Bag charms & accessories
Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor
Across the GCSU campus, students are turning one of the most mundane items, a backpack, into a personal statement. Bookbags no longer need to be strictly for carrying textbooks and laptops; they have become a way for students to express themselves with various pins, fun charms and even hanging plush Labubu figures.
Accessorizing a backpack is more than a fun add-on. For many, it has become a way to convey personalities, interests and hobbies without
even saying anything.
“I think my pins help show who I am just a little. I try to find cute ones that would make sense for me personally. I think they also give my bag something different. It helps it stand out a little,” said Madelyn Murphy, a junior criminal justice major.
The appeal lies in turning something plain into something that feels personal. Even two identical bags can look entirely different once charms, pins or plush figures are added. It helps prevent a backpack from feeling generic.
While not having to
actually say any words to convey messages, sometimes these decorations have sparked connections too. Whether it is a certain pop culture
reference, a favorite animal or a hobby, these little details that students add to their bags can create instant bonds.
THE RISE OF RUGBY AT GCSU
Bryan Cade
Asst. Sports Editor
Georgia College & State University offers a diverse range of club sports, and rugby stands out as one of the most popular on campus. Both men and women have their own teams. However, many students are unfamiliar with the sport, which can deter them from participating in the club sport. When many think of rugby, they believe it’s a comparable mix between football and soccer; however, to GCSU’s club athletes and fans of the sport, rugby is its very own game with its
very own characteristics.
“I think rugby is such a growing sport, especially after the past Summer Olympics,” said Emma Laparde, a senior women’s rugby club athlete. “Especially women’s rugby, we’ve seen a massive increase in numbers. So we’re becoming more popular. When I first joined, I want to say I made the 7th person on the team, and now we have 24 registered players just on the women’s team.”
In basic terms, rugby is a contact sport, typically played with fifteen players on each team at a time, using an oval-
THE ART OF BOREDOM
OPINION
In recent memory,
Molly Groff Opinion Editor
Recently, I watched a video by the Harvard Business Review titled “You Need to Be Bored. Here’s Why.”
The professor, Arthur C. Brooks explains why boredom unlocks creativity, activates a powerful brain network and might even protect you from depression.
take accountability and grow as humans; when we think deeply we find deeper meanings within ourselves, our goals and our wants.
“Boredom is “idle minds and idle hands,” said Evan Leavitt, GCSU archivist and assistant
just more time to experience our boredom and not always use the phone as a distraction from that.
professor of Library Science. “It’s a lack of engagement with something. You are not getting that stimulation with something and that’s how you’re bored. Your brain isn’t on fire and there is no interest there.”
“I believe that phones are quick to turn to,” said Holly Croft, GCSU associate director for Special Collections. “When I say ‘brain break’, I check social media and then go back to work. It’s not a natural thought process. We’ve lived through this change. We know this is happening, but we move along with it. I don’t hang out with myself as much as I used to because I have my phone to keep me occupied. There is a place and a need to allow boredom.”
If you learn to be bored, you may end up happier. Some ways to use boredom in times where we use distractions can be to eat without devices, stop using our phones right before bed and take a periodic cleanse from being on ultra-device mode. See BAGS | Page 6
shaped ball. The objective of the sport is to score points by carrying or kicking the ball into the opponent’s “in-goal area” to score a try (five points) and kicking it through ‘H’-shaped goal posts for a conversion (two points) or penalty kick (three points).
“I do believe Rugby is underrepresented,” said Matthew Kuipers, a sophomore men’s club rugby athlete.
“Many people would be interested in playing rugby if they knew what the game was and that we had a team.”
Not only did I learn that we should be bored more often, but that we need to not have our brains as occupied in order to use our default mode network in our brains. The default mode network is where brain regions are most active when the mind is at wakeful rest involving self-reflection, daydreaming, memory and imagining the future. These functions lead us to thrive when used properly. In self-reflection, we learn to
Something that limits this default mode network is screentime. Yes, we are addicted to our phones, but I am not promoting no phones at all,
See BOREDOM | Page 10
Veteran’s facility opening
On Sept. 2, 2025, Governor Kemp announced the opening of a 24-hour veteran’s mental health facility, located at the Georgia War Veteran’s Home in Milledgeville, Georgia.
Many families in the area have pushed the need for a residential facility that treats veterans for severe psychological trauma. Since opening the facility, Georgia has now become the first state to incorporate skilled nursing, mental and behavioral health care in a state operated veteran’s home.
Georgia veterans, residents and families give thanks to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Georgia General Assembly for their contribution of $19 million toward the establishment.
The Mental Health Support Unit, located in the Richard B. Russell building, offers treatments for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and other corresponding issues. Staff are attentive and guide veterans to recovery with specific treatments including individual and group therapy sessions,
psychotropic meditation management and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
The Georgia War
I think establishing the home was a crucial need and benefit for the vet-
Veteran’s Home also incorporates leisure activities into daily routines. These include enjoying the recreation center, pool tables, flat screen TVs, picnic tables, a miniature golf course and the library.
See VETERANS | Page 3
Lucy Nunez Staff Writer
Julia Jensen | Art Director
-Caroline Williams
eran population
Bryan Cade | Asst. Sports Editor
Julia Jensen | Art Director
Local violence at the Baldwin State Prison
Amelia McEwen News Editor
Three former prison inmates at Baldwin State Prison were recently found not guilty for the stabbing and murder of a fellow inmate in June of 2021.
Tyquerion Steed, Kevonta Daniels and Tarez
Gordon were sent to trial this year to determine if they were guilty of the malice murder of Jose Garcia Ibarra. Despite surveillance footage hinting that the three inmates were involved, a lack of conclusive evidence was the verdict.
The case has been left unresolved as the court does not have enough evidence to charge any one person.
Questions about safety at GCSU have been prevalent as the Baldwin State Prison, where the stabbing occurred, is just seven miles away
from campus. Students at GCSU have been seemingly unaware of this circumstance that has happened just down the street from campus.
“A lot of stuff happens here [Milledgeville] that students don’t even know about. I didn’t even know about this,” said Rory McInnis, a senior political science major. “I saw an article the other day about a man who shot at somebody and then himself.
My roommates didn’t even know about it.”
McInnis expressed that she was unaware of this trial until now. She attributed this lack of awareness in students to a high-profile case that is also not well-informed.
GCSU students are uninformed, causing a disconnect between their community and the surrounding area. With that being said, there is
VOLUME 106 | NO. 2
Editorial Board
Mary Ciucevich..............
Rylee Holland..................
Julia Jensen.......................
Amelia McEwan..............
Emma Tyler.......................
Benjamin Clark...............
Bryan Cade.......................
Kate Walker.......................
Sydney Williams.............
Molly Goff...........................
Isabella McComis..........
Reaghan Sehee..............
Reagan Robinson..........
Haley Quimby..................
Kerry Neville.....................
a broader uncertainty regarding safety in the area.
According to a report by the Southern Center for Human Rights, “Insufficient supervision of prisoners has been a serious problem at Baldwin for years. Groups of prisoner-assailants have regularly seized, tied up, beaten and tortured other men, holding them for extended periods, without being discovered by correctional officers.”
Baldwin State Prison is recognized as one of Georgia’s most violent prisons. It is even recognized as one of the most dangerous facilities in the state of Georgia. Though there is a signif icant amount of violence, this does not automati cally mean the vicinity of the prison is a threat to the surrounding areas.
“I don’t think the college is necessarily in danger of being in close
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proximity [to Baldwin State Prison],” said Professor Cook, a professor of criminal justice. “I would say any sort of escapee is going to run. You don’t necessarily see any escapees trying to find someone to hold hostage, for example.”
Professor Cook explains that student safety on campus is not a concern in relation to this circumstance. She reasons that escaped prisoners, for example, are not interested in harming students; their incentive is to run away.
Some students gave the trial no second thought and feel as
though public safety has created a safe haven on campus for them.
“I do feel safe here at GCSU with all of the safety patrol and lots of police. I don’t ever feel unsafe,” said Madi Morton-Leach, a junior psychology major.
Morton-Leach feels that public safety has made enough efforts for her to feel secure in her college town, despite the 4.3 miles between Baldwin State Prison and GCSU.
Student safety on campus is not immediately compromised by circumstances taking place at Baldwin State
Prison or any surrounding detention facilities. Public safety has made significant efforts to create a space for students to go about their everyday lives at ease. Even this week, Campus Safety Week is taking place at GCSU, and students can join one of the seven live webinars to ask questions that they have. These events are available so students can stay up to date on their safety resources and stay far from harm. If you have any questions on how to use your safety resources, call GCSU Public Safety at (478) 445-4054.
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VETERANS
Continued from page 1
Many families and GCSU students believe there will be a positive impact from the Georgia War Veterans Home and its large array of assistance for veterans.
Governor Kemp opened the Georgia War Veteran’s Home in Milledgeville. I think our veteran population is in dire need of a mental health home. My grandpa fought in the Vietnam war,” said Meghan Kay, a
The Georgia War Veteran’s Home is believed to be a great addition to the Milledgeville community because veteran families have waited an extensive period for quality care over their loved ones.
“Similar to Meghan,
in the Vietnam war. I heard that the Georgia War Veteran’s Home recently opened and think that it will do wonders for the many veterans who have fought for our country but are adjusting to normal life” said Olivia Wind, a senior education major.
The Georgia War Veteran’s Home is gradually making itself known on the GCSU campus.
With time and familial connection, the
Georgia War Veteran’s Home is projected to foster a greater impact on Georgia residents.
“I have not heard of the opening of the Georgia War Veteran’s Home and do not have any family members who were previously veterans, but I think establishing the home was a crucial need and benefit for the veteran population,” said Caroline Williams, a senior political science major.
The Georgia War
U.S.’s largest immigration enforcement raid
Jane Carr Staff Writer
Earlier this month, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) carried out what officials say was the largest single-site immigration enforcement action in the country’s history.
The raid took place at the Hyundai electric ve hicle and battery plant site in Ellabell, Georgia, where hundreds of workers were taken into custody. According to ICE, more than 300 of those detained were South Korean nationals, including technicians and contractors who had been brought in to help with construction and equipment installation.
This has led to calls from South Korean officials for a review of the incident and assurances that the rights of their citizens are being respected.
thousands of more jobs to maintain an environment that focuses on the economy of the U.S.
Veteran’s Home is quickly gaining acknowledgement from GCSU students and their community.
The facility is established for veterans to receive professional care and adjust back to a normal life. Many believe this will continue to make a difference for veterans who live in Georgia, providing them with the proper care needed for mental health issues.
responsible for ensuring that foreign workers have the correct visas and work authorization.
On the other hand, the South Korean government has expressed concern over the scale and handling of the raid. President Lee Jae
auto industry expert at Daeduk University, in the Los Angeles Times. “Companies cannot afford to not be more cautious about investing in the U.S. in the future.”
South Korea has been one of the largest sources of foreign di-
Hyundai officials have stated that the raid will delay the plant’s scheduled opening by two to three months. The $4.3 billion facility is a key part of the company’s plans to expand electric vehicle production in the United States and was expected to create thou sands of jobs in Georgia. Though, Hyund ai is currently work ing to minimize disruptions and has reaffirmed its commitment to U.S. investment.
At the same time, administration officials have acknowledged that foreign investment is a critical part of U.S. efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing and supply chains, particularly in clean energy sectors.
The incident has drawn attention to the challenges companies face in navigating U.S. visa requirements. These requirements relate to short-term technical and construction workers.
ICE officials said the operation targeted workers suspected of overstaying visas or working outside the limits of their authorized status. However, reports indicate that some of the individuals detained were legally working in the country.
According to a release by Hyundai Motor Company, “Phase 2 HMGMA expansion adds production capacity of 200,000 units by 2028, with $2.7 billion investment creating 3,000 new jobs.”
The company is actively planning to create
Myung has said the situation could make Korean companies hesitant about future U.S. investments if visa and labor issues are not clarified.
This concern is shared by industry experts.
“The raid has sent a disconcerting message to companies in South Korea and elsewhere,” said Lee Ho-guen, an
rect investment in U.S. manufacturing in recent years, with multiple electric vehicle and battery facilities planned across several states.
U.S. officials have defended the enforcement action, saying it was carried out in accordance with federal immigration law. They have emphasized that companies are
Industry groups have said that these workers are often essential for installing specialized equipment and training local employees, and they have called for clearer rules and faster processing times.
The raid has also sparked reactions among students at GCSU.
“Immigrants fear for their lives every day, whether they came here legally or not. We hear stories about people being detained when they did come here legally every day,” said Chloe Melton, a junior history major and Black studies minor. “They just made it legal to racially profile people they think might be illegal immigrants. It is racism and tyranny.” Melton’s comments point to a larger controversy surrounding immigration authority in the U.S., a subject that has long been debated.
Diplomatic discussions between Washington and Seoul continue, and both governments have indicated that they will work together to prevent similar disruptions in the future. For now, the focus remains on resolving the status of the detained workers and getting construction at the Georgia facility back on schedule.
Reaghan Sheehee | Digital Media Editor
RUGBY
Continued from page 1
Rugby emphasizes physical contact, as tackles attempt to restrict forward movement. However, one of the well-known parts of rugby is the “scrums,” which occur as a way to restart the movement of the game after a minor infringement, such as a forward pass.
When a scrum is necessary, forwards from either team lock arms together. An opposing player then drops the ball into the scrum, and each team attempts to use their feet to advance the ball to their own team’s position behind them.
“I think people’s initial impression of rugby is football without any protective padding,” said Ethan Mattace, a sophomore on the men’s club rugby team. “When in reality there’s a lot more nuance to it, and the more you play, the more you find the communal respect we have for each other and our safety.”
Rugby has brought many memories to each of its players, especially to its team presidents.
“What I think back to the most was my first practice,” said Blake Dickey, a junior men’s club rugby athlete and the men’s club’s team president. “It stuck with
me, I showed up and they really made me feel like I was a part of something. I felt like a brother to these people immediately, and that was what really made me fall in love with the club.”
Both team presidents show how much they care about the sports they lead; however, in their favorite memories, they show how much of a family each of their respective teams provides for each of them.
“I never played a team sport before rugby,” said Sidney Joubert, a senior women’s rugby club athlete and the women’s club’s team president. “When I got to college, I
wanted to find my group, and I was able to do that by joining the people playing women’s rugby.”
Newer athletes can quickly create new memories, either in their first year or sometimes in their first game altogether.
“My favorite memory was definitely our first game that we played,” said Ellie Hopkins, a sophomore women’s club rugby athlete. “It was my first game ever stepping on the pitch. I had only had about four practices under my belt. I had no idea what was going on. It was towards the very end, we were all over at the scoreline. We called the try line, and the ball
got passed to me, and I just fell over and scored. It was my first try. And the whole team erupted and I kind of blacked out.”
While the sport is all about competitiveness, and on the field you are opponents, the people you meet on other teams can quickly become a part of your circle as well.
“My favorite memories are when the game against another team is over,” said Ethan Yancey, a sophomore men’s club rugby athlete. “There’s the guy you have been battling against for 90 minutes, the next moment you are hanging out and having a good time.”
Rugby at GCSU is
Camryn Carlton - PBC Player of the Week
Bryan Cade Asst. Sports Editor
Senior right-side hitter Camryn Carlton began her season with an impressive start, winning the Peach Belt Conference Player of the Week award as the Georgia College & State University women’s volleyball team opened its season, winning three of its first four games in the annual Bobcat Classic.
Carlton opened her season with 51 kills, 13 digs and 12 blocks. Not only was Carlton honored as the Peach Belt Conference Player of the Week, but she also earned honors as the Zaxby’s Player of the Week for her performance in the tournament.
Her best performance came in the Bobcats’ lone loss of the week-
end, when she contributed 16 kills in the 3-1 loss to Rollins College.
The Peach Belt Conference names one Player of the Week and one Specialist of the Week every week, so achieving the award this season, so early, definitely removes some of the pressure to do so.
The help of Carlton has also most definitely helped GCSU volleyball open on the right foot, as the current 6-4 record of the Bobcats sits just two wins away from tying their win record from the previous season.
It means a lot. It can only go up from here.
- Camryn Carlton
constantly growing, and from the looks of it, joining the sport can provide a sense of belonging to a second family.
“We take new players at any time in the semester, either fall or spring,” Laparde said. “We’ve had people join towards the end of one semester and then come back for the next because they like it so much. It’s really no commitment. If you do come out to a couple of practices just to see if you like it or not, and if you don’t, that’s okay too, ’cause then we just get new fans on the sidelines.”
“I always want to be somebody on the team
that other players can come to and other players can look up to,” Carlton said. “Not only to lead by example, but also a good friend and a good teammate to all the younger girls, and I think this year taking that on has really pushed me to be better on and off the court.”
While the Peach Belt Conference Player of the Week award is based directly on the statistics sheet to decide the current week’s winner, Carlton, a Bobcat for her previous four years, looks to step up into a leadership position for the GCSU volleyball team this season.
“One thing about Camryn is that she can change the energy on the court in a second,” said Hayley Shepherd, a
graduate student middle blocker on the team.
“She can give us momentum and her intensity creates that shift that we need to win the game.”
Shepherd and Carl-
In the Bobcats’ next six contests, they would split their four games at Valdosta State in the Valdosta State Tournament and split their two games in Alabama. In
per set (2.57) and tenth in total points (133).
Georgia College & State University’s women’s volleyball season
ton have been teammates for the entirety of their careers, being with each other for all the ups and downs the program has been through in the previous years.
I’ve watched our team grow and change, and it’s been so rewarding to work through challenges and celebrate wins with the same group of girls,” said Shepherd.
those six contests, Carlton tallied 48 more kills to her season ledger, as well as 21 digs and 14 blocks. Carlton tallied double-digit kills in two of those contests, including a 14-kill performance against the University of West Alabama.
Carlton currently sits at ninth in the conference for hitting percentage (.238), tenth in kills
continues Tuesday, Sept. 23, with a contest against Forrest Valley State University at 6 p.m. in Fort Valley, Georgia, before returning to Milledgeville on Friday, Sept. 26, for their first conference competition against Lander University at 6 p.m.
Courtesy of GCSU Athletics
The Falcons fumble
Benjamin Clark Sports Editor
In the NFL’s first official week of season play, the Atlanta Falcons faced off against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in what was a disappointing loss for Falcons fans. The Buccaneers clinched the win with a 3-point field goal to close out the game.
The significance of this field goal is compounded when taking into account missed kicks from Atlanta Kicker Yunghoe Koo.
This week 1 game displayed standout players, team deficiencies and a competitive matchup; however, many fans had their eyes on the new recruits and draftees gained over the off-season.
Rookie wide receiver
Emeka Egbuka stole the show in his NFL debut, catching two touchdown passes, including the one that gave the Buccaneers the lead with less than a minute remaining.
The Falcons weren’t without their showing either, with running back Bijan Robinson acting as one of the Falcons’ new youthful players. In the match vs Tampa, Robin-
son contributed over 100 receiving yards, including a long-pass touchdown, cementing his role as one of Atlanta’s offensive centerpieces.
The Falcons also had their own rookie standout in quarterback Michael Penix Jr. In his first professional game, Penix led a 91-yard drive late in the game, capping it with a 4-yard touchdown with just over two minutes remaining.
“That run and drive by Penix was incredible,” said Cade Steel,
Kirk Cousins, for the aforementioned Rookie Michael Penix Jr. The transition was evident in Sunday’s game. While Penix lacked some of the polish and consistency that Cousins might have brought, he showed resilience and confidence beyond his youth.
“I think it’s great,” said Cooper Treadaway, a senior business administration major at GCSU.“I mean, I was really starting to hate Kirk, he used to be extremely consistent, but
senior history major at GCSU. “You could see the confidence building with every play, and it really felt like the Falcons were about to steal it.”
The Falcons entered the 2025-2026 season with a dramatic roster change, switching out the old Quarterback,
drive, the game came down to the leg of Younghoe Koo, Atlanta’s normally dependable kicker.
Koo lined up a kick for a 44-yard attempt in the final seconds of the game, a distance well within his career range. But the kick veered right, sealing the Falcons’ 23-20 defeat.
neck and neck, but one guy can end it all with a good kick. I understand that it’s been a part of the game for so long, but it feels ridiculous knowing that your team can hold its own and then be squashed because a kick went too far right.”
last season - especially late last season - he really started slowing down.”
While the Falcons and Buccaneers had great offensive and defensive play, the game ultimately came down to the deciding factor of the kicker. For all the highs of Penix’s late touchdown
The prevalence of kickers deciding games by mere 1-3 point margins has upset many in the Football community, with some questioning the effectiveness of kickers.
“You trust Koo in those situations nine times out of ten,” said Elija Brush, a senior data science major at GCSU.
“But when he missed, it just felt humiliating. It’s insane that games can go on and on and be so
Koo’s missed kick was a bitter pill to swallow for many Atlanta Fans, overshadowing the promising performances of Penix and Robinson.
This single moment, for many fans, captured the essence of what it means to be a Falcons fan; tantalizing glimpses of victory ultimately undermined by last-minute disappointment.
Injuries sustained during this game will also play a role as both teams move forward.
The Falcons had receiv-
ers like Darnell Mooney, who was limited in his practice play. Tampa Bay likewise entered with question marks at tight end Cade Otton and cornerback Benjamin Morrison. Nevertheless, this past week’s game brought the competitiveness and intrigue that NFL fans tend to love. Through the game, fans enjoyed rookie breakthroughs, last-minute upsets and a game ultimately decided by one play. Emaka Ebuka announced his presence, Baker Mayfield showed his veteran consistency and Michel Penix emanated with potential, even after a loss.
For Atlanta, it’s a lesson in execution under pressure; for Tampa Bay, it’s a confident start with big wins never coming easy.
Kirk Cousins , Back-Up Quartback for the Atlanta Falcons
Kirk Cousins , Back-Up Quartback for the Atlanta Falcons
ARTS & LIFE
The Sabrina Carpenter impact
Sabrina Carpenter’s 2025 VMAs performance marked a big moment in her career and confirmed just how far she has come as a pop artist. The night doubled as the perfect launch for her latest album, “Man’s Best Friend”, which debuted near the top of major streaming charts within its first week.
For fans who have followed Carpenter’s journey from Disney Channel star to rising music powerhouse, this felt like the moment she truly stepped into the pop spotlight.
Her set quickly became one of the most talked-about performances of the night. The stage burst into rainbow-colored lights as soon as the music start-
BAGS
ed, creating a striking visual that carried through the entire number.
A diverse group of dancers joined her, adding even more energy to
for championing trans rights, which I think is amazing and so important in the current political and social climate,” said Sydney Bryant, a
the routine. Behind them, massive screens lit up with messages promoting love and acceptance, a detail that online viewers were quick to connect to LGBTQ+ themes.
“I saw that she performed at the VMAs with trans dancers and raised visibility
Continued from page 1
“My charms have even started a conversation with someone new. I recall someone in my class mentioning that they had always liked my charms. I also made conversation with someone who I thought had cool bag charms,” said Naomi Alvis, a junior psychology major.
And then there is the internet’s role in making accessories a full-on craze. On TikTok and Instagram, bags are being styled, customized and turned into viral statements.
The most dramatic example of this: Labubus.
reaction posts flooded social media, making the performance one of the most viral moments of the evening. Fans praised the choreography, the staging and Carpenter’s live vocals.
representation of queer relationships, a theme Carpenter has leaned into more in recent years.
senior public health major and English minor.
The single “Tears” was already gaining traction before the VMAs, but this performance pushed it even further. By the end of the night, clips of Carpenter’s set were everywhere: TikTok edits, Instagram reels and
The music video for “Tears” was released on Aug. 29 setting the stage for the song’s momentum. In the video, Carpenter moves through a series of surreal scenes and meets a variety of characters, including actor Colman Domingo in drag, a playful nod to the 70s cult classic “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
“I am a huge ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show’ fan, so I loved seeing all of the references!” said Grayson Riggott, a senior education major.
Viewers also pointed out the music video’s
“I love how she has impacted LGBTQ+ viewers and supporters! I think she is the next icon,” said Emma Mitchell, a junior special education major.
For many, this new era of Carpenter’s music, with its bold visuals, inclusive casting and strong messages of self-expression, feels like a natural extension of her relationship with LGBTQ+ fans.
Since the VMAs, streams of “Man’s Best Friend” have surged across all major platforms, pushing several songs higher on Billboard’s Hot 100. Merch and physical album sales have also seen a spike, suggesting that Carpenter’s fanbase is not just streaming but actively
investing in her music. Her live audiences are additionally growing noticeably. Comparing footage from her “Emails I Can’t Send” tour to her latest festival performances shows larger crowds, louder sing-alongs and a level of excitement that suggests she’s entering a new tier of stardom. Fans who have been with her since the early days have commented online about how proud they are to see her headline bigger stages and gain mainstream recognition.
The reaction to “Man’s Best Friend” is an indication that her influence, especially among young listeners, is only going to keep growing as she steps fully into this new era of her career.
“I don’t normally accessorize, but a couple of times I did put one of my lafufus [a fake Labubu doll] on my purse, mainly so my Labubu wouldn’t get stolen,” said Hailey Paige, a freshman psychology major.”
“I think people we consider influencers were collecting them and making it seem cool, so everyone went out and
These plush figures exploded on social media and became musthave items almost overnight. Labubus are not only collectibles, but also known to be bag accessories. The dolls are clipped to backpacks, purses and keychains, transforming every bag into a mini statement piece.
brought Labubus because they said so.”
Labubus aren’t the only stars of the show.
The most meaningful bag charm I got is a little Miffy. My family went on a trip to Amsterdam, and we had to run to a store because we were by the shore and seagulls were attacking us for our fries
- Naomi Alvis
Walk across campus and spot backpacks decorated with sorority pins, crocheted animals, patches, lanyards and trinkets picked up from concerts or thrift shops. Some bags are covered in color, while others feature just a sin-
gle charm that holds special meaning. Every backpack can tell a story, whether it is a reminder of a favorite trip, a shared hobby with a friend or a simple charm that makes someone smile during a long day of classes. In a sea of identical bags, these little details allow students to stand out and use accessories to mark experiences that are meaningful to them. What ties them all together is creativity. Students are turning a boring school necessity into something that feels like them. It is a small act of self-expression, but one of the easiest ways to wear their personality on their shoulder.
Jane Carr Staff Writer
Julia Jensen| Art Director Cutline
FALSE ALARMS, REAL RISKS?
Fire alarms in GCSU dorms
Kate Walker A&L Editor
While fire alarms are simply a part of life in the residence halls, one dorm has already had at least six fire alarms this semester, most of which occurred in the middle of the night. Community advisors frequently remind students to be careful with electrical appliances and avoid prohibited items, yet accidents are inevitable, and sometimes the alarms are triggered for reasons unrelated to student activity.
“Normally we have one test drill per month, and that’s only in the middle of the day, and that’s only once a month, and we are in the second month of school. So that’s definitely not common to have six or more, and especially not in the middle of the night,” said Ra-
chel Black, a community advisor at Parkhurst Hall.
Black explained that the triggers for these alarms have varied.
Some were caused by residents’ activities, as something as simple as spraying an air freshener or using a hair straightener can set off the sensitive detectors. But other incidents had nothing to do with the students.
“This semester we had some [alarms] that weren’t even related to the students, it was just that there was an electrical problem with the fire alarms,” said Black.
Although Parkhurst Hall experienced excessive fire alarms,
GCSU Facilities Management reported that the campus overall has not seen an unusual increase in alarms.
“Fire alarms can be triggered by a vari-
ety of factors, and this fall semester has seen a typical volume of activations,” said Michael Hejazi, the Director of Environmental Health and Safety & Fire Safety.
Hejazi noted that common culprits include burnt food, such as popcorn or macaroni and cheese cooked in a microwave without water, as well as accidental door openings by students, staff or contractors.
“Importantly, we have not experienced any actual fires in any of our residential facilities on either the Main or West campuses. Some alarms were also caused by condensation due to seasonal temperature shifts, which have since been addressed,” said Hejazi.
GCSU follows strict fire alarm and safety standards, including statewide fire codes, Uni-
versity System of Georgia design standards and National Fire Protection Association’s Life Safety Code. These protocols cover everything from corridor and room smoke detectors to emergency lighting, exit signage, sprinkler systems and accessible extinguishers.
“In addition to alarm systems, we provide fire extinguisher training for all housing community directors, conduct monthly fire extinguisher inspections and hold fire drills each semester,” said Hejazi.
University Housing also enforces GCSU-specific policies, such as bans on tampering with smoke detectors or fire equipment. Appliances like refrigerators and microwaves must be regulated, and many flammable materials are strictly prohibited.
According to the Georgia College University Housing and Residence Life Policy Handbook, “Because of the danger presented by open flames, candles (with or without wicks) and such items are not permitted in student rooms/ apartments and, if present, will be confiscated.”
While there haven’t been any actual fires in the residence halls this semester, frequent false alarms pose their own risk in that students may become desensitized and ignore the alarms in an emergency.
Constitution Week concert festivity
Amelia McEwen News Editor
As part of GCSU’s annual Constitution Week, “Trail Tunes: A Delightful Program of Songs from Presidential Campaigns, 1840–1964,” featured a live performance of historic campaign songs.
This concert, hosted by the GCSU Department of Music on Sept. 16 at 6 p.m.,
them into a harmonious celebration.
“Politics can be messy, divisive and inscrutable. Music, on the other hand, can be welcoming and familiar,” said Dr. Dana Gorzelany-Mostak, a GCSU music professor and co-host of the event. “I think we all need to have a basic understanding of how politicians and other
gave the audience a new perspective on today’s political atmosphere. The blend of history and music reflects the environment of past presidential elections.
In a world where political tensions can be high, the GCSU Music Department has transformed
“I had students ask me if they should actually come down or not after the fourth or fifth one, if they had to continue to keep coming down. I had to tell them, yes, if there’s a fire alarm you still have to exit the building,” said Black. Now that the detector issue has been fixed, Black and other community advisors have had to remind students that alarms must always be taken seriously – because next time, the threat could be real.
Courtesy of Kassie Arps
parties use sound to persuade voters.”
Dr. Gorzelany-Mostak emphasizes the need for a general understanding of how music has historically shaped political messaging. She reiterates the point of the show, which is to educate the audience on historical events.
Students at the concert felt drawn to the songs. The impact the Trail Tunes concert had on students went so far as to influence non-music major students to return to future events.
“I really enjoyed the concert,” said Jordan Hyman, a freshman business major. “I definitely will attend an event like this again. Also, the ‘Hello Lyndon’ song stuck out to me the most because of how well the performers did. I feel like I learned something.”
Hyman expresses how outstanding the performers were and the impact the concert had on him. He plans to return to a future GCSU Department of Music event even as a business major.
By attracting students from a multitude of academic backgrounds, Trail Tunes proved that music can be a gateway to understanding political history. It wasn’t only a concert; Trail Tunes is a way to educate an audience in an engaging and inspiring way. Therefore, students were able to walk away with a new perspective.
“I hope the audience walks away
feeling patriotic,” said Serah Blair, a sophomore music therapy major. “I hope they feel pride for their country, especially in light of recent events. Things are dark at times and these things are discouraging. There’s always hope and we’re not the only generation to feel that there is no hope.”
Blair mentioned the desperate need for patriotism in the United States today. Her main point was that though there are discouraging events taking place, there is always hope.
This music not only references history, it enhances the audience’s perception of the current state of the world.
Per Trail Tunes being a part of Constitution Week, students were encouraged to attend events in the hopes of gaining additional insight on the foundation of their country. The point of this week that is dedicated to the Constitution is to expand younger generations’ perceptions. For upcoming events hosted by the GCSU Department of Music, visit the university calendar.
Julia Jensen | Art Director
Familial love triangles
Molly Groff Opinion Editor
“The Summer I Turned Pretty,” “My Life With The Walter Boys” and “The Vampire Diaries”. What’s up with the familial love triangles?
All three of these shows havea love triangle plot with the addition of both love interests as brothers. The female main character is torn between the two brothers throughout the entire show.
Legally, if you date someone, and then their sibling it is okay. Ethically, however, that is when it gets more and more complex on if it’s morally right.
“I think in real life it would be unethical if my brother wanted my girlfriend, I would be pretty pissed at that,” said Blake Dickey, a junior music major. “Essentially these shows are glorifying having brothers in a love triangle and having their relationship be test-
BOREDOM
Continued from page 1 Croft highlighted the struggle to break this habit, especially when a phone is linked to a professional role.
“In my previous job, I used to be on my phone all the time to keep up with the news. Now working here, it is uncommon to be on my phone but it is less stressful to also put it down. The phone was part of my work, and the
ed and tried over a love interest is not a good message to be sending. There’s girl code and bro code and that shouldn’t be messed with.”
On one hand, this plot line makes for a great watch. You never see the ending coming, and normally we get some sort of lastditch effort resolution.
“It’s probably got a lot to do with not knowing how it’s going to end because there are two people clearly set up, but adding a third person makes an unknown for an ending. It makes the show more engaging,” Dickey said. Alternatively, this does enforce situations that would not slide or be popularized in real life. Ethical stance aside, this plot definitely ups the stakes and makes the whole show more interesting.
The central tension of these stories lies in the ethical divide be-
phone was on 24 hours. Not having the phone was also stressful because if you miss something important that is problematic, even though I am semi de-programmed from it,” said Croft. I believe the distraction is for us to minimize Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO), and for us not to feel so alone.
Being present in the moment and being happy
tween entertainment and reality. People love a train wreck. It’s hard to watch at first, but you just can’t look away.
“This concept is unethical because there’s a lot of drama and it keeps things interesting as opposed to just two people,” said Darci Simmons, a sophomore biology major . “I feel like the familiar components add to the drama and depth of characters, making you get more invested in picking one side or another, maybe having other conflicts between family members, jobs, life experiences, etc. It’s a weird concept in a real life sense but for movies I think it’s very entertaining.”
It’s the spectacle of a moral dilemma playing out on screen, allowing us to debate the right and wrong of the situation from a safe distance.
Part of the appeal of pop culture, especially in movies and TV, is its use
with just ourselves is key.
The idea of happiness as a shared resource underscores the importance of human connection over digital connection. While our phones keep us occupied, they often keep us isolated.
True joy is found in being present with others, whether through deep conversation, shared experiences or simply enjoying each other’s company with-
of shock value. Because the ethical boundaries are pushed, the ideas portrayed in the media are more shocking.
“Morally familial love triangles can be wrong, but it can also lead characters to better paths because it is based on people’s feelings,” said Emma McCormick, a sophomore biology major .
To get past the controversial aspect of the
out the distraction of a screen. This social connection is a powerful antidote to the loneliness that many people use their phones to avoid.
“Happiness means to me being happy when I do something I like,” said Jordyn Street, GCSU galleries and archives assistant. “I’m most happy when I am hanging out with friends, when we gossip, and just spending time together.”
love triangle between brothers, we can focus on the character development and growth that comes from the plot.
This growth can then inspire viewers to develop in unexpected ways, too.
This plot device, while providing high-stakes drama and showcasing character development, may also normalize situations that are widely considered morally
Ultimately the message is simple,give yourself permission to be bored. By stepping away from the constant noise
Happiness means to me being happy when I do something I likeOPINION
-Jordyn Street
questionable in real life. Ultimately, the fascination with these “train wreck” narratives reveals a key aspect of pop culture: the power of shock value to captivate an audience. Though ethically complex, these narratives prove to be an undeniably effective way to hook viewers, prompting them to choose a side and become deeply invested in the outcome.
of notifications and endless scrolling, you create the necessary space for your brain to engage in meaningful thought. Instead of completely eliminating technology, the goal is to create a healthier relationship with it. This allows for moments of quiet, reflection, and genuine connection with yourself and with the people who matter most. By doing this, you might discover that the key to a happier, more creative, and less stressful life was always there in the stillness we’ve been trying to avoid.
Julia Jensen |Art Director
