Issue 9 | Volume 105

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University bobcatmultimedia.com

April 16, 2025

Single Copies Free

GCSU’s annual Bobcat Awards Asst. A&L Editor GCSU held its annual Bobcat Awards and Recognition Program ceremony on Tuesday, April 8, at 6 p.m. in the Magnolia Ballroom of the Student Activities Center. This event celebrates student leaders and organizations across campus. The three categories of awards are for organizations, individuals and activities.

All recipients of Bobcat Awards are considered through nominations. GCSU office of student engagement collaborates with student life, sends out forms for each Bobcat nominee, then a committee reviews all applicants and chooses a winner based off of the nominations.

In order to be nominated, a student organiza-

tion is required to be recognized by the Student Government Association and be in good stand-

received the bobcat statuettes were invited to a formal dinner with President Cathy Cox in

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

ing with the university.

Depending on the type of award received, students would win a certificate, a scholarship cash prize or a bobcat statuette. Students who

the Governor’s Mansion to celebrate their student leadership success.

Kara Kahaian, a senior criminal justice major and President of the GCSU esports team, re-

ceived the Club Sports Member of the Year Award. Kahain said she was surprised to receive this award but very grateful overall.

Collectively, Kahaian and Adam Lively, a junior management information systems major, received the Student Organization of the Year Award, representing the esports team as a whole.

This award recognizes a student organization that contributes to the GCSU community in a variety of ways.

Lively said that the changes esports has made within this semester have been a huge contributor to their success as an intramural team. Their club was recently able to move into a new room and purchase new equipment.

See BOBCAT | Page 8

Staff Writer

Liberation Day Amelia McEwen Staff Writer Liberation Day was created by President Donald Trump in which he imposed elevated tariff rates on more than 180 countries to boost domestic manufacturing in the United States.

“Jobs and factories will come roaring back into our country, and you will see it happening already,” Trump said during his Liberation Day speech on April 2, 2025, at the White House. “Ultimately, more production at home will mean stronger competition and lower prices for consumers.”

Trump voiced that every country has “ripped off ” the U.S., defending his controversial economic independence efforts.

The tariffs imposed by the president are mainly defined as reciprocal; a tariff that is implemented in response to a country that imposed similar action. He added that he would be more “lenient” with the policies, explain-

President Donald Trump

ing that not all of them would be reciprocal.

“The expectation is that it would grow manufacturing in the U.S. because people are going to want to buy at a relatively lower price than the after-tariff price from international products,” said Christopher Clark, an economics professor at GCSU. “So products that can be produced here can now be produced more often.”

Clark’s comment highlights Trump’s goals regarding Liberation Day. The other side of the spectrum involves a drive-up in input cost for domestic companies that use internationally produced products.

Thus slowing down their output to consumers.

U.S. consumers take the hit directly due to the raised prices of Chinese goods. With that being said, there is a lower demand on these goods because less consumers are willing to pay the raised prices.

The Atlanta Braves have stumbled to an alarming 0-7 start, marking one of the worst beginnings in the franchise’s modern era, as injuries and offensive struggles plague the perennial contenders.

One of the team’s latest defeats came Wednesday, April 2, at Dodger Stadium when Shohei Ohtani crushed a walk-off home run against closer Raisel Iglesias, sealing a 6-5 loss and completing a winless road trip.

“I don’t wish this on anybody in a competitive arena,” said Brian Snitker, the Braves manager. “There’s nothing you can do but to fight your way out of it.”

Through their first six games, Atlanta scored just nine runs, setting a franchise record for offensive futility to begin a season.

Before seeing slight progress against the

See DAY | Page 4

NEWS | PG. 2

GEORGIA BREAKS POLLEN RECORD In March, Georgia’s pollen count broke records previously set in 2012.

Lets talk about it

Why communication is vital

Atlanta Braves update Lily Reynolds

Molly Goff | Opinion Editor

Dodgers, their performance with runners in scoring position has been concerning to fans, going 1-for-34 in those circumstances.

Third baseman Austin Riley has struggled considerably, batting just 3-for-27 with 11 strikeouts in the early going.

“I think the main reason the team is performing so badly is because the hitters have had really bad approaches at the plate,” said Jack Saul, a sophomore mass communication major. “At the beginning of the year, they were almost recklessly swinging and not trying to just do their job.”

An early April game against Los Angeles represents the Braves’ early-season woes. They built a promising lead with five unearned runs in the first two innings against Dodgers pitcher and two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell, aided by Max Muncy’s throwing errors.

See BRAVES | Page 6

Matt Olson

Molly Goff Opinion Editor

OPINION

In recent memory,

Kennedy Welker

Friendships are one of the most complex concepts we experience in day-to-day life. They take time, effort and communication to work through conflicts and issues when they arise.

Now, this doesn’t mean friendships aren’t one of the most beautiful relationships to experience in life either.

My friends truly keep me going and are my biggest support system.

I bring up the complexity because of the keyword - conflict. We all have it because we all have different values, views and opinions.

That is all a part of life, and we shouldn’t be ashamed of that! The problem presents itself when we make the mistake of saying “ok” when it really isn’t ok.

Have you ever wanted to go to a Mexican restaurant for dinner when your friend chooses an Italian restaurant? In most cases, people just agree instead of advocating for what they want.

Why is that the case?

And why are there so many variations of saying “ok” when it is not ok, further making communication that much harder?

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 9

THE FANTASY FOOTBALL COMMUNITY

“THE HUNGER GAMES” REVIVAL

At the heart of Fantasy are the traditions that bind leagues together year after year

Suzanne Collins’s latest prequel in her dystopian series has yet again taken the world by storm.

“When I am with someone who I’m more comfortable with, I typically say something along the lines of, ‘Honestly, I’m not super comfortable with that, but I’m open to anything, ’” said Bella Lopez, a junior physics major.

Students like Lopez are on the right track with the idea of honesty.

Honesty leads to transparency, open communication and a sense of understanding for future choices or conversations.

Another part of the argument is the idea of comfort. People can’t be as honest if they aren’t comfortable or have built up trust with that other person. Why? There is fear and risk of losing a friendship or causing more conflict in the process.

“I handle conflict with friends by bringing up the topic after I see nothing is getting resolved for a couple of days,” said Taylor Justice, a sophomore exercise science major. “I hate making a situation worse if it doesn’t have to be.”

I add a new perspective to the discussion: What if this determines who our real friends are?

Many students have this goal to “find themselves.” If we are finding ourselves, we are finding our real friends in the process.

See TALK | Page 10

OPINION & MISC. | PG. 10

THE TEEN PREGNANCY SPIKE OF THE 2000s Why was everyone so obsessed with teen pregnancy 20 years ago?

2 SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR RYLEE HOLLAND, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

04.16.2025

NEWS

Georgia’s pollen panic Rylee Holland Asst. News Editor

“My allergies have always had

The metro-Atlanta area broke its pollen count record twice in the past month. On Saturday, March 29, the pollen count was 14,801 and the following day, Sunday March 30, it was 11,159. Before these dates the record was at 9,369 in March 2012.

“Experts say that any pollen level above 1,500 grains is considered extremely high, so we are currently looking at seven times the extreme amount,”

Milledgeville

and

metro-Atlanta.

an effect on me, but I can definite-

“The pollen has completely covered

ly see a difference this year,” said So-

the shoreline on Lake Sinclair in such

phie Powell, a junior sociology ma-

a thick layer that it looked like you

jor. “Even with my allergy medicine,

could walk on it,” White said. “I have

I am still feeling the symptoms like

not seen this much pollen pooling,

congestion, fatigue and headaches.”

especially in areas where there is wa-

While many students and faculty

ter for it to stick around a bit longer.”

cerning trend in an increase

have always had allergies and con-

While the pollen is surely apparent

of pollen or if it’s just a fluke.

tinued to have them this year, some

through either the worsening aller-

“I don’t think we can say if it is

showed a huge difference in 2025.

gies or the thick layers of it on tables,

a trend yet, but if it happens again

“I have never experienced al-

benches and lakes, many people want

next year, we might be looking at

lergies until this year,” White said.

to know if the pollen level is concerning

a concerning trend,” White said.

said the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

campus believe the record high pol-

len count, in recent years, the pol-

len count is concerning in other ways.

len season has lasted longer and than

the

previous

“Pollen is considered an air pollut-

year.

ant, which can have serious effects on

The shifts in climate and precipitation

have

had

an

- AJC

Some environmental professors on

Along with the record high pol-

longer

...any pollen level above 1,500 grains is considered extremely high...

people with asthma and other respi-

effect

ratory diseases,” White said.“Even if

on pollen and the excess of it.

someone doesn’t have an underlying

“There have been shifts in pre-

condition, the additional air pollut-

cipitation patterns, with warmer air

ants can affect normally healthy peo-

temperatures and less frost. These shifts have resulted in spring com-

Bee Pollen

ple and make it harder to fight infections, such as the common cold.”

ing earlier than normal, which means

Many people have never had al-

environmentally and physiologically.

we have a longer pollen season,” said

lergies to pollen and continue to

“I do think climate change has a

Kristine White, an associate profes-

be safe from it this year, but they

huge role in the increase of pollen,

sor of biology and environmental

can still see the effects and the dif-

especially with the warmer weath-

sciences, as well as marine zoologist.

ferences this year’s pollen has had.

er. I mean, I like warmer weather, but

multitude of allergies and the excess

Many GCSU students felt that

The pollen goes even further than on

it does have its effects,” Powell said.

of pollen that is visible, but it’s not a

The Georgia record high pollen count of 14,801 concerns some on the basis of how it is an air pollutant, the

their

allergies

to

pollen

have

the tables and benches around campus;

Many have wondered if the pub-

concerning trend yet considering this

gotten

worse

over

the

years.

it also reaches different areas around

lic should be worried about a con-

is the first year it has been this high.

VOLUME 105 | NO. 9

Editorial Board

Delaney Derry................. Editor in Chief Paige Blakemore............ Managing Editor Julia Jensen...................... Art Director Shadimon Smith............ News Editor Rylee Holland................. Asst. News Editor Brennan Schmitz........... Sports Editor Benjamin Clark............... Asst. Sports Editor Mary Ciucevich............... Arts & Life Editor Kennedy Welker.............. Asst. Arts & Life Editor Molly Goff......................... Opinion Editor Isabella McComis.......... Digital Media Editor Matthew Malkowski..... Digital Media Editor Rebecca Ocampo.......... PR Manager Kassie Arps....................... Ad Sales Manager Scott Dillard..................... Faculty Adviser

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

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

3 SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR RYLEE HOLLAND, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

04.16.2025

NEWS

Senate bill proposes a new approach to truancy Brianna Heard

able local school districts

Georgia Department of

gling with attendance

Staff Writer

to identify and imple-

Education.

for

ment protocols that di-

current chronic absen-

The proposed bill em-

rectly address this issue,

teeism rate is 20.7% .”

phasizes the importance

get our chronically ab-

Under the bill, Geor-

of local absentee review

sent students back in the

gia’s current compulsory

committees. These com-

classroom and ensure

attendance law will stay

mittees would consist

they have the necessary

in effect. This requires

of educators, counsel-

resources to build a foun-

children

the

ors and administrators

dation for future success.”

ages of six and sixteen to

who will work directly

Students may miss

attend a public or private

with students and their

school for a variety of

school or participate in

families to develop in-

reasons, including men-

a home study program.

dividualized

A new bill making its way through the Georgia Senate aims to change how schools respond to chronically absent students. Senate Bill 123, introduced

by

Senate

President

Pro

Tem-

pore John F. Kennedy, seeks to prohibit public schools from expelling

plans

to

family instability, lack of

fy that this requirement

By taking a more per-

transportation or eco-

no longer applies to stu-

sonalized approach, the

nomic

hardship.

For

dents who have already

bill hopes to provide

some,

responsibilities

earned a high school

students with the neces-

such as caring for young-

diploma or a state-ap-

sary resources, such as

er siblings or holding

proved

school

tutoring or counseling,

part-time jobs contrib-

equivalency

diploma.

that might help resolve

ute to their absences.

“I think the bill will

the underlying issues af-

In many cases, these

be a good thing for stu-

fecting their attendance.

already

dents to help them as op-

“I believe that find-

under stress, and fur-

posed to punish them,”

ing a solution is bet-

ther disciplinary action

Rachel Tew said, a soph-

ter than just expelling,

can make it even hard-

omore

health

which in turn creates

fy and address the root

er for them to engage

major. “Hopefully, with

bigger problems,” said

causes of the absences.

with

the

Julie Simmons, a junior

absenteeism.

If put into place, the bill would prohibit expelling students solely for excessive absences and instead focus on creating a supportive environment for struggling students. Absentee review committees would work

with

students

and families to identi-

students

are

their

education.

high

public

solutions

offered,

address

reasons.

The bill would clari-

chronic

health

between

various

challenges,

students simply due to

tal

“Georgia’s

absenteeism.

Julia Jensen | Art Director

ing needed to support

the early stages of the

these committees and

legislative process, and it

provide consistent inter-

will be up for further dis-

ventions. Others worry

cussion and revisions be-

about

fore it can be put to a vote.

how

effective-

ness will be measured and whether students will respond to the proposed support systems.

The bill has already

With chronic absenteeism being a growing concern in schools across

Georgia,

sup-

“For far too long, ab-

“Chronic absenteeism

they can attend school

mass

senteeism has affected

refers to the number of

more often. I think it

major. “I think this bill

sparked debate in the

our communities and in-

students missing 10%

is a win-win situation.”

will be a good thing.”

legislature, with some

hibited Georgia students

or more of school days

Many feel that the

from reaching their full

for any reason, divided

proposed bill could have

schools already stretched

the best course of action

compassionate,

potential,” Kennedy said.

by the number of stu-

a significant impact on

thin may struggle to

to address absenteeism.

tion-driven

approach

“This legislation will en-

dents enrolled,” said the

students who are strug-

find the staff or fund-

Senate Bill 123 is still in

to

success.

communication

Critics

argue

that

lawmakers

questioning

porters of the bill hope that its passage could pave the way for a more solu-

student

Low literacy in Georgia Shadimon Smith

according to a graph

2023 to research where

are 3.5 times more likely

Jennine

Labuzan-DeL-

summer learning loss and

News Editor

from National Assess-

people with low literacy

to be arrested according

ane, a recruitment co-

family-oriented stressors

ment

skills stood in Georgia.

to Literacy Mid-South.

ordinator for the Uni-

such as family mobility,

versity of Georgia. “So

hunger, housing inse-

wasn’t

it doesn’t take all these

curity and toxic stress

really surprised about

resources to learn how

should

what I read in the article,

to read. It takes focused

it still made me sad to

attention, at least 30

and parent, I know and

read,” said Meryl Black,

minutes a day, starting in

teacher that even at the

a freshman English ma-

these preschools where

preschool level, you can

jor. “I think more em-

A is at and B is but, and

get your little literacy

phasis needs to be put on

you making little Johnny

kits, you know, from the

learning to read outside

connect these sounds.”

little educational stores,

of a school environment,

Those with little to no

you know, got the little

like offering certain pro-

income are more prone

math and science kids,

grams at government in-

to crime as a means of

the literacy kits,” Labu-

stitutions, like a library

survival. Once they get

zan-DeLane

arrested once they are

you just give them 15, 20

most likely to reoffend

minutes of that every day,

due to loss of a job or

they’ll learn how to read.

no one willing to hire

Don’t take no big budget.”

them due to them hav-

Doing a little bit of

ing a criminal record.

reading a day can help

“I think adult litera-

students stay encode the

cy programs should also

sounds of letters and

be much more accessi-

words into their brains

ble, especially to those

for a long time. It is the

who are incarcerated,”

same with writing con-

Black said. “I think lit-

stant repition allows for

eracy lessons should be

the brain to create new

mandatory in prisons for

knowledge pathways that

anyone who isn’t fully lit-

can be accessed later for

erate. I think with these

reference when encoun-

Low

literacy

rates

in Georgia have been a topic of discussion for years, and many people have tried to fix the gap.

The Department of Justice did an investigation into this in 1993 coming to the conclusion that a child failing in school could indicate that they would have less success in the future.

According to Atlanta News First, only one in three fourth graders

read

proficiently

in

Georgia.

Children

not knowing how to read leads to adults not knowing how to read.

Georgia fourth graders have not reached reading

of

Education-

al Progress, or NAEP. “Although

I

or community center, to Julia Jensen | Art Director

encourage reading outside of school. I think these programs should also stress to parents how important it is to read to or with your kid developmentally

wise.”

For example their job

According to the Na-

status, job industry and

tional Adult Literacy Sur-

taking a close look at

vey, 70% of all incarcer-

how other states worked

ated adults cannot read

to

literacy.

at a fourth-grade level.

“I’ve seen in my per-

People with a low abil-

sonal life that low lit-

ity to read and write are

eracy has led to crime,”

more likely to turn to

said Stephanie Vasquez,

crime due to the inability

a

Music

to do everyday tasks at a

Therapy major. “Peers of

job or get a job without a

mine that did poorly in

diploma. Those who can

improve

“Now,

be as

addressed. a

mom

said.

“If

proficiency since 1998.

According to the State

“It’s 100% a link,” said

of Literacy in Georgia in

Jud Smith, a Barrow

2023, one in 10 Georgia

County Sheriff. “If you

adults have low litera-

don’t have literacy and

cy skills and adults that

you don’t have an edu-

drop out and do not earn

cation, you are walking

a high school diploma

down a path of recidivism

are 1.9 times more like-

school and were never

get a job work in indus-

and criminal activity.”

ly to be unemployed.

properly educated ,such

tries such as construc-

steps we can better help

tering new information.

Georgia

The State of Literacy

as dropping out at 16,

tion,

manufac-

combat the low literacy

Georgia is working on

students achieved the

in Georgia is a report

went down bad paths.

turing and food service.

to incarceration rates.”

finding ways to improve

score of 214 in reading

by the Governor’s Office

One of them is in jail

Lincoln

Some things that may

literacy among students

proficiency

the

of Student Achievement

right now in Georgia.”

learned to read in a cabin

contribute to low literacy

and

proficiency level is 238,

that was conducted in

High school dropouts

with a candle light,” said

are chronic absentism,

the incarceration rate.

In

2024,

when

sophomore

retail,

“Abraham

adults

to

lower

4 SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR RYLEE HOLLAND, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

04.16.2025

NEWS

COVID-19 vaccine, Novavax, no longer authorized in U.S. Sarah Burnhart

Phase three is the

Staff Writer

larger clinical study, with

On Aug. 30, 2024, the

more than 1,000 people,

Food and Drug Admin-

often spanning regions

istration amended the

or countries, to confirm

emergency use autho-

efficacy and safety by

rization of the Novavax

monitoring adverse re-

COVID-19

Vaccine,

actions. The vaccine is

which includes a single

compared against a pla-

component that corre-

cebo or standard treat-

sponds to the Omicron variant JN. One strain of

SARS-CoV-2.

Novavax

The

COVID-19

Vaccine is no longer authorized for use in the United States. This was the first COVID-19 vaccine for FDA action since the second Trump

administration

took office in January.

On March 11, 2020, the entire world shut down after COVID-19 caused

4,291

deaths

with 118,000 cases in 114 countries — the

ment. Phase four a trial is COVID -19 Vaccine Bottle

conducted after FDA ap-

ficacy, security of human

ing mRNA-based ther-

rus, or HPV and others.

out,” said Will Evans,

and veterinary drugs,

apies, targeted therapies

“It contains the coro-

dean of the College of

proval and after the vac-

vaccines, medical devic-

and immunomodulators,

navirus spike protein,

Health Sciences at GCSU.

cine is on the market to

es, the Nations’s food sup-

to develop its treatments.

but it’s engineered as a

“While I cannot officially

gain additional informa-

ply, cosmetics and prod-

The Novavax shot is al-

nanoparticle that can-

say I have ever been diag-

tion about the vaccine’s

ucts that emit radiation.

ready available for emer-

not

disease,”

nosed with the virus that

risks and benefits. This

gency use. Still, full FDA

said Chloe Butts, a ju-

causes COVID-19, the

also established effec-

approval would allow the

nior

major.

messenger RNA vaccines

tiveness in a real-world

vaccine to be used more

Unlike other vaccines,

are very effective and

setting vs tightly con-

widely and could offer

Novavax directly injects

have been found to have

trolled scientific settings.

more reassurance to peo-

a version of the spike

limited adverse effects,

“This vaccine would

ple looking for alterna-

protein, along with an-

all things considered.”

work similarly to other

tives to existing vaccines.

other ingredient that also

Evans says that all

vaccines but would not

“I had to [get vacci-

stimulates the immune

vaccines undergo four

apply messenger RNA

nated] as a requirement

system into the body,

phases of testing. Phase

technology,” Evans said.

for going out of the coun-

leading to the production

one is the initial trial of

“Rather,

try,” said Camille To-

of antibodies and T-cells.

a vaccine in humans for

from the spike protein

bey, a sophomore mass

T-cells are part of the

safety, dosing, and ear-

found in one the virus

major.

immune system and de-

ly efficacy information

are used. It still aims at

The Novavax vaccine

velop from stem cells in

in a two-digit number

producing an immune

The Pfizer vaccine is an mRNA vaccine that helps protect against the COVID-19 infection. It was developed by Pfizer and BioNTech and was one of the first vaccines approved for use in the U.S. in December of 2020.

Founded in 2008, Bi-

cause

theatre

components

World Health Organiza-

oNTech is a German

tion, or WHO, declared

multinational

COVID-19 a pandemic.

nology company head-

The FDA is a Unit-

quartered in Mainz that

is a traditional vaccine

the bone marrow. They

of healthy volunteers.

response in people so we

ed States federal agency

develops

immunother-

compared to the oth-

help protect the body

Phase two is the subse-

can better recognize and

within the Department

apies and vaccines, par-

er vaccines. Its tech-

from infection and may

quent trial on a drug’s

fight the virus if exposed.”

of Health and Human

ticularly for cancer and

nology has been used

also help fight cancer.

efficacy and safety in

Many await to see

Services responsible for

infectious diseases. This

before to prevent such

“I have personally had

a larger population of

what it would take for

protecting public health

company utilizes tech-

conditions as shingles,

the Pfizer version of the

over 100 people in par-

the FDA to approve this

by ensuring the safety, ef-

nology platforms, includ-

human

papillomavi-

vaccine since it came

ticular disease settings.

vaccine in the future.

DAY

from China experience a

other effects these tar-

cluding job losses, some

ers for roles in growing

tic

Continued from page 1 tax that is 140% of their

iffs will have, like people

alternatives can combat

domestic

industries.”

them in the long-run.

actual value. Since few-

losing their jobs?” said

these

acknowl-

Liberation Day pro-

er consumers are look-

Caleb Duke, a sopho-

“It’s true that there

edges the challenges at

ceeds with controversy

ing to buy more expen-

more

major.

may be short-term chal-

hand but brings a solu-

and it is uncertain what

countries

Duke brings a ques-

lenges, but the long-term

tion to the table regard-

exactly is to come, but

like China lose profit.

tion to the table that has

benefits outweigh them,”

ing job losses. Instead of

with time it will be appar-

For example, an im-

been asked many times

said Kelby Anderson, a

assuming that these loss-

ent. The sweeping tariffs

10% baseline taxes were

directed

toward

nearly

every

country.

The European Union, Cambodia and the United Kingdom are several examples of nations be-

sive

goods,

biotech-

communication

Finance

recent

changes.

Anderson

benefits

outweigh

ported

product

from

over in recent political

sophomore history ma-

es will be the definitive

may alter the economy

China

that

$100

conversations.

Because

jor. “Higher prices might

outcome, he comes up

in the short and long-

will face a $140 add-

of the increased infla-

push consumers to buy

with a solution to train

term which is projected

ed charge, causing the

tion, businesses that are

American-made

prod-

workers in order to com-

to introduce challenges,

the hardest hit. China,

product to rise to $240.

reliant on imports may

ucts, which will ultimate-

pensate for the constantly

as well as benefits. Until

specifically, has experi-

“All of the domestic

not be able to afford

ly strengthen our econo-

changing economy. Ad-

then, the U.S. and oth-

enced a 140% incline in

production is going to

to pay their workers.

my. As for job losses, I

ditionally, he argues that

er nations will have to

tariff rates. This means

increase, but will that be

Despite the multitude

think the focus should

although there are some

adjust to the events fol-

that

more important than the

of negative outcomes, in-

be on retraining work-

disruptions, the domes-

lowing Liberation Day.

ing affected the most by these higher tax prices.

However, Asian countries are the ones taking

goods

imported

is

5 BRENNAN SCHMITZ, SPORTS EDITOR BENJAMIN CLARK, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

04.16.2025

SPORTS

Fantasy football traditions Benjamin Clark Asst. Sports Editor Every fall, as the NFL season kicks off, a parallel universe comes alive — Fantasy Football. Fantasy Football is a world-renowned cultural phenomenon powered by fans who are passionate about the sport. Fans bring together their love for the game and their competitive spirit to draft players from the entire NFL player base while competing with friends for prizes, or punishments.

Fantasy Football is a game within a game, where fans act as franchise owners and compete against each other by building their teams made up of real-life NFL players. Instead of coaching or managing them in real life, you score points based on how well your players perform in actual NFL games each week.

There are several types of Fantasy Football leagues, each offering a

different experience. The most common is the redraft league, where a new draft occurs every season, and no players carry over from year to year. This format is straightforward and perfect for casual players or beginners.

For those who crave more depth, keeper leagues offer a middle ground by allowing managers to retain a few players each season, blending short-term decisions with long-term planning.

Redraft leagues are very popular, working in tandem with the yearly season. However, hardcore players might prefer Dynasty Leagues.

A Dynasty League is a type of Fantasy Football league where you keep most or all of your players from year to year.

Instead of starting fresh each season with a new draft, your team becomes a long-term franchise that you manage over multiple seasons, creating an interactive environment that forces

players to keep up even after the seasons end.

“We prefer Dynasty,” said Cade Steel, a junior history major.

“The first draft is always very engaging, and making good trades actually impacts your score a lot down the road.”

During Fantasy, you draft your dream team of players from across the league, watch them rack up stats on Sundays, and go head-to-head with other “owners” in your league. It’s part strategy, part luck, and has the U.S. and many other nations, waiting patiently for fall to begin again.

At the heart of Fantasy are the traditions that bind leagues together year after year.

From draft rituals to humiliating punishments, these customs make Fantasy Football feel less like a game to watch and more like an interactive competition.

The draft is Fantasy Football’s biggest event, with fans gathering

Fantasy Football Logo

snacks, drinks and wings to commemorate the experience. For many, the draft isn’t just an event, it’s a celebration of the start of the new NFL season.

Some groups will include prizes for the winners, like trophies or money. Many fantasy players opt to punish the biggest loser, becoming a defining tradition with the younger generations.

In an interview with Bleav Fantasy, longtime Fantasy Football player Tyler Harding explored his experience with fantasy punishments.

“Every year right before the draft we throw

in ideas of what we can do for a punishment,” Harding said.

“This year, whoever lost had to take the ACT.” Harding lost his friendly league of fantasy football, inevitably finding himself taking the ACT as a punishment.

These punishments tend to brew up rivalries, with trash-talk and arguments only being inflamed by the fear of losing.

Rivalry weeks are common among longer Fantasy leagues. Over time, matchups develop extra heat as brothers, old roommates and longtime friends go

head to head. These rivalry weeks come with higher stakes, like side bets or bragging rights.

Some leagues even keep lifetime head-tohead records or power rankings. It is the Fantasy equivalent of a college football rivalry game.

At the core of these traditions is friendship and camaraderie. Fantasy Football allows friends to stay connected, brings coworkers closer and provides weekly excitement for many fans. The stories, inside jokes and annual customs, turn a simple sport into a much larger personal tradition.

Is the torpedo bat revolutionary?

Bryan Cohen

a smooth, round stick

exit velocity at 95.5 and

an 86 OPS+ (100 is the av-

Bat during Spring Train-

ball games and retain view-

Contributing Writer

not more than 2.61 inches

began using the Torpedo

erage) in the previous year,

ing, yet chose to stick with

er attention. Many imme-

in diameter at the thickest

Bat this year. However,

but so far this season, he’s

his current baseball bat.

diately thought this was an

part and not more than 42

Cruz improved one of his

launched four long balls, a

Yankees’ Aaron Judge, who

advantage for batters, forc-

inches in length. The bat

struggles, the Launch An-

.908 OPS and 160 OPS+.

has won the MVP in two

ing pitchers to potentially

shall be one piece of sol-

gle Sweet Spot percentage,

Volpe has also improved

of the last three seasons

become uncomfortable in comparison to when they

The New York Yankees swept the Milwaukee Brewers out of the Bronx, outscoring Milwaukee 3614, as they knocked out 15 home runs to tie the American League and National League record for most home runs in the first three games of the season.

However, many look to a new revolutionary bat structure as a reason for the Yankees’ prolific home run start to the season. Aaron Leanhardt is a graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in electrical engineering and a Ph.D. in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He later returned to Michigan as a professor in physics from 2007 to 2014; however, Leanhardt left his teaching position to

id wood.” According to

by using the new innova-

immensely in almost every

(2022 and 2024), decided

the official Major League

tion, going from the 27th

category: average exit ve-

against changing over to

had more time, yet pitchers,

Baseball Rule Book. The

percentile (32.1%) to the

locity (22nd percentile to

the Torpedo Bat with many

as usual, quickly adjust-

Bat shifts the density of the

of his other teammates. It

barrel from the traditional

seems to have not mattered,

position towards the top of

though, with the bat hitting a league-leading six home

the bat, to an almost un-

runs so far this season, driv-

orthodox location, shifting

ing in 20 runs. The Torpedo

more towards the bat’s han-

Bat is more of a situational

dle. There have been many

tool, which relies heavily

innovations in baseball bats

on the batter rather than

over the past few years, the

the bat itself, usually work-

first being Axe Bats. Axe

ing better with players who

Bats slant the knob at the

get jammed more often be-

end of the bat to replicate

cause of their swing path.

the handle, it was originalJulia Jensen | Art Director

ly popularized by players such as Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Another example is NoKnob Bats — bats without knobs at all, that slightly

After the Yankees opening series, many fans and even

97th percentile (51.7%). By

66th percentile), expected

shifting the sweet spot of

slugging percentage (8th

the bat from the generic lo-

to 75th), and barrel per-

for a possibility to ban the

cation to lower towards the

centage (12th to 86th). In

innovation. “Baseball has

handle, Cruz’s more com-

an interview with Bryan

always done this,” said No-

pact swing, due to his 6’ 7”

Hoch, Volpe explained his

lan Belcher, GCSU’s base-

height, allows for a higher

thoughts on the Torpedo

ball head coach. “Hitters

percentage of better swings

Bats. “The concept makes

adjust, and then pitchers

from the newly minted cen-

so much sense. I know

adjust right back.” It’s true

a few players sided against the Torpedo Bats, looking

ed, and the pitch clock has become a beloved addition to the sport, successfully, decreasing the average game time from a little over three hours to about two hours and 45 minutes.

With the popularity of the new bats growing, Minor League Baseball will shortly take suit, and if the bats stand, it’s possible that NCAA Baseball may soon follow in the Major’s footsteps. “We would try it out, and if we thought it was in the best interest of the player, we’d certainly give him a shot and let him use it,”

become an assistant coach

adjust weight distribution,

first in the Independent

used lovingly by Jeff Mc-

Atlantic League and later

Neil of the New York Mets.

in a community college in

Players around the league

Montana before joining

have adapted and begun to

terfielder. Finally, the possi-

the Yankees as a Minor

use this innovation in the

I’m bought in,” Volpe said.

that whenever batters make

bly most improved, Yankee

“The bigger you can have

League hitting coach in

sport. Elly De La Cruz of

an adjustment, even one

shortstop Anthony Volpe,

the barrel where you hit the

2018. Leanhardt quickly

that does not involve such

the success of the bat, and

the Cincinnati Reds went

entering his junior season,

ball, it makes sense to me.”

right now, the New York

climbed through the orga-

4-5 with two home runs,

a drastic change as moving

went from a Baseball-Sa-

Many players are intrigued

Yankees have seen that

nization’s ranks, with many

four runs, and 11 total

the bats’ sweet spot, pitchers

vant batting run value in

by the bat, using the Torpe-

success. Only time will tell

players commenting on the

bases in his first game us-

will soon follow, learning

the 4th percentile (-16) in

do Bat in batting practice

to see how far the Torpedo

intuitiveness of Leanhardt’s

ing the Torpedo Bat. Oneil

new ways to attack hitters.

2024 to the 87th percentile

to test the hype around the

Just a few years ago,

Bats will make it in base-

explanations of his hitting

Cruz of the Pittsburgh Pi-

(4) to begin the 2025 sea-

invention. However, some

Major League Baseball in-

ball, but it seems as of right

advice. In 2024, Leanhardt

rates, who set the record

son. Volpe homered just

have also decided against

troduced the pitch clock,

now, many players will con-

became the organization’s

for hardest-hit exit velocity

twelve times in 160 games

it. San Diego Padres’ Bran-

forcing pitchers to speed up

tinue to give it a shot, try-

first-ever “Major League

in 2024 at 121.5 was in the

and a very much below av-

don Lockridge explained

their motions in a way to

ing to torpedo some base-

Analyst.” “The bat shall be

99th percentile for average

erage .657 OPS, producing

that he tested the Torpedo

decrease the length of base-

balls out of the ballpark.

Blecher said. As of now, the bat has not been banned by Major League Baseball, but it’s also not a cheat code for every player. It depends on the player’s mechanics for

6

BRENNAN SCHMITZ, SPORTS EDITOR BENJAMIN CLARK, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

04.16.2025

SPORTS BRAVES Continued from page 1 However, they squandered a bases-loaded, no-outs opportunity in the sixth inning when Riley struck out and first baseman Matt Olson popped up.

Iglesias couldn’t preserve their lead,

a right ACL injury in 2022, the team

tros on April 8 to solve their pitch-

is being cautious with his recovery.

ing shortage, with a player to be

Despite the disappointing start,

“I am excited to see Acuña Jr. come

named later. Zach Thompson, a

bright spots include Marcell Ozu-

back next month,” said Elise Yankus,

right-hander, was optioned to Tri-

a sophomore mass communication

ple-A Gwinnett on April 9, and Mon-

major. “He has been one of my fa-

tero was added to the active roster.

vorites since playing on the Braves.”

The team also activated catcher Sean

allowing a game-tying double to Mun-

pected

to

return

by

mid-April.

na’s .552 on-base percentage and MLB-leading 13 walks, along with contributions from Matt Olson and second baseman Ozzie Albies, who each have one home run and five RBIs this season.

cy in the eighth before surrendering

The Phillies entered on Thursday,

Ohtani’s decisive homer in the ninth.

April 10 with amatchup having won

Injuries have compounded Atlanta’s

two of three games when playing as

problems. Spencer Strider is sched-

underdogs this season. Their offense is

uled for what could be his final reha-

powered by Kyle Schwarber, who ranks

bilitation start with Triple-A Gwinnett from his elbow surgery in 2024.

third in MLB with five home runs and

Strider is expected back this week.

12th with 11 RBIs while batting .324.

Reynal-

“We recognize our fans’ concerns and

do López underwent arthroscopic

share their desire for improved results,”

shoulder surgery on April 8 that re-

Snitker said. “This organization has a

Right-handed

pitcher

vealed no structural damage, but he

proud tradition of overcoming obsta-

will be shut down for 12 weeks before

Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr.

being reevaluated. The team hopes

Reliever Joe Jiménez faces a much

Murphy from the injured list on April

he might return later this season.

longer timeline after knee surgery re-

6 and designated Chadwick Tromp for

Talented outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr.

vealed significant cartilage damage. He

assignment. Tromp elected free agen-

is scheduled to return in early May af-

is not expected to return before August

cy after being outrighted to Triple-A.

ter continuing his recuperation from a

and could miss the entire 2025 season.

ruptured left ACL. To prevent the per-

The Braves signed reliever Rafa-

sistent pain he felt after recovering from

el Montero from the Houston As-

cles, and we’re committed to turning this situation around for our supporters.”

As the Braves search for more wins, they will need to overcome both their

prospect

Nacho

Al-

injury challenges and offensive strug-

remains

sidelined

with

gles to avoid digging an even deep-

left wrist inflammation but is ex-

er hole in the early season standings.

Infield varez

Jr.

NFL receives mixed reactions with rule changes Allie Smith

automatic field position

Staff Writer

at the 30-yard line. By

The National Football

moving it to the 35-yard

format makes sure that

format was used in last

League, or NFL, has an-

line, the league hopes

both offenses will have

year’s playoffs in which

nounced significant rule

it will increase how of-

at least one possession,

both teams in each game

and operation chang-

ten returns happen by

without the technicality

had a chance to score.

es for the 2025 season,

adding

excitement

to

of whether the first team

The overall positive

aiming to enhance dy-

special

teams

plays.

to receive the ball scores

feedback and reaction

fairness.

This change is hap-

a touchdown, and NFL

led to them changing the

One of the most nota-

pening because of the

games that are tied after

decision for the regular

ble changes is the league

past several seasons of

the four quarters of reg-

season moving forward.

has moved the spot for

declining

ulation enter a 10-min-

There have been many

touchbacks

the

turns, a result of play-

30-yard line to the 35-

er safety concerns and

“Both teams will now

yard line and modified

better kickoff strategies.

get at least one posses-

namics

and

from

overtime rules to en-

moving

re-

The

ute

new

overtime

overtime

sion, even if the team

sure both teams have an

touchback to the 35,

that has the first pos-

offensive

the league projects that

session scores a touchdown,” said FOX Sports News. “If the team that got the ball first doesn’t

I wasn’t a fan of it at first, but I liked the dynamic kickoff once I saw it in play.

The reason for the

the

return

rate

will

being

rise to somewhere be-

changed is to encour-

tween 60% and 70%,

age teams to keep kick-

with a similar increase

offs in play rather than

in long returns, adding

usually settling for the

more excitement to the

touchbacks

team who won the coin

the

correct

outcome.

felt the system was un-

The change involves

fair in the past. The new

NFL logo

toss,

often

predicting

that officials will have

the game’s outcome be-

expanded authority to

fore the opposing offense

correct clear and obvi-

had a chance to take the

ous errors on reviewable

field. The change looks

plays, even if the coach

to create a more fair and

does not challenge them.

competitive

This change aims to en-

environ-

greater

accuracy

different these

reactions

changes

to

among

fans. Some welcome the adjustments while others

remain

skeptical.

“I wasn’t a fan of it at first, but I liked the dynamic kickoff once I saw it in play,” said Grant

ment, especially in high-

sure

stakes playoff scenarios.

in officiating and re-

if the score is tied after

Other changes include

duce in-game mistakes.

exercise science major.

each team has possessed

a stricter enforcement

League officials stated

As the 2025 season ap-

the ball, the next score

of

roughing-the-pass-

that the touchback ad-

proaches, teams and fans

would end the game.”

er penalties, intended

justment was influenced

will be closely watching

In the past, if the team

to reduce controversial

by the data showing a

how these rules will im-

that won the coin toss

calls that have previous-

huge decrease in kickoff

pact the gameplay during

and received the ball first

ly impacted the games

returns, which some be-

the regular season and

scored a touchdown on

outcomes. The league

lieve decreased the excite-

playoffs. Whether these

the opening drive, the

has also updated in-

ment of the game itself.

changes will achieve the

game would end imme-

stant play procedures

The decision to al-

league’s intended goals or

diately, which prevented

which allows officials to

ter overtime rules came

not, they show a commit-

the opposing team from

review plays like touch-

from the common frus-

ment to continue to bal-

having an opportunity.

downs, turnovers and

tration among players,

ance fairness and safety

This rule was often

boundary calls to ensure

coaches and fans who

in professional football.

score a touchdown, or

-Grant Phillips

criticised for favoring the

period.

the

opportunity.

“By

kickoff

game,” said AP News.

Phillips, a sophomore

7 MARY CIUCEVICH, A&L EDITOR KENNEDY WELKER, ASST. A&L EDITOR

04.16.2025

ARTS & LIFE

IN ADDITION TO TUITION What are students really paying for?

Kate Walker

and renovation of the

includes a gym, climb-

Contributing Writer

Georgia College Student

ing wall and swimming

Activities Center, which

pool, which is current-

includes the Magnolia

ly under maintenance.

Ballroom and “The Den,”

One of the most con-

both used for student

troversial GCSU fees is

meetings

events.

the Parking and Trans-

Separate from the Ac-

portation Enhancement

tivity Center Fee, the Stu-

Fee, which every stu-

dent Activity Fee funds

dent is required to pay

recreational sports, social

regardless of whether

entertainment,

or not they have a car

Every semester, GCSU undergraduates

pay

thousands of dollars in tuition and fees. However, students may not know what their money is funding and what amenities are available to them.

In addition to tuition, undergraduates pay

and

student

$181 a semester, funds

tion or something, they’ll

volved in, because then

intercollegiate

athlet-

write it for you, for free,

they know where else

ic programs, granting

and you don’t have to

their money is going.”

students free admission

pay to go to Urgent Care

However, Lowe also

to all athletic events.

or anything,” Slinn said.

noted that some fees,

The Technology Fee

such as the parking fee

Students

also

have

access to the Student

provides

for

for students without cars

Health center through

technology across cam-

and student activity fees,

the Health Fee, which

pus, including the Li-

may not be necessary.

covers operational costs

brary and Instructional

“I think you should

Center computer facili-

pay for what you want

ties and software, equip-

and not for what other

ment checkout, replace-

people want,” she said.

and

health

education

programs. Students who pay the fee can make appointments at the clinic between the hours of 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,

around $750 in flat fees, on top of other fees such

funding

ment and expansion of

According

to

the

student used hardware

GCSU Business Office,

and support for technol-

these fees are set by the

ogy in the classrooms.

Board of Regents of

Finally, the Bobcat

the University System

Card Fee covers annu-

of

al support and mainte-

there is a campus Ad-

on campus and foreign

nance for the one-card

visory Mandatory Stu-

language fees for students

system, which serves as

dent

enrolled in foreign lan-

both a university ID and

that reviews and votes

guage classes. These fees

a debit card used for ac-

on these fees each year.

are often grouped un-

cess to buildings and

der broad labels such as

campus dining services.

part of the Office of

“health,” “tech” and “ac-

Regardless of wheth-

Student Life, includes

tivity” fees, all of which

er students use all the

graduate

support the everyday op-

services

part-time students, res-

as Housing Program fees for undergraduates living

erations of the campus.

“We’re getting charged for all of these different things, and we don’t even

necessarily

use

them,” said Kelsey Slinn, a sophomore elemen-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

publications and Stu-

registered

dent Government. It also

The fee maintains sur-

supports

face parking in addi-

events

campus-wide and

student

registered

organizations.

on-campus.

tion to supporting campus

shuttle

services.

tary education major.

Students have access

“They always adver-

“If they’re going to con-

to the campus recre-

tise that parking is free

tinue to charge us for

ational complex through

and then it’s not, and

these things, I think it’s

the

Center

if you don’t have a car,

important that we try

Fee, which covers both

why are you paying for

to use them as much

the operational costs of

parking?”Slinn

as we possibly can.”

the center and the bond

The Athletic Fee, the

The Activity Center

approved for its con-

highest of all mandato-

Fee pays for the purchase

struction. The complex

ry undergraduate fees at

Wellness

said.

Monday through Friday and visit a licensed health professional at no additional cost, given that no lab work is involved.

The fee also supports a

part-time

Psychiat-

ric Clinical Nurse Specialist for the Counseling

Center,

where

students

can

access

counseling services at no

additional

charge.

“If you need a prescrip-

available

to

Georgia.

Fee

The

However,

Committee

committee,

a

students,

them, it’s crucial they

idential

understand

commuter

students.

Any

inter-

where

their money is going.

students student

and

“I think it’s important

ested in serving on the

so students can make

committee can contact

good financial decisions

Fina Endere, the Senior

and decide an allotted

Director of Budget, at

amount of money to put

fina.endere@gcsu.edu.

for certain things,” said

Additionally, the Office

Madelyn Lowe, a junior

of Student Life noted that

middle grades education

the introduction of new

major. “That might influ-

fees, the repurposing of

ence the decision of what

fees, or the increase of

they want to purchase or

any fee by 20% or more

what they want to do or

must be voted on by a stu-

what they want to be in-

dent body referendum.

Is Milledgeville the perfect college town?

Sophia Abad

intellectual

disabilities,

self in both atmospheres,

college in Milledgeville.

Though Milledgeville

nities for students across

Staff Writer

working in collaboration

it allows you insights into

“Something unique

is no longer the capi-

different majors to con-

with the animal shelter

different lifestyles and

about going to GCSU

tal of Georgia, the city

nect with peers and fac-

to help get cats and dogs

experiences that you may

is the historical aspect,”

contains well preserved

ulty and get involved in

not be used to,” Vansant

Pelaez said. “There is a

architecture and many

said. “I think that being a

lot of history behind the

opportunities

student here and involv-

buildings around town.”

ploring Georgia’s past.

GCSU students enjoy the tight-knit community that going to college in small-town Milly provides. Mikaylie Hadden, a senior criminal justice and psychology major, appreciates the personal

relationships

she has made during her

time

at

GCSU.

“Since Milledgeville and

GCSU

especially

have such small populations in comparison to other cities and universities

in

Georgia,

GCSU students have the unique privilege of forming close relationships with their peers and faculty,” Hadden said.

Hadden feels that the atmosphere in Milled-

homes and off the euthanasia list and we get to volunteer in a way that helps the environment

ex-

The Liberal Arts GCSU students know and

love

by doing monthly trash

minated

pickups,” Hadden said.

ple

today

cul-

from

multi-

university

chang-

Jenna Vansant, a lib-

es and has remained

eral studies major, feels

the same since 1996.

that her involvement in

Pelaez shared that she

the Millidgeville com-

loves visiting the old Gov-

munity has been an in-

ernor’s mansion to take

dispensable part of her

pictures before events.

experience

at

GCSU.

Students at GCSU

“Getting

involved

have the unique ability

in the community in

to learn about Georgia’s

Milledgeville is so unique

past,

and important because

ing the city’s historical

there is so much you can

buildings, touring mu-

learn from this town,” Vansant said. “GCSU and Milledgeville or Baldwin County are very differ-

geville has encouraged

ent from each other.”

her to participate more in

She believes get-

serving the community.

ting involved in both

“We have more oppor-

for

the Baldwin County area.

GCSU

and

Baldwin

Kennedy Welker | Asst. A&L Editor

ing myself in the com-

In December of 1804,

GCSU original found-

munity has allowed me a

Milledgeville was offi-

ing as a prep school for

much broader experience

cially named the new

women named Geor-

than if I went to school

state capital and served

gia Normal & Industrial

and did nothing else.”

as the capital of Georgia

College

Val Pelaez, a fresh-

until 1868. The city was

which students affection-

science

modeled after Savannah,

ately refer to as “Milly,” is

explor-

seums and doing research on their own to become more informed about their college town.

There are also plenty of opportunities to become involved with the local community of the

tunities to closely work

County events will di-

man

together in various ways

versify a college stu-

major, also notes the

Georgia, and Washington

now primarily known as

County area by par-

such as buddy programs

dent’s

experiences.

town’s rich history as a

D. C., with a layout built

a college town, which al-

ticipating in programs

“By involving your-

special part of going to

for efficiency and order.

lows for many opportu-

and volunteer projects.

with students who have

political

Milledgeville,

through

Milledgeville/Baldwin

8 MARY CIUCEVICH, A&L EDITOR KENNEDY WELKER, ASST. A&L EDITOR

04.16.2025

ARTS & LIFE BOBCAT

year-rounds,” Kahaian said. “We’re al-

Activities Board and GC Miracle.

do tasks for them that they don’t need to

ways traveling, and we’re just making

“I’m not a person who works for

be spending their time on,” Goodelman

good friends in our community, so we’ve

validation or anything like that,”

“We’ve grown our club a lot over

said. “It’s just a very big impact I know

definitely grown in recognition too.”

Goodelman said. “I’m just a girl doing

these past couple of months,” Lively

The Registered Student Organiza-

my job. But to know that I’m making

I’m making, not just on the organiza-

said. “We did a lot of talk with student

tion Advisor of the Year award was

an impact on these students’ lives is

staff, and we’re doing a lot of work

given to Sarah Goodelman, a GCSU

something very rewarding to know.”

with the middle school. So we’ve done

graduate and Student Engagement

During her time as a student at

a lot of programs just in the past cou-

Program Coordinator. Goodelman also

GCSU, Goodelman was involved in

ple of months to build and expand.”

happened to be one of the announc-

GC Miracle and asked specifical-

According to Kahaian, the esports

ers at the Bobcat awards ceremony.

ly to work as the advisor for the club

team used to be much smaller, and

The RSO Advisor award acknowl-

to continue showing her support for

promotion and recognition has helped

edges an advisor who performed

its mission in funding the Bever-

them flourish as an intramural club.

outstandingly in advising a student

ly Knight Olsen Children’s Hospital.

tributions to the GCSU community

oversees

“My key role now, even though I’m

through service, fundraising, pro-

two clubs on campus, the Campus

not a student anymore, is to be there and

motion and leadership development.

Continued from page 1

“We used to have a single competing team, and now we have probably five

organization.

Goodelman

tion, but the kids at the hospital as well.”

Goodelman, Lively, Kahaian and the rest of the reward recipients were all thrilled to be recognized at the Bobcat Awards and Recognitions Program Ceremony. The ceremony celebrated and honored student programs and student leaders for all of their con-

What is the proper concert attire?

Madi Hummel Staff Writer Concert attire has become a popular topic on social media platforms as a way to promote individual style and unique clothing brands.

Summer is quickly approaching, bringing warm weather, breaks from school and most importantly, concerts and music festivals.

Big-name artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar and Green Day are touring this summer.

Concert series’ and festivals like Coachella, Rolling Loud and Shaky Knees are home to some of the year’s biggest music scenes.

With the variety of artists and events happening right now, the big question for most concert goers has less to do with ticket prices, venue location or openers, instead their concerns lie with what to wear.

Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” has become one of the biggest examples of prominence when discussing the topic of concert attendees’ outfit choices.

Swift held 149 concerts in 21 different countries and took the internet by storm with a movie capturing the experience, clips of different performances and importantly, fan’s outfit choices.

Most attendees’ outfit choices reflected Swift’s different albums and genres in the form of clothes.

Popular outfits included looks taken from Swift’s past music videos, tours, album covers and most specifically from songs or lyrics. Prominent features of most fans’ fits comes down to Swift’s signature “13” drawn on her hand.

The Eras Tour highlighted the significance of concert attire and became a focal point for the spread of fashion trends within an artist’s fanbase.

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to dress-

ing up for concerts.

Hannah Beth Chapman, a sophomore history major, recently went to and enjoyed a Hozier concert.

“I wore a pair of Mary Jane shoes, a long brown skirt, a cream tank top and then a black cardigan on top,” Chapman said.

Chapman went to the concert with friends who also liked the experience of picking out their outfits for the event.

“My friend wore a white sweater, black jeans and a cool headband,” Chapman said.

Claire Peterson, a sophomore mass communication major, attended the local Milledgeville concert series, Sounds of the Spring, recently.

“I ended up wearing this little black tank top with a dark denim mini skirt, and then I had this long, loose knit sweater that I tied,” Peterson said. “I thrifted it a couple of years ago.”

Peterson highlighted the universal experience of getting ready as a pivotal step that every concert attendee takes.

“It actually took me quite a bit of time to pick out my outfit,” Peterson said. “My roommates and I played dress up a lot.”

Ty Karraker, a junior mass communication major, has been to a number of concerts in Milledgeville and Atlanta within recent months.

“I honestly think that there’s less of an expectation for guys to dress up for concerts,” Karraker said. “In Milledgeville especially, the majority of guys wear jeans and a t-shirt or a polo; that’s what I usually wear too.”

Apart from personal style, different music genres can be defining features in determining how one dresses to attend a concert.

Chapman could see common themes in the crowd’s choice of clothing at the Hozier concert.

“People were wearing a lot of long skirts, Converse and boots,” Chapman said. “There were a lot of warm tones and

white and brown clothes; it was very cottage-core.”

Hozier is an Irish musician famous for his mix of indie, folk and alternative genres within his music.

“I’d say Hozier’s specific genre of music was reflected in what people were wearing,” Chapman said.

Sounds of the Spring was a series of concerts held throughout downtown Milledgeville in March.

“There were some people that were wearing normal going-out outfits, like a nice top and jeans,” Peterson said.

“Then there were a lot of people who dressed up a little more, like dresses, tights, a lot of jewelry, everything like that.”

At each specific show, attendees’ outfits became reflective of the specific genres being played. Many of these genres fall into their own subcultures, which generally reflect specific fashion trends.

“There were a couple different bands that were playing different genres,” Peterson said. “The bands playing at Blackbird were more of punk or grunge, so people that were there were dressing more to that subculture.”

Smaller concerts, like those held in Milledgeville and other college towns, have a unique atmosphere compared to major concerts held in arenas or big cities.

“I feel like to an extent, there’s a dress code for college concerts, especially here,” Peterson said. “It’s kind of a little bit more alternative and a little bit more edgy in some ways.”

Today, social media plays a large role in concert attire, from “get ready with me” videos, brand promotion or sharing pictures of the events on different platforms, social media has become an integral part of the concert experience.

In terms of personal style, social media can be a useful tool for picking out outfits.

“I’ve definitely seen

posts about what people are wearing to go to concerts,” Karraker said. “I think it’s cool to see how creative they get with it.”

Social media also spreads inspiration for unique topics and helps introduce people to new things.

“Social media opens you up to a variety of subcultures and aesthetics and can give you a lot of good ideas on what to wear,” Chapman said.

Social media can have its downsides when it comes to trends and promoting certain clothing styles at concerts and festivals.

“You sometimes see posts about concerts, and everyone in the crowd is wearing the same thing,” Karraker said. “So I think it can go either way with how social media plays a role in what people wear to concerts.”

Social media is a useful source of inspiration, but it can have an impact on how quickly people buy certain items of clothing and trends.

“I think social media creates more consumerism and buying things you may not really need,” Chapman said. “People might buy a piece of clothing to wear for a concert and then never wear it again.”

For many, picking out what to wear is an important part of the concert experience.

Based on the artist’s fan-base or subculture surrounding a band’s music, concert attendees can find inspiration in what to wear.

While social media can impact how people dress for concerts, there is a balance of inspiration and creativity that attendees can utilize when making their outfit decisions.

Ultimately, whether an attendee chooses to dress up or stay casual, to reflect a genre or dress in one’s own personal style, it comes down to individual preference; there is no real dress code for concert attire.

Paige Blakemore | Managing Editor

Courtesy of Meghan Mainor

Paige Blakemore | Managing Editor

9

MARY CIUCEVICH, A&L EDITOR KENNEDY WELKER, ASST. A&L EDITOR

04.16.2025

ARTS & LIFE

GCSU VEGAN FEST Zoey Hooper Contributing Writer On Monday, April 7, the Jain Studies Program invited the campus community to an evening of Jain Philosophy and vegan cuisine. Vegan Fest offered delicious plantbased meals as well as information on the ethicality and environmental dimensions of veganism.

pan-fried seitan cutlets with a lemon tahini sauce, Indian vegetable stir-fry and chana masala. At the Mediterranean Mezze Station was hummus, baba ganoush, fresh cucumbers, kalamata olives, and vegan pita chips .

As the guests enjoyed their vegan dinner, the event began with opening remarks from Caley Smith, assistant profes-

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

The menu consisted of a diverse array of global vegan cuisine. At the Mexican Taco Station, guests could build their own tacos with tortillas, vegan shredded cheese, black beans, spicy roasted vegetables and guacamole.

Meanwhile, the Indian Cuisine Station featured

sor of religious studies, who spoke about how the ancient Indian philosophy of Jainism aligns with many of the principles behind modern veganism.

According to Smith, Jainism emerged alongside early renouncer movements such as Buddhism and strands

of Hinduism. The core principle of Jainism is to break out of the cycle of birth and rebirth, as life is riddled with suffering, and instead pursue a spiritual path towards liberation.

In this philosophy, karma physically sticks to the soul through violent or careless actions. Therefore, the less one acts, the purer the soul remains.

“The core value in Jainism is ‘Ahimsa’, or non-violence,” Smith said. “It’s not just about avoiding harm to humans, but to all sentient beings.”

It is the Jain belief that ethical action means minimal action. The idea of doing the least harm possible to ensure minimal suffering is what many see as one of the earliest examples of ethical vegetarianism.

While many Jains have traditionally practiced vegetarianism, growing numbers of Jains outside of India have embraced veganism. They regard this as the ultimate nonviolent lifestyle.

Jain values have influenced inspiring global figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, who applied ‘Ahimsa’ to political activism, as well as Martin Luther King Jr. and Cesar Chavez.

Further into the event, Dr. Mark Causey, senior lecturer of philosophy & religious studies discussed the environmental and analytical aspects of veganism. Veganism is regarded primarily as an animal rights issue but it has expanded into a prominent environmental movement.

Infographics were provided to show the numerous effects meat consumption has upon the climate. Some of the facts discussed were that one pound of beef takes around 16 pounds of grain, roughly 3,000 gallons of water, and that the methane emitted by livestock farming surpasses the total emissions from the entire transportation sector.

“If we diverted even a fraction of the land, water, and food used for animal agriculture toward plant-based alternatives, we could feed significant-

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

ly more people and reduce environmental degradation,” Causey said.

Another primary topic of the event was the nutritional aspect of veganism. Christina Caro, the school’s regional dietitian for GCSU, offered practical guidance for those considering a vegan lifestyle.

“The key to a healthy vegan diet is variety,” Caro said. “Think of the nutrition rainbow. Eat as many colors as possible.”

Caro also highlighted the importance of texture and suggested meals should contain hot and cold elements to make

them satisfying. Vegans should also supplement B-12 and seek calcium from a variety of sources.

“I thought what the nutritionist said about incorporating a variety of colors and textures into your diet was really interesting,” said Regan Duke, a sophomore management major.

While vegans do need to replace certain proteins typically derived from animal meat, plantbased diets are wonderful for gut health. The enhancement of the gut through a variety of plant foods can have a plethora of effects on well-being.

Sunrise on the reading Is the release of “Sunrise on the Reaping” reviving the dystopian genre?

Hope Martin Staff Writer In the past couple of months, the popular YA book and film series “The Hunger Games” has piqued new interest with another prequel release, sparking speculation around a 2014 dystopian revival.

“The Hunger Games” is a dystopian post-apocalyptic trilogy set in an authoritarian capitalist America based in the future. The first book was published by Suzanne Collins in 2008, with a movie adaptation released in 2012, quickly after the book gained popularity.

Collins has authored many books before “The Hunger Games” rose to fame. Before “Hunger Games,” Collins wrote “Gregor the Overlander,” a book popular among pre-teens at the time.

Popularity of the series launched the dystopian genre into the mainstream, with the first movie alone achieving a $695.2 million profit and many awards.

While dystopian stories have done well for decades, George Orwell’s “1984” being one such notable example, Col-

lin’s series caused a new wave of American dystopian fantasy to trend.

From “Divergent,” “The Uglies” and “Matched,” the 2010s were filled with dystopian young adult romance.

While “The Hunger Games” does not match all the characteristics of this genre trend, it is widely believed that the series is what started the 2010s dystopian craze.

A common complaint from this genre was that it became overdone or watered down over time, losing the uniqueness.

The YA dystopian genre in film seemingly died out with films like “The Darkest Minds” and the second installment of “Divergent.” Despite a falling out of the genre, “The Hunger Games” remains steady, as seen with the release of the 2023 film adaptation of “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” which earned $349 million worldwide.

The latest installment of the series is “Sunrise on the Reaping,” a prequel focused on Katniss’s mentor, Haymitch Abernathy, and the first game he was reaped for.

The cover of the novel shows a flint striker with a bird and snake

on each end, representing the rebellion and Snow respectively, and illustrating how Haymitch sparked the rebellion in the original “The Hunger Games” trilogy.

With the book having been released only one month ago and a movie is already in the works, students are excited.

“I remember reading his games in ‘Catching Fire’, and I always wanted to find out more,” said Ridgley Fenters, an English master’s student. “I’m really excited we now get to see Haymitch. I can already tell that it holds really true to the character of Haymitch, and you get to see how he turned into who he was in the first ‘Hunger Games’ book.”

No official news has come out about who will play Haymitch, the main character of “Sunrise on the Reaping,” played by Woody Harrelson in the original series. Many actors, such as Tom Glynn-Carney, Rudy Pankow, Mike Faist and Louis Hofmann, have been fan-cast.

Many fans have suggested for Keifer Sutherland to play President Snow in the prequel.

Keifer Sutherland is the

son of the original actor for President Snow, Donald Sutherland.

Keifer Sutherland bears a strong resemblance to his father and is well known for his villainous roles, leading many to fan-cast him as a middle-aged President Snow.

“I would love for Donald Sutherland’s son to play President Snow,” Ridgley Fenters said. “I think it would be a full circle moment.”

Many students did not have strong feelings about who was casted, as long as they were age appropriate. Some students liked the possibility of Elle Fanning playing a young Effie, and others liked Keifer Sutherland playing Snow, but overall, people did not have a strong preferred casting.

“I’m not too picky on the casting, as long as it still holds true to what Collin wants,” Fenters said.

‘The Hunger Games’ movies tend to be good about doing that.”

Collins has relayed that she writes when she is influenced by real-world events, as she has stated the original trilogy was inspired by a combination of reality tv and war-coverage

Jullia Jensen | Art Director

she has viewed at the time. While support of a specific party or system is never directly said or implied, many students feel that her writing heavily reflects past and current issues the U.S. is facing or faced.

“Honestly, I think she wrote ahead of the political landscape,” said Sarah Neilson, a creative writing graduate student.

“Collins’s writing about the modern day, I think that’s the main influence for her writing. I think the books are more relevant than they’ve ever been.”

Collins also focuses heavily on found family, trauma and serious psychological topics. The original series deals with topics of PTSD, political turmoil, class and societal inequality. Haymith’s trauma will be explored

more in depth in “Sunrise on the Reaping.”

“I think Haymitch Abernathy is one of the most informative illustrations of the impact of trauma that I’ve ever seen,” Neilson said. “I think you could assign “Sunrise on the Reaping” in particular in psychology classes. It’s one of the most fearless portrayals of trauma I’ve seen.”

Not everyone is excited though, some students felt the dystopian genre is overdone, or that “The Hunger Games” is too on the nose in its themes.

“It feels like [the movie] is such a generalization, and all that it’s done is just spawn more copies of the exact same movie,” said Paige Adams, a sophomore English major.

“The young adult dystopian genre has fallen off.”

10 MOLLY GOFF, OPINION EDITOR

04.16.2025

OPINION TALK

ness, do we lose the gen-

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to hear what my friends’

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mutual

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Continued from page 1

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ly important to culti-

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we

share.

The fake teen pregnancy spike of the 2000’s Molly Goff

Opinion Editor My first Christmas outside of Georgia was in Texas with my millennial-aged cousin, who religiously watched the show “Teen Mom.” Each week, a new episode aired, including the holiday edition, where I discovered girls ages 13-19 becoming mothers with all the drama attached.

As I was in rapt attention from the drama aspect at my respective age of 13, I was also mind blown that this show was really highlighting to me this surge of teen pregnancies.

I wanted to know more naturally, so I did my own research, and let’s just say I was shocked to find the truth about the teen pregnancy spike.

According to the Library of Congress, the National Center for Health Statistics’ earliest estimate of teen birth rates was 54.1 in 1940 then peaked in 1957 at 96.3.

Then, from 1992 on, the teen birth rate declined except in 2006 and 2007. From 2007 to 2022, the rate declined by approximately 67% to a historical low of 13.6 in 2022.

I was just as shocked by the concept of teen pregnancies as I was that the biggest spike for them was actually in 1957, not the year 2007 like I once thought.

What is the reason

for the 1957 spike, you may ask, and why has it significantly decreased? Well, this was the post-war era, where people were enlightened to celebrate and show true love in all forms.

Two factors helped increase the surge.

“The first is that marriage in the teen years, which was not uncommon in the 1950s, has by now become quite rare,” said Heather D. Boonstra, a writer for Guttmacher Policy Institute. “The second is that this trend has extended to pregnant teens as well: In contrast to the days of the ‘shotgun marriage,’ very few teens who become pregnant nowadays marry before their baby is born” The cultural shift away from teenage marriages reflects broader societal changes. The post-war era was characterized by an atmosphere of love and freedom, encouraging early parenthood as part of youthful rebellion and romance.

This was also a generation where partnership was at the forefront. Where women craved marriages and becoming homemakers, we now live in a society where individuality takes over and where women can have more than being a mom as an aspiration. Today’s society emphasizes education, career development and personal aspirations over early mar-

riage and motherhood.

With this notion, I wonder why people are mesmerized by teen mother entertainment.

Is it because we live in a society that promotes independent women, free from the pressures of motherhood?

Maybe it is due to the traditional values entitled in teen moms when they have to step up at such a young age. In reality, teenage mothers were a common practice way back when because of young marriages and courtship.

It is because we are conditioned to view a family as dating, to marriage, to then pregnancy that we forget families are unique and created in many different scenarios. This doesn’t make any family more or less valid than the next, and all can be full of love with effort and perseverance.

So, why do people believe that this spike in teen pregnancies is from the 2000s?

I believe it is due to the influx of reality TV centered around teen pregnancy and the mothers’ lives.

“Teen pregnancy is fairly common, but reality TV definitely exaggerates a few things,” said Cami Glover, a freshman nursing major. “I knew multiple people in high school who had children, but it was not as huge of a deal as TV makes it.”

Reality TV shows like “Teen Mom” not

only dramatize the challenges of young motherhood but often misrepresent the average experiences of teenagers today.

These shows paint a sensationalized portrait where drama reigns supreme, diverting attention from the underlying issues of socioeconomic status, access to education and family support systems that genuinely influence teen pregnancy rates.

Additionally, today’s teens are more informed than ever due to comprehensive sex education programs and the availability of contraception.

Many schools actively engage students in conversations about healthy relationships

and the consequences of early parenthood.

By the time teenagers reach high school, they are often equipped with tools to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures.

The decline in teen birth rates can also be attributed to changing priorities among youth. With increasing opportunities for women in higher education and the workforce, many young people view financial stability and personal growth as prerequisites for starting a family.

They are less likely to see teenage motherhood as a desirable path, recognizing the long-term implications it can have on their lives.

All in all, the perception of teen pregnancy as a modern crisis is not supported by statistical trends.

Instead, it is a reflection of how our culture and media amplify certain narratives, leading us to misunderstandings about reality.

Awareness and education are paramount in continuing the trend toward lower teen birth rates. As society evolves, we must aim for a better understanding of the nuances surrounding these issues and step beyond the sensationalized dramatics of reality television to focus on fostering informed and empowered future generations.

Julia Jensen | Art Director