxby’s Player of the Week Bryan Cade

Belt

Conference

4-0

Asst. Sports Editor

win against the Clayton

GSCU senior wom-

ers, their first confer-

en’s soccer player Sarah Mason took home the honors for Zaxby’s Player of the Week for her performance during the

State

University

Lak-

ence win of the season.

“Winning the Zaxby’s Player of the Week means a lot to me,” Mason said.. “This is my

week ending on Sept. 21.

first time winning it,

The Atlanta native con-

or much of anything at

tributed a goal and an

Georgia College, so it

assist in GCSU’s Peach

kinda makes all the work

NEWS | PG. 2

GCSU IS IN TOP 5 SCHOOLS IN THE SOUTH U.S. News and World Report honors GCSU in the Top 5.

SPORTS | PG. 5

BOBCATS INVITATIONAL AT GCSU

See TIE-DYE | Page 3

Courtesy of Camille Phillips

on goal. At the time of her performance, Mason led the Bobcats in goals, assists and points.

Beginning with her assist on the performance, Mason had a positive outlook on the team-up that led to King scoring the goal.

“The assist, on the other hand, was a beautiful build-up and may be one of my favorite assists yet,” Mason said. “I got a great ball in from Kaisa and had Kate open to my left, and hit her a

straight ball. After that, I thought I could probably get the ball back, so I ran forward, and Kate played me down the line, and I got the ball wide open. Then I looked up, and Sarah King was wide open, so I crossed it to her, and she had a beautiful finish to the bottom left corner.

I was so excited when she scored because it completely shut down Clayton’s momentum.”

GCSU’s cross country team held their first meet on their new course.

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7

FARMERS AND ARTISANS MARKET ON CAMPUS The Fall market was held on Oct. 1 by GCSU Student Engagement.

See MASON | Page 4

Amelia McEwen | News Editor

GCSU’s Wellness Center hosts Sunset Yoga Amelia McEwen

100

stu-

chology major. “I’ve been

corner. Another key hack

son, a junior exercise sci-

ficult to recognize when

dents

attended.

The

studying for a test tomor-

when it comes to priori-

ence major. “I feel like it’s

your body and mind

relaxing

scene

act-

row and I felt like I need-

tizing mental health is

a good way to clear your

are in need of a break

ed as a much-needed

ed to go and do some-

spending time outdoors.

mind, especially if you

when assignments and

hosted sunset yoga on

break

individuals

thing with my friend.”

“I go to the yoga

have a test that week.”

tests are building up.

Front Campus to of-

needing

destress.

Exercise and spending

classes every week with

more

“I needed a break

quality time with friends

workout.

from studying to get ex-

The event took place

ercise,” said Rachel Ur-

News Editor GCSU’s

Wellness

&

Recreational

ter

(WRC)

fer

students

therapeutic

Cen-

recently

a

on Oct. 1 at 7 p.m.

and

about

for to

bach, a sophomore psy-

are

The sunset yoga instruc-

my friend Anna and

trying to find ways to

tor advertised for stu-

are two ways of de-stress-

I thought a different

manage

dents to take a moment

ing, especially when mid-

change of scenery would

when midterm testing

terms are just around the

be nice,” said Kaeli Alli-

Most

students

the

pressure

is so soon. It can be dif-

to redirect their focus.

See SUNSET YOGA | Page 6

2

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

10.07.2025

NEWS

GCSU named Top 5 School in the South Emma Jow Contributing Writer

graduate population of around 6,000, GCSU has

Dr. Alby has been

This month, GCSU

a 1:16 student-to-pro-

was given the honorable

course was unpaid, with

at the university, which

Teach-

participants getting no

provides workshops, re-

teaching at GCSU for

ing, Dr. Alby detailed

extra recognition, title

treats and scholarship

fessor ratio, and most

over 25 years, and to

what makes GCSU un-

or certificate for par-

opportunities. The col-

of

classrooms hold 30 stu-

her, the school’s liber-

dergraduate

professors

ticipating. Despite this,

lege has over 150 student

Top 5 Schools in the

dents or fewer, provid-

al arts mission provides

special. Dr. Alby believes

over one-third of GCSU

organizations, including

South by U.S. News

ing a unique environ-

“breadth and depth” to

that teaching students to

faculty chose to partici-

Greek life, and more than

and

Report.

ment for those enrolled.

students, allowing them

think, instead of telling

pate. Giving up hours of

2,000 students belong

The regional south

Professors hold week-

to focus on their chosen

them what to think, is

their time for the simple

to one of 29 chapters.”

consists of 12 states.

ly office hours to fur-

subject while remain-

the most effective teach-

possibility of improving

There is far more to

GCSU was also ranked

ther encourage the idea

ing broadly educated.

ing method. She upholds

the learning experience

a college education than

#5 Best Undergraduate

that GCSU students are

Dr. Alby attended a

this by making an effort

for students, the course

simply

Teaching and #9 Most

more than just names on

was a stunning testament

perform in their class-

Innovative across both

a roster. They demon-

to the unique dedica-

es. Each GCSU student

public and private in-

strate that each student

tion of GCSU educators.

also has their own ca-

stitutions in the region-

is an individual who

al south. Also, having

deserves

claimed the title of No.

intentional

2 Best Value School in

“The

nomination

World

fessor

of

education.

Having ranked #5 Best Undergraduate

reer goals and post-grad

said.

aspirations. Life beyond

“When I first arrived

undergrad can be over-

Col-

25 years ago, we weren’t

whelming and intimidat-

the state, GCSU’s educa-

lege experience is root-

this. We’ve become this

ing; however, GCSU pri-

tion is now more afford-

ed in the liberal arts

by working really hard

oritizes helping students

able and higher-quality.

and provides the foun-

at it. I hope that we are

tackle these fears through

These awards repre-

dation for a lifetime of

able to get more and

several

sent a long, sustained

learning, growth, and

period of positive change

academic

excellence,”

private liberal arts school

to only speak for 10% or

and continuous growth

according to an arti-

for her undergrad and

less of class time, with the

room, GCSU’s education

and full-time career fairs

for GCSU and reflect

cle on GCSU’s website.

deeply valued the goals

rest of the time being set

is unique because of its

where

the dedicated work of

GCSU Professors are

of a liberal arts educa-

aside for hands-on or col-

plethora of student re-

dents can hear from and

student

tion. When looking at

laborative student work.

sources. At GCSU, stu-

talk to companies from

According to GCSU’s

success in all aspects, as

GCSU, several key as-

For many years, Dr.

dents have assets readily

all fields. The GCSU Ca-

Front Page, as of 2025,

they uphold the school’s

pects stood out to her.

Alby offered a semes-

available that provide a

reer Center, located in

applications for GCSU

liberal

mission.

“It was very exciting

ter-long class for GCSU

supportive environment.

Lanier Hall, helps stu-

“It isn’t just about

to come to a place that

professors, meeting once

According to Forbes

dents to write resumes

are at an all-time high.

one-on-one, support.

Georgia

dedicated

this,”

to

arts

Julia Jensen | Art Director

really

students

earned

staff and students alike.

“We

how

Dr.

Alby

more recognition for it.”

Beyond

the

class-

key

GCSU hosts

both

factors. frequently part-time

motivated

stu-

These rankings are pro-

getting

education

did all the things I want-

a week for two hours.

Magazine, citing 2022-

and cover letters, runs

jected to catapult ap-

for a job, but an edu-

ed, but was public, and

The course taught pro-

2023 data, “More than

mock

plications even further.

cation for life,” said Dr.

available to all people re-

fessors about how to be

600 students are involved

aids students in intern-

With a current under-

Cynthia Alby, a pro-

gardless of their income.”

better

in leadership programs

ship or career searches.

an

VOLUME 106 | NO. 4

Editorial Board

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

Sydney Williams.............Asst. Arts & Life Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Reaghan Shehee............Digital Media Editor Reagan Robinson.......... PR Manager Haley Quimby.................. Ad Sales Manager Mikkel Christensen....... Faculty Adviser

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

educators.

The

@TheColonnade

interviews

and

@TheColonnade

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

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

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

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

Corrections

If you feel anything we’ve printed or posted online has been reported in error, please send an email to thegcsucolonnade@ gmail.com.

Copyrights

All stories and photographs appearing in this issue and previous issues, unless otherwise noted, are copyrighted by The Colonnade.

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

3

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

10.07.2025

NEWS TIE-DYE

them, and now they can do everything,” said Hill.

Continued from page 1 In future reference, he also hopes to find spon-

Through these positions, students are learning different factors that small businesses must

er donation amount for the women’s soccer team.

“I feel like this shows how special a liberal arts education is because at a bigger school like UGA,

sors that will help with the prices and make items

account for, such as finance and budgeting.

it would be a lot harder to put on something like this,” said Julia Whalen, a senior marketing major.

Kent Hill, a relatively new professor at GCSU, is or-

“I feel like because we have such a small school, we

ganizing this fundraiser for the first time on campus.

were able to find funding really fast, get approvals

He previously taught in North Carolina and taught

for graphics and push this whole process through.”

entrepreneurial classes where they partnered with local

Students

businesses to sell and advertise items from the shops.

eficial

Because this fundraiser is new for all involved, it

for

believe women’s

that

this

soccer

is

also

ben-

at

GCSU

be-

cause it brings more attention to their team.

is not only a learning experience for the students,

“I think that it’s just a good way to show school

but also for Hill as he navigates the behind-the-

spirit. I feel like they’re always giving away things

scenes aspects. Hill remarks that every school is

on campus, but I think that because we aren’t such a

different in the steps toward approval as he handles

Courtesy of Brooks Hinton

more affordable for students. The current price

the challenges of this at GCSU. “This was like the guinea pig class as I tried to find out who to contact. I got the first bit of groundwork laid out for

sports-centered school, it’s kind of hard to find that combination between Bobcat pride and sports. I feel

is $24.99 with tax, but if students cannot afford this, there is an option to provide a small-

like it is beneficial for that connection and also has an experimental marketing aspect to it,” said Whalen.

Milledgeville approves Hilton Hotel installation Lucy Nunez Staff Writer

and our restaurant gets very full, spe-

Milledgeville developers are ea-

cifically on weekends or for big events

ger to expand the city community

at GCSU and in the city,” said Caitlyn

and start on the city-approved Hilton

Hess, a junior psychology major. “I

Hotel project on North Elbert Street.

think the hotel will be great for student

An assembly of architects, lawyers

families looking for lodging in Milled-

and hotel consultants were select-

geville. More customers will also allow

ed to fund plans for the project that

our restaurant to gain more attention.”

The

continues to circulate with investors.

Hilton

Hotel

convenient-

Mike

ly will be five minutes away from

Couch mentioned that he started

GCSU and GMC campuses, provid-

Greek life events are large scale

planning the hotel with his real es-

ing families closer approximicity to

events where families are often in-

tate team in February. The Milled-

students. Lake Sinclair, another en-

vited

geville community had expressed interest and the idea drove forward.

Real

estate

developer

Hilton Hotel Logo

engagement.”

tertainment spot for residents and

“I am in Delta Gamma, and my par-

agree that the Hilton hotel is necessary

visitors, is only ten minutes away.

ents are coming to DG Family Day on

in the city and inquire about lodging

125

“I love to visit Lake Sinclair when-

Oct. 18,” said Sarah Crowder, a junior

options close to campus or downtown.

roof-

ever I have the time,” said Lauren Bled-

criminal justice major. “I am also per-

“The Hilton hotel is Milledgeville’s

top bar and conference facilities.

soe, a junior nursing major. “It makes

forming in our fall fundraiser Anchor

missing piece,” said Chloe Melton, a

“I think the Hilton Hotel is an amaz-

me happy that when my family or

Jam. The Hilton Hotel will be great

junior creative writing and English

ing idea,” said Eva Jeswald, a sopho-

hometown friends visit, they have a

for events like these when my parents

major. “I work at Blackbird Coffee

more exercise science major. “Now,

place to stay and can join in my plans.”

would like to come down for a weekend.”

and I overhear many conversations

GCSU students also mention the

about the city needing more lodging

ho-

Hilton Hotel will be a great addi-

options from residents and students.”

visitation.

tion to a livelier downtown scene.

The Milledgeville city council has

“I don’t have a car in Milledgeville, so

“The Hilton Hotel will trans-

since approved the hotel proposal

for

100

rooms,

a

restaurant,

to

GCSU

GCSU and GMC families will be able

students

mention

to visit their students easier. It will

that

Milledgeville

needed

truly bring the community together.”

tel

development

for

Businesses in downtown Milled-

a

their

consumer

Milledgeville residents and students

call

support

increase

students.

Plans

to

rooftop bar and restaurant will also

geville

are

excited

for

the

ad-

I don’t get to see my parents that often,”

form downtown Milledgeville and

for downtown Milledgeville due to

dition

as

well

and

are

prepar-

said Caroline Williams, a senior political

bring more life to restaurants, shops

the community’s demand. If financ-

for

the

economic

impact.

science major. “The hotel will be great

and campuses,” said Arianell Vi-

ing is obtained, the developers hope

“I work at the Brick as a hostess

for when my parents want to visit me.”

all, a senior economics major. “The

to break ground early next summer.

ing

4

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

10.07.2025

SPORTS

MASON

Continued from page 1 Mason has played over 2,400 minutes during her four-year career as a Bobcat, consistently being someone her team can rely on for assists, with 11 in her career. However, that does not mean she can not be relied on for scoring goals herself.

“I actually had no thoughts when I scored against Clayton State,” Mason said. “I kind of blacked out, and

up to the leadership call as a senior.

assists, and points; however, she also

8, at 5:30 p.m. in Cochran, Georgia,

“As a senior, one of only two left

sits in seventh place in the Peach Belt

before returning to Milledgeville for

from the original freshman class, I have

Conference in the assist category.

a Senior Day presentation against the

seen it all and have played almost any role you can think of on this team,” Mason said. “I’ve been the injured player, the bench player, the starter, the sub, and with all of that comes perspective.

I know what the freshmen are going through, I know what it’s like to win on the road, and I know how hard be-

my muscle memory took over. I think

ing in season is. With that, I try to help

I do my best when I don’t overthink.”

the younger ones manage all of this.”

GCSU brought in nine freshmen

Since the contest against Clay-

GCSU women’s soccer will re-

University of South Carolina-Aiken

for the 2025 season, and besides be-

ton State University and receiving the

turn with another conference contest

Pacers, where Mason and her fellow

ing a large part of the Bobcat offense

Zaxby’s Player of the Week award,

against the Middle Georgia State Uni-

senior teammates will be commem-

this season, Mason has also stepped

Mason still leads the Bobcats in goals,

versity Knights on Wednesday, Oct.

orated on Saturday, Oct. 11, at 1 p.m.

Courtesy of Dennis Hickens, GCSU Athetics

Major League Baseball adds ABS System Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor Major League Baseball has undergone several rule changes in recent years, including the introduction of the pitch clock, the extra-inning runner and infield shift violations. The sport has

The new system en-

the game that this tech-

said Jake Beaver, a senior

ment in overall umpire

appear to be a strike, es-

ables batters, pitchers

nology can’t replicate.”

pitcher on the GCSU

performances over the

sentially deceiving the

and catchers to challenge

Major League Base-

baseball team. “What

past few years; however,

umpire’s judgment and

a call made by an umpire,

ball tested out the ABS

makes baseball, baseball

the worst umpires have

influencing the call in

and it quickly verifies

System during the Spring

is the human element

seemed to get worse

favor of the defense.

whether the pitch was,

Training games before

of it. Umpires can make

rather

in fact, a strike or a ball.

the 2025 Regular Sea-

mistakes. If there’s a pitch

CB

Teams will have two chal-

son. From such tests, the

lenges per game and will

pitching team won 54.4%

than

improve.

Bucknor

“I believe framing is

has

one of the most import-

I don’t think should have

been at the center of

ant aspects of a catcher’s

gotten called a strike,

the umpire discussion

game because a well-

have the option to retain

framed pitch can turn

a successful challenge.

a borderline ball into a

The system aims not to

strike, changing the out-

entirely replace the hu-

come of an at-bat and

man aspect of having an

even the flow of an in-

umpire while attempting

ning,” Bestermann said.

to limit poor calls that

“It’s a subtle skill that can

can significantly impact

make a massive differ-

System

the outcome of a game.

ence over the course of

has been discussed for

“It’s a bit of a dou-

a game. However, with

the sport of baseball for

ble-edged sword in the

the implementation of

some time, although it

way it will change the

the ABS, the importance

is often referred to by

game,” said Rand Bester-

of framing will definite-

other names, such as the

mann, a senior catcher

“Robo-Umps.” Umpires

on the GCSU baseball

of challenges, edging out

but the umpire calls it

for the previous year, as

catchers will need to fo-

for sports are rarely per-

team. “On one hand, it

the hitting team, which

that way, I’m definite-

while he has been in the

cus more on other key

fectly accurate, so the

will help the flow of the

had a flat 50.0% suc-

ly not going to argue.

league for a long time,

skills like blocking and

proposed rule change

game and make it more

cess rate. Catchers won

But as a hitter, I would

his Umpire Scorecards

throwing runners out.”

is planned to improve

enjoyable for the view-

the most challenges at

want the strike zone to

have most definitely de-

Major League Base-

the consistency in calls.

er. And there will be no

56%; they helped their

be as small as possible. I

creased as his service

ball will begin heavily

For example, instanc-

more frustration from

pitchers, who challenged

wouldn’t want to strike

time in Major League

focusing on the imple-

es such as the “Eric Gregg

players and fans alike.

poorly at a 41% clip.

out on a pitch that was

Baseball has increased.

mentation of ABS in all

Game,” in which an um-

On the other hand, it

Notably, only 2.6% of

two balls off the plate.”

pire heavily impacted

takes away some of the

pitches were challenged

the game by consistently

character and life from

making poor calls against

undergone

significant

changes in a relatively short time. However, Major League Baseball may have its most significant change beginning in the 2026 Regular Season.

The Automated BallStrike

(ABS)

Courtesy of Dennis Hickens, GCSU Athetics

Au-

thirty ballparks come

Ball-Strike

the offseason. While the

the

Scorecards,

tomated

during Spring Training,

a popular database used

System

impact

previous rule changes

the game because hav-

and approximately 80%

to track the consistency

catcher framing, which

have definitely impact-

the Atlanta Braves in

ing human error from an

of the games involved

and performance of um-

refers to the catcher’s

ed the sport, ABS may

a playoff game against

umpire adds emotion, in-

five or fewer challenges.

pires, show that there has

ability to make a pitch

be the most divisive

the

tensity and personality to

“I see both sides of it,”

been a trend of improve-

outside the strike zone

in the baseball world.

Florida

Marlins.

Umpire

However,

ly dwindle. As a result,

could

5

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

10.07.2025

SPORTS

Women’s basketball practice players Bryan Cade

rating practice players.

Asst. Sports Editor

“My freshman year,

low athletes to challenge

quirements of being like

contributing to the team.

themselves;

instead

a regular athlete, you

It is still a way away for

also get the ability to be

The Georgia College

prove her women’s bas-

one of the practice guys

of running consistent

& State University wom-

ketball team, but also

we had, he was a senior,

drills, they put athletes

en’s basketball team is

male basketball players,

by the time I became a

in

somewhat

realis-

seeking practice players

in the sense that they

senior, he was my post

tic

situations,

requir-

to help elevate their bas-

will want to come in and

coach, so it built that re-

ing them to use their

ketball skills to the next

help the girls improve.

lationship, and he ended

athletic IQ in a nearly

level. Practice players

“They can be a big

up getting into coach-

game-simulation

are a commonality in

part of the success of a

ing,” Green said. “Build-

However, if you do

the world of sports. They

program,” Green said.

ing that connection, just

want to contribute to the

allow teams to have ex-

“Getting

tra athletes to help their

are

state.

guys

that

as a practice player, is

women’s basketball team,

dedicated,

com-

excellent. I’m hoping to

there are still require-

starters improve their

ing in and wanting to

connect with some guys

ments to be considered

game plan, not only phys-

make these girls better.”

who want to do that or

for a practice player role.

ically, but also mentally,

GCSU currently sits at

just stay in touch. They’ll

“You have to do all

by learning how certain

11 athletes on the team,

want to come in and

the things our girls are

plays can be enhanced

with the potential to add

help build our program.”

doing,” Green said. “You

through extra reps rath-

a couple more as the sea-

The rapport that prac-

have to be full-time stu-

er than just practicing

son approaches. Howev-

tice players can build

dents. Pass the same

as being a part of the

with their fellow starters.

er, only five of those cur-

with student athletes can

number of classes, 9

GCSU women’s basket-

Newly minted Inter-

rently on the roster are

be quintessential for the

hours

semester,

ball practice squad gives

im Head Coach Catrina

students returning from

improvement of athletic

and be in good academic

you perks, such as an

Green believes that prac-

a previous year. While

programs. The need for

standing—all the things

tice players are a valuable

practice players are un-

them is definitely some-

to be a regular athlete.

addition to your resume,

way to help her new team

doubtedly a valuable way

thing that Green is look-

But, you also have to

hone its skills. Howev-

to improve skill and deci-

ing for before the start of

have that dedication and

er, it’s not only other

sion-making for athletes,

the season or potentially

understanding that this

women athletes that she

team chemistry can also

even during the season.

is a time commitment.”

believes could help im-

be enhanced by incorpo-

Practice players al-

However, with the re-

each

Courtesy of Catrina Green, GCSU Athletics

seen as a regular athlete,

team gear and priority registration for classes.

Not only that, but you end up building a community full of support by

Coach Green and GCSU as the women’s basketball season does not begin until Nov. 14 with a contest against Young Harris University. However, the team and new head coach Catrina Green are excited to continue preparing for the upcoming 2025-2026 season.

GCSU Cross Country Bobcats Invitational Benjamin Clark Sports Editor

thoughtfully, weaving through open fields, wooded stretches and tight

Last Friday evening, the rolling hills

slopes, a mix intended to challenge

of GCSU’s new cross country course

runners while also rewarding tacti-

bore witness to fierce competition in

cal patience. While many found the

the Bobcat Invitational. Hosted on the

course frustrating, others remarked

university’s West Campus, the meet

that it presented a fun challenge.

featured a women’s 5K race followed

Overall, it was a great night for a run.

by an 8K men’s race, making it a focal

While the course was challeng-

point of the Fall season for many teams.

ing, many runners remarked on their

The start and finish lines of this new

true biggest weakness while run-

stage were positioned in great spectator

ning,

their

mental

perseverance.

areas, creating a close vantage point for

Beyond physical preparation, an

viewers. For many on campus, this was

athlete’s mental state can make or

the debut of a course they would come

break a race, especially in the unpre-

to see again at the upcoming Peach

dictable conditions of cross country.

Belt Conference Championship, which

“I have a hard time separating

the Bobcat course is slated to host.

running from my personal life,” Jow

Students on GCSU’s Cross Country

said. “So a lot of times, if I’m under

team react to the new course and the

a lot of stress, it will kind of translate

challenging uphill battle it presents.

“It’s definitely challenging,” said Emma Jow, a junior english major and Captain of the women’s Cross Country Team. “It’s a little slower than others, but that doesn’t mean that it’s bad.

Its almost like your racing yourself out there.

It just means it’s a little more difficult.

One of the things that’s tough about discourse compared to others, is there’s

- Daniel Laird

lots of different, like ground textures.”

Other students seem to echo Jow’s remarks, displaying an overall sense

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics

hurdles that came with Friday’s race.

on weeks, often months of steady,

Athletes mentioned that racing on

disciplined training. A runner’s per-

their home course provided a mental

formance doesn’t happen overnight;

edge; they knew where the tough stretch-

it’s often the result of early morn-

es were and could mentally prepare for

ing runs, structured workouts and

them in advance. Conversely, visit-

consistency with intangible skills.

ing teams had to adapt quickly, which

Cross-country

training

typically

can rattle less experienced runners.

combines aerobic base-building, endur-

“There’s one really, really long

ance training and strength training to

hill,” Jow said. “It’s about 200 meters

prepare runners for the unique demands

straight uphill and you do it twice.

of racing over grass, trails and hills.

And so none of the other teams ob-

“Well, for this week, specifically, our

viously knew that that hill was back

coach has been making us run on our

there, but we all knew, and we’ve

course, like doing workouts and stuff

been practicing on it multiple times.”

all the time,” Laird said. “Just to kind of

Other runners remark on this in-

get us used to like running back there

famous hill and how it presents a

and all the different turns and whatnot.

mental challenge within the run.

And we’ve been doing a lot more hill

“This hill is actually insane,” said

work this year as well, to kind of get

Emily Wright, a senior philosophy and

ready for the back half of our course.”

of comfort and challenge when on

into my performance, because I’ll just

political science major. “I mean, the big-

GCSU’s team entered the meet

the course, whilst sharing discom-

find it a lot more difficult. And so I’m

gest hill, it’s about a mile in, I want to say.

with several weeks of training and

fort regarding the rugged terrain.

working on overcoming that just by

You just keep going up and up, and it’s

summer conditioning under their

“My coach calls it a true cross coun-

trying to keep them a little more sep-

kind of like a round staircase, so every

belt. Their ability to place multiple

try course,” said Daniel Laird, a ju-

arate, like leaving school at school

corner you think you’re done, and then

runners within the top 20 reflect-

nior environmental science major,

and practice at practice, you know?”

you’re like ‘Oh, this keeps going’ yeah,

ed not just talent, but well-planned

“Just because it’s not like a circle in

For seasoned competitors, staying

so I think it ‘s really mentally tough.”

training cycles that emphasized both

the middle of a field. It’s like, actual-

mentally locked in can be a matter of

Cross country, perhaps more than

individual and team development.

ly, you’re running over obstacles and

victory or defeat. The early fall heat,

many other sports, demands that ath-

like really trying to do more technical

combined with the rough conditions of

letes embrace discomfort rather than

more than just another meet; it was

stuff while you’re racing. So I like it.”

the track and not to mention midterms,

avoid it. This is why training can be

a clear showcase of preparation,

Organizers had lined the route

all have impacts on the psychological

so rigorous; every strong race is built

mental grit and competitive spirit.

The

Bobcat

Invitational

was

6

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

10.07.2025

ARTS & LIFE

GCSU’s anticipation for “The Life of a Showgirl” Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor

Taylor Swift’s latest album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” debuted at midnight Oct. 3 and students at GCSU have anticipated its release.

The album brought out familiar listening traditions, new record purchases and connections for fans on campus.

Staying up for a midnight release has become a shared tradition among Swift fans, also referred to as “Swifties.”

GCSU students have continued that pattern with the debut of “The Life of a Showgirl.”

“I stayed up until midnight Thursday night to listen with one of my roommates, but nothing crazy,” said Savannah Carley, a senior graphic design major.

“I have always stayed home and waited up late in order to listen, so it is sort of a tradition now.”

Others said they preferred listening

alone, allowing them to take in every detail.

“I had it playing on my phone with my iPad opened up to the lyrics on the Genius website,” said Caitlyn Balcom, a senior psychology major. “I enjoy listening on my own for the full experience.”

Freshman early childhood education major Aubrey Meadows kept her approach simple.

“Normally, I do a listening party, but this year I just listened on my own. I love Taylor, but a girl needs her sleep.”

Physical copies of the album have also proved to be a major draw among GCSU students. Several collect vinyl records and CDs, adding a layer of value that online streaming cannot provide.

“I love having a physical version of things in a digital world,” Meadows said.

For some, the purchase was more about continuing a collection.

“I bought the vinyl

from Target as soon as it came out,” said Kaitlyn Baty, a freshman creative

for a few years now, and I have all of her albums.

I was able to pre-or-

Sydney Williams | Asst. Arts & Life Editor

writing major. “Target has a special edition that is pink and sparkly and I wanted to add it to my collection. I’ve been collecting records

der a signed CD, which I’m very excited about.”

The release of “The Life of a Showgirl” has also served as a way for students to

connect with others.

“My aunt and I went to the Eras Tour together, so any new thing Taylor does means we are texting each other more frequently than usual,” Balcom said. “Since she lives so far away, this bond is nice to have.”

Through livestreams, fan accounts or even apps, Swifties have found ways to connect online to share their listening experiences together.

“I connected with my fellow Swifties on Swift Alert to play their album guessing game, which thousands of fans participated in,” Balcom said.

Each new era of Swift’s music often aligns with personal milestones, allowing students to tie the music to their own lives.

“Listening to her music with my sisters, cousins and mom has always been an experience I hold close to my heart.

It also marks the chapter of life I’m currently living,” Carley said.

Many students also pointed to the visual aspects of the album as a notable feature of “The Life of a Showgirl.”

“Visually, this album is very appealing to me,” Balcom said. “There is a lot more artwork and a lot more photographs for this album than in the past, and many special copies for vinyl records with photos and poems.”

Swift’s recent experiences on tour seem to reflect many of these visual tie-ins.

“I definitely think this album focuses on her life as a performer, since she wrote it while on The Eras Tour,” Carley said. “I think the themes explore both the glamour and the challenges of living the ‘life of a showgirl.’”

With the album now available, GCSU students are engaging with “The Life of a Showgirl” across campus through streaming, purchasing physical copies and shared fan activities.

SUNSET YOGA

door exercise because of its healing ca-

dents in attendance shed light on

The Wellness and Recreational

Continued from page 1

pabilities. Since exercising in itself sta-

how close the community is at GCSU.

Center has made an active effort to

“I think that [outdoor exercise] helps

bilizes mood, being in nature naturally

“I think it’s all more of a sense of

promote exercise and well-being in

enhances that biological phenomena.

community when you’re outside with

all of GCSU’s students. During the

According to Piedmont Health-

everybody,” said Kathryn Price, the su-

month of October, the WRC pro-

care, an online medical service,

pervisor from the WRC at GCSU. “This

motes Exercise and Medicine Month

“Outdoor exercise can help ward off

provides an opportunity for people to get

by curating events for all to attend.

seasonal affective disorder (SAD),

out that normally don’t go to the gym.”

The events range from group fit-

depression and anxiety because sun-

From her supervisor position, Price

ness classes, to haunted trails, to fes-

shine naturally increases serotonin,

recognized that there was an influx of

tive activities that promote health and

with anxiety and depression,” said Amy Bishop, the event’s student instructor.

“Just take a minute to sit down and just focus on your breath and not about the stress of school or any tests or family problems. Just sit there and breathe in through your nose and out through

a hormone that affects your mood.”

students at the sunset yoga event in

well-being. The Wellness & Recreation

your mouth to clear your head.”

Bishop’s outdoor yoga session be-

comparison to everyday gym hours.

section of GCSU’s website highlights

Bishop’s words can resonate with

gan just before sunset, setting the scene

The coordinators of the event even went

the exciting and physically engag-

individuals seeking to take a step back

to be relaxing and serotonin-filled.

so far to provide nearly 100 yoga mats

ing events taking place. Navigate to

from stressors. She emphasized out-

Along with this, the near 100 stu-

to account for the high attendance.

the website, gcsu.edu, to learn more.

“I know ball” Students share their hot takes on the rising TikTok trend Benjamin Clark Sports Editor Beginning as a blunt, baffling phrase within sports communities, the phrase “I know ball” has transcended its native audience, becoming a versatile piece of internet slang. In the recent past, the saying was only used to praise or insult another’s sports expertise; however, it has now been adopted into the expanding lexicon of American sports idioms.

Sayings such as “dropping the ball” and “hitting it out of the park” are commonplace in American households to describe or illustrate a point creatively. Over the years, many more sayings have been added to this vocabulary, all beginning in sports.

The earliest uses of “I know ball” and its close cousin “you don’t know ball” appear in sports forums and comment sections where users question another’s understanding of popular team sports. In those contexts, “ball” stands shorthand for the game itself, while “knowing ball” is shorthand for having a genuine abun-

denly it feels official, even when it’s total nonsense.”

Within a matter of weeks, the phrase has left its native domain and spread throughout the vocabularies of the world’s internet users; and next thing you know, your neighbor Susan “knows ball” about knitting.

“When I tell someone they don’t know ball, it’s not that deep, it’s just a way of saying they don’t get the game,” said Seth Clark, a sophomore finance major. “But now I see people using it on TikTok about music, fashion, even politics.

It’s kind of funny how it left sports completely.”

Not everyone appreciates the trend. Some sports fans view the phrase as a lazy shorthand

that

replaces

thoughtful

discourse.

“Honestly, I think it’s annoying,” said Cade Steel, a senior history major. “Instead of explaining why a take is bad, people just spam ‘you don’t know ball.’ It’s clever for five seconds, but it gets old fast.”

These

critiques

echo

long-standing

com-

Julia Jensen| Art Director

have political and cultural aftershock, symbolizing a greater change in the effect of the global internet on culture. Like most memes, the longevity of this phrase’s lifetime is uncertain.

Enduring phrases often become shorthand within particular communities instead of remaining universal catchphrases. “I know ball” might stay a mid-2020s

plaints about social media dynamics, where

niche badge, or it might expand into common sports

short-form

well-

slang used to praise or critique someone’s knowledge.

gun to take relevance through the short-form video

thought-out persuasion and genuine discourse.

Why the phrase caught on so quickly is worth

platforms common among younger generations. The

The phrase’s malleability has produced lo-

further exploration; social linguists generally point

phrase immediately caught on, garnering instant

cal variations and offshoots. For example, ad-

to phrases that favor short and emphatic lines. For

appreciation in many hobby-related communities.

jacent slang like “my ball” is a popular term

journalists and cultural observers, this trend is a

“It’s just another way of saying ‘trust me, bro,’”

of endearment among some groups and has

reminder of how quickly online speech can be-

said senior business major Cooper Treadaway.

been conflated with the “I know ball” trend.

come common vocabulary. For everyday users, it’s

dance or lack of knowledge surrounding the game.

Sometime in the last few years, the phrase has be-

“You can drop it at the end of your take and sud-

Memes,

punchlines

or

popular

tend

to

internet

favor

jokes,

often

an interesting new word to use in everyday speech.

7

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

10.07.2025

ARTS & LIFE

GCSU Hosts Farmers and Artisans Market Kate Walker A&L Editor On Wednesday, Oct. 1, the GCSU Office of Student Engagement hosted its fall semester Farmers and Artisans Market on front campus, featuring live music and a wide range of vendors for the GCSU community to enjoy.

“The Farmers and Artisans Market is something our office puts on every semester, and we invite faculty, staff, students and community vendors to campus. It’s about a two-hour event, typically with live music to sell their products for the GCSU campus and also our community,” said Sara Goodelman, GCSU’s Student Engagement Program coordinator and the event organizer.

The market included both student and community vendors, with a little bit of everything for sale, with items ranging from popsicles and plants to art prints, jewelry and sourdough bagels.

“Any kind of new venture can be pretty daunting just starting out, and organizations and events like this kind of give people the opportunity to try it small scale before investing a lot of money and time into it,” said Billy Copeland, owner of Squareish Woodwork and a vendor at the market Copeland creates unique

gifts from reclaimed and pallet wood, including cheeseboards, keychains and seasonal decorations. While some vendors were established businesses like his, others were simply students

nothing, I’m not going to continue to be creative. But it’s just that extra boost of motivation to show your appreciation for art that’s out there,” Kehler said.

In addition to creating a space for creativity, Goodel-

Beyond shopping, the market also provided a chance for students to pause their busy schedules, enjoy the fall weather and connect with peers. Its central location made it easy for students passing by to stop and browse.

“Someone in my senior seminar class told me that there was a farmer’s market happening and I had no idea.

So now I’m here,” said Ruby

central focus of college experience, events like the market demonstrate the value of activities and engagement beyond the classroom.

“We are here for academics, but it’s also about the personal and professional development and the experience [students] get. It is the first day of fall in October, we have beautiful weather, and it just allows them time to

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

eager to share their creativity.

“I actually came mostly just because I thoroughly enjoy making this stuff and I don’t have the need for a hundred postcards myself,” said Taliesin Kehler, a sophomore biology major selling handcrafted postcards and notebooks.

For Kehler, events like the Farmers and Artisans Market are an opportunity to showcase artistic talents and encourage vendors like herself to continue in their work.

“I think it inspires creativity.

Not that if I go home and sell

man emphasized that the event is designed to make participation accessible for vendors no matter the scale of their business. The market is free for vendors, though they are encouraged to donate items to the Campus Corner, a resource center for students in need.

“This is also a great event for first-time vendors to see if you want to get into the business of working in markets.

I have a lot of students here that are entrepreneurs, and this is their first time selling in a market,” Goodelman said.

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

Hull, a senior English major.

Although Hull hadn’t planned on visiting the market, she walked away with arms full of bags and unique gifts, including bracelets, clothes and crafts.

“I got this crochet duck with a cute little pink hat. It was really cute!” Hull said.

Goodelman noted that while academics are the

kind of take all stressors away and share memories on front campus,” Goodelman said.

With music drifting across front campus, autumn sunshine overhead and students leaving with arms full of handmade treasures, the Farmers and Artisans Market once again showed how creativity and community thrive side by side at GCSU.

Jimmy Kimmel’s Return Jane Carr

Staff Writer Jimmy Kimmel returned to latenight television on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025 after serving a six-day suspension from ABC following controversial remarks he made about the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.

While ABC framed the suspension as a matter of accountability, the decision has sparked conversations among students about what free speech really means, how much control media companies should have and where political commentary fits in entertainment.

“From what I’ve seen, people online were pissed they took him off the air,” said Scarlett Cueto, a junior English and mass communication major. “Even

serve pecially

as

learning in

online

moments,

es-

communities.

“I am so chronically online, I’m like the town crier for media controversies in my friend group,” Cueto said. “I do care about them, and I think most of them can teach people how to navigate certain situations, even if the controversy is so unique to the specific media personality.”

For some students, Kimmel’s suspension wasn’t just about one late-night comedian but about a larger political divide.

“It’s regarded differently on the two sides,” said Madison Connor, a freshman political science major. “For Democrats, they see it as an egregious violation of the First Amendment, whereas republicans don’t seem

Julia Jensen | Art Director

if what he said had been even remote-

to care at all. My opinion is that re-

couraging it, whereas Biden did not

ly offensive, the government shouldn’t

gardless of his political opinions and

strip speech away, tells you everything

pressed concern about what they

be allowed to force someone off the air

statements on the show, stripping

you need to know about the two presi-

see as a growing trend of politi-

because they got their feelings hurt.”

him of his voice is ridiculous and a

dents and what they actually stand for.”

cal

Cueto stressed that public fig-

complete violation of the freedom of

ures should have the same consti-

speech that makes America America.”

tutional protections as anyone else.

The differing responses from pol-

“Media personalities are citizens

Other

students

Many

GCSU

influence

over

students

ex-

entertainment.

emphasized

“The trend of late-night shows be-

the importance of clarifying what

ing cancelled over comments about

“free

entails.

Trump isn’t a free speech violation

iticians to media criticism reflect

“I think the current laws on free

technically, but I do find it a very con-

like everyone else, and they should

broader questions about how pow-

speech are appropriate, but a lot of peo-

cerning trend,” Martin said. “I think

be able to exercise their right of free

er interacts with public discourse.

ple misunderstand what free speech

Trump has fostered an environment

speech,” Cueto said. “Of course, that

“In the same way Democrats don’t

actually is,” said Hope Martin, a mass

of cancel culture and pressure against

does not exclude them from the con-

watch Fox News, Republicans don’t

communication major. “Free speech

speaking out that can only get worse

sequences of that speech. If Kimmel

have to watch Kimmel,” Connor said.

isn’t the freedom from consequences;

over time with our current path.”

had said something that truly violat-

“Under Biden, he never stripped

it’s not being legally prosecuted for an

At GCSU, Kimmel’s suspension

ed FCC rules, then give him a fine.

someone of their voice, even if they

opinion. I think the ability to criticize

sparked a range of reactions, with many

This wasn’t ‘the consequences of his

made fun of him, which we all know

politicians is a key core of American

students viewing it as part of a larger

actions,’ this was just censorship by

Fox News does, but he still never took

values and free speech, but at the same

conversation about free speech, me-

the government, plain and simple.”

away their First Amendment rights.

time, it is the parent company’s decision

dia responsibility and political influ-

Controversies like this one can

However, Trump doing so and en-

on if the show is ever yanked or not.”

ence as the 2024 election approaches.

speech”

actually