Issue 5 | Volume 103

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College February 27, 2024

Single Copies Free

bobcatmultimedia.com

Augusta University nursing student murdered in Athens Kate Verity

es on the Friday following Riley’s murder.

In the weekend following, police located and

Editor in Chief

Laken Hope Riley

Laken Hope Riley was killed on Thursday, Feb. 22, while going for a jog on the University of Georgia campus. The 22-year-old Augusta University nursing and former UGA student was found unresponsive at approximately 12:38 p.m. by the UGA Police Department after Riley’s friend called, concerned that Riley had not returned home.

According to Athens-Clarke County Coroner Sonny Wilson, Riley’s death was the result of blunt force trauma to the head.

Both UGA and AU canceled all class-

arrested suspect Jose Antonio Ibarra, 26. Ibarra is being charged with felony murder, kidnapping, concealing the death of another, malice

murder,

aggravated

battery,

aggravated

assault, false imprisonment and hindering a 911 call.

UGA Police Chief Jeffrey Clark addressed the public this past weekend and has named Riley’s murder a “crime of opportunity.” It is not believed that Riley and Ibarra had any previous connection or encounter before Thursday’s attack.

See MURDER | Page 2

2024 HOMECOMING: ROAD TRIP Addison White

science major who attended the

of the parade float competition

Contributing Writer

parade with the Council of Stu-

was GC sorority Zeta Tau Alpha.

dent Ambassadors float, says the

“The highs were definitely the

parade was a blast and that she

floats,” said Wesley Whitehead,

looks forward to doing it again.

a sophomore math major. “They

“I think the highs were defi-

were so creative. I look forward to

GC kicked off this year’s Homecoming weekend on Feb. 16 by the Centennial Center with the annual

Homecoming

Parade.

Campus organizations decorated a car or float, then drove around town spreading Bobcat spirit.

“It’s just the best of all days on the Georgia College campus,” said Cathy Cox, the GC president.

Cox

supported

being

there

with

my

team and all of us just having a good time, excited to represent

our

organization,”

Peña

said. “I think it was all fun.”

There was also a competitive aspect to the parade: who

or-

had the best-decorated float. The

ganization with a smile, loud

winners were announced at the

cheers

photos.

basketball game that took place

Gini Peña, a junior exercise

the following day. The winner

and

lots

every

nitely

of

Homecoming week because it’s a great excuse for me to socialize and learn about more organizations.”

The following day, GC hosted Tent City, a unification of current and past GC students to promote their organizations and enjoy the Homecoming

celebration

be-

fore the big basketball games.

See HOMECOMING | Page 8

Mindfulness:

to be mindful of the things we think about,

A way to live out the best years of your life

a changed outlook on

Delaney Derry

ing mechanisms that can

tions, body and things we

life ultimately leads us

Opinion Editor

be helpful in alleviating

surround ourselves with.

to a changed attitude.

College is said to be

these feelings, but in my

the best four years of your

opinion, mindfulness is

thoughts, having a more

life — although for some,

by far the greatest tool

positive outlook on life

it is more like six or sev-

for living a more posi-

can be very effective. If

en years. However, col-

tive and prosperous life.

we pause and look at

lege is also the time when

Being mindful entails

what we think about, is

students are filled with

being aware of every-

it helpful or harmful to

feelings of depression

thing we are doing. We

our mental health? By

and copious amounts

should be very aware

noticing and letting go of

of stress and anxiety.

and conscious of our

harmful thoughts, we can

There are many cop-

thoughts, attitude, ac-

free ourselves from the

When it comes to our

restraint of constant worry and comparison. We can have peace of mind.

Changing

Julia Jensen | Art Director

NEWS | PG. 3

GC’S NEW CHIEF OF POLICE

Meet Wesley Hardin, GC’s new Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety.

sounds

Becoming

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

BRAVES SPRING TRAINING PREVIEW Ty Karraker

out in their spring train-

Staff Writer

ing games and strength-

The Atlanta Braves

en our team even more.

have acquired a ton of

With the loss of a key

mindful

of your body looks like being courteous of what we put into our bodies and how we treat them.

new young talent and

If we eat junk food and

veteran leadership over

lay on the couch all day

the course of the off-sea-

binge watching Friends,

son, and as spring train-

however tempting, it

ing begins, fans will be-

is not helpful for our

gin to see how the roster

physical, let alone men-

and rotation will shake

tal health. When we are more aware of what we put into our bodies and whether we are getting the right amount of

out for the 2024 season.

The Braves’ moves this

off-season

headlined

with

are left

outfielder,

Eddie

Ro-

sario, the Braves have been shopping around for a consistent left fielder to pair with Ronald Acuña Jr. and Michael Harris II due to Marcell Ozuna’s lackluster defensive ability. With the addition of Kelenic,

fielder Jarred Kelen-

the Braves hope to see a

develop more healthy

ic and starting pitcher

surge during the spring

by no means something

habits which will in turn

Chris Sale. The front

training games so that he

that is easy. It is a process

give us more energy and

office hopes that these

can take over the role of

and takes practice, but

overall better health.

two and some of our top

the everyday left fielder.

when we take the time

See MINDFUL | Page 10

AAA players will stand

See BRAVES | Page 6

great and easy right?

physical activity, we can

Changing our mindset is

SPORTS | PG. 6

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7

OPINION & MISC. | PG. 10

GC baseball player Mason Poole takes home the Zaxby’s Player of the Week award.

As the semester progresses, the importance of self-care becomes more and more apparent.

Series like “The Bachelor” are incredibly popular. But are they realistic — at all?

MASON POOLE WINS PLAYER OF THE WEEK

SELF-CARE

DOES REALITY TV ACTUALLY DEPICT REALI-

2

SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR EMMA ESLINGER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.27.2024

NEWS MURDER

Kemp said in the letter.

YikYak is an anony-

“I think it’s disgust-

United

States

Im-

mous social media plat-

ing to use Laken’s mur-

migration

and

Cus-

form designed for college

der as a reason to talk

toms Enforcement, or

campuses. Students can

about

politics,”

ICE,

confirmed

only access the messag-

another

GC

that Ibarra was resid-

es on their own campus’

“I

ing in the U.S. illegally

platform, as you are re-

gusting that she could

and is from Venezuela.

quired to have a valid

still be here if the bor-

This realization has

student email address to

der was secure,” said a

since sparked a slew of

sign up. Due to the ano-

comment on this post.

anti-illegal

immigra-

nymity of the platform, it

among

can be the site of crude

change differs politically,

some, whereas others are

and hateful messages. In

it is one of the milder re-

against turning Riley’s

the case of Riley’s death,

sponses circulating both

death into an opportu-

GC and UGA students

GC and UGA YikYak

nity to involve politics.

took to YikYak to express

boards

Continued from page 1

has

tion

dialogue

For

one,

were

more

think

Although

this

blunt.

said

YikYak. it’s

this

dis-

ex-

weekend.

Georgia

an array of opinions.

“Who wants to go

Governor Brian Kemp

Some of the com-

hunting tonight?” said

wrote a letter addressed

ments

uplifting

one of the more threat-

to President Joe Biden

and shared love. Others

ening UGA YikYaks. “I

on

posting

even addressed politics

know a few places where

it to his social me-

in a respectful manner.

these migrants hang out.”

dia accounts as well.

“While I am in favor

Saturday,

“While we will contin-

strengthening

The

anonymity

of

of Latinos(as) Invest-

il was held on the UGA

445-5331. Additionally,

ed in Students of To-

campus, organized by

GC has a 24/7 Mental

morrow, or LISTo, and

several groups, including

Health Support Line at

Stephany

Romero-Go-

the Interfraternity Coun-

mez of the Hispanic

cil, the Beta Lambda

Student Association, or

Chapter of Kappa Sigma

HSA, wrote a joint letter.

Fraternity, the Panhellen-

“As the two main or-

ic Council and the Beta

ganizations serving the

Sigma Chapter of Alpha

larger extent of our Lati-

Chi

Omega

Sorority.

(833) 855-0085. Additional services are listed at https://www.gcsu. e du / gc me nt a l he a lt h .

Editorial Note: The Colonnade

chose

to

no community, we have

This vigil was not

write minimal informa-

found it necessary and

just to commemorate

tion on Wyatt Banks in

imperative to address

Riley, an Alpha Chi

order to report as com-

recent hate comments

Omega; on Wednesday

passionately

made against us,” they

evening, UGA student

ically as possible and

said in the letter. “The

and Kappa Sigma Wyatt

and

eth-

our

these boards has shield-

ue to support Texas with

border, I hate how this

ed the individuals writ-

National Guard resourc-

young lady’s death is only

ing these messages from

hurtful and discrimina-

Banks took his own life.

es as we have since 2019,

going to be used for lob-

any direct public re-

tory comments made

GC has several men-

federal action to secure

bying efforts,” said a GC

sponse, but it has not

following the tragic loss

tal

the border is the only

YikYak. “Once a death

kept students and orga-

of one of our own have

available

way to wholistically ad-

is politicized, I feel that

nizations from defending

deeply shaken us all.

who are struggling or

dress this ongoing crisis

it devalues the celebra-

the Latino community.

Such grief should not be

need to talk. Counsel-

and ensure Laken Riley’s

tion of life that should

The presidents of two

made use of for racism,

ing Services is available

have faced this week and

horrible fate is not repli-

occur

everyone.”

UGA student organiza-

hatred, or xenophobia.”

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday

send comfort and love

posts

tions, Ximena Cabrera

On Monday, a vig-

through Friday at (478)

to our Dawg neighbors.

cated across the country,”

of

were

Jose Antonio Ibarra

Some

for

VOLUME 103 | NO. 5

Editorial Board

Kate Verity......................... Editor in Chief Cale Strickland................Managing Editor Julia Jensen....................... Art Director Shadimon Smith.............News Editor Emma Eslinger................ Asst. News Editor Brennan Schmitz........... Sports Editor Emily Henderson............Asst. Sports Editor Paige Blakemore............Arts & Life Editor Kylie Rowe.........................Asst. Arts & Life Editor Delaney Derry..................Opinion Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Avery Blair..........................PR Manager Kassie Arps.......................Ad Sales Manager William Burke...................Faculty Adviser

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

@TheColonnade

health for

resources students

respect his family and friends. We express our condolences for the entire UGA, AU and Athens community in light of the great losses they

@TheColonnade

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Applications are available at 409 Terrell Hall.

If you’re interested in writing for The Colonnade, email thegcsucolonnade@gmail.com.

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3

SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR EMMA ESLINGER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.27.2024

NEWS

GC's Chief of Police: Wesley Hardin Shadimon Smith

has held positions such

the campus community

his team together to cre-

News Editor

as Lieutenant for the

that when you see us po-

ate a new mission state-

GC’s recently appoint-

City of Doraville, Mo-

lice officers, police uni-

ment for the Department

ed Chief of Police and

tor Officer for the City

forms, you do not think,

of Public Safety that

of

and

‘Oh, there’s the police,’”

better represents what

Student Resource offi-

Hardin said. “You just

they hope to achieve.

cer for Gwinnett Coun-

think, ‘Oh, that’s Chief

“The mission of Geor-

ty Public Schools. In

Hardin.’ It gives us the

gia College & State Uni-

these positions, he spent

opportunity to get out

versity’s Department of

time protecting the peo-

and talk to the students

Public Safety is to part-

ple of various cities and

and meet with the stu-

ner with our community

around 180,000 students

dents, put on presenta-

of faculty, staff and stu-

throughout

tions and put on classes.”

dents, dedicated to ed-

Director of Public Safety, Wesley Hardin, has now spent his first two months working to foster a better relationship between GC police and students.

Starting his adult life as a basketball player overseas, he came back home and wanted to be a state trooper but says he decided against pursuing this because he does not like their hats.

When he got the offer in September 2023 to work for GC, Hardin was excited to return back to Georgia after his two-year tenure at Tallahassee

Commu-

Lawrenceville

Gwinnett

County Public Schools.

Hardin

has

start-

ucating, protecting and

At his previous posi-

ed working on this by

serving the university

tion as Chief of Police

implementing the Pri-

through

at TCC, Hardin and his

mary Alternate Contin-

and innovative efforts,”

team worked to keep

gency Emergency Pro-

Hardin said. “We strive

over 12,000 students safe.

gram, or PACE, which

to create and maintain a

Through his time here,

he explains is a way to

safe and secure learning

he understands the dy-

“cross-train” his officers.

environment,

namics of a college cam-

“I want to take every

a culture of well-being,

pus and how best to work

duty and responsibility

trust and respect for all,

with the students and

that we have at the po-

providing selfless ser-

faculty, which he is work-

lice department and, in-

vice to all above all else.”

ing to implement at GC.

stead of having all that

collaborative

Hardin

fostering

has

also

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

“It prevents burnout; it

“The

biggest

thing

keeps you growing; it

about me professional-

keeps you young; it keeps

ly is that I take my job

you moving forward.”

seriously, but I do not

Some of the things

take myself too serious-

Hardin wants to bring

ly,” Hardin said. “I am

to GC are classes like

loyal to a fault most of

Civilian Response to Ac-

the time. I am in a place

tive Shooter Events, or

that I wanted to be, not

CRASE, Rape Aggression

just looking for a job and

Defense, or RAD, self-de-

that I’d very much like

officially

institutional knowledge

helped to start an Officer

fense and sex trafficking

for this to be my last job.

sev-

joined the GC family on

tied up in one officer, I

and Career Development

to keep the students and

I am always continuing

Hardin

Dec. 1, 2023, Hardin has

like to have three or four

Program for his team to

faculty

and

to try to educate my-

said. “One was because

had time to settle in and

officers that can do ev-

help with career growth.

safe both while on cam-

self, to learn and grow.”

it was coming home.

get to work on improv-

erything,” Hardin said.

He intends to help them

pus and when they leave

Hardin loves being

That never hurts, be-

ing the Department of

“That way, if somebody’s

find their “why” and keep

campus. He wants to of-

outside

ing able to come home.”

Public Safety here at GC.

out, if somebody’s sick,

them true to that “why.”

fer classes that students

his dog, and you might

With 29 years of law

“What I really want to

we don’t have to put the

“They’re [GC’s offi-

want and is happy to

even catch him riding

enforcement work un-

do is build the depart-

department on hold be-

cers] still learning and

help put these classes on.

his motorcycle around

der his belt and a ma-

ment up to where we

cause we only have one

still

jority of his time work-

are so ingrained and so

person who can do it.”

ing in Georgia, Hardin

a part of the culture and

Hardin also has got

nity College, or TCC. “There eral

were

reasons,”

Having

informed

town, so keep an eye

you got to have a growth

people to know a lit-

out for him on campus

mindset,” Hardin said.

tle bit more about him.

and be sure to say hello!

because

also

walking

wants

growing

Hardin

and

Milledgeville subject to string of car break-ins Emily Kirkwood

of my car, but they did

to pull the car and sus-

“I am scared of the in-

Staff Writer

break into Arcadia,” said

pect over. He did not

cidents because I spend

Recently, there have

an anonymous source

pull over and started a

a lot of late nights in

been cars broken into and

who got their car stolen.

car chase with the police

the library,” said Ans-

multiple cars stolen from

“It was around 2-4 a.m.

officer. This chase was

ley Cook, a sophomore

the GC campus, as well

when the car was stolen.

from

to

exercise science major.

as Magnolia Park Apart-

The local police depart-

Jones County, where the

“Sometimes, when I’m

ments, Revelry Flats and

ment were so amazing.

car was pitted by a GSP

coming back home, I

Arcadia on the River,

They responded when I

and crashed into a pole.”

have to park far from my

complexes that house

called and reported my

There have been ad-

apartment and walk in

ins, campus police rec-

ian app can additionally

college students off cam-

car stolen, and they did

ditional car break-ins

the dark alone. It’s very

ommend ensuring that

be used to set a safety

pus. In addition to the

everything they could

on the GC campus. GC

unsettling, knowing ev-

your vehicle is locked,

timer and notify Public

vehicle theft, many resi-

do in their power to

Public Safety notified

erything that’s going on.”

removing any valuables,

Safety. This is a branded

dents are reporting their

help me locate my car.”

students about a vehi-

Not all students who

parking in well-lit park-

cars being broken into

While GC campus po-

cle stolen from the West

commute to campus are

ing lots, being aware

Milledgeville

Courtesy of Gabby Bosse-Joseph

mobile safety app that connects people direct-

and items being stolen.

lice are not involved with

Campus parking lot in

concerned about break-

of your surroundings,

Some students have

off-campus car break-ins,

front of Village Apart-

ins, especially those stu-

knowing where emer-

left their keys in their cars

such as those at Arcadia

ments Five and Six. This

dents who are only on

gency call boxes are

or their cars unlocked,

on the River, campus po-

was reported on Feb. 11,

campus during the day.

and keeping car and

which has resulted in

lice have been informing

at approximately 2 p.m.

“I’m not too wor-

residence keys in hand.

their cars being stolen.

students to be cautious.

West

ried to leave my car on

“I always lock my car

GC Public Safety has sent

“My car has been

investigation,

campus since there are

and never leave my keys

students emails and texts

found,” the anonymous

it was reported that an-

a lot of people around

in it,” Cook said. “Even

about these incidents and

source said. “It was on

other student’s vehicle

during the day,” said

if I need to run inside

ins

how to prevent them.

the road when a police

was also entered, and

Marisa Perry, a sopho-

for a quick second, I will

GC Public Safety is ac-

“It was unlocked, so

car scanned the tag and

money was taken during

more accounting major.

take my keys with me.

tively trying to help

turned on their lights

the same time frame.

no

physical

break-in

During Campus

the

To

prevent

break-

The

RAVE

Guard-

ly to an organization or university security with location,

a

two-way

chat, dynamic polling, anonymous tips and an automatic safety timer.

Although the breakhave

continued,

and inform residents.

4

SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR EMMA ESLINGER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.27.2024

NEWS

Georgia proposes new anti-squatter bills Jack McKinney

complicated and tem-

Contributing Writer

porary, as there are six

There

current-

owners to avoid a pro-

when considering the

under

tracted eviction process.”

ethical dilemma of inten-

steps needed to evict a

the new proposed bills,

In addition to the pri-

sifying the response to

ly three bills moving

squatter: There needs to

Johnson

need

mary bill that transitions

squatters. Squatters are

through

be a formal eviction no-

only a 911 call to evict

squatting out of civil cas-

often low-income and

tice; the owner must file

current and potential

es, another bill out of the

homeless. By bolstering

a complaint; the court

squatters. This has the

three enables off-duty of-

squatting defenses, it is

will issue a summons;

potential to transform

ficers and deputies to as-

likely to damage people

the owner must attend a

the way squatting is

sist in evicting squatters.

experiencing poverty in

hearing; the judge must

handled across Georgia.

While this may not have

the process of helping the

issue a writ of posses-

“When only a civ-

instantaneous effect, this

middle and upper class.

sion; and, lastly, a sheriff

il remedy is available,

bill may have intensifying

“There are multiple

will execute the eviction.

a property owner must

effects if passed along-

perspectives to consid-

Karl Johnson is a vic-

often resort to eviction

side the primary bill.

er,

tim of this process, as his

proceedings that take a

Fulton County residence

are the

Georgia

State Capitol that are focused on defending property owners from squatters, who are people occupying a property without legal ownership or permission from a property

owner.

Al-

though each bill has its

back down to square one.”

Conversely, might

whether

making through these bills could be transposed

amidst

pover-

ty-addressing solutions.

“They [the low-income] should be very conscious of local homeless shelters and know what their options are,

off-duty

the bills are good,” said

substantial amount of

sheriffs and deputies to

Josh Wilson, a junior

was encroached on by a

time to resolve through

assist will not necessar-

accounting major. “For

nities

stranger for an extended

the court system, par-

ily expedite the eviction

the low-income though,

tions there are in their

period of time. Johnson

ticularly in states where

process, which can be

it might be detrimen-

areas,”

went through the pro-

courts are sympathetic

lengthy

difficult,

tal in the long run be-

cess of legally evicting

to squatters or other de

particularly in states that

cause this bill will only

three bills are landmark

a criminal matter rath-

the squatter. However,

facto tenants,” said Adam

are favorable to ‘ten-

add onto the current

in protecting property

er than a civil matter.

merely

months

Lamparello, an assistant

ants’ rights,’” Lamparello

problems

associated

owners across Georgia.

There are clear differ-

after the eviction, they

criminal justice professor

said. “However, it will

with being low-income.”

While ethical concerns

ences between criminal

broke back into the

at GC. “By making this a

facilitate the immediate

Contrarily, some may

are raised for those who

and civil cases through

house and remained le-

criminal offense, law en-

removal of squatters be-

consider the negative ef-

need affordable hous-

the squatter dilemma.

gally protected up un-

forcement officers will be

cause the conduct, if the

fects on the low-income

ing,

Some scholars claim the

til the next court order.

empowered to remove

legislation is passed, is

to simply unveil ongo-

of solidifying property

civil process of evicting

“She kicked the side

squatters

now deemed criminal.”

ing injustices. The sacri-

ownership quickly and

squatters is too lengthy,

door,” Johnson said. “I’m

arise

fice the low-income are

forcefully is undeniable.

own concentration, one bill is undoubtedly the most effective at dealing with squatters. This bill, House Bill 1017, transitions squatting to

three

immediately

and thus enable property

GC RANKS NATIONALLY IN GRADUATE PROGRAMS

“Allowing

deciding

For Sale sign

and

Complications

what different commuand

organiza-

Wilson

Regardless,

the

said. these

effectiveness

Rebecca Ocampo

top 100 nationally. These

apart from other schools.

the faculty coordinators

accelerate the amount

tion in Nurse Educator

Staff Writer

qualifications include the

The online class range for

for each of the graduate

of time it would take

to Women’s Health Nurse

One of GC’s proudest

programs being predom-

these graduate programs

programs are the point of

to earn their master’s

Practitioner and more.

accomplishments is its

inantly virtual and not

is from 20 to 40 students

high-ranking

graduate

requiring in-person at-

so that each student can

contact for the students

degree, which is very

programs. Many of its on-

tendance for the classes.

get that individualized

in the programs. They use

beneficial

today’s

fessor and director for

line graduate programs

The GC online grad-

education

experience.

their jobs as educators

competitive job market.

GC’s School of Nursing.

are included in U.S.

uate programs offer its

Cassie Napier is the

to pay it forward to the

Baylee Browning is

She thinks that some-

News & World Report’s

virtual students unique

graduate admissions re-

students currently en-

a junior biology major

thing that sets the GC

“Best Online Programs”

opportunities to further

cruiter at GC. She thinks

rolled in these programs.

who just got admitted

nursing program apart

national

their

out-

that for their students

“In addition to our

into the biology Dou-

from others is its Sim-

These programs pro-

side of the classroom.

to be successful, they

full-time faculty, we have

ble

ulation

vide students who might

Dr. Michael Stratton

need that personal in-

exceptional

part-time

“It’s a really great

tional Research Center.

be balancing employ-

is the dean of the College

teraction with their in-

faculty who teach in

thing to put on applica-

“It is an accredited

ment or other outside

of Business and Tech-

dustry-leading

faculty.

the graduate programs,”

tions,” Browning said.

center where they can

obligations with a more

nology here at GC. He

personalized

Stratton said. “These are

“Plus, I’ll be getting cred-

do standardized patient

cost-effective

option

thinks that one of the

interaction and the net-

experienced practitioner

its for my master’s and

experiences or high-fi-

to earn their gradu-

factors that differentiates

working of both know-

experts with advanced

undergrad at the same

delity mannequin ex-

ate degree. According

GC from other schools

ing their faculty and

degrees in their field.”

time, so it’s a no-brainer.”

perience that will help

to U.S. News & World

is its individualized at-

their faculty knowing

One of the unique

At GC, 24 online

them practice their skills

Report, these rankings

tention

students.

them and making con-

graduate programs of-

graduate programs are

in a safe and controlled

are a reflection of the

“Even our master’s

nections is something

fered at GC is the Dou-

offered, one of the most

environment,” Doss said.

faculty credentials and

in management infor-

that

us

ble Bobcat Pathway. It

popular of which is

GC offers its students a

training, services and

mation

quite apart from other

is a program that allows

the nursing program.

variety of different grad-

technologies

available

gram has premium stu-

schools,”

Napier

said.

college

undergraduates

Ranked at No. 1 in the

uate programs to choose

to students, student en-

dent support hours on

The

students

in

to begin taking gradu-

state, the GC online nurs-

from that can take their

gagement

expert

a weekly basis,” Strat-

these programs are also

ate-level courses while

ing program offers its

education to the next

opinion on the academ-

ton said. “Because it’s

able to get their de-

they are still in their un-

students a wide variety of

level. The experiences

ic quality of programs.

an asynchronous pro-

grees while saving both

dergrad. The credits tak-

skills and knowledge that

they gain and skills they

The GC business, edu-

gram, this gives them

their time and money

en go toward both the

they can use in the work-

learn, whether virtually

cation, and criminal jus-

synchronous attention.”

by being able to take

student’s undergraduate

force. The online nursing

or in person, will make it

tice online graduate pro-

This personalized ed-

these classes virtually.

and

credits.

programs offered at GC

so they are fully prepared

grams are ranked in the

ucation is what sets GC

According to Stratton,

This allows them to

vary from a concentra-

for when they graduate.

rankings.

and

education

to

systems

pro-

“That

distinguishes

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

graduate

in

Bobcat

Pathway.

Josie Doss is a pro-

and

Transla-

5

BRENNAN SCHMITZ, SPORTS EDITOR EMILY HENDERSON, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

02.27.2024

SPORTS

GC WOMEN'S HOMECOMING GAME Ellie Smith

scored

free

cats were able to score

“As a team, we took it

throws. GC then got qui-

19 points with the help

as a lesson learned and

On Saturday, Feb. 17,

et, allowing the Bearcats

of Ashyia Willis, Miracle

had to move forward.”

the GC women's basket-

to make a comeback.

Parker and Cail. Willis

Throughout the game,

ball team took on Lander

It was not until there

scored six points ear-

GC and Lander went

University during their

were three minutes left

ly in the quarter, while

back and forth, as they

Homecoming game. GC

in the quarter that Myra

Parker and Cail helped

were tied five different

had a mere even match-

Strickland, a red-shirt se-

try to rally the team back

times. Cail was the top

up during the first three

nior guard, put another

before the last buzzer.

scorer of the game for

quarters of the game un-

basket on the board for

While GC was able

GC with 13 points. Ja-

til it hit the final quar-

GC. Strickland put up

to have a high-scoring

leah Storr had a total

ter, resulting in a loss

both a foul shot and an

fourth quarter, the Bear-

of eight, and Deshaun

coming into the game

With the team only

for the Bobcats, 43-50.

impressive three-pointer

cats outshined them in

Jackson and Willis both

that there would be a

having two games left

Both teams had a

before the quarter came

the fourth quarter, scor-

had a total of seven.

fight,” Parker said. “We

low-scoring first half,

until the PBC tourna-

to a close. Lander's im-

ing a total of 27 points.

with the first quarter end-

pressive comeback went

ing with the Bobcats up

Staff Writer

on

two

women's

performed great defense

This last-two-minute ral-

team, which is currently

for the full 40 minutes,

all the way to the buzz-

ly from Lander eventual-

ninth in the Peach Belt

but we fell a little short

8-7. A near-even match-

er, as they made a layup

ly put them on top, with

Conference, knew that

offensively. With the con-

up in the second quarter

at the end of the quar-

a final score of 43-50.

going up against Lander

ference finals approach-

landed the halftime score

ter to make the score

“It was definitely a

would be tough competi-

ing, there is still hope,

in favor of GC, 18-13.

23-24, Bobcats still up.

disappointing loss, be-

tion, as they lost a close

prayerfully, we will get

third

The fourth quarter

ing that it was a close

game against them ear-

another opportunity to

Bobcats

was the highest scoring

game the entire time

lier in the season 63-68.

prove ourselves because

their last home game of

came right out of the

quarter for both of the

and that it was Home-

“We both have pretty

we have a great team

the season on Sunday,

gate, as Hannah Cail

teams. Overall, the Bob-

coming,” Strickland said.

good teams, so I knew

that's more than capable.”

March 3, at 1:00 p.m.

During quarter,

the the

The

GC

Courtesy of GC Athletics

ment begins, the team is taking every win, along with every loss, as a way to learn and grow so they can give it their all during the tournament.

GC’s women’s team plays

Women’s college hoops sees boom in popularity Christian Castillo

and likeness. The system

names, such as Caitlin

Staff Writer

serves as student ath-

Clark and Angel Reese.

102-85, making it the

ward,

the

Watkins scored 170

It is a known fact

lete compensation, and

“I think NIL is awe-

highest scoring national

“Bayou Barbie,” also has

points in a five-game

while in some sports,

some,” said Drew Bogu-

championship in the his-

a net worth perceived

stretch this season. In

get

the effect is harshly on

mill,

senior

mass

tory of the women’s game.

to be around $3 million.

doing so, she passed

the viewership and at-

recruiting aspects, it has

communication

ma-

Clark, an Iowa guard,

“The star power com-

Clark, who scored 165

that do

women’s not

sports

typically

a

The

game

finished

Reese, an LSU fornicknamed

superstar JuJu Watkins.

tention brought in by

points in a five-game

men’s sports. Howev-

stretch, for the highest

er, in the last two years,

scoring five-game stretch

the popularity of wom-

by a freshman since

en’s

college

basket-

the 1999-2000 season.

ball

has

skyrocketed.

As long as stars like

Popularity was grow-

Clark and Reese can

ing

gradually

until

thrive in the sport, more

March

Madness

last

and more players like

year.

Viewership

for

Watkins will come along,

tournament

and the game will contin-

was record-setting for

ue to rise in popularity.

the

2023

the women’s game. The

The

first-round games were

women’s

March Madness tour-

up 27% in viewership from 2022’s tournament.

2024

Iowa guard Caitlin Clark

nament will tip off next

contributed majorly to

jor.

players

currently has an estimat-

peting in big games like

month, with the first-

completely

transform-

that rise to a level of

ed net worth of $3 mil-

this is changing the sport

round

spike came from the

ing women’s basketball.

fame deserve payment.”

lion. However, the real

and bringing more mon-

ing on March 20. The

increase of NIL over

NIL has paved the

Perhaps the two big-

amount is suspected to

ey in,” said Jackson Kiser,

tournament will bring

that span of a year.

way for superstars to

gest stars of the wom-

be higher due to her sky-

a junior marketing major.

two weeks of exciting

The NCAA has trans-

gain compensation for

en’s game since Brittney

rocketing popularity. She

This year’s tourna-

formed across all sports

their fame, fandom and

Griner, Clark and Re-

currently sits 75 points

ment will feature these

ing with the Final Four

since the explosion of

the money they bring

ese met in the nation-

behind Pete Maravich,

stars as well as an incred-

and national champi-

NIL deals student ath-

in. Due to this, a select

al

in

who holds the No. 1 spot

ible University of South-

onship game at Rocket

letes are receiving. NIL

few

the 2023 edition of the

on the all-time NCAA

ern

Mortgage

stands for name, image

have become household

NCAA

basketball scoring list.

headlined by emerging

The

viewership

women’s

players

“College

championship

tournament.

California

team

games

basketball,

in

start-

conclud-

FieldHouse

Cleveland,

Ohio.

6

BRENNAN SCHMITZ, SPORTS EDITOR EMILY HENDERSON, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

02.27.2024

SPORTS

Kirk Cousins, come to Atlanta Cale Strickland

up QB. He is good for

so we missed out on the

of Justin Jefferson, who

two cornerstones of our

ing staff to do just that.

Managing Editor

a solid drive here and

Caleb Williams, the Uni-

is seen, almost unani-

receiving core, and Tyler

We do not have to be a

OPINION

there, but he is not the

versity of Southern Cali-

mously, as the best wide

Allgeier, who is a solid

serious Super Bowl con-

kind of guy you want un-

fornia’s QB, sweepstakes.

receiver in the league?

second option in the run

tender yet. That is ambi-

Recently,

a

der center for a season.

TikTok in which Bijan

The week-to-week ga-

Robinson, the Atlanta

metime decisions of Ar-

tion we are in: “stuck.”

Falcons’ rookie running

thur Smith, our former

And Cousins, who is

back, was asked where

head coach, as to who is

recovering from a sea-

he thought Kirk Cous-

QB for the week — of-

son-ending

ins, the Minnesota Vi-

ten switching between

exactly what we need.

kings’ franchise quarter-

Ridder

back, would end up this

mid-game — is a bright,

“special”

off-season.

Seemingly

glowing red flag to me.

does not have the arm

joking, he said he hoped

At this point, many

Cousins came to Atlanta.

of my fellow Falcons

the Kansas City Chiefs’

I

I

saw

and

That word

Heinecke

is

the

best

Yes, but Cousins played

game. They are the guys

tious and, if I am being

for

the

situa-

well — very well — too.

we need to pour our en-

honest, unrealistic. But

Cous-

ergy into developing, not

we can — and should

ins has been around the

Ridder and Heinecke,

— win the NFC South.

block a couple of times.

and bringing in an ex-

Hey, if we could win

We are a young team, and

perienced, veteran QB

a playoff game — one

we have a lot of talent. Of

would

Raheem

playoff game — I would

course, we have Robin-

Morris, our — thank

be over the moon. We

son, but we also have Kyle

God — new head coach,

just have to be a decent,

Pitts and Drake London,

and the rest of the coach-

respectable team again.

injury,

is

He is not anything

of

per

Patrick

se.

He

Mahomes,

do

not

think

fans and I are wav-

QB and reigning Super

he

was

joking,

and

ing

flag.

Bowl MVP, or the legs of

I

agree

with

him.

When Lamar Jackson,

Jackson. But he is a very

After last season, it

the Baltimore Ravens’ QB

solid, down-the-middle

is clear we need a new

and reigning NFL MVP,

QB, and he can move the

QB — a veteran QB.

was struggling to reach

ball down the field and

Desmond

is

a contract extension last

put points on the board.

Taylor

summer, we missed out.

Remember the sea-

Heinecke is serviceable,

And when it became

son before last? Sure,

but at the end of the day,

clear we were not going

the Vikings got bounced

he is a backup QB, and

to make a serious playoff

in the first round, but

watching him play en-

run — if we were even

during the regular sea-

tire games, it is clear he

going to make the play-

son, they were electric.

ought to remain a back-

offs — we did not tank,

Was a lot of that because

Ridder

turnover-prone;

the

white

Poole notches first career Athlete of the Week award Samantha Birmingham

final score being 14-5.

Staff Writer

“Mason’s game against

In

an

outstanding

week of baseball, Mason Poole has emerged as the standout player of the week, earning the Zaxby’s Player of the Week award. This award recognizes his outstanding skill, teamwork and dedication to the team.

The Zaxby’s Player of the Week award goes to an athlete who has shown to, remarkably, be the best player for that week.

Last week, for the Bobcats, Poole had an incredible hitting week.

He hit .533 through four games. Out of the 15 bats Mason had, he

game,” Poole said. “I sometimes

get

too

Additionally,

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins

BRAVES

Left field is far from

“If Kelenic can be at

ty good idea,” said Bri-

the only position that

least an average player

an Snitker, the Braves’

needs to be figured out

in spring training, he

manager. “We have a

will take left field from

cache of [starters] here

Ozuna,” Wade said. “And

and in Triple-A. We’re

then we can just keep

going to need them, and

before the new season

tric,” said Gabe Wuerth,

ment, and when I relax

begins.

a sophomore infielder.

and just play the game,

Fried and Morton cur-

“He made a ton of great

good things happen. All

plays

in-

glory to my savior, Jesus

rently sit as the Braves

cluding the last out of

Christ. I wouldn’t be

going 4/5 with a goahead home run, which really gave our team the momentum we needed to get back on top and finish the game strong.”

Poole went 4-for-5 with a moon shot over the left-field fence, three RBIs and two runs scored.

Not only did Poole play a great game against West Georgia, but he also had a solid outing against Erskine College. He kept

picked up eight hits, two

up his rhythm with a

of which were round-

2-for-3 day, including

trip shots, to bring his

two walks and a run

slugging percentage to

scored. The second home

anywhere without him.”

Poole’s

Sale,

Strider,

top four pitchers. There is a battle currently be-

teammates

tween a variety of young

are grateful for his role

AAA pitchers and even

on the team and what he brings to the group.

veterans. As fans watch

“Mason is a great

the Braves play these

player and an even

first few spring train-

greater person,” said

ing games, they need

Lex Kenny, a sophomore

pitcher.

“He

to

watch,

especially

brings a positive vibe

when Elder or Lopez

with

ex-

are on the mound, to

cels in his position.”

see who is going to

him

and

This recognition not only celebrates Poole’s

grab that fifth spot.

our

offense

as

“When we leave here, we want to have a pret-

caught up in the mo-

the game, along with

defensive hole but help well.

Continued from page 1

West Georgia was elec-

defensively,

allow

Ozuna at DH and not worry about his defense at all and just get his powerful offensive game.”

As the designated hitter last year, Ozuna was incredible, with 40 homers and 100 RBIs. So, if the team can have the same offensive spark that they had last season, the sky is the limit for this offense.

The Braves offense and core defense were not the only struggles

you want to feel good about all of them when we break for the season.”

It is fair to say the Braves want to make the right moves to ensure they do not have another early postseason departure. So, the most impactful players will need to be the entire pitcher staff and the new acquisitions in the field.

The

Braves

should

not be looking for one

individual performance

Braves fans all over

but also brings attention

GC seem to be split on

to the team and the tal-

had over 16 pitchers

who they believe will

start at least one game

they want to have a

be the biggest impact

for them, and despite

great

ent and skill it has. Fans can look forward to

last year. The Braves

player to stand out if

spring

training.

.933. Poole also drove

run for Poole came in the

in five RBIs and was

second game of the dou-

watching the team and

player on the team

them being a 100-plus-

All of their veterans and

able to score four times.

ble-header with EC. In

Poole’s continued suc-

during spring training.

win team, the inexpe-

youngsters need to play

Poole’s most notable

the past two games, Poole

cess. The Zaxby’s Player

has shown out and has

rience of certain play-

as one and gain experi-

performance was against

of the Week award con-

Gabe Wade, a mass

the University of West

left a mark for his team.

tinues to be given out to

ma-

ers definitely tarnished

ence in case they get the

Georgia. The Bobcats

“I stayed within my-

athletes who embody

jor, stated that Kele-

what could have been

call that they are need-

took the win, with the

self and just played the

dedication and skill.

nic will not just fill a

a great postseason run.

ed in the big leagues.

communication

7

PAIGE BLAKEMORE, A&L EDITOR KYLIE ROWE, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.27.2024

ARTS & LIFE

Beyoncé goes country Kylie Rowe

it’s amazing that she is

sic will sound like as well

Asst. A&L Editor

the first black woman to

as what she will do next.

“This ain’t Texas,” but

reach No. 1 on Billboard

One very special fan,

luckily, you do not have

for a country song. It’s

Dolly Parton, took to

to be in Texas to hear Be-

something I didn’t ex-

Instagram to congratu-

yoncé Knowles-Carter’s

pect, but I’m here for it!”

late Beyoncé on her No.

new country hits, “Texas

While a country al-

1 chart spot as well as

Hold ‘Em” and “16 Car-

bum from Beyoncé may

share her excitement for

riages,” or to be excit-

not have been on many

her joining the coun-

ed about her upcoming

people’s 2024 bingo card,

try music family. In her

country album, “Act II.”

TikTok has welcomed the

post and story, one of

Beyoncé announced her

singles, specifically “Tex-

the queens of country

country album with the

as Hold ‘Em,” with open

music

release of her two sin-

arms. CBS wrote that

her stamp of approval.

gles on Feb. 11 during

many people were not as

“I’m a big fan of Be-

Super Bowl LVIII, and

open to Beyoncé joining

yoncé and very excited

the album is set to be

the country genre and

that she’s done a country

released on March 29.

noted that a radio station

album,” Parton said via

Her country single

in Oklahoma, KYKC,

Instagram. “Can’t wait

“Texas Hold ‘Em” de-

originally decided not

to hear the full album!”

buted at No. 1 on Bill-

to play the new songs.

With the banjo play-

board’s

However,

Hot

Country

the

station

gave

Beyoncé gle and the potential that

how, in the industry,

a new way and only in

the new album has as well.

women are expected to

the way we want,” said

“I thought it was

produce something com-

Taylor Swift in “Miss

weird but also kinda hit

pletely new every time

Americana.” “And rein-

really hard,” said Han-

they release new things.

vent yourself, but only in

nah Ferrar, a sopho-

“She doesn’t let the

a way that we find to be

more exercise science

rules of genre define her

equally comforting but

major. “I’m here for it

or get in her way or im-

also a challenge for you.”

and very interested to

pede the creative pro-

Women in the music

hear more of the songs.”

cess in any sense,” Bros-

industry are constantly

switching

ki said on her podcast.

criticized for how they

genres proves once again

Another artist that

perform, what they per-

the lifelong truth that

has been criticized for

form and everything else.

‘Em”

women in the enter-

switching genres is Tay-

Beyoncé, however, using

is a strong single with

tainment industry have

lor Swift, and in her

the knowledge and ex-

ing, Beyoncé’s smooth

Songs chart. Beyoncé is

manager told CBS that

vocals

currently the only black

he was not aware of the

ics, “Texas Hold ‘Em”

woman to have a coun-

new singles and quickly

is quickly becoming a

try song reach No. 1.

added them to the play-

fan and critic favorite.

“Texas Hold ‘Em” has

list when interviewed.

also reached No. 2 on the

According

to

CBS

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter

and

“Texas

fun

Hold

lyr-

Beyoncé

all-genre Hot 100, as fans

News, “Act II” is the

a

two-step-worthy

to continue to reinvent

Netflix

Documentary,

perience she has gained

are loving the new sound.

second part of a three-

rhythm,” said Chris Mo-

themselves in order to

“Miss Americana”, Swift

from over 20 years in

“Beyoncé’s new song

act project that started

lanphy, a feature writ-

stay relevant. In episode

talks about the expec-

the music industry, has

is so fun and catchy,”

when Beyoncé released

er and critic at Slate.

37 of Brittany Broski’s

tations of female artists

once again been able to

said Lindsey Everidge,

“Renaissance” in 2022.

At GC, fans of Beyon-

podcast, “The Broski Re-

in the music industry.

prove that even when

a junior mass commu-

Fans are ecstatic to hear

cé seem to feel similar to

port,” Broski speaks on

“Be new to us, be

it is harder for women,

nication major. “I think

what Beyoncé’s new mu-

Molanphy about the sin-

this topic. She talks about

young to us, but only in

they can still do it better.

GC self-care tips

my friends and room-

helpful for maintaining

the human brain. Ac-

tivity. Some students love

mates after a long day,”

an organized life and

cording to The Guard-

to bake, while others like

said Emma Woodall, a

expressing

emotions

ian, the act of using so-

to rent a movie, go shop-

senior English major. “It

in a healthy manner.

cial media triggers the

ping, get takeout or color

really

dopamine receptors in

in adult coloring books.

ber that I’m not alone.”

helps me to collect my

the brain inorganical-

In moments of stress,

thoughts and understand

ly, causing addiction in

it is easy to get over-

my emotions after a long

some cases. This is why

whelmed with all of the

day,” said Allie Wiernicki,

some people prefer to be

Isabelle Gonzales

day. Older students may

Staff Writer Midterm

enjoy a glass of wine or

season

for GC is here, leaving many students in need of some self-care time.

Self-care is meant for moments when mental health may not be at its peak, and the body and mind need refreshers.

Many

methods

of

self-care

include

tak-

ing a warm bath, reading a good book, seeing friends and going on walks outdoors. Each

the effects of another alcoholic beverage, but

helps for me to remem-

in certain settings and long-term, this can do more harm than good

“Journaling

for a person’s mental and

physical

completely

health.

unplugged

as a form of self-care.

Social situations can

“After a long day I

be relaxing for some,

really enjoy just sitting

depending on the situ-

in my room and be-

ation and company, but

ing completely turned

for other students, it

off

can cause more anxiety.

said Hazel Fairbairn, a

More extroverted peo-

junior marketing ma-

person is different, so

ple see hanging out with

the preference in self-

others as a way to relax,

activities and thoughts

care techniques varies

whereas others who are

on one’s mind, which is

While

from person to person.

more introverted become

why some students turn

through

There are also healthy

even more tired after

to

ways and unhealthy ways to unwind after a long

from

everything,”

Julia Jensen | Art Director

jor. “I don’t have the

a junior education major.

TV on or anything.”

“Baking a sweet treat and coloring are super fun ways for me to just relax and calm down,” Wiernicki said.

Midterms are a stressful time, but it is important to make mental health a priority. While grades are very important, both physical and mental health need to be focused on as well. Good mental health can allow

scrolling

There are a lot of free

a person to strive and

media

ways to unwind, but one

do their best, and setting

Journ-

may seem relaxing, it

of the most fun parts of

self-care times can help

spending time in public.

aling and writing your

can actually create a do-

having a self-care night is

reset the mind when in

“I love to hang out with

thoughts down can be

pamine dependency in

splurging on a treat or ac-

a stressful environment.

journaling.

social

8

PAIGE BLAKEMORE, A&L EDITOR KYLIE ROWE, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.27.2024

ARTS & LIFE HOMECOMING

ly a great day. It’s a great

ergy, and you really get

time and having fun with

Students in the stands

has done so much for this

place to stay connected.”

to see the Bobcat pride

my friends. It’s genuinely

cheered as the king and

school. They definitely

to

all around in the stu-

a good vibe and a great

queen walked across the

of alums here from all

love it just as much.

dents that are rooting

opportunity to meet new

court to be crowned.

different decades, old

“I think students look

for our team to win.”

people and have fun.”

“It’s really cool, and I’m

forward to it because it’s

Student organizations

After Tent City, stu-

very honored,” Shuster

such a great energy that

at Tent City take the

dents gather at Centenni-

said. “It feels awesome to

weekend at GC, students

is brought to our insti-

opportunity to recruit,

al Center, not just for the

get to represent a school

are already looking for-

tution, and everyone is

give out food and pro-

big game but also to find

that I love so much.”

ward to the rest of the

so excited and proud to

vide a fun environment.

out the Homecoming

support their organiza-

“I love the tabling

king and queen winners.

tion and cheer on all of

leading up to Home-

This year, the winners

their stories. It helps me

the student organiza-

coming and hearing ev-

were Queen Emma Whit-

“It’s awesome, I’m so

to know more about why

tions as well,” Peña said.

eryone advertise them-

ener from Delta Zeta

excited and I love Geor-

they love this campus.

“Definitely Tent City and

selves,” Whitehead said.

and King Aidan Shuster

gia College!” Whitener

ets are being sold at the

For a president, it’s real-

the game. It’s so high-en-

“I also love spending

from Alpha Tau Omega.

said. “I think Delta Zeta

Office of Student Life.

Continued from page 1 "We’ve got all kinds

friends and a lot of people from out of state that have come back for the weekend,” Cox said. “So, it’s really good to meet those people and hear

Students

seem

The

queen

was

just as excited when winning

her

crown.

deserve to be recognized.”

With cessful

another

suc-

Homecoming

festivities to come, including the homecoming

concert

featuring

Quavo on March 5, tick-

HOMECOMING PARADE 2024

All Photos Courtesy of Kylie Rowe | Asst. A&L Editor

9

PAIGE BLAKEMORE, A&L EDITOR KYLIE ROWE, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.27.2024

ARTS & LIFE

The 1975 should be the soundtrack of Atlanta Paige Blakemore A&L Editor

OPINION English band The 1975 rose to popularity amongst the infamous 2013-2014 Tumblr era, the period when it was socially acceptable to wear sweatshirts with pleated, skater skirts and ripped fishnets, and cigarettes were heavily romanticized. As repeated in every generation, teenagers were fixated on the idea of rebelling against their suburban lives through self-expression and, of course, angsty, alternative music that their parents could not sufficiently comprehend.

The 1975, composed of lead man Matty Healy, drummer George Daniels, guitarist Adam Hann and bassist Ross

MacDonald, was foundational to this era with their bawdy lyrics and drug-related undertones. Healy sang of longing, displacement and complicated love over eclectic guitar riffs and synth-pop influences. The image of a single, blank rectangle and black-and-white photographs became synonymous with their brand.

While I was too young to experience the iconic Tumblr era myself, echoes of it still lingered in media and music during my middle school years. Consequently, The 1975 became integral to my daily playlists at the frustrating age of 13.

Since then, I have had the experience of seeing the band twice, in Atlanta on both occasions. The first time was during my freshman year of high school

and the second during my freshman year of college — an interesting paradox, to say the least.

Over the years, The 1975 has become more and more associated with the New York of the South in my head.

This can most likely be attributed to the location of my concerts and how often I listen to their moody ballads on my drives home. However, there is a deeper, underlying connection to unveil.

The 1975 is known for being chaotic and, at times, controversial — just like Atlanta.

Frontman Healy is no stranger to a good controversy, and his bandmates seem to stand by and hope for the best.

The “Robbers” singer has been tied to untactful statements and opinions that often come off as misleading and

sometimes worse. From kissing fans to making fun of rapper Ice Spice to eating raw meat on stage, Healy is a hot topic in the same way “Hotlanta” is a dumpster fire.

“It’s very well for me to say, I don’t understand how famous I am,” Healy said during a show in April of 2023. “I don’t like being famous. But reality is reality. And I think that I’ve said some things or kind of, I make a joke out of everything. That’s my thing.

And I can take it too far sometimes in front of too many people. And I feel a bit embarrassed.

So, that’s the truth.”

Atlanta is often closely associated with its crime activity and rampant racism that lingers decades after segregation has been outlawed.

However, younger generations and millennials

still flock to “The City” demanding that there is something special and that it is a wonderful place to “Settle Down.”

No one really loves Atlanta as a whole, but it does have its good moments — just like The 1975. Sometimes, “Loving Someone,” or even something, means loving all of their flaws as well.

Any native will tell you that there are more than a few places that you do not visit after dark and to keep your doors locked at all times.

Honestly, there are several The 1975 songs that you simply cannot visit after dark or, better yet, never touch at all. For example, the entire album “Notes On A Conditional Form” is unknown and not a fan favorite, but listeners recognize that one great hit, probably “If You’re Too Shy (Let Me

Paige Blakemore | Arts & Life Editor

Know),” like some would say of Centennial Olympic Park. Amid chaos and contention, at least there is a Ferris wheel.

No one could mention Atlanta without speaking about the horrendous traffic. It is all stop-andgo throughout its entire 136 square miles, similar to The 1975’s diverse and questionable discography. There is always “Roadkill.” There is always a delay. Right when I am beginning to like Atlanta, I find myself having “A Change Of Heart.”

Truly, The 1975 is one of my favorite bands and remains quintessential of my teenage years.

Nonetheless, there is an amusing parallel to draw between the band and one of my most frequented cities.

Perhaps it is personal, or maybe “Somebody Else” also feels the same.

American Heart Month

GC students’ experiences and heart healthy habits.

Alexis Maddox

heart attack, but it’s so

president of GC’s Public

heart disease. Practicing

Staff Writer

much more. Heart health

Health Student Organi-

heart-healthy habits and

is very important to me

zation. “I grew up going

expanding

because

cardiovascular

to the cardiologist and

of heart disease symp-

disease runs in my fam-

aware of heart disease.

toms

ily. I didn’t really grow up

I know that being at an

will help women take

knowing that I was at risk

increased risk of heart

charge of their health.

until I was like 18 or 19.”

disease

February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on showing love for hearts and spreading

awareness

cardiovascular

about health.

Heart disease refers to several types of heart conditions and is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women in most racial and ethnic groups. It is vital to understand the risk of cardiac events, as one in 20 adults age 20 and older have coronary artery disease, the most common type of heart disease.

“People

talk

about

it, but they don’t real-

conditions

increased

“I used to work at the

the

my passion for inform-

Center for Health and

risk for cardiac events,

ing and educating others

Social Issues, and I would

making healthy choic-

about heart disease and

help with screening peo-

one has a heart attack

avoid or limit alcohol-

es

steps

congenital heart defects.”

ple in the community

ic beverages, sodium,

to reduce the chance

Heart disease is the

for high blood pressure,”

every 40 seconds in the

fatty meats and items

of getting heart dis-

leading cause of death in

said Maddy Meiser, a se-

United States. Individu-

high in added sugar.

ease is the way to live a

women, yet it is not talk-

nior public health major

als with diabetes or peo-

Maintaining a healthy

heart-healthy

lifestyle.

ed about enough. Gener-

and president of GC’s

ple struggling with obe-

Throughout the month,

ally, heart disease occurs

Public Health Student

people are encouraged

in women about 10 years

Organization. “It’s shock-

to wear red, especially

later than men, which

ing how many people

on Feb. 2, National Wear

shows the importance

had absolutely no idea

Red Day. The day is de-

of women being proac-

that they were in extreme

signed to raise awareness

tive in their heart health.

hypertension. It’s so dan-

Understanding

and

taking

for cardiovascular health,

has

and

knowledge

Menopause

Julia Jensen | Art Director

sity are at a higher risk for heart disease. Similarly, people who follow an unhealthy diet, refrain from a regular amount of physical activity or partake in excessive alcohol

puts

gerous, and they have ab-

specifically in women.

women at a high risk of

solutely no idea, which is

“One in 110 kids are

heart disease due to the

why it’s so important to

risk for heart disease.

use are also at a high

weight is important because being overweight adds extra stress on the heart and blood vessels.

Two and a half hours of

moderate-intensity

exercise per week can strengthen

the

heart

muscles

and

lower

blood pressure. Mak-

ly know what it is,” said

born with a congenital

estrogen levels in the

share that information

A heart-healthy diet

Blakely Queen, a senior

heart defect, and I am

body dropping. Wom-

and make people aware.”

includes greens, fruits,

as choosing to take the

public

major.

one of them,” said Emma

en who experience early

According to the Cen-

lean meats and soy prod-

stairs instead of the ele-

“They think heart dis-

Vann, a senior public

menopause are at an even

ters for Disease Control

ucts. The best way to

vator, can contribute to

ease is just suffering a

health major and vice

higher risk of developing

and Prevention, some-

modify one’s diet is to

a heart-healthy lifestyle.

health

ing little changes, such

10

DELANEY DERRY, OPINION EDITOR

02.27.2024

OPINION MINDFUL

become more mindful

ful of the people around

tions and attitude in a

lege students, we have

tional Library of Medi-

of the ways in which we

us, we begin to behave

positive or negative way?

a lot of problems. Our

cine in an article on the

act. Our behavior begins

differently. The people

different

friendships are messy,

Effects of Mindfulness

to change because we are

around us play a big role

ways of being mind-

romance is complicated

on Psychological Health,

more at peace with our-

in who we are. They are a

ful are interconnected.

and our ability to focus

mindfulness has been

selves, so we are more

big influence in our lives,

When we become mind-

is just non-existent. In-

connected with helping

at peace with the out-

and we have a choice of

ful of everything we

stead of rushing life from

to raise levels of life sat-

side world. When we are

who we dedicate our

do, everything revolv-

one thing to the next,

isfaction. People who

mindful of our actions

time to. When we are

ing around us changes.

we should be mindful

are mindful are often

and their effect on oth-

aware of what and who

the

of how we are using our

more

er people, we strength-

we surround ourselves

American Psychological

time in college. Are we

higher self esteem, are

en our overall attitude

with, we can generate a

Association, the benefits

really taking advantage

more

or whatever makes your

which strengthens our

more positive environ-

of mindfulness include

of this freedom before

have higher empathy.

body feel good and sus-

relationships with oth-

ment. Our circle matters.

reduced

rumination,

we head into the real

Instead of just mak-

tainable. With a more

ers. Our actions have a

Becoming a more mind-

stress reduction, boost in

world? If we switch our

ing it through college,

nourished

cared

lot to do with who we are

ful person looks like fill-

working memory, better

mindset and pour our

use this time to create a

for body, we develop a

and how people view us.

ing your circle with peo-

ability to focus, less emo-

time into things that are

more mindful mindset.

healthier lifestyle and

If we act more peacefully

ple who have a positive

tional reactivity, more

worthwhile then it re-

Be wary and intention-

have a much richer life.

and are more joyful peo-

impact on you. Stop and

cognitive flexibility and

sults in stability in our

al of the things you do,

Being more aware of

ple, then those kinds of

ask yourself: do the peo-

relationship satisfaction.

life. A life of stable rela-

so you can really make

our thoughts and body

people gravitate towards

ple and environments

Mindfulness can flip

tionships, mindsets and

college the best years of

are just the first steps.

us and our circle grows.

you surround yourself

our entire lives around.

our all around future.

your life because you will

Once we do this, we can

When we are mind-

in impact your life, ac-

In all honesty, as col-

According to the Na-

never get this time back.

Continued from page 1 Having a healthy body does not mean that our body has to look a specific way. It means that we are nourishing ourselves properly and giving our body what it needs. It may look like food

choices,

hydra-

tion, physical activity

and

All

According

Will you accept this reality?

Delaney Derry Opinion Editor It is no wonder why reality TV lovers enjoy reality shows so much. They are generally

action-packed,

drama-filled, and loaded with romance that is just too compelling not to watch. They are filled with real people in real-time. Reality TV seems so much more affiliated with real life than other shows that just give us a fantasy of a relationship. They are so relatable. Right?

Long story short, I do not think it is very relatable. I think reality TV is insane and should not be considered

good-qual-

ity television. This may be

controversial,

but

“The Bachelor,” especially, gets on my nerves.

The idea behind this popular romantic reality series may seem sweet, but I think it is actually just downright creepy. It is a show about some guy dating several women all

these

agreeable, optimistic

have and

tive? Do couples that

are not even casual dat-

sit

wondering,

that any of that could

ship and walk away more

come out of this show

ing. They are trying to

“Why are they behaving

have a positive outcome.

heartbroken than before.

actually stay together?

make a deep connection

like that?” or “I would

They have pitted these

It is also not to men-

“The reality TV fran-

and find their perfect

not have acted like that.

women against each oth-

tion all their personal life

captivated

match. How can you

I would have acted in a

er to basically all com-

millions of viewers for

make that deep connec-

different way.” The truth

pete for the same guy.

is out in the open. Get-

20 years, but less than

tion when you are do-

of it all is that bringing

“At its core, the show

10 couples are still to-

ing the same thing with

various women together

seems to be reinforc-

people?

to basically compete for

ing the unhealthy idea

“And by dating just

one man is just a reci-

that women should view

HuffPost.

one person at a time,

pe for disaster and not

other women as adver-

There have been 28

you are more likely to

comparable to real life.

saries and that roman-

chise

has

gether,” said Ruth Etiesit

several

Samuel, a culture reporter

at

other

there

to

seasons of “The Bach-

be

avail-

It is the same for “The

tic relationships should

elor” and that means

able, build genuine con-

Bachelorette” just that

always take precedence

there should be 28 cou-

nections and be your

the roles are reversed. It is

over friendships,” said

ples. If the whole point

authentic self when out

a show about one woman

Sophia

of “The Bachelor” is for

on dates,” said an Ig-

dating various different

a

two people to ultimately

nite Dating blog post.

men, and they are all

er for Business Insider.

find forever love, then

How can someone be

competing for her at-

emotionally

Mitrokostas,

contributing I

thought

writwomen

ting to know someone should be something between you and the other person. It is healthy to have some privacy in a relationship. There are some things that should be held between you and the other person only and not on display for all the world to see.

“What makes a great scene in a movie relationship (i.e., man run-

why have less than half

were supposed to sup-

of the couples actually

port women. This show

stuck together? I think

is not only destroying

that this is not a very

the image of romance

effective way to find

but also destroying the

makes for an uncomfort-

love. Dating should be

image of female friend-

able scene in a marriage,”

because you genuine-

ships. It is so strange

said

ly care for that person

to go out with multiple

a dating and relation-

and think of only them.

women and then choose

ship writer, in Glamour

If a person is actively

one to leave just because

magazine.

dating someone, their

they were not compat-

marriage requires con-

intentions should only

ible enough. That must

sistency,

not

be for that one person.

be terrible for the wom-

There is casual dat-

en who have to go home.

The

spotlight

ing, and there is dating

The other women are left

to marry. Most people

feeling enlightened and

would say that, when dat-

hopeful, but then the

Kylie Rowe | Asst. A&L Editor

ning through the rain to try to get his lover back after he wronged her)

Andrea

“A

Syrtash,

healthy drama.” that

“The Bachelor” directs onto couples is brought about by all the drama of this show. Drama is not

at once, and everyone

ing to marry, they prefer

is just OK with it. Yet,

the other person not be

their authentic self on a

tention. The whole fran-

ones left without a rose.

if it was right in front

dating other people. In

date while thinking about

chise revolves around

It seems like the wom-

of us and not on televi-

“The Bachelor”, the guy

other women and having

this idea of seeking out

en are more interested

sion, we would think it

is dating many women at

to open up to them too?

true love when it is ba-

in receiving that flow-

was crazy, or at least I

one time to find love and

How is pitting women

sically a dating compe-

er rather than actually

would. So, why is it OK

someone that he wants

against each other going

tition and not really and

authentically making a

to do it on TV? Is it the

to spend the rest of his

to bring about authentic

genuinely authentic. .

connection and getting

pretty dresses, romantic

life with. Do not get me

love? How does this show

The drama that ensues

the guy. Imagine feeling

setting or all the ruby

wrong, casual dating is

display that they truly

from multiple women

like you really connect

red roses that distract us

totally fine because not

care about this guy who

living together and all

with someone and think

from the fact that there

everyone is looking for

is the “ideal guy” and not

dating the same guy is

you are really getting to

is no way this is all real?

a permanent partner or

show that they are just

just

It

know them and see a fu-

At first glance, “The

interested in marriage,

trying to win him over?

actually astonishes me

ture with them, and then

like

but that still tends to be

The reality of reali-

that someone thought

are left roseless and sin-

no substance. Instead,

a modern experiment

a two-sided, exclusive

ty television is that it is

this was a good idea and

gle for all of America to

the reality of love is to

of

understanding.

Casual

not reality. It is not re-

then decided to go ahead

witness. Now, you are left

find a love that lasts, is

finding true love. How-

dating is one thing, but

latable at all. It all feels

and film it to put on tele-

with contempt for these

exclusive and personal

ever, is it actually effec-

on “The Bachelor”, they

so staged, and we often

vision. There is no way

women instead of friend-

and is worth fighting for.

Bachelor”

seems

matchmaking

and

mind-blowing.

next week they are the

what drives a relationship; it is what breaks it. All the drama that is brought from this show is not what will bring about a healthy relationship for these people.

The reality of finding love is that the goal should be not to find a perfect love that looks glamorous but is actually just all looks and