Issue 7 | Volume 104

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University November 5, 2024

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ELECTION: Milledgeville’s House Race Experienced candidates face off for redrawn District 149 Shadimon Smith

ty, including Milledgeville, east-

fair distribution of voters among

News Editor

ern Bibb County and Jones

all districts. The new districts

County south of Highway 49.

had to be drawn by Dec. 8, 2023.

Floyd Griffin Jr. and Kenneth Vance are on the ballot for Georgia’s House of Representatives District 149 seat. Griffin is running as a democrat and

Though

This is a new district after the

not

all

districts

United States District Judge Steve

needed redrawing in this pro-

Jones ruled that the Georgia leg-

cess, Milledgeville’s District 149

islature had redrawn districts

was adjusted. There were two

in a way that diluted the votes

state senate districts created and five house districts created

Vance is running as a republican.

of Black Americans in Georgia.

District 149 is made up of

Jones instructed the lawmakers to

and one congressional district.

the majority of Baldwin Coun-

redraw the districts so there is a

See ELECTION | Page 2

Courtesy of GC Athletics

BOBCAT ATHLETICS Fall sports update Bryan Cohen

who have stood out this

Contributing Writer

season, such as Jaycob

The fall sports at

Wagner, Shipley Smith

GCSU have all com-

and Reed Glaser. He also

pleted a large portion

mentioned transfer Noah

of their seasons, and the

Boyd in his explana-

athletes on these teams

tion for the men’s team’s

have put up some im-

performance this year.

pressive performances.

Kenneth Vance | General Assembly portrait

Floyd Griffin Jr. | campaign website

Student hobbies Shopping can be an addiction Molly Goff

GCSU students can make the most of their college experience through a thriving culture of extracurricular involvement, with a variety of clubs, organizations and intramural sports to choose from. From Greek Life to niche hobby clubs, students find ample opportunities to connect, learn and grow outside the classroom.

Delaney Derry

in China about shop-

Opinion Editor

ping

addiction

and

and

women’s

country

cross

teams

have

had a phenomenal year, with both teams placing in the top three in

OPINION

stress found that stu-

I see, therefore I

of stress often have an

“So far, it’s been

need…my motto as I

online shopping addic-

great,” said Nour Nazim,

browse the aisles of ev-

tion tendency, other-

ery shop or store I enter.

wise known as OSAT.

a freshman cross coun-

In recent memory,

Staff Writer

The GCSU’s men’s

Whether it’s a boutique

dents with high levels

“We

demonstrated

four

separate

meets.

try runner. “And I know the ups and downs are

The most popular extracurriculars on campus in-

downtown, a vintage

for the first time that

clude Greek Life, club sports and intramural activi-

shop, a retail store or

what we all do in sports.

ties. Greek Life, in particular, draws significant inter-

even Amazon— if I

the greater the pressure college students

It’s part of the journey.”

est among students, with approximately 25% of the student body participating in one of the campus’s fraternities or sororities. These organizations promote

see something glitter out of the corner of my eye, my brain says that I have to have it.

camaraderie, community service and leadership

Impulsive buying and

skills, with many students viewing their participa-

shopping addiction is on

tion as a valuable addition to their college experience.

“I gained so much leadership experience and grew so much as a person, and I wouldn’t have gotten that if it

the rise among today’s young adults, especially college students. Stress is a big contributing

weren’t for Greek Life,” said Abby Pollock, senior mass

factor to this addiction,

communication major and member of Kappa Delta.

so it’s no mystery as to

Whether through joining a sorority, playing intra-

why students are the

mural sports or exploring a new hobby, GCSU offers students numerous opportunities to get involved and make the most of their college experience.

See HOBBIES | Page 8

ones having problems.

According to the National Library of Medicine, a 2022 study done on university students

experienced, the greater the markers for additive OSAT and the

In 2023, the cross country teams strug-

lower their social sup-

gled

port,” said Huimin Li

how they performed

et al. “Secondly, stu-

in the 2024 season.

dent stress (academic

correlated

Flagler,”

Nazim

and said.

The team is eager to prove their ability, as they have shown in many meets this season, against some of their tougher conference

opponents.

Both the men’s and women’s

cross-coun-

try teams have one final competition on Nov. 9 at the NCAA Division II Southeast Regional in Spartanburg, S.C. With one final opportunity to show off for the season, it will be interesting to see if they can keep their confident spark lit.

ing that we had po-

time to show them our

positively

tential,”

said.

potential,” said Brooke

with

“They’ve kind of awo-

Roberts, a senior mid-

ken a sleeping giant, and

dle blocker.

[we] showed everyone.”

Carlton has stood out.

the

OSAT and negatively correlated with social support. Student stress is an indicator of online shopping

Augusta

af-

“I think we still have

sle, and negative life is

to

ter

coming

“We came in know-

hassle, personal hasevents)

compared

“We’re

addiction.”

See SHOPPING | Page 10

Nazim

Nazim

“Camryn

continued

She’s had a lot of kills this

by mentioning some

year and has played well.”

freshmen

teammates

See UPDATES | Page 5

NEWS | PG. 3

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 9

OPINION & MISC. | PG. 10

The former Georgia State Representative rallies for Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris.

Tensions rise as the Kansas City Chiefs remain the defending champions.

Whether a freshman or a senior, sometimes changing one’s major is the best thing to do.

Anna Kendrick’s latest acting endeavor explores the true story of a heinous serial killer.

STACEY ABRAMS IN MILLEDGEVILLE

NFL MIDSEASON UPDATE

WHY CHANGING YOUR MAJOR IS OKAY

“WOMAN OF THE HOUR”

2

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

11.05.2024

NEWS pilot be- campaign on support- tional boards like the Due to the redistricting, and help out local law ELECTION aforehelicopter turning to politics. ing women’s reproduc- National Center for he is currently represent- enforcement and state

Continued from page 1

Griffin was elected as a state senator in 1994 for a two year term and reelected in 1996 for another two year term. He went on to run for lieutenant governor of Georgia in 1998 but lost, and in 2001 he ran for mayor of Milledgeville and won. He has served on the Board of Trustees at GCSU and Georgia Military College, or GMC. Griffin has based his

This has resulted in some incumbent lawmakers running for re-election in the same or similar geographic regions but under a different district number than in their previous election.

Griffin is a retired U.S. Army colonel. He spent 23 years serving in the military and started his career as

tive rights and helping the veteran community.

“The first issue is women’s rights to choose, that’s my number one issue,” Griffin said. “And then civil rights, voter’s rights, education, military and elderly individuals.”

Griffin is a funeral director at Slater Funeral Home and works alongside his family members.

“I’ve served on na-

GCSU Mobile Health Unit

ing District 133. Some of his key campaign issues are fiscal responsibility, public safety and quality education.

“The priorities I have for my district are one, help them out economically,” Vance said. “If I can be of service in helping bring a business to the district, either of the three counties, I want to do that. If I can help with public safety in any way

ing communities safe, that’s what I want to do.”

Griffin and Vance are working towards gaining the people’s vote and representing the citizens of Baldwin County Though many GCSU students are not locals, results will still impact students’ years spent in Milledgeville.

training they need to become future

invest into local communities, arguing

examination and vaccination station.

Asst. Sports Editor

healthcare leaders and frontline work-

that these funds would be better allo-

With primarily students manning the

ers. It is truly a win-win for all involved.”

cated for student needs on campus.

unit, some are concerned about the in-

Cox emphasized the vital use of the

“It’s an amazing idea,” said Cade

experience of students. However, the

MHU and how it will act as a training

Steel, a junior history major. “But It

platform for the university’s nursing

also looks pretty expensive I think.”

bus will be operated by both supervis-

and public health students. After find-

Several students and faculty be-

new “Mobile Healthcare Unit,” into

combat

the

lack

of

easy access to health care in rural communities

in

middle

Georgia.

devices and have instructional person-

been transformed into a mobile doc-

nel on hand to assist and supervise.

tor’s office. Features include three re-

Additionally, students will help

tractable awnings, two medical exam for

science majors. Though students are MHU, they are not left to their own

MHU) is a 40-foot-long bus that has

refrigeration

ing faculty, public health and exercise heavily responsible for running the

The Mobile Healthcare Unit (or

rooms,

law enforcement in keep-

Benjamin Clark

In October, GCSU unveiled its tending

Missing and Exploited Children,” Griffin said.

His opponent Vance is a former law enforcement officer at the Baldwin County Sheriff`s Office and a teacher at Baldwin High School. He was also a public safety officer at GCSU in 1982.

Though both candidates have served before, Vance is running for active reelection as the current incumbent.

train locals in CPR, exercise, nutri-

vaccines

tional information and drug test-

and on-site bathrooms. Students and

ing. GCSU students have the op-

Medical supervisors will be man-

portunity to gain unique, hands-on

ning the MHU and will provide ba-

experience while providing local com-

sic medical care, examination, blood

munities with urgent medical care.

tests, vaccinations and screenings.

The MHU will likely become a hall-

Currently, the MHU is scheduled to be at the Putnam County Health Fair and

mark of the nursing program and,

will be shown off to the Georgia health

depending on its effectiveness, could

community, allowing for tours and

see greater expansion in the future, as there is a continuous need for in-

questions with leading administrators.

Courtesy of GCSU

In a press release on Oct. 22, GCSU President Cathy Cox spoke volumes about the need for the MHU and the impact it will have on nearby communities.

ing out about the MHU, GCSU nurs-

lieve that this is a great investment

ing students explore their opinions,

of school funds and a very benefi-

and if they would want to work in it.

cial addition to the College of Health

creased access to healthcare in many communities.

Mobile

healthcare

units are extremely integral to those who live within healthcare deserts.

These healthcare deserts are plac-

“Our new, state-of-the-art Mobile

“I think it’s a good idea and great for

Health Unit will address a critical need

the community,” said Lauren McDon-

“I don’t think it should be one over

es where it is difficult or impossible

for residents in rural communities,”

ald, a sophomore nursing major. “And

the other,” McDonald said. “I do think

to find reliable and low-cost health-

Cox said “Many of these communities

I would love to have the opportunity to

it’s a good thing to invest in the commu-

care, making the Georgia College

are losing access to healthcare, while

work on it. I think it would be really cool.”

nity, maybe more so than the school.”

MHU extremely important for local

simultaneously providing nursing and

Some students seem to be concerned

The MHU fills many different roles,

communities, especially those within

public health students with the vital

with how much funds the school should

acting as a training center and a mobile

the greater Milledgeville community.

VOLUME 104 | NO. 7

Editorial Board

Kate Verity......................... Editor in Chief Paige Blakemore............Managing Editor Julia Jensen....................... Art Director Shadimon Smith.............News Editor Emma Eslinger................ Asst. News Editor Brennan Schmitz........... Sports Editor Benjamin Clark............... Asst. Sports Editor Kylie Rowe.........................Arts & Life Editor Mary Ciucevich...............Asst. Arts & Life Editor Delaney Derry..................Opinion Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Matthew Malkowski..... Digital Media Editor Rebecca Ocampo..........PR Manager Kassie Arps.......................Ad Sales Manager Eva Galova........................ Faculty Adviser

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

Sciences’

public

health

program.

@TheColonnade

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3

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

11.05.2024

NEWS

MAJOR SPOTLIGHT: ART Ellen Patton Jaylen Mahayag Staff Writer Ellen Patton, a senior art major with a concentration in museum studies, has not had a straightforward path in her life.

As a high school student, she explored a range of art-related fields, including interior design, photography and graphic design. However, it was her senior year of high school in her Advanced Placement Art History class when she solidified her interest in the arts.

“I knew this was something I had to pursue,” Patton said.

This realization led her to explore the possibilities within GCSU’s Art Department and her concentration in museum studies, where she ultimately discovered a field that combines her love of art, community engagement and research.

At GCSU, the museum studies concentration equips students with practical skills in curatorial, archival and preparatory work. Patton explains that the program is structured to offer students foundational knowledge of how museums function before progressing to hands-on experiences.

“In our early classes, we learn about the origins of museums and how each department operates,” Patton said. “By upper-level courses, we’re curating our own exhibits, learning to accession collections and working

directly with local artists.”

This comprehensive approach to museum studies has allowed Patton to engage in the multifaceted work required to bring art into the public eye.

Patton’s commitment to this field is rooted in her passion for art and academia.

Though she has always been an artist at heart, she admits that creating art for a living was not her ultimate goal.

Finding a field that balances creative and academic interests has allowed Patton to flourish in her studies. The prospect of working in a field where she can continually engage with diverse forms of art keeps her excited about the future.

Art classes at GCSU also play a significant role in shaping Patton’s career aspirations. Through a diverse selection of art history classes covering topics like Baroque Rome and Latin American Art, she developed an affinity for contemporary performance art and ceramics.

“I am a ceramics minor and have learned so much through working in the studio,” Patton said. “To me, it is really important to understand how art is made because the process informs so much of the final result of a piece.”

In her museum studies courses, she gained handson experience in exhibit research and installation and

I knew this was something I had to pursue.

-Ellen Patton

worked collaboratively with departments to coordinate gallery space. Each experience has deepened her passion for the field.

“Getting to apply what I have learned from textbooks in real-world settings has solidified that this is a viable career path for me,” Patton said.

While she is not deeply involved in on-campus organizations, Patton is a familiar face at GCSU’s student artists and farmers markets.

Participating in these events each semester since her freshman year has allowed her to build connections with other student artists, forming a community where creative ideas are freely exchanged.

Outside of her academic pursuits, Patton also runs a small earring business, which has been a valuable source of connections within the art community across Georgia and the Southeast. This venture, she says, helped her meet artists and gain insights into the supportive network she hopes to work in after graduation.

“Everyone is willing to talk and wants to be friends, connect with you, and help you in any way they can,” Patton said. “I’ve been told about

Courtesy of Ellen Patton

different job openings, galleries and museums I should look into, and given other contacts to get in touch with just by walking around and meeting my booth neighbors.”

Looking to the future, Patton is exploring career paths in museum education and curation. Both fields offer unique opportunities to shape how art is interpreted and understood by the public.

“In education, I could share the history behind art pieces and invite discussions that open people’s eyes to new perspectives,” Patton said. “In curation, I could craft exhibitions with a theme that connects various artists’ works to create a larger narrative.”

This chance to facilitate dialogues about art is something she finds deeply fulfilling, particularly because she believes everyone brings a unique perspective to their interpretation.

Throughout her college journey, Patton has been supported by mentors, like Sandra Trujillo, her ceramics professor, and Megan McNaught,

a museum studies professor.

From curating a Valentine’s Day ceramics show to receiving guidance in accessioning and preparing artwork for exhibits, her professors have provided practical experiences and personalized feedback that have shaped her professional goals.

These opportunities have helped her realize how impactful museum and gallery spaces can be, not just for the artists featured, but for the individuals who connect with art on a personal level.

Patton encourages underclassmen who are interested in museum studies to pursue internships and take advantage of any handson opportunities available.

“Each experience, even if it’s not perfect, will teach you something valuable and help clarify your career path,” Patton said.

By fully immersing herself in her studies, volunteer work and personal projects, Patton has laid a strong foundation for a promising career in the world of art and museums.

Stacey Abrams rallies support for Harris in Milly Kylie Rowe

When Abrams took

ty, encouraging them to

about the GCSU guide-

A&L Editor

to the platform, she

vote for their families.

lines for an excused

When Election Day

spoke about how the

Griffin spoke about his

absence to vote — ab-

people of Milledgeville’s

support of Harris, men-

sence will be excused

voices matter. She dis-

tioning those who paved

by professors if the stu-

cussed voter suppression

the way for her candida-

dent

and

peo-

cy this year, such as Shir-

they were at the polls.

ple who may not think

ley Chislom, a 1972 pres-

their vote matters to re-

idential candidate, and

or Mary Parham-Co-

think going to the polls.

former President Barack

pelan spoke extensive-

Abortion policy in

Obama. But Griffin is

ly about young voters

sub-

also aware of the limited

doing the research for

ject of the rally as well.

days remaining for citi-

this election, thanking

Abrams

about

zens to vote, lamenting

Stacey Abrams for com-

Amber Thurman and

that campaigning has

ing to Milledgeville and

Candi Miller, two Geor-

shifted from convincing

reminding the people

gia women who recently

Americans for whom to

that every vote matters.

passed away due to de-

vote into emphasizing

“This is your de-

layed and unsafe abor-

the importance of ac-

mocracy;

please

get

tually casting a ballot.

out

vote,”

Par-

was approaching, politicians in Georgia were doing their best to encourage voters to cast their ballots. On Wednesday, Oct. 30, Stacey Abrams, former

Georgia

State

Representative, came to Milledgeville for a rally thrown by the GCSU Young

Democrats

to

campaign for Democratic Presidential Nominee and current Vice President

Kamala

Harris.

The Young Democrats of GCSU asked Abrams to come to Milledgeville to speak, but Axel Hawkins, a senior history

encouraged

Georgia

was

a

spoke

tions, and Abrams called for the crowd to say their names and remember them when voting.

Abrams

also

ad-

major and president of

dressed the voters ask-

Student

ing why Harris has not

Government

Association, said in her

implemented the ideas

opening speech that or-

being used in her cam-

ganizers did not have

paign, rejecting that it is

to beg Abrams to come,

because she is stagnant.

but that she jumped at

“It took four years

Kylie Rowe | A&L Editor

Emily Wright, a ju-

she spoke about some

nior political science and

of the issues that Dem-

philosophy double ma-

ocrats

jor, introduced Abrams,

and Harris have been

speaking fondly about

most passionate about

how both Abrams and

in the past months of

Harris represent women

campaigning,

in an unprecedented way.

women’s

like

Abrams

“The persuasion cam-

can

prove

Milledgeville

and

ham-Copelan

that May-

said.

paign is pretty much over,

“Milledgeville, like so

now it’s about getting

much of rural Georgia, is

out to vote,” Griffin said.

essential to not only how

This sentiment was

we win but how we move

students

forward,” Abrams said.

speaking at the rally.

While Abrams lost her

healthcare

“I’m so glad we got

race for governor in 2022,

she

all of you to show up,

she still remains a Demo-

and voter suppression.

[Abrams] has done to

but more importantly,

cratic leader in Georgia.

Floyd Griffin Jr., the

we all need to show up

“She has been a true

suppres-

former Georgia senator

and vote,” Hawkins said.

leader and a true friend to

“Everything

by

the chance to speak to

to fix the stuff he [Don-

fight

Middle

vot-

ald Trump] broke,” said

sion is really import-

currently running for

Hawkins’ speech was

the city of Milledgeville,

ers before election day.

Abrams, defending Har-

ant to me, and I love

the District 149 (Milled-

aimed toward student

Baldwin County, Middle

“I think it is really im-

ris to dubious voters who

being here to support

geville) House of Repre-

voters, and she was ad-

Georgia and to me per-

portant to energize vot-

say the vice president

her and to support Ka-

sentatives seat, also spoke

amant that young vot-

sonally,” said Quentin T.

ers,” said Hadley Quigg,

has not had a proac-

mala Harris and get out

at the rally. In his speech,

ers are going to impact

Howell, chairman of the

president

of

Young

tive role throughout the

to vote,” Wright said.

Griffin reached out to the

this

Democratic

Democrats

of

GCSU.

Biden

In Wright’s speech,

locals of Baldwin Coun-

She shared information

Georgia

administration.

voter

such as

reflected

election

heavily.

Commit-

tee in Baldwin County.

4

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

11.05.2024

NEWS

2024 Hurricane Season pummels southeast

How does climate change factor in? And is there more to come?

the forward motion of the storm.”

Kate Verity

through currents, but the Gulf is kind

many of Savannah’s iconic oak trees.

Editor in Chief

of isolated, so the currents have a

Matthew was a powerful Catego-

hard time getting into that gulf loop.

ry 5 storm in 2016, and it too intensi-

So the heat tends to remain there.”

fied quickly. Though it had weakened

Rapid intensification is when a hur-

to a Category 1 when it made land-

ricane jumps from a lower categoriza-

fall in South Carolina, the system lin-

tion, such as one or two, into a three,

gered just off the coast, sending flood-

four or even five in a relatively short

ing and torrential rain into Georgia.

time frame. Specifically, when a storm

Though attacking the state in a dif-

increases speed by at least 35 miles

ferent fashion, Helene, too, did not

per hour in a 24-hour window, the

spare Rincon when she blew through.

The 2024 Hurricane Season has decidedly wreaked havoc across much of the southeastern United States. The late September wreckage caused by Hurricane Helene was truly catastrophic for the Carolinas, but Georgia and Florida were nowhere near unscathed. Milton pummeled Tampa Bay just days later but mercifully limited its destruction

Helene’s shift east may have appeared to put Milledgeville on a more direct path, but to a trained eye, this actually may have saved the city from more devastating damages. Had Helene continued on the original projected path northward through west Georgia, Milledgeville would have been subject to that eastern leading edge, where winds are stronger. But because the city found itself west of Helene’s eye, it suffered less harm than east-

to the peninsula. August’s Hurricane

ern cities like Augusta and Statesboro.

Beryl is not to be forgotten, as it too

2024 sent mighty storms inland,

was a major storm that drenched Texas.

but hurricane season does not end

In May, the National Oceanic and

until Nov. 30. As of Nov. 4, Tropical

Atmospheric

Administration,

or

Storm Raphael is developing and is

NOAA, released its predictions for the

predicted to intensify into the sev-

upcoming storm season. NOAA fore-

enth Atlantic hurricane of this season.

casted an “above-normal” Atlantic sea-

“Gulf hurricanes in November are

son, estimating anywhere from 17 to 25

relatively uncommon — there have

named storms, of which between eight

only been five in the last 25 years,”

and 13 were predicted to strengthen

Oetter said. “Rafael is set to strength-

into hurricanes. Between four and sev-

en through the week and could im-

en of those hurricanes were expected to

pact the Gulf Coast by Thursday or

be major, which means they were clas-

Friday. The current prediction is for

sified as a category three or higher with

the storm to lose some strength be-

winds of at least 111 miles per hour.

fore landfall, but conditions should

As of Nov. 4, records indicate that Hurricane Helene

there have been 17 named storms this season. Seven have been tropi-

jump is deemed rapid intensification.

cal storms, including Tropical Storm

Hurricanes categorizations are de-

Raphael, though current projections

termined by wind speed. A Category 1

expected it to strengthen into a hur-

storm is between 74 and 95 mph, ac-

ricane. There have been a total of ten

cording to NOAA. If a 95 mph storm

hurricanes, four of which are classified

increased by 35 mph, it would be a

as major hurricanes — Beryl, Helene,

Category 4 storm, which has winds

Kirk and Milton. The lesser-known

from 130 to 156 mph. And a storm

“We had a tree fall on our house,” Sowers said. “It was kind of just sitting on our roof. And I know people who went for two weeks without power. My school system was out for a week, so it was pretty bad.”

Helene was originally predicted to follow the Georgia-Alabama border on

be monitored carefully as it interacts with the Loop Current in the gulf.”

As far as advice goes, senior geography major Nick Wheeler recommends that people listen to experts and make an effort to be informed.

“If [officials] say you should leave, you should probably listen to them because they’ve done research, and they know that there’s a very strong

Hurricane Kirk was a Category 5, but

likelihood of you not surviving, you

it did not make landfall in the U.S.

getting injured or you losing prop-

“Tropical cyclone activity this Octo-

erty and belongings,” Wheeler said.

ber was above average in terms of the

Wheeler also recommends taking

number of named storms and hurri-

courses in the Geography Department

canes that formed in the basin,” said

to learn more about climate science sur-

NOAA’s Monthly Atlantic Tropical

rounding hurricanes. He recommends

Weather Summary for October. “Four

Intro to Weather and Climate, which

named storms formed in October with

Oetter teaches, and Natural Hazards.

three of them becoming hurricanes,

From a big-picture standpoint, Oet-

and one of those becoming a major

ter is optimistic that climate change can

hurricane (Milton). Based on a 30-

be addressed through collective action

year climatology (1991-2020), two to

and finds that the biggest hurdle now-

three named storms typically develop

adays is not so much “climate deniers”

in October, with one of them becom-

but those who feel that they alone can-

ing a hurricane and a major hurricane.”

not make significant enough of a dif-

As global warming has increased

ference so they do not bother to try.

ocean temperatures across the globe,

Hurricane Milton

“We are a commuter college, and

scientists have paid close attention

having a four-category increase in 24

its journey inland, but it switched direc-

we don’t deserve to be a commuter

to the relationship between warmer

hours is definitely attention-grabbing.

tions, with Milledgeville lying directly

college because we really should have

waters and hurricane intensity. Most

Last month, Milton increased speed

in its path. Though many students ex-

more people walking, biking and tak-

agree that there has not been a no-

by 95 mph in 24 hours, making the

pected this to mean devastation to the

ing shuttle buses to campus,” Oetter

ticeable uptick in the total number of

jump from Category 1 to 5 in a day.

city, it was truly east Georgia that ended

said as an example of how students can

storms developing each season, but the

Hanna Sowers is a senior double

up taking the brunt of Helene’s assault.

make small lifestyle changes that make

storms that develop are more powerful

majoring in history and geography. She

“[The east side] is the leading edge

real differences. “Instead, we have over

and, therefore, can be more destruc-

is from Rincon, a coastal town near

of the hurricane,” Oetter said. “So as

a thousand people driving every day.”

tive than storms born in cooler oceans.

Savannah, giving her more experience

the hurricane is moving very quickly,

Warming waters are leading to

“Due to climate change, the oceans

than most Georgians when it comes

I believe it was like 30 miles an hour,

real, detrimental effects for those

are absorbing a lot of heat because

to bracing for hurricanes and tropical

that adds to the winds, which were

who live in the paths of hurricanes.

that’s what water does,” said Dr. Doug

storms. She recalls Hurricane Mat-

over 100 [mph]. So now we have 130

The 2024 season has shown Geor-

Oetter, professor of geography. “And

thew being particularly damaging to

[mph] on the east side of the hurricane,

gia and its neighboring states what

when it holds on to that heat, it has

the region, leaving her family without

but 70 [mph] on the west side because

kind of damage powerful storms can

to be released. It can be released

power for several days and uprooting

there, the winds are moving against

wreak, and it may not be over yet.

5

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

11.05.2024

SPORTS UPDATES

years I have been here, it’s the best soccer I have

Continued from page 1

seen from the group,” said

Roberts made sure to

Morgan

mention her teammate,

a senior forward/mid-

who has been a large

fielder. “I think everyone

part of the team’s success

on the team has added

this year, scoring 235.5

to our success this year.”

points so far this sea-

Amrozowicz

son, and also leading the

ers who have also stood

The volleyball team

out to her on the soc-

has had its struggles this

cer pitch this year, in-

season. Beginning the

cluding her sister Ali

year with a 3-1 start at the

Amrozowicz, Ava Mar-

Bobcat Classic, it seemed everything would keep rolling;

however,

also

mentioned a few play-

team in kills with 209.

on

Amrozowicz,

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics

Sophomore right side hitter Rosa Fisher winds up to hit the ball

tin,

Taylor

Salvaggio

and

Adriana

Duque.

The soccer team is

they’ve had their strug-

Conference games re-

their

before

time will tell if the team

opponents 29-21 in the

currently 7-6-3 with a

gles ever since the Lee

maining

season

the end of their season.

can start heating up.

games they’ve played.

conference record of 3-3-

University

Showcase.

against the University of

No matter what, the

When they have won,

2. They have one final

The volleyball team

South Carolina Aiken,

team can play against

soccer team’s season has

they

game on Nov. 2 against

is 8-14 this season with-

Lander University and

the fourth seed, so there

had its ups and downs.

their opponents 25-5.

out a win in their four

Augusta University, it

will be Peach Belt Con-

They’ve had a somewhat

“It was a rocky start

conference

games.

will be interesting to see

ference playoff volley-

streaky season, although

with

challenging

before their appearance

With four Peach Belt

if the team can unlock

ball this season. Only

they have outscored their

schedule, but in the four

in the PBC Tournament.

this

potential

The

2024

women’s

have

our

outscored

Georgia

Southwestern

State, a PBC opponent,

The NFL hits the midway point of the 2024 season Hudson Taylor

anybody can beat them.

will be interesting to see

Staff Writer

“I honestly think the

how the young speedster

After week eight of the

Chiefs may go undefeat-

bounces back from these

2024 NFL season, there

ed,” said Griffin Taylor,

off-the-field

is only one team that is

a sophomore market-

MVP-talk is starting

still undefeated. As most

ing major. “Even when

to heat up, with Buffa-

would

they

they

lo Bills QB Josh Allen

based on the results of

still find ways to win.”

leading the charge. Allen

the last two seasons, it

This season has seen

is keeping the ball safe

is the defending cham-

teams make some un-

with only one intercep-

pion Kansas City Chiefs.

conventional

moves.

tion, which is rare for the

Through seven games,

The Pittsburgh Steel-

seventh-year signalcaller.

Chiefs’ quarterback Pat-

ers made a change at

He has led his team to

rick Mahomes’s statistics

QB with a winning re-

a 6-2 record and helped

have been underwhelm-

cord, benching Justin

put them on top of the

ing. He has thrown for

Fields in favor of veteran

AFC East once again.

eight touchdowns and

and Super Bowl winner

For the first time in a

nine interceptions so far.

Russell Wilson. Since

These numbers are

have

guessed,

play

bad,

charges.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson

will slip up eventual-

sion for the first time

two-team

ly,” said Jackson Goatee,

since 2016, as they have

the

a sophomore business

started their season 5-3,

by a game in the divi-

major. “There’s no way

remaining

undefeat-

sion over the Ravens.

long time, there is a rook-

they are beating the Ea-

ed in the NFC South.

The Bills seem to have

making the move, the

ie who is getting some

gles, or even the Cow-

The NFC North looks

the AFC East locked up,

unusual for Mahomes

Steelers are 2-0 and scor-

MVP looks. Washington

boys, down the road.”

like it is going to come

as the three other teams

who is a two-time NFL

ing significantly more.

Commanders QB Jayden

Many would argue

down to the wire, as all

have

MVP. Regardless of his

Lions star wide receiv-

Daniels has been on an

that Ravens QB La-

four teams have winning

well by any measure.

numbers, he has come

er Jameson Williams was

unbelievable tear, leading

mar Jackson is the cur-

records. The Lions look

The AFC South was

through when his team

suspended last week due

his team to a 6-2 record.

rent favorite to win the

to win the division for a

looking like the Hous-

needs it and still has

to a performance-en-

This year was sup-

MVP. He is playing very

second straight year, as

ton Texans were going

an undefeated record.

hancing drug, or PED,

posed to be a rebuild-

good football with min-

they are beating teams

to run away with it, but

Their most impressive

charge but is now facing

ing year to let Daniels

imal mistakes, throw-

badly with a 6-1 record.

they have faltered re-

wins are arguably against

further trouble with a

get a feel for the NFL.

ing 17 touchdowns and

To wrap up the NFC,

cently. The Indianapolis

the Atlanta Falcons, the

potential felony weapons

Daniels clearly had a

just two interceptions.

the west is led by the

Colts have made a QB

Cincinnati Bengals and

charge. Williams was off

different plan, as he

He is second in touch-

Arizona Cardinals with

change, benching for-

the Baltimore Ravens.

to the best start of his

has

fifth-highest

downs and QBR among

a 4-4 record. The San

mer

Two of these games

young NFL career with

quarterback rating, or

all active QBs and has

Francisco

Anthony

were in primetime, with

17 catches, 361 yards

QBR, in the NFL with

led his team to a 5-3 re-

looked mediocre at best,

for his odd “tap-out”

the game against the

and three touchdowns.

seven

touchdowns

cord. Last week against

which is surprising con-

play during a game last

Ravens being the first

The third-year receiv-

and two interceptions.

the Browns, he had a

sidering their consistent

week against the Texans.

game of the season.

er out of the Universi-

shaky performance, but

season over the last few

Although the Bron-

The Chiefs’ ability to

ty of Alabama seems to

ers have been the sur-

Jackson

games

years and their appear-

cos are playing good

find ways to win, even in

have a knack for getting

prise of the NFL and

and puts up great num-

ance in last year’s Super

football lately in the

tough and high-pressure

into trouble, as he was

are now favorites to

bers

Bowl against the Chiefs.

AFC West, the Chiefs

situations, has caused

suspended in 2023 for

win

many fans to wonder if

a similar PED charge. It

the

The

Command-

the

“The

NFC

East.

Commanders

The

wins

when

he

wins.

Falcons

will

look to win their divi-

The

49ers

AFC

have

battle

Steelers

not

with

leading

performed

first-round

pick

Richardson

North

will win that division

is shaping up to be a

by at least two games.

6

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

11.05.2024

SPORTS

Injuries in Athletics Brennen Schmitz

have taken precautions

MLB superstar pitch-

Sports Editor

over the past few years

er Shohei Ohtani tore

to prevent internal inju-

his UCL in 2023, which

ries like ACL tears. These

sidelined him for the re-

precautions include the

mainder of the season. In

banning of chop blocks,

his 2024 championship

where an offensive play-

season with the Los An-

er will dive at a defend-

geles Dodgers, he only

er’s knees to take them

saw the field as a desig-

out of the play and slow

nated hitter in order to let

them down, and hip-

his elbow rest and heal.

drop tackles, where a

“I feel like guys like

defender wraps up a ball

Ohtani have kind of got-

carrier and rotates his

ten too good at what they

hips, unweighting him-

do,” said Owen Faulk, a

self and dropping onto

senior accounting ma-

the ball carrier’s legs.

jor. “They can throw

Prior to its banning

so hard that their bod-

in the NFL, the hip-

ies can’t really keep up.”

Any athlete that participates in a sport knows that injuries are a part of the game. The choice to engage in athletic activity is an acknowledgment of the possibility of getting hurt, especially in professional and collegiate athletics.

However, there seems to be a rise over the last few years of season-ending

and

career-ending

even

injuries.

One of the injuries that keeps athletes sidelined for long amounts

drop tackle caused 20-25

According

to

the

of time most commonly

times as many injuries

American Medical As-

is anterior cruciate liga-

as other types of tackles.

sociation, 35.3% of ma-

ment, or ACL, tears. This

Not all internal inju-

injury can occur from

ankle injury

placed on any person or

Rodgers’s injury reig-

ing major. “I don’t think

moment, but typically

nited the conversation

anybody prefers it at

the environment sur-

about turf fields and

this point, and it’s prob-

rounding the activity.

their role in non-con-

ably just a money thing.”

One

of

the

most

tact, internal injuries.

Regardless of the type

recent

and

devastat-

The NFL Player’s As-

of field an athlete com-

NFLPA,

petes on or how they

injuries

has taken a hard an-

may collide with an-

came from New York

ti-turf stance, arguing

other athlete, the rate at

ing

non-contact,

son-ending

sea-

sociation,

or

jor-league

pitchers

in

Jets quarterback Aar-

that artificial turf is sig-

which they are sustain-

ries are caused by heavy

2023

undergone

on Rodgers in 2023.

nificantly harder on the

ing such serious injuries

sudden cutting, pivoting

contact,

baseball

Tommy John surgery, the

In his first game in

body than grass, and

is enough to recognize

or change in direction.

pitchers, especially re-

procedure that repairs

New York, Rodgers tore

citing that players have

that there is a problem.

Taking hits to the

cently, have been dealing

a torn UCL, at some

his Achilles tendon on

an alarming 69% higher

As it currently stands,

knee or overextension

with the risk of ulnar col-

point in their career.

his first drive of the

rate of non-contact foot

these athletes can only

can also tear an ACL,

lateral ligament, or UCL,

Non-contact injuries

game, leaving his team-

and ankle injuries on

hope and trust that the

and they mostly happen

tears. The UCL is a liga-

like the UCL tear can of-

mates and Jets fans, who

turf compared to grass.

leagues and institutions

in contact and collision

ment on the inner side of

ten be the most frustrat-

eagerly awaited the four-

“I really don’t under-

that they are a part of

sports like basketball,

the elbow, and it typically

ing for both players and

time MVP’s first start

stand how the league

take necessary and ef-

soccer

football.

tears as a result of repeat-

fans because the blame

with the team, under-

still uses turf,” said Dylan

fective action to protect

Leagues like the NFL

ed stress and overuse.

for the injury cannot be

standably shellshocked.

Lewis, a senior market-

them and their futures.

and

as

had

The upcoming Women’s World Cup Kate Briesmeister Staff Writer The Women’s World Cup is approaching quickly as it begins in

players have entered the spotlight.

and Naomi Girma are some of the top

and should be top competitors in 2027.

Within

many

players who are worth keeping an eye

“England and Spain are my pre-

players from Team USA are be-

out for the upcoming World Cup. Their

dictions for the final two teams.” Said

ing closely watched by soccer en-

skills will be put to the test against some

Ava Martin, a junior soccer player and

student

spotlights,

the summer of 2027. All of the

nursing major. “I am excited to watch

teams are beginning to practice.

USA players: Mal Pugh, Sophie Smith,

ESPN expects the most dom-

Jenna Nighswonger, and Naomi Girma.

inant teams to be Spain, France,

I am rooting for Team USA. I think the

Germany, Sweden, and the Neth-

World Cup is just a great experience

erlands. GCSU soccer players and

overall for viewers and of course the

fans are looking forward to 2027

players. It is exciting to see the differ-

as the games will be held in Brazil.

ent styles of play all across the world.”

Soccer players and fans at GCSU

There are many mentionable play-

are looking forward to seeing the

ers in the Women’s National Soccer

once-dominant team USA. HowevMegan Rapinoe

League. Debora Oliveria, Sophia Smith,

college.

of the world’s best teams and players.

Rose Lavelle, Amandine Henry and

“I am excited to see Mal Pugh, Lind-

“The World Cup is a cool way to

Mallory Swanson are some honorable

sey Horan, and Naomi Girma all play

see the growth of soccer around the

players of the league. Each of the pre-

“I will be rooting for teams USA,

due to their incredible skills.” Said John-

world and see the other girls my age

viously mentioned players are nation-

France and England in the upcom-

son. “The World Cup overall is a great

play for their countries.” Said Taylor

ally ranked, according to EA Sports.

ing World Cup.” Said Bridget John-

event that I enjoy watching because it is

Salvaggio, a senior soccer player and

Fans of the league all over the

son, a junior GCSU women’s soccer

the best of the best playing against each

exercise science major. “I root for Team

world are excited for the World Cup

player. “I think it will be interesting

other on the world stage. It also brings

USA and I think USA will win it all!”

in 2027. Additionally, fans are anxious

to see Spain, Argentina, France, and

people together which is amazing to see

The previous FIFA Women’s World

to see if their predictions will contin-

England make it to the quarterfi-

in a world that has so much division.”

Cup happened in 2023 when Spain beat

ue. Teams train years in advance for

nals depending on the brackets.”

ESPN claims that Trinity Rod-

England for the title. Spain and En-

the most important games of their ca-

Among these teams, many star

man, Mallory Swanson, Sophia Smith

gland are continuing their domination

reers as they represent their countries.

er, spectators are also interested in many of the other teams playing in the World Cup, with students rooting for teams all across the global diaspora.

thusiasts

throughout

the

7

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

11.05.2024

SPORTS

Dodgers take World Series Bryan Cohan

professor. “That’s the one

versus Ohtani on a play by

the Yankees looked to

in the third inning, the

ing for five unearned

Contributing Writer

usually favored to win,”

left fielder Alex Verdugo,

grab their first win of

23-year-old

shortstop

runs for Los Angeles.

The East and West

Looking at the odds

New York elected to walk

the

However,

Anthony Volpe would

Each team scored a

rivalry from the most

before game one, the

Betts to load the bases

Freddie Freeman had

go on to hit a grand slam

run via a fly ball caught

iconic American cities

Los

Dodg-

for first baseman Freddie

other plans, hitting a

to give New York their

in the outfield, and then,

has taken over the Major

ers were slightly fa-

Freeman. 36 years and

first-inning home run,

first lead since game one.

Mookie Betts hit a sac fly

League Baseball postsea-

vored over the Yankees.

10 days prior, Kirk Gib-

silencing the New York

son for the 12th time in

Game one began at

son hit a walk-off home

crowd and hitting his

much closer, with the

scoring

the championship series,

Dodger Stadium, start-

run in game one of the

third World Series home

Dodgers coming with-

run. The final score was

as the New York Yankees

ing with a pitching duel

1988 World Series; Free-

run in as many games.

in one run of tying it

7-6, and the Dodgers

take on the Los Angeles

between Gerrit Cole and

man duplicated that all-

were

in the fifth; however,

won the World Series.

Dodgers in a best-of-

Jack Flaherty. The Dodg-

time moment and even

again shut down by the

the Yankees bats start-

seven game for the title.

ers led off the scoring in

stepped it up with the

Dodgers starting pitcher,

ed to heat up against

Angeles

series.

The

Yankees

The

game

became

This is the Yankees’

with the game tied 6-6, the

Dodger

go-ahead

first

base-

man Freddie Freeman, who slashed an impres-

first appearance in the

sive

World Series since 2009.

with four home runs

After missing the post-

and 12 runs batted in

season the previous year,

“I thought the Yan-

the Yanks made a lot of

kees were going to win,”

moves during the off-

said Gabe Weurth, a

season to acquire Juan

junior infielder for the

Soto from San Diego, a

GCSU

player who holds a lot

ball team. “But I might

of potential to make

be a little biased since

the Hall-of-Fame. They

I’m

later

brought

player

Jazz

utility

.300/.364/1.000

Bobcats

a

Weurth

Yankee

base-

fan,”

explained

Chisholm

what key players he

Jr. from Miami to fill

believed would influ-

the hole at third base.

ence the World Series

Meanwhile, Los Ange-

outcome; however, he

les spent over $1 billion

made sure to specify

on players. The Dodgers

one player’s skill set he

signed highly sought-af-

wished to add to his own.

ter Nippon Professional

“Soto’s approach of

League

pitcher

Yosh-

the plate is just great,” Freddie Freeman, World Series MVP

inobu Yamamoto and greatest

the fifth with a Will Smith

first-ever walk-off grand

this time Walker Bue-

the

bullpen,

a lot of pitches, and he

player the game has ever

sacrifice fly, scoring Kike

slam in World Series

hler, who threw 5 score-

marking the scoreboard

really only swings out

seen—Shohei

Hernandez,

which

history. The final score

less innings against the

with double digits in the

pictures in the zone.”

acquisitions

the Yankees responded

was 6-3, Dodgers win.

Yankees. The final score

eighth. The final score

Soto is arguably the

made both teams No.1

in the following inning

In game two, starting

was 4-2, Dodgers win.

was 11-4, Yankees win

best player in the sport

in

respective

with a Giancarlo Stan-

pitcher Yamamoto shut

With the 3-0 lead for

After New York’s per-

in walking—getting on

leagues. They battled to

ton two-run home run.

down the Yankees’ of-

the Dodgers and only

formance in game four, a

base without a hit—with

the World Series, New

The Dodgers tied it

fense, limiting them to

in the pennant series,

comeback was possible.

a walk percentage over

York going through an

back up in the eighth with

one run in his six and a

the Yankees had a lot

The Dodgers sent out Jack

double the average hitter.

American League Cen-

a second sac fly, pushing

third innings of work.

of work to do. Luis Gil

Flaherty, and the Yankees

With Major League

tral gauntlet with Kan-

the game to extras. The

At the same time, Car-

started the game for New

went with Gerrit Cole.

Baseball coming and go-

sas City and Cleveland.

Yankees scraped up a

los

struggled,

York, with Los Angeles

Los Angeles fought their

run in the top half. Still,

pitching on three and

rival San Diego and the

the Dodgers could put

Grimmace-lead

New

arguably

These

the

their

Ohtani.

in

crowd

ing, the offseason has just

going for a bullpen game.

was roaring as the Yan-

begun meaning many

third innings, giving up

Once again, the game

kees scored five unan-

new chances for other

together a rally to have

three home runs, one

did not start on the

swered

through

teams to make the next

York Mets, leading to a

runners on first and sec-

to NLCS MVP Tommy

right foot for the Yan-

the first four innings off

step toward the playoffs.

match-up that has not

ond with one out, forcing

Edman, one to Teoscar

kees, with Freddie Free-

of home runs from Jazz

The countdown has now

happened since 1981.

Yankee manager Aaron

Hernández, and one to

man hitting his fourth

Chisholm Jr., Giancar-

officially begun, and it

at

Boone’s hand, to which

Freddie Freeman. The

home run of the series.

lo Stanton and Aaron

lasts until opening day,

sports betting, you look

he gave the ball to Nestor

final score was 4-2, with

However, things quick-

Judge. It all went down-

with the first series being

at the money line and the

Cortes Jr., who had not

the Dodgers winning.

ly turned around for the

hill in the top of the fifth

held in Tokyo Japan Mar.

negative.” said Dr. Cullen

pitched in over a month.

The series head-

Yankees, with bases load-

with the Yankees making

18-19, and for the rest

Wallace, an economics

After grabbing an out

ed to the Bronx, and

ed and down one run

error after error allow-

of baseball on Mar. 27.

“I

always

look

Rodon

Dodgers

Weurth said. “He sees

The

Bronx

runs

8

KYLIE ROWE, A&L EDITOR MARY CIUCEVICH, ASST. A&L EDITOR

11.05.2024

ARTS & LIFE HOBBIES

major. “They are a great way to try

volved,

tai-

door adventures and gaming, GCSU’s

Continued from page 1

new sports and meet new people.”

lor their college experiences to suit

clubs cater to diverse interests. With a

Every semester, GCSU’s Wellness

One of the more niche interest orga-

their personal interests and goals.

campus culture rich in opportunities

and Recreation Center offers rotating

nizations students could get involved

“I have met the most amazing peo-

for involvement, GCSU students can

intramurals. There are four regular rea-

in on campus is the Fright Society.

ple since being a part of Greek Life,”

dive into a wide range of activities that

This is a new club started by Tanner

said Pollock. “Not just within my

truly enhance their college experience.

Harris, junior English major, to give

own chapter, but the entire Panhel-

Whether through Greek Life, in-

horror film lovers a way to connect to

lenic Community across campus.”

tramural sports, campus ministries

sons — early fall, late fall, early spring and late spring — and the games change each time. Warmer months boast more

“We seek to be a space of perpetual

ized sorority or fraternity experi-

ma Sigma Sigma, students are able

Halloween where everyone is included

ence, a non-panhellenic organiza-

to create lasting friendships, devel-

no matter their interests,” Harris said.

tion is also an option. One of the

op leadership skills and make a pos-

For those sensitive to horror, the

most popular groups is Gamma Sig-

itive impact on their community.

club also watches family friendly

ma Sigma, a service based sorority.

In finding the right fit within GC-

expanded into e-sports, with the cur-

movies like “It’s The Great Pumpkin

Engaging in extracurricular ac-

SU’s diverse club offerings, students

rent late fall season offering compet-

Charlie Brown,” but for those more

tivities is not only essential for per-

don’t just attend college — they build a

itive Rocket League and Call of Duty.

dedicated to the genre they love to

sonal growth but also for enhancing

community, enrich their lives and pre-

“Intramurals are super fun,” said

put on classics like “Friday the 13th.”

well-being and social connections.

pare for a future of success and mean-

Iliana Martin, a senior psychology

With so many ways to get in-

From art and photography to out-

ingful connections beyond graduation.

the cooler months usually offer basketball, inner tube water polo, ping pong and more. The competition has even

those

wanting

can

or service organizations like Gam-

beach volleyball and kickball, while

For

students

special-

outdoor activities such as pickleball,

watch and discuss their favorite films.

GCSU

a

There’s nothing wrong with being basic

are now interconnected across the globe. She has chosen to promote

Paige Blakemore

positivity and self-empowerment on

Managing Editor

her massively influential platform

OPINION

through songwriting, and these messages have matriculated into her fan-

In

recent

memory,

What constitutes a “basic girl”

base. Why would loving a successful

changes with viral social media, fash-

artist with an admirable reputation

ion, beauty and music trends. The term

warrant such unnecessary backlash?

is often used to belittle women for being

This may be a hard pill for some to

“unoriginal” or “following the crowd.”

swallow, but embracing certain hob-

Some even view the “basic” idea as

bies, artists and mediums that connect

one that is unappealing to the male gaze, therefore, it should be avoided, of

Kylie Rowe | A&L Editor

with vast audiences does not mean that one is submitting to societal conformi-

has shared stories with me from the

the concept of being “basic” as negative.

90s of her rejecting Britney Spears and

This general contempt can be at-

the Spice Girls during her high school

tributed to an American individu-

years and instead opting for edgier,

alistic mindset, meaning Americans

underground artists in an attempt to

inherently believe they must be differ-

be seen as nonconformist. Now, we

ent or original from the rest of their

happily sing Billboard Top 100 hits

peers or surrounding community,

together. However, her experiences

which can often lead to egocentrism.

have given me insight into the per-

Throughout my adolescence and

passionate about the things that bring

spective behind avoiding being “basic.”

young adulthood, I have found that

me joy. I unapologetically scream-sing

In middle school, I vividly remem-

sharing common interests in well-

Taylor Swift at an unnecessary volume

ber avoiding the musical “Hamilton”

known media or art has been one of

every time I am alone in my car. I look

and the iconic TV show “Friends”

the most unifying factors of my friend-

forward to pumpkin spice and pepper-

because I did not want to be catego-

ships. The very first friend I made in

cial media, shop at name-brand stores,

mint mocha lattes as the seasons change.

rized as someone with common taste.

college was a result of our mutual love

be in a sorority, show off your body,

Merrily strolling through the aisles of

Eventually, I came to understand that

for “The Twilight Saga.” I felt a little less

wear Uggs and Lululemon, enjoy iced

home decor and beauty products at Tar-

the reason these things were so popu-

alone in my new life and befriended

coffee and listen to trending music be-

get is my idea of a perfect Friday night.

lar was not because they were univer-

someone I still hold close to this day.

cause, at the end of the day, you are not

There has always been public ridi-

sally basic but because they resonated

Superstar Swift, for instance, has

the opinion of someone else who truly

cule of people who enjoy more “main-

with so many people on a deeper level.

created a community of friend-

does not know you, and you are cer-

stream” topics or hobbies. My mom

Social media has only exasperated

ship-bracelet-wearing “Swifties” that

tainly more than just a one-word title.

course. But is it actually that serious?

According to Urban Dictionary, a popular definition website used by younger generations, “basic” can be defined as “someone devoid of defining characteristics that might make a person interesting, extraordinary or just simply worth devoting time or attention to.”

I am a 21-year-old woman, and I am

ty — it means appreciating the universal power of shared human connection.

At the end of the day, people should feel unashamed in loving the things that bring them joy, no matter how popular or standard something is.

This mindset of diminishing someone to the title of “basic” based on their interests is entirely toxic. No matter one’s interests, they are still an individual with lived, personal experiences that deserve to be recognized.

Take a million selfies, post all over so-

My Grammy’s Slider Recipe Kylie’s Kitchen 2 pound Sliced ham 8oz Pepper jack cheese 8oz Shredded mozerella 1 Pack Kings Hawaiian Rolls 1 Stick of butter 2 TBS Mustard 1 TBS Poppyseeds 1 TBS Worcestershire Sauce

Mix the butter, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and poppyseeds together. Then Split the rolls and spread the mixture on both sides. Layer the ham and cheeses and put on the top of the rolls. Then cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes at 375 degrees (or you can just microwave a few at a time until the cheese melts).

9

KYLIE ROWE, A&L EDITOR MARY CIUCEVICH, ASST. A&L EDITOR

11.05.2024

ARTS & LIFE

WHAT ARE STUDENTS WATCHING? GCSU’S FALL FAVORITES Mary Ciucevich

Will Hunting,” “Brown

the show is orange-yel-

role in the movies and

Asst. A&L Editor

Sugar,” “Far From Heav-

low and there are pump-

TV shows that people

en,” “Dead Poets Society,”

kins and turkeys, so it re-

associate with the fall

“Hocus Pocus”, “Little

minds me of fall because

season. Applications like

Women” (2019), “Knives

that’s what it looks like

Pinterest, TikTok and

Out,” “Mona Lisa Smile”

in real life,” Loncon said.

Instagram have led to

(2003), “October Sky,”

For film theory and

the most perpetuation

analysis, color can play a

of the achievement of

big role in how an audi-

the ‘perfect’ fall aesthetic.

Whether

it

is

a

deemed classic like “The Goonies” or a fan favorite

like

“Fantastic

Mr. Fox,” there is no denying that the fall season is the focal point of many people’s favorite movies and TV shows.

Fall can be associated with the months of September, October and November. The season initiates a period associated with the browning and falling of leaves, burnt oranges and reds, the crisp smell of apples and cinnamon and the coveted pumpkin spice.

When it comes to movies and TV shows, any sign of fall memorabilia or visuals can ignite association with the fall season. Movies

“Practical

Magic”

(1993), “School of Rock,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “When Harry Met Sally,” “You’ve Got Mail,” etc.

For many students at GCSU, the fall season provides comfort and coziness that can be projected in TV shows and movies. Comfort can be taken in the and TV shows, like that of “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” or the “Harry Potter” series.

Sarah Loncon, a junior computer science major, notes that for the fall seamovies and TV shows in-

and TV shows can trans-

clude “Over The Garden

port the viewer to that

Wall,” “Dead Poets Soci-

story through aesthet-

ety,” “Good Will Hunt-

ics, themes and feelings.

ing,”

“Gilmore

Girls”

The movies and TV

and “Fantastic Mr. Fox”.

shows of the autumn

She concludes that color

or fall season consist

scheme plays a big role

of all types of genres,

in movies and TV shows

including

she associates with fall.

drama,

comedy, romance,

etc.

“‘Over

the

Garden

According to Harper’s

Wall’ is set over Hallow-

Bazaar, some of the best

een and it’s set in a forest,

fall movies for the fall

where all the leaves are

season include “Good

orange and the filter on

nication major, associ-

leading

of

ates the fall season with

all social media when

horror movies as well

it comes to recommen-

as a mix of the classi-

dations and promotion

cal deemed fall shows,

for shows and movies.

like

contender

“Gilmore Girls” has become

the

fall

TV

Julia Jensen | Art Director

ence relates or interprets

“I feel like I see Tik-

a scene. Color schemes

Toks where people will

can add to or dispar-

be like ‘Gilmore Girls’

age the overall aesthet-

inspired

ic of a film or TV show.

then they do like out-

Color as well as the

fits that correlate with

clothes’

Girls,’”

and

mise-en-scene of a mov-

‘Gilmore

said

ie or show can contribute

Kylie Totten, a junior ed-

to the portrayal of a sea-

ucation major. “People

son. Mise-en-scene is the

will be like ‘It’s fall time,

arrangement of scenery

so that means it’s ‘Twi-

which includes the set-

light’ time, so we’re gon-

ting, props, music, cam-

na get out our flannels

era work, costumes, etc.

or boots and whatnot’”.

Social media plays a

Out of all of them,

“Gilmore

“‘The Before

Girls.”

Nightmare Christmas’

is

show classic, igniting fall

one because it’s both

trends, aesthetic videos

Halloween and a little

and overall displaying

Christmas, and the mu-

the pinnacle of fall com-

sic and I just love Tim

fort. Despite the show’s

Burton,” Mincey said.

premiere in 2000, the

The phrase “Season of

show is the center of or

the Witch” has become

number one on the list of

an aesthetic associated

recommended fall shows.

with the fall season. The

TikTok and other so-

mythological figure of a

cial media apps have

witch is often paired with

also promoted the re-

the Halloween holiday,

vival of older shows and

but depictions in social

movies,

introducing

media and film and TV

them to younger gen-

shows have produced

erations.

a playful fall folklore.

This

revival

of shows and movies

soundtracks of movies

son, some of her go-to

TikTok has become the

The

production

of

“Through TikTok, yes,

stories involving witches

now we have access to see

includes various shows

more,” Loncon said. “I get

and movies of all genres

more recommendations,

including comedy, ro-

like on Letterboxd, you

mance, horror, drama,

can find more movies I

etc. Some of the more

haven’t heard of before

well-known movies and

and now I can see them.”

TV shows include “Prac-

For some, the fall sea-

tical Magic,” “Harry Pot-

son is mainly encapsulat-

ter and Sorcerer’s Stone,”

ed by the Halloween hol-

“The Craft,” “Kiki’s Deliv-

iday, displaying fall spirit

ery Service,” “Hocus Po-

through the more spooky

cus,” “Sabrina the Teen-

movies like “The Night-

age Witch,” “The Chilling

mare Before Christmas,”

Adventures of Sabrina”

“A Nightmare on Elm

and most recently Mar-

Street,” “Scream,” “Death

vel’s “Agatha All Along”.

Becomes Her,” “Hallow-

The fall season contin-

eentown,” “The Craft,”

ues to produce aesthetics

“Beetlejuice,”

“Edward

paired with the influence

Scissorhands,” “Coraline”

of pop culture that shapes

or “The Addams Family”.

the

Keelie

Mincey,

movies

and

TV

a

shows that have become

freshman mass commu-

classics and fan favorites.

WHY CHANGING YOUR MAJOR IS OKAY Ryan Grant

est, taking a break can ad-

Rim, founder and CEO

students

Staff Writer

dress insecurities about

of

Educa-

into why it’s not neces-

judgment and money.

tion, an education and

sarily a bad decision.

Some

argue

that

Command

offer

insight

consulting

“Originally, I didn’t

lege is a place to explore

company, to USNews.

know much about my

all possibilities. Learning

“I think people put too

first major, and the range

from subjects that suit

much pressure and too

of jobs felt slimmer than

your skills before grad-

much weight on that.”

in marketing,” said Do-

Many students change

uation could be critical.

Taking classes at a

their majors and benefit

While having a student

liberal arts college offers

from the results. Con-

learn as much as possi-

students opportunities to

sulting friends, teachers,

ble about their desired

explore

and family members can

field is important, a de-

unrelated to their ma-

help ease the anxiety of

gree does not always

jors, thanks to core-req-

changing a college major is a mistake. It can seem stressful, like most changes, but change can also be worth the initial anxiety.

Others might say col-

admissions

concentrations

a major change. Howev-

rie McKown, a freshman who switched from management to marketing.

After researching a marketing major during her first year of college, she found it a better fit and has no regrets.

er, if students constantly

She

Your major is not necessarily the one and only thing you can do.

switch majors, possibly every semester, it may be worth taking a break to figure out their future.

a

market-

ing degree will expand her job opportunities.

“I want to be a music

-Christopher Rim

Family members and

feels

producer at a studio,” said Kevin Jessup, a ju-

Kylie Rowe | A&L Editor

was to major in biology

is

going

to

and pursue a career his

ment my interest best.”

parents wanted, one he

Both students agree

thought he also want-

that having college ex-

ed. Later, he switched to

perience before making

management, thinking it

a major decision helped

would be adaptable, but

them find the right fit.

after poor grades, he took

Even after Jessup’s six

a year off. Returning to

semesters,

GCSU, he chose comput-

that the most import-

er science but found his

ant thing was studying

he

comple-

found

sometimes

nior computer science

true passion through a

for a job he would enjoy.

frown upon changing a

major who has switched

music appreciation class.

The key takeaway for

advisors

major and may be chal-

define a career path.

lenging due to financial

“Your major is not the

one

uisites,

social

I

picked

students

considering

majors twice. “When I

requirements and other

first started college, my

was what I was passion-

a major change is that

requirements.

Chang-

parents tried to convince

ate about,” Jessup said.

they’re not alone—many

“A degree or certificate

students have done it be-

in

fore and made it work.

constraints. Instead of

necessarily

switching majors as soon

and only thing you can

ing majors isn’t uncom-

me to be a pharmacist.”

as there is a loss of inter-

do,”

mon at GCSU, and some

Jessup’s original plan

said Christopher

“Nothing

science

music

production

10

DELANEY DERRY, OPINION EDITOR

11.05.2024

OPINION SHOPPING to not buy things, even ing that shopping is a shopaholic, and I cannot sues that cause it. Like ing worse from the guilt

Continued from page 1

Whether it is carefully browsing in stores or mindlessly scrolling online, shopping is an activity that takes your mind away from reality, even just for a moment.

I know I have a hard

if it’s small like a sweet

bad thing. I personally

see that line. That line is a

I said before, shopping

of

treat,” said Gigi Mcau-

love shopping. It is one

dot to me because I have

addiction has to do with

you may have not really

of my favorite activities,

crossed the line so far into

stress. The issues behind

needed or was way more

this

affect

than you could afford.

need it, but I buy. It’s like

one’s mental health and

The vicious cycle con-

a coping mechanism. I

the addiction itself does

tinues, and your wallet

have a good day; I’ll buy

not help them. It only

and mental state suffer.

something. I have a bad

makes things worse and

It is true when they

day; I’ll buy something.”

spirals you deeper into

say that you shop ‘til you

feeling

drop

ley, a junior criminal justice major. “I don’t

It doesn’t matter the

addiction

overwhelmed.

buying

something

because

instead

time going into a store

circumstances. There is

There is no amount of

of feeling good after a

or looking on social me-

just this compulsive feel-

material things that can

shopping spree, you’re

dia and not feeling an

ing to buy something.

fill the holes that stress

left

impulse to make a pur-

It’s a way for people to

leaves in our lives. When

ed. So, I will encourage

chase. I see something

cope with the trials and

you buy something, there

you. The next time you

I like, and I just have

inconveniences of life

is this rush of feeling that

feel an impulse to buy

to have it — as if this

and a way for people to

makes you happy and

something, think about

thing will somehow fill

even

content. Then, it goes

it. Consider if it bene-

a void in my life. How-

es. Shopping is a way

away, and the shopping

fits you or if you’re just

ever, it fills nothing, only

for us to get out of our

high vanishes. But when

getting it because your

emptying my pockets.

reward

success-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

feeling

exhaust-

and it always has been

the shopaholic range.

and always will be. How-

This shopping addic-

heads for a minute and

ever, there is a fine line

tion is causing a lot more

you buy something else

mind says you “deserve”

“I find it extremely

distract us from reality.

between shopping as a

than economic strain. It

to have the same feeling

it. Your bank account

hard to resist the urge

I am in no way say-

hobby and becoming a

also exacerbates the is-

as before but are left feel-

might thank me later.

“Woman of the Hour” A must-see Netflix movie Delaney Derry Opinion Editor It’s no secret that people love true crime and jump at the chance

also the director. Seeing

vantage of the kindness

as this is her directori-

of women, men failing

al debut, I’d have to say

to believe female vic-

she did an excellent job.

tims who talk about

delivered

their experiences with

the intelligent, quirky

violence and we see

and lovable performance

what violent men can

you would expect from

do using all those tools

her, but that ends up

to hurt and even kill.

being just a small part

As a first-time direc-

of what makes her proj-

tor, Kendrick should not

ect so exceptional. This

be able to be this effec-

deaths with flattery and

you goosebumps, and it

& Incest National Net-

movie was thrilling, en-

tive in building a sto-

charm. As a photogra-

had me on the edge of

work) and the Nation-

tertaining and more im-

ry like this, but she did

pher, he makes promises

my seat the entire time.

al Center for Victims

portantly, really grasped

it. I would say this film

of making these women

If you weren’t con-

of Violent Crime,” ac-

the

women

was not just about Alca-

models, but instead, he

vinced enough that this is

face in our society even

la’s killing spree and the

makes them his victims

an excellent film and ar-

were tormented and mur-

today. What Kendrick

horrendous violent acts

of abuse and violence.

en’t in love with Kendrick

dered by Rodney Alcala,

has created here is an

he committed, but it is

The setting that Kend-

by now, you will be when

incredibly

important

a true social commen-

rick created of ‘70s Amer-

I tell you that Kendrick

film on the nature of the

tary on the treatment

ica with beautiful sets

donated all the profits

of women in the enter-

and landscapes just spell-

she made from the film.

“Anna Kendrick re-

to see documentaries, listen to a podcast or watch movies that are based on true stories. If that is you, then, oh, do I have a movie for you.

Netflix recently released a movie on Oct. 18 called “Woman of the Hour.” The film is based on a true story that focuses on the women who

a heinous serial killer in the 1970s played by Daniel Zovatto in the film.

Kendrick

problems

male gaze and the cul-

Anna Kendrick

The film primarily fol-

tural conditions of being

tainment industry. We

binds viewers, using ex-

lows Cheryl Bradshaw, a

a woman. It’s unnerv-

see this through the lens

cellent cinematography

vealed during an in-

28-year-old woman who

ing and terrifying, and

of Kendrick’s character,

to make it really feel like

terview on the “Crime

met Alcala on a popu-

it was beautifully done.

Bradshaw, and her real

you are in the movie. The

Junkie AF” podcast that

lar TV show called “The

In this film, we see

experiences in the acting

combination of this set-

she made no money

cording to Zack Sharf, a writer for Variety.

Kendrick is a truly remarkable woman who made this film to empathize with other truly remarkable women who have suffered and survived the assault, and it is effective how the women

portrayed

in

Dating Game” in 1978.

men

wom-

industry paralleled by

ting with Zovatto’s chill-

from directing “Wom-

this film were not seen

Bradshaw is played by

en and grooming them

the disturbing and ter-

ing performance and the

an of the Hour” because

as weak or feeble but as

Anna Kendrick who is

to be what they want.

rifying world of Alcala.

horrific events that take

she donated her pay to

strong and vulnerable to

not just the film’s star but

We watch men take ad-

He lured women to their

place are enough to give

RAINN (Rape, Abuse

the abuse around them.

watching