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@TheColonnade
The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University September 22, 2026
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Comfort Shows
TV shows GCSU students always return to Avery Geary Asst. News Editor Many GCSU students are turn-
personal tradition that reminds her of
Every time she watches “Malcolm
tions between her family and the show.
growing up, giving her a sense of peace
in the Middle,” she feels like she has
“I feel closer to my family, and
a little piece of home with her. It has
I feel like I’m back at home laugh-
nostalgic associations for her and
ing
through familiarity during tense times. ing
to
their
favorite
nostalgic
comfort shows to help them relax and de-stress after a long day. “I did start watching ‘Gilmore Girls’ in high school and every year I rewatch the show,” said Mia Anchaya,
Ava Davis, a sophomore nursing major, said “Malcom in the Middle” as her go-to comfort program for a
with
my
dad,”
Davis
said.
See SHOWS | Page 6
gives her comfort due to the connec-
similar nostalgia. Like many GCSU students, her favorite show evokes a reminiscence of her hometown life.
a sophomore nursing major. “It just
“I love the characters, and it makes
reminds me of growing up because I
me giggle, and it reminds me of my
grew up with the show in high school.”
childhood,” Davis said. “My dad
For Anchaya, the show becomes a
would always watch it on the TV.”
Jayden Lewis | Art Director
VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER TURNS 100 YEARS OLD Camdyn Thigpen Staff Writer After 11 years of fighting fires and being a founding member of the Baldwin County Meriwether Station, Al Haslam celebrated his 100th birthday on Aug. 21. He still regularly visits the cur-
Jayden Lewis | Art Director
tion. He keeps part of that life at the
who are constantly giving their
marina by having a fireboat he ac-
time and energy to our commu-
quired when he opened the station.
nity,” said Aiden Nemec, a sopho-
GCSU fraternity Pi Kappa Alpha
more mass communications major
works for and with Baldwin Coun-
and philanthropy chair for Pi Kap-
ty Firefighters to support and raise
pa Alpha. “Their service inspires us
money for the stations. They host
to continue finding ways to make
rent crew, offers tips and tricks, and
regular events and competitions.
at times, tries on his old gear, just
“Being able to support firefight-
in case. His deep devotion to fire-
ers through our philanthropy gives
fighting follows him out of the sta-
us a chance to give back to those
a difference in the community and reminds us that even small acts of support can have a lasting impact.” See FIREFIGHTER | Page 2
The US Open’s unpredictable conclusion Ava Flores
Sports Editor The 2026 U.S. Open came to a close with new champions, major upsets and a memorable run from American Ben Shelton at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Alexander Zverev captured the men’s singles championship Sunday, defeating Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (2), 5-7, 6-2 in Arthur Ashe Stadium. The victory gave the 29-year-old German his
second Grand Slam title of the season after he won his first major at the French Open earlier this year. Zverev also became the first German man to win the U.S. Open since Boris Becker in 1989. Although Shelton fell short in the championship match, the 23-yearold American produced one of the tournament’s most notable runs. “Going into the tournament, I thought that Ben Shelton was going to win because I think he is just such a great
competitor,” said Olivia El Kareh, a sophomore finance major. “Also, I am always cheering for Americans. On the women’s side, I thought that Sabelenka was going to win, but I was hoping it would be Coco Gauff.” Anna Holbrook, a sophomore Psychology and Criminal Justice major, had her own favorites going into the tournament. “My favorite to win the men’s tournament was Ben Shelton,” Holbrook said. “I have al-
ways been a huge fan of him growing up playing competitive tennis myself. He’s from my hometown, and seeing him play in person is one of my favorite memories, so Iwas all in for team Ben! For Women, it was Elena Rybakina. Watching her over the last couple tournaments go through the ranks, and so quickly[to] the top, out of seemingly nowhere was so amazingly cool to watch! I was very happy she won!” See US OPEN | Page 4
Ben Shelton
NEWS | PG. 2
SPORTS | PG. 4
ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7
OUTREACH | PG. 5
How Dr. Herty’s monumental scientific discoveries still impact us today.
Playing in front of the home crowd is a nice factor, but how helpful is it really?
A new book stores is upon Milledgeville. How does it fit in with the Milly Vibe?
You’ll see them on the way to Main Campus. These bus drivers help keep GCSU running.
CHARLES HERTY’S LEGACY
IS HOME-FIELD ADVANTAGE REAL?
QUILL & CASTLE BOOKS
GCSU SHUTTLE DRIVERS
2
ANNALIE PARKER, NEWS EDITOR AVERY GEARY, ASST. NEWS EDITOR
09.22.2026
NEWS
Charles Herty’s legacy impacts students today
Chemistry and mass communications majors alike draw inspiration from Herty’s work Luke Bergrab
pression, Herty saw the
Since the tree harvest-
Staff Writer
economic and environmental strains that paper
Dr. Charles Holmes Herty, the namesake of GCSU’s Herty Hall, was a chemist born in Milledgeville whose work revitalized Georgia’s and the South’s economies and changed how newspapers were produced. Herty’s main contribution to the newsprint industry was inspired by learning about the process of making white paper pulp from German fir trees, which have similarities to pine trees in terms of texture and resin. Though seemingly
insignificant
then,
knowledge
this
making from Northern hardwoods was having. However, he hypothesized that the abundant pine trees in the South, when
properly
treat-
have a focus in an aca-
ing industry was already
ganizations
Nagisetty said. “He in-
demic study and also do
developed,
eventually
spires me to keep go-
what they’re passionate
ing with what I want to
about,” Nagisetty said.
do. He just helps prove
Throughout his life,
a point that I can do it.”
Herty made contribu-
Nagisetty and Ander-
tions to various fields
new
leading
to
product turned out to
a cheaper, more local
be a catalyst for the de-
and sustainable alter-
pression-riddled south-
native
to
hardwoods.
ern economy, creating
“I’m not really into
many jobs. This leads
papermaking; I’m more
son shared their thoughts on Herty’s inspiration
high-quality paper, con-
“I’m not really sur-
trary to popular belief.
prised that he comes
He started a research
from this college town
initiative and founded
as much, but I am sur-
the Savannah Pulp and
prised about all this re-
Paper
to
search he did. He’s actu-
work on this innovation.
ally a bigger deal than I
Laboratory
Through
his
re-
thought,” Nagisetty said.
search, he soon reached
Herty was born in
a breakthrough, and in
Milledgeville in 1867, Memorial marker at the birthplace of Charles Holmes Herty
1933, the first newspa-
and he suffered the loss
per issue of the Soperton
even to the present day
in the health field, but
of both of his parents
News was released on
when pine pulp is one
it’s still a major innova-
by the time he was 11.
white paper produced
of Georgia’s main agri-
tion,” said Sri Nagiesetty,
cultural
commodities.
a sophomore chemistry
“He was a chemis-
major. “Chemistry is very
try guy, and he made
diverse in what it can do.”
Herty’s
led to a shift in the paper-making
industry.
method, Herty actual-
“It affects how news-
ly created the method,
papers were made,” said
showing that he was a
Bailey Anderson, a soph-
true chemist in a sense,”
omore
said Ian Rice, a soph-
nications major. “Back
omore chemistry and
then, newspapers were
mathematics dual major.
a big thing getting news
During the Great De-
out to a lot of people.”
mass
FIREFIGHTER Continued from page 1
In 1944, when Haslam turned 18, he was sent off into World War II as a part of the Navy. Several years after his return, in 1961, he began building a family business, Haslam’s Marina. He served as the resident operator for years. Haslam lives by the motto “live right and do right,” and has shared this with all the firemen that come through the doors of Station 6. This motto not only encourages firefighters, but also GCSU students who want to go into the healthcare and law enforcement fields.
commu-
such a revision to how we
make
shared
how Herty’s story in-
day … It impacted so
spires her to continue
many different career
her work in the field.
fields,” Anderson said.
“I do feel like if he’s
The
paper
Nagisetty
to-
pulp
Despite
his
trials,
he developed a love for
chemistry,
forest-
ry and helping others. After studying at Georgia Military Academy
like forestry and public health. Outside of science, Herty was a sports
enthusiast.
He
led the UGA athletics program in its infancy and started their now famous football team. “I thought it was inspiring
that
some-
one from a small town like Milledgeville, how much he impacted a lot of different fields by being dedicated to the cause and researching and solving the problems,” Anderson said. Dr. Charles Herty had a large impact on the state of Georgia and the
(now Georgia Military
United States as a whole.
College)
and
grad-
Whether for chemistry,
uating
from
UGA,
public health, forestry
Herty
began
teach-
or football, Herty’s lega-
innova-
able to accomplish this
ing chemistry at UGA.
cy is one GCSU students
tion rewrote the script
much as a chemist, I
“I love people who can
feel is worth celebrating.
“I think his motto is inspiring to people on the front lines because it is a reminder of why we go into these careers in the first place and should aspire us to be good in our daily lives,” said Kristina Broitman, a junior nursing major. For Haslam, the things he remembers most are not the long days and hard work, but the people and connections he formed during his time. It is the community and the men he worked alongside that keep bringing him back. Having a role model like Haslam in the community helps teach students that it is important to give back to the community that pours so much into them. He tells the firefighters to
VOLUME 108 | NO. 2
Editorial Board
Bryan Cade....................... Editor-in-Chief Jane Carr............................ Managing Editor Jayden Lewis....................Art Director Annalie Parker................. News Editor Avery Geary...................... Asst. News Editor Ava Flores..........................Sports Editor Nina Bartlett.....................Asst. Sports Editor Sydney Williams.............Arts & Life Editor Rosalyn Chapman.........Asst. Arts & Life Editor James Cordero................ Outreach Editor Reaghan Shehee............Digital Media Editor Emilie Theado..................Digital Media Editor Reagan Robinson.......... PR Manager Mikkel Christensen....... Faculty Advisor
*All Opinion columns are the opinion of the columnist, not of The Colonnade.
this
produced,
to them as a local figure.
by Herty’s research. This
“Instead of taking the
should be able to too,”
ed, could be made into
would lead to one of breakthroughs.
for how US news or-
treat others as you want to be treated, stay straight, and never go to bed unless you have a plan for the next day. “I want to be able to give back to my community by volunteering and helping people who may need support,” said Carson Movius, a freshman biology major. “I hope to make a positive impact by being someone my community can count on, just like Al.” The Meriweather station, now known as Station 6, was opened in 1988 off Route 212 and was operated by local volunteer firefighters. In May 2025, the station held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate becoming staffed around the clock.
@TheColonnade
They finally made the switch after residents of the surrounding community sent concerned emails to the Baldwin County Commission Chairman Andrew Strickland and District 5 Commissioner Scott Little. Haslam often visits Station 6 and spreads his wisdom to the crew there. His inspiration has and will continue to leave a lasting impact on Baldwin County. For students interested in the fire department or volunteer firefighting, visit https:// www.baldwincountyga.com/1299/ Fire-Rescue for more information.
@TheColonnade
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3
ANNALIE PARKER, NEWS EDITOR AVERY GEARY, ASST. NEWS EDITOR
09.22.2026
NEWS
Trump refers to war with Iran as “small potatoes” Hannah Ransom Staff Writer President Donald Trump referred to the conflict with Iran as “small potatoes” on Sept. 4 in the Oval Office, defending Vice President J.D. Vance’s assertion that the conflict is not a war. The conflict began Feb. 28 when the U.S. and Israel launched attacks against Iran, prompting Iran to retaliate against Israel and U.S. military bases. The fighting has continued for more than six months. Conflict, as in “military conflict,” is considered “a situation where
armed forces engage in combat,” according to Science Direct. Despite the administration’s description of the conflict, 18 U.S. service members have died. The characterization of the conflict has prompted reactions from GCSU students. Madison Connor, a sophomore political science major, said she views the conflict as a war. Though she acknowledges that it is different from previous conflicts faced by the U.S., she disagrees with Trump’s characterization of the conflict. “This claim is very insensitive to the 18 soldiers who have lost their
Iranian teenager holding sign during pro-Iran public protest
lives,” Connor said. “I am sure that the families who are not whole anymore due to these losses, and those who lost their fellow soldiers, do not see this as small.” Trump and Vance have referred to the situation as a military conflict, rather than a war, mentioning intermittent strikes and periods without active fighting. War is defined more specifically as open, armed hostile conflict between nations, distinguished from a military conflict by its ongoing state. Connor addressed how language used by political figures can influence followers. “I think people will underplay the amount of lives we have lost, and I definitely think this was intentional to make people think it is not serious,” Connor said. She said she believes describing the conflict as “small potatoes” could cause people to underestimate the gravity of the situation. She views Trump’s comment as a petty, half-effort characterization of the conflict. “We are either at war or at peace,” Connor said. The conflict has also created significant financial costs for the United States. According to the Congressional Budget
Office, the conflict has cost the Department of Defense approximately $38 billion as of Aug. 1. CBO estimates that an additional $2 billion to $3 billion could be spent each month, depending on the severity of the fighting. The effects of the conflict have reached beyond the military. There are interruptions to oil and natural gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently under an Iranian blockade. Anna Reed, a sophomore criminal justice major, said she considers the conflict a war because the U.S. and Iran have engaged in persistent military fighting. Reed said describing the conflict as “small potatoes” could make it sound less serious than it actually is, despite the human and financial costs. “People might think the war is not very important or dangerous,” Reed said. “It could make people pay less attention to the people affected by it.” The conflict is expected to raise inflation, with the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), a federal agency that provides economic and budget analysis to Con-
Quiet Bobcats: Art Club James Cordero
declares war on Iran. “To characterize the conflict, I would call it a complex proxy war
We are either at war or at peace.
economic impact, U.S. service members are also directly involved in the conflict. Drew Mobley, a junior history major, said Trump’s description downplays the risks they face. “I personally feel that the President’s claim is bogus and a direct disrespect to the service men and women who are in harm’s way,” Mobley said. Iran has also faced significant consequences from the conflict, including military losses and economic pressure. The fighting has also disrupted Iran’s oil exports. However, Mobley believes that the conflict should not be considered a war unless Congress officially
-Madison Conner
rather than a fullfledged war,” he said. Proxy war refers to outside powers supporting localized conflicts between other nations. He believes Trump’s comment could cause some people to brush off the conflict, while others will view it as a dismissal of a serious situation. As the conflict with Iran continues, there is still a debate over how it should be characterized. Trump and Vance have referred to it as a military conflict, while GCSU students offer different perspectives. Students can refer to the Associated Press, a global nonpartisan news cooperative, for additional information as the conflict develops.
fun,” Anderson said. “People will pass by us won-
“You already have a common interest,” said
dering what we are; they learn about us. It’s just re-
Zoey Cornelia, a freshman museum studies ma-
Outreach Editor When a student visits the Georgia College and
gress, calculating an increase of 0.5 percentage points due to higher energy costs. Beyond its
State University Art Alliance (Art Club), they can
ally good community building that brings people in.”
expect at least two things: crafts and a supportive
Art Club is partnering with the Black Student Alli-
jor who is new to the club. “Beyond that, we like making things; there are a lot of other similarities that come with people who are into art.”
community. In the short time the alliance has been
Art Club is welcoming to all students no matter
running they have been able to grow quickly due to
the major; it can serve as a time to relax and catch up
the welcoming atmosphere and interesting concept.
with friends or as a way to do more creative activities.
“We started very small,” said Annabelle Ander-
“[The club is good for] anybody who needs
son, a junior art major and the president of Art
something creative to do,” said Grace Pegler,
Club. “It was like five of us coming to meetings ev-
a senior studio art major and the vice presi-
ery week… and I’ve been able to see it grow. We have
dent of the club. “It’s a nice break in the week to
30-plus people coming here now; it’s crazy growth.” Art club is a craft-based club that meets every oth-
sit down and do something with your hands.”
er Tuesday at 6 pm in Ennis Hall. The club provides
Skill level also doesn’t matter for art club; stuCourtesy of The Creative Arts Aliance
materials for a variety of projects like paper portraits, mood boards, clay magnets and friendship bracelets.
ance (BSA) and Paint and Sip Atlanta to host their own
ing and just have a fun time. If someone is looking paint and sip on front campus on Friday, Sept. 25, 2026. for a fun activity to do on a Tuesday afternoon, Art
Other than the average meeting, the alliance also hosts less conventional meetings, like their open-air picnic, where the club takes pieces of cardboard and paints them on front campus, where
dents of all levels are welcome to join in on a meet-
Students will get a canvas, juice and have some time to get to know one another close to the start of the year Students might visit Art Club for the commu-
Club serves as a great option and can find more information on their instagram: @gcsuartclub. “You don’t even have to be ‘good at art’ to be in Art
they try to build community around campus.
nity and friends they made there or may be new
Club,” Anderson said. “As long as you try, and you’re
“We paint, and we talk, and we sit, and it’s so much
and looking to meet more like-minded people.
here to have fun, you can get something out of it.”
4
AVA FLORES, SPORTS EDITOR NINA BARTLETT, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
09.22.2026
SPORTS US OPEN
“Alexander Zverev impressed me the most
Continued from page 1
during his match against Ben Shelton,” McClaine
Caroline McCline, a freshman exercise science major, also chose Shelton as her favorite.
said. “The one thing I’ll remember the most about this tournament was Ben Shelton’s loss
“Ben Shelton and Storm Hunter were my favorbecause I was really rooting for him to win.” ites going into the tournament,” McClaine said. Shelton entered the event as the No. 8 seed and defeated defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a dramatic five-set quarterfinal, 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 (7). The match ended at 3:33 a.m., making it the latest finish in U.S. Open history. Shelton sealed the victory with a 146 mph ace. He followed the upset by defeating fellow American Frances Tiafoe 4-6, 6-3, 6-3, 7-5 in the semifinals. The victory sent Shelton to his first Grand Slam final and made him the first Black American man to reach the
The
women’s
tournament
also US open in action
champion.
Several American women also made deep
Elena Rybakina defeated two-time defending
runs. Jessica Pegula reached the semifinals before
champion Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 Saturday
falling to Sabalenka 7-5, 6-2. Coco Gauff also
to win her first U.S. Open championship. The
reached the semifinals, winning the opening
victory gave Rybakina her third career Grand
set against Rybakina before losing 3-6, 6-4, 6-4.
Slam title and second major championship of 2026
Other notable results included Zheng Qinwen
after she won the Australian Open earlier this year.
upsetting Iga Swiatek in the fourth round and
ended
with
a
new
Rybakina’s run was particularly notable after an Achilles injury forced her to retire from a match
Rybakina
defeating
four-time
Grand
Slam
champion Naomi Osaka on her way to the title. Rybakina
and
Zverev
ultimately
claimed
U.S. Open singles final since Arthur Ashe in 1972.
in Cincinnati less than a month before the U.S.
Shelton entered Sunday with the opportunity
Open. She recovered in time for New York and
the title, but Shelton’s breakthrough run gave
to become the first American man to win a
finished the tournament by defeating Sabalenka,
American tennis one of its biggest stories of
Grand Slam singles championship since Andy
who was attempting to win the event for the
the event. With two new U.S. Open champions
Roddick won the U.S. Open in 2003. Zverev,
third consecutive year. Rybakina also earned
and
however, controlled much of the final and ended
enough ranking points during the tournament
the final weekend, the 2026 tournament delivered
Shelton’s bid to break the 23-year drought.
to rise to No. 1 in the world, past Sabalenka.
two weeks of unpredictable results in New York.
several
top
seeds
knocked
out
before
Home-Field Advantage
Does playing at home affect the outcome of GCSU sports performance? Annalie Parker News Editor There has always been an ongoing debate in sports about whether or not a team playing on their home field truly gives them an advantage in the game.
Dozier, a senior exercise science major
“Last year our record at home was
less nerves because this is the same
and defender on the soccer team,
vastly different than our record on the
environment that we practice in,” said
agrees that the physical aspects of a
road,” Etter said. “We’ve gotten some
Sydney Garrett, a junior biology major
home field are significant and speaks
huge wins at home, and we’ve had
and a pitcher for the softball team. “I
fondly of the Bobcats’ soccer field.
some really bad losses on the road.”
also think that you play more relaxed at
“I think that our soccer team has
Though
the
general
consensus
home because you are not travelling for
the best field in the peach belt, and so
among GCSU’s student-athletes is
I love playing on our field compared
that playing at home impacts several
to other fields,” she said. “That really
different aspects of the game, they
impacts the game a lot when you
agree that the crowd brings an energy
play on a turf field versus grass.”
that pushes the team to perform.
Aside from student-athletes’ own
“I think when we have a big
experiences, statistics also suggest a
game and we draw a good crowd, we
correlation between playing at home
play better,” Etter said. “We feed off of
and winning. A comparative study
our student section’s energy, so they
published in the National Library
definitely provide a big boost for us.”
of Medicine found that home-field
Dozier said the women’s soccer team
“I think the home field advantage
advantage exists across the board,
has already experienced this sort of
is a real thing but ultimately, we are
but particularly in college athletics.
push at the recent start of their season on
taught to not let the environment or
“There was a significant home
the Bobcat Soccer Field. She expressed
field matter,” Garrett said. “We are
advantage, as measured by home
gratitude for the other student-athletes
playing to win no matter where we are.”
the differences in the physical fields
winning percentage, in all sports, both
who came out to support them.
are especially important due to the
college and professional,” the publication
“We had a big crowd early on at
amount of variation across schools.
said. “The overall home advantage
Thundermania and that made us
“Knowing your [pitcher’s] mound
in college sports was significantly
play so much better,” Dozier said.
is a lot better, because you can go
greater than in professional sports.”
“When other teams and athletes
to other places, and their mound
As recalled by Mason Etter, a
come and support us, it’s amazing.”
setup can be different,” he said. “You
senior marketing major and small
In addition to the benefits of
have to work around it and deal
forward for the basketball team,
being
with it if it’s taller, or more flat, or
GCSU’s own statistics reflect the
factor of a home field is the absence
has a bad hole in it or anything.”
same correlation. He noted that the
of
the
The type of field or court can also
difference between the team’s away
with
a
affect the gameplay itself. Lauren
and home wins was noteworthy.
GCSU’s athletes believe that it makes a great difference for several reasons. Between the environment, the fans, the physical field itself and the comforts of home, many athletes prefer playing at home rather than on the road. “I think that it’s not a myth, because there are definitely some real aspects to it,” said Hogan Mayhew, a senior management
major
and
pitcher
on the baseball team. “An example would be knowing your field better than the opposing team would.” Mayhew expressed that as a pitcher,
home,
another
disadvantages trip
to
hours where the nerves can build up.” Whether it’s a field, a court or a pitcher’s mound, the Bobcats seem to agree that there is no place like home when it comes to playing their best game. For information on team schedules
and
ticket
purchasing,
students can visit the Georgia College & State University Athletics website.
important that
come
another
school.
“When game time comes you have
Courtesy of Gil Pound, GCSU Athletics
5
AVA FLORES, SPORTS EDITOR NINA BARTLETT, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
09.22.2026
SPORTS
How NIL has changed college athletics College athletes increasingly rely on brand deals and NIL for extra income Ava Flores Sports Editor
College athletes are increasingly using social media, name, image and likeness deals and sponsorships to earn extra income while balancing academics and athletics. For many student-athletes, holding a traditional part-time job can be difficult because of practices, workouts, games, travel and class schedules. Their days are often packed from morning until night, leaving little time for a regular job. NIL opportunities canprovide athletes with another way to earn money without committing to traditional work hours. “I think it is good because athletes spend a lot of their time playing their sports and they don’t have time to get a job,” said Sienna Solomonson, a sophomore nursing major. “They need NIL and sponsorships in order to get by.” For some athletes, NIL has changed what earning money in college can look like. Instead of working shifts at a
They need NIL and sponsorships in order to get by. -Sienna Solomonson
restaurant, store or other part-time job, athletes may be able to make money by promoting products, attending
events or creating content online. Social media has become an important part of how college athletes build their personal brands. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok and YouTube allow athletes to connect with fans while also promoting themselves to potential sponsors. Some prominent student-athletes on social media are Nebraska volleyball star Harper Murray, LSU women’s basketball player Flau’jae Johnson, and Alabama football player Ryan Williams. Athletes can earn money through sponsored posts, brand partnerships, appearances and other promotional opportunities. A strong social media following can make an athlete more attractive to companies looking to reach younger audiences, especially college students and sports fans. “If I was a popular athlete, I would definitely take advantage of it and try to make money through social media,” said Addison Elmore, a sophomore mass communication major. Athletes do not necessarily have to be nationally known to benefit from NIL opportunities. While star athletes may attract larger companies and national campaigns, student-athletes at smaller schools can also work with local businesses or smaller brands. According to FOX Sports, NIL spending has grown rapidly since the NCAA began allowing college athletes to profit from their name, image and likeness in 2021. Opendorse estimated that Big Ten schools will spend an average of $48.2 million across all sports in 2026, while SEC schools are expected to average $44.5 million. A local restaurant, clothing store, gym or other business may choose to
partner with a college athlete who is recognizable within the community. An athlete with a smaller but highly engaged social media following may still be valuable to a company trying to connect with college students. Social media can also allow athletes to show more of their personalities outside of competition. Instead of only being known for what they do during games, athletes can use their accounts to share their routines, interests, training, fashion, humor or everyday college experiences. That personal connection can help athletes build audiences that continue following them even after their college athletic careers end. However, NIL opportunities can also add responsibilities to an already busy schedule. Student-athletes may have to communicate with companies, negotiate agreements, plan sponsored content and make sure they meet partnership expectations. Creating social media content can also take time. Athletes may have to film videos, take photos, edit posts and respond to followers while still keeping up with practices, games and schoolwork. Due to that, athletes who participate in NIL deals have to balance other responsibilities in addition to being students and athletes. Still, the flexibility of social media and sponsorship opportunities can make NIL attractive. An athlete may be able to create a sponsored post on their own schedule instead of working several scheduled shifts each week. NIL can also provide athletes with experience in areas outside of sports. Working with companies
can teach student-athletes about marketing, communication, branding and business relationships. Managing a personal social media platform can also help athletes understand how their online presence affects the way others view them. As NIL continues to shape
A teenager in sportswear takes a selfie while holding a basketball
college sports, social media is becoming more than a place for athletes to share highlights, celebrate wins and connect with fans. It has also become a business tool. For some student-athletes, building a personal brand online can create opportunities to earn money while continuing to focus on school and sports. As sponsorships and social media continue to become a larger part of college athletics, athletes are finding new ways to turn their visibility into an additional source of income.
Paws Behind the Scenes: GCSU Shuttle Drivers James Cordero Outreach Editor Students
who
take
the Georgia College bus, either because they live on West or want to go to the gym, have probably talked to the drivers. Few students, however, know more about them than just their names and how their day is going. Despite the students being a primary reason
to drive a school bus,
dents enjoy the short
for the drivers, but the
working from 8 am to 9
the tablet tells you to.”
and it’s way different
conversations they get
way they are treated by
pm and students waiting
Drivers drive the same
here than it was there.”
to have with the drivers.
administration.
New
30 minutes at a stop for a
circle every day and can
Another trait of the
“They are very kind,
drivers have taken a
bus to get them because
job of a shuttle driver is
but it kinda depends on
liking to the way the
the last one was full.
meeting a wide variety
the day,” said Sydney
school runs the shuttles.
“I feel like a school I
Schweinfurth, a senior
“It’s just a better place
of people from different walks of life. Being able
ford to pay the bus driv-
to talk to more students
ers more, or get another
It’s exciting because I get to see all the students... but it’s boaring because I’m driving the same route all -Keysha Williams day.
and motivate them for the day can also have an impact on the drivers. “I love seeing different people, and it’s nice
for many drivers choos-
to interact and meet
ing to work at GCSU, stu-
different people,” said
dents don’t interact with
Driver Susan Johnson.
the drivers much past a
“Especially the interna-
simple greeting. Even so,
tional students, because
the bus drivers of GCSU
I haven’t been out of
enjoy the people that get
this country, so it’s nice.”
on their bus each day.
Drivers enjoy talking
“[My
gave $10,000 could af-
motivation]
to students, and stu-
really is the students,”
dents are often willing
said Keysha Williams, a
to have a friendly chat
driver at GCSU. “I used
with them. Some stu-
one,” Schweinfurth said. Despite the fact that
major
and
to be; we are more val-
four year bus rider. “Just
ued as shuttle drivers
like everybody, some-
than school bus driv-
days you don’t want to
ers,”
Williams
said.
talk; other days you re-
GCSU acquired mul-
ally, really want to talk.”
tiple new people to drive
It’s not just the stu-
the shuttles this year, after
dents that made GCSU
they were understaffed
an
last year, with drivers
attractive
option
appreciate it when students talk to them. Students who ride the bus may want to think about going a little farther than just wishing them “good
there are more shuttles
morning” or a “good
on the roads, drivers
rest of their day” and
still recommend plan-
genuinely ask how they
ning accordingly when
are doing or what they
taking one to class and sociology
find it boring, but they
to expect it to be full at certain times of the day. “[A common event is] the bus being full,” Johnson said. “Especially certain times of the day, like nine and ten class, and
did over the weekend. “It’s exciting and boring at the same time,” Williams said. “It’s exciting because I get to see all the students, and everybody is re-
you’re trying to make
spectful, but it’s boar-
sure you get them over
ing because I’m driving
there and leave before
the same route all day.”
6
SYDNEY WILLIAMS, A&L EDITOR ROSALYN CHAPMAN, ASST. A&L EDITOR
09.22.2026
ARTS & LIFE
GC RIDES Sydney Williams Arts & Life Editor
For drivers, it can be a flexible way to earn extra money between class-
GC Rides, a rideshare platform
es and other responsibilities. For stu-
created by students for students, has
dents requesting rides, it provides
become a popular transportation resource on campus, with more than 7,000 students in its group chat.
Jayden Lewis | Art Director
an option when they do not have ac-
al Review report, 13.4% of college
student who appeared to have been
cess to a car or other transportation.
students reported driving after hav-
drugged and was heavily intoxicated.
Having access to another stu-
ing any alcohol in the last 30 days.
“I gave a ride to this girl who
dent who can provide a ride can
While GC Rides was not cre-
got roofied, and she almost threw
also help students avoid getting
ated solely as an alternative to
up in my car,” Swartz said. “She
behind the wheel after drinking.
drunk driving, students say the ser-
looked like the most drunk per-
“I don’t have to worry about driv-
vice can provide another option
son I’ve ever seen in my entire life.”
ing home afterwards,” Griffin said.
when they need to get home safely.
Rather than accepting payment for
“I was broke last semester, and I needed to make some money,” said Mallorie Swartz, a sophomore business major. “One of my friends told me that I could make a quick dollar doing GC Rides.” The system operates through the
“It stops problems with people walk-
platform GroupMe to communicate for
ing or driving home from the bars.”
able transportation option for students who need a ride around Milledgeville,
Students can find themselves help-
tute on Alcohol Abuse and Alco-
students, the experience can also
ing classmates through these unexpect-
holism’s
come with unexpected situations.
ed circumstances. The rideshare sys-
the
Drivers may encounter everything
tem has allowed drivers and riders to
particularly after going out at night.
majority of alcohol-related deaths
from fast food runs to students who
connect within the GCSU community.
Many students find GC Rides reli-
among college students nationwide.
need additional help getting home.
Stories like these demonstrate how
“I had a GC Ride where I took them to
GC Rides has become a way for stu-
col-
Cook Out, and we waited in line for an
dents to make a few extra dollars, while
lege students at the local level.
hour,” Griffin said. “It was very chaotic.”
also providing a safe transportation op-
2023-24
Other experiences have been more
tion and bringing GCSU students to-
Alcohol and Other Drug Bienni-
serious. Swartz recalled giving a ride to a
gether by looking out for one another.
driving
accounts
for
able and a cheaper alternative to Uber,
The
issue
of
alcohol-im-
which is not offered in Milledgeville.
paired
driving
also
affects
“We do it for $3 compared to $15; that’s a very reasonable price,” said Emma
According
Griffin, a sophomore biology major.
SHOWS
to
GCSU’s
Swartz
the ride, Swartz focused on making
Since GC Rides is operated by
paired
students,”
looking
According to the National Insti-
alcohol-im-
for
students
sure the student reached home safely.
CollegeAIM,
out
just
said.
rides, where students can request or offer a ride. The service provides an afford-
“It’s
and put on the TV while I’m getting ready for bed.”
Continued from page 1 Another “Gilmore Girls” fan, Kamber Thalongsengchanh, a senior psychology major, also has a nostalgic hometown connection to the show. “In high school, me and my friends would always watch it, so it kind of reminds me of that and being back home,” Thalongsengchanh said.
Other students, such as Anchaya, feel the same way about the show. After so many rewatches, Anchaya feels able to predict storylines, which gives her peace on taxing days. “It’s not like anything super scary or super bad is going to happen in the show,” Anchaya said.
Sydney Williams | Arts & Life Editor
ally good way to space out of things if you need Thalongsengchanh the
show’s
explained
storylines
had
a
that
for
calming
her, qual-
ity to them, which drew her and her close
I kind of like that, especially living in a world where anything can happen, but the world in ‘Gilmore Girls’ is very predictable and relaxing.”
a minute to give your brain a break,” Davis said.
For GCSU students, it seems these nostalgic
comfort shows have become not just a hobby, but
show.
Some students recommended the overall act of
“It’s a very low drama kind of show; it’s not a lot
watching a nostalgic television program to their
to keep up with,” Thalongsengchanh said. “I also
fellow peers, as they believe the benefit of doing so
From hometown memories to predictable plotlines,
like that I can watch it and not have to be fully pay-
results in an important pause when overwhelmed.
GCSU students have been able to take a break from
ing attention to it, so it’s easy to just wind down
“In general, watching a good TV show is a re-
their demands and relax through these shows.
hometown
friends
to
rewatch
the
a tool to help them get through stressful days.
7
SYDNEY WILLIAMS, A&L EDITOR ROSALYN CHAPMAN, ASST. A&L EDITOR
09.22.2026
ARTS & LIFE
QUILL & CASTLE BOOKS
MILLEDGEVILLE OPENS BOOKSTORE Lawrence Flournoy
fewer new books. The GCSU bookstore is the
Staff Writer
only other bookstore that offers more academ-
A new bookstore, Quill & Castle Books, opened in Milledgeville, offering new, used and rare books, and GCSU students have praised its dark academia aesthetic. Located at 118 N. Wayne St., the bookstore opened on Sept. 2, 2026, allowing students to walk there right from campus. The owner, Paula Mares, highlighted the need for a bookstore in Milledgeville and the chance to give students something else to do. “There was a hole in the market for a bookstore and a place to find new books,” Mares said.
ic books and only a small selection of other books. The bookstore has not even been open for a full month, yet seemingly students already love it and the unique environment it offers. “What I enjoyed most was browsing through all of the books and seeing all of the knickknacks hanging on the walls,” said Chloe McBroom, a junior English, creative writing major. Before moving to Milledgeville, Mares lived in Savannah, Georgia, and brought with her
Milled-
many vintage antiques that she used to add
bookstores.
to the cozy environment of the bookstore.
Walls of Books, located at 1905 N. Colum-
Her motivation to open the bookstore came from
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
bia St., offers a wide selection of used books, but
homeschooling her children for the last 20 years.
the newest and most popular books on display. The
She decided she wanted to sell books because of
front room offers mystery, romance, classics, local in-
her love for reading. She described her home col-
terest and more, while the back room offers religion,
lection as similar to the bookstore, with vintage
fantasy, history, a kids’ section and board games.
antiques and a dark academia aesthetic as well.
Mares also expressed wanting to offer space for oth-
“This is whatmy library athomelooks like,”Mares said.
er purposes. She talked about the possibility of having
Students
of
book clubs for students and locals as well as other events.
atmosphere.
Milledgeville is a smaller town, so opportuni-
“I really like the dark wood and how it looks in-
ties for college, high school and middle school
side,” said Andrew Gordon, a junior marketing major.
kids are limited; however, she is hopeful that the
The books, however, have also had a good reception.
bookstore will open doors to reach more people.
“What makes it unique is the variety of
“My kids just bike, so this might give kids
books and how there is something for every-
around here something else to do,” Mares said.
one here even though it gives off such a clas-
For students and locals interested in checking out
Before geville
Quill had
&
Castle,
two
other
the
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
sic
at
choice,
GCSU
enjoying
have the
approved
cozy
said.
Milledgeville’s newest bookstore, go to quillandcastle-
When people enter the bookstore, they can see
books.com to make a book request or plan an event.
and
traditional
feel,”
McBroom
Campus desk essentials: NeeDohs, squishies and fidget toys Ansleigh Hester
manage stress and stay grounded
efits of squishes or fidgets for people who
moting focus and increasing atten-
Contributing Writer
during the transition to college life.
have trouble focusing on tasks. The im-
tion within students. While GCSU
“They just make life a little easier and
pact that squishies and fidget toys have
students are squishing their squish-
less difficult to manage,” Watkins said.
on focusing is a psychological process.
ies or fidgeting with their hands, they
Roland Rotz of ADDitude Magazine
are having a neurological response
said, “In his book, Spark, John Ratey,
that directly improves their attention
M.D., shows that physical activity, even
to lectures and discussions in class.
something as small as fidgeting the
As fidget toys continue to gain pop-
hands, increases levels of the neurotrans-
ularity, GCSU students are finding
of squishies,” she said. “I have a
mitters dopamine and norepinephrine
that these small objects can provide
lot of non-named brand ones too.”
in the way ADHD medications do.”
comfort, focus and a sense of nostalgia
Nostalgia also plays a big role in
These chemicals play a role in pro-
throughout their college experience.
Throughout
the
2025-26
aca-
demic year, fidget toys, NeeDohs and squishies have become increasingly popular on the GCSU campus, making their way into classrooms and everyday student life. “I do use them because I can focus better on things, like lectures or whatever the professor could be saying; then my brain is not scattered,” said Cady Watkins, a freshman
English
literature
major.
Watkins uses her Speks Gump gel stress ball, a popular stress-relief toy from the brand Speks, to multitask while working on essays and papers for her English classes. “I like them because I really enjoy having something that’s moldable,” she said. “It’s something that I can do absent-mindedly, while I’m
Watkins has a variety of squishies, puddies and fidget toys under the bed in her dorm. Whenever she has free time or is reading a book for an English class, she plays with her Speks Gump squishy. “I have a lot of the NeeDoh brand
GCSU students’ love for squishies. When Watkins was a child, slow-rising
foam
squishies
were
in-de-
mand. Watkins associates squishies with the “2026 is the new 2016” fad. “I think a lot of people really want to relive those times because it was easier and social media wasn’t swallowing everything up,” Watkins said. “I think for me, I’ve just always enjoyed fidgets.” Ava Browning, a freshman biolo-
trying to focus on something else.”
gy major, has multiple fidget toys that
Watkins likes to play with her fa-
click or rotate. She collects fidgets that
vorite squishy while listening to her
keep her energized, not distracted.
professor’s lectures. She believes they
“I like that they give me something
have become a popular trend among
to do and stimulate my mind,” she said.
freshman students because it makes
Browning and many other GCSU
life simpler and less demanding.
students like having a physical object
“I think they’ve become so pop-
in their hand, like a NeeDoh or fidget
ular because we live in a very stress-
cube, while concentrating on a subject.
ful world, and social media has
“I
use
them
while
study-
become so consuming,” she said.
ing and reading in class because
For many GCSU students, fid-
I can’t sit still,” Browning said.
get toys provide a simple way to
ADDitude Magazine details the ben-
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
8
SYDNEY WILLIAMS, A&L EDITOR ROSALYN CHAPMAN, ASST. A&L EDITOR
09.22.2026
ARTS & LIFE
CAB takes trip to Six Flags Fright Fest Nina Bartlett Asst. Sports Editor
lynn Teague, the trip was an opportu-
meet other GCSU students she normal-
nity to visit Six Flags for the first time.
ly would not talk to. She stayed with
For many college students, week-
“I wanted to sign up for the Fright
people she knew while also recogniz-
ends are spent catching up on school-
Fest trip because I knew my friend Vic-
ing other students throughout the park.
work, staying on campus or spend-
toria wanted to go,” she said. “And I also
ing time with friends. On Sept. 19,
wanted to go because I’ve never been and
ter CAB’s Georgia Aquarium trip
30 Georgia College & State Uni-
I really like haunted houses and stuff.”
last semester, which CAB Direc-
Teague said she expected the trip to
tor Charley Countess said received
feel more like a high school field trip,
a positive response from students.
where students would be monitored
“Last semester, we did the Geor-
more closely and have more rules. In-
gia Aquarium, and it was a huge hit,”
stead, she enjoyed having the freedom
Countess said. “A lot of people not
to explore the park with her friends.
only enjoyed it, but were really ex-
The Halloween attractions were
cited for us to do a different event.”
a major part of Teague’s experience.
Countess, a senior philosophy ma-
its events affordable and convenient
She said the scare actors were outgo-
jor, said CAB wanted to organize an-
by handling transportation, food and
ing and willing to interact with visi-
other off-campus activity and chose
other details. For Teague, the low cost
tors, while the haunted houses gave
Six Flags because of its fall attractions.
was just one of the reasons she would
her the thrill she was looking for.
Planning the event required CAB
consider attending another CAB trip.
One of the more memorable mo-
members to work with Six Flags on
“I definitely would go on an-
ments came after Teague and her
group bookings, create an itinerary
friend left The Conjuring haunted
and divide responsibilities among the
house. Heavy rain began, sending
organization’s five members who at-
them into a gift shop to wait it out.
tended the trip. CAB also provided
“It was cool just seeing everybody
Chick-fil-A for lunch and ordered
chill out for once,” she said. “At Six Flags,
snacks and drinks from Walmart.
it’s always like, go, go, go, very high en-
“We usually do a food order,
ergy. So it was nice to just be able to relax
so we have been working on buy-
without feeling like I’m wasting the day.”
ing Chick-fil-A for all the students
“It kind of just allows students to
Beyond the rides and attractions,
as just a free lunch to have while
recognize that not everything on cam-
Teague said the trip allowed her to
they’re on the bus,” Countess said.
pus is about academics,” Countess said.
outfits
not
versity students traded their usual Saturday plans for roller coasters, haunted houses and scare actors at Six Flags Over Georgia’s Fright Fest. The Campus Activities Board organized the daylong trip, which ran from noon to midnight and cost students $15.
Courtesy of Kaitlynn Teague
The price included admission, lunch and transportation to and from the park. For freshman history major Kait-
The
Six
Flags
trip
came
af-
Courtesy of Kaitlynn Teague
Countess said CAB tries to make
other CAB trip like this,” Teague said. “It was really nice to be able to go to Six Flags for only $15.” Countess said CAB hopes to continue organizing day trips each semester as a way for students to spend time outside of their academic responsibilities.
The 78th Annual Emmy Awards Rosalyn Chapman Asst. A&L Editor
favorite
and
ranging
from
wildest
elegance
to
of
the
night,
extravagance.
“I volved
was in
expecting the
skit,”
Taylor
to
Broadnax
be
insaid.
The 78th Emmy Awards ceremony was held
The dress code for the Emmy Awards is formal attire.
As expected by students, fans noticed that the
on Sept. 14, hosted by actor Mariska Hargi-
Most followed the rules and dressed in their classiest
skit itself was likely a hint to an upcoming re-
tay, and GCSU students shared their reactions
look, with the exception of Megan Stalter, who painted
lease as she uttered a series of random words.
to their favorite fashion moments, celebrity ap-
herself in gold to look like the Emmy Award statuette.
pearances and the biggest wins of the night.
“She really went above and beyond,” said Lau-
“I was surprised that ‘Widow’s Bay’ won so
ren Broadnax, a senior elementary education
many awards because it’s in its first season,”
major. “I wonder how long it took her to dress
said Emeline Brady, a senior business major.
like the Emmy Award trophy. I think it’s real-
This year, the comedy horror series won
ly fun when people get creative and dress on-
The cryptic message spoken by Swift was, “Saccharide, Aries, from the vineyard, north or south.” “I
know
someone
out
there
has
proba-
bly cracked the code to all her easter eggs,” Broadnax said. “I thought it was hilarious regardless if she has something up her sleeve.”
along
theme. It makes the show more entertaining.”
with 13 other awards, breaking the stand-
Throughout the show, host Hargitay performed
ing record for most awards in a single season.
several skits between awards. One skit in particu-
It was praised for winning such honor-
lar caught students’ attention and involved a sur-
ary awards since its release on April 29, 2026.
prise appearance by singer-songwriter Taylor Swift.
the second time after winning the same award last year.
“I had never heard of it before, but it’s really exciting
The pre-recorded parody made fun of Swift’s
For students who missed the Emmy Awards
for them and it makes me want to watch it,” Brady said.
fanbase, who are known for trying to de-
this year, they can stream the show on Pea-
As celebrities strolled onto the red carpet, stu-
code everything that she does on the inter-
cock, where they can check out each significant
dents were surprised to see some of their favor-
net before the release of a song or an album.
moment that occurred throughout the night.
for
“Outstanding
Comedy
Series”
The award show ended with the medical drama “The Pitt” winning for “Outstanding Drama Series.” The series’s creators and actors accepted the award for
ite actors, musicians and public icons arrive. Notable stars that attended the awards were Zendaya,
Florence
Pugh
and
Elle
Fanning.
“I loved Zendaya’s look and thought she just looked so glamorous,” Brady said. “Shailene Woodley’s outfit was probably the worst look of the night for me though. It just didn’t look put together or styled well.” Students also gave their opinions on their
Jayden Lewis | Art Director
9 JANE CARR, MANAGING EDITOR
09.22.2026
The Caterwaul CATERWAUL: a shrill howling or wailing noise like that of a cat; commonly associated with a bobcat
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BELLAS By: James Cordero This portabella mushroom recipe will make you wish it were your birthday. Cut 8 ounces of Baby Portabella mushrooms a quarter inch thick, keeping that classic mushroom shape. In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 3/4 teaspoon cumin, 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder, and a pinch of turmeric, mixing thoroughly. Add 1/4 cup cold water and mix until consistent, then add 1/4 cup distilled vinegar and 1/8 cup vinegar-based hot sauce. Check that the batter is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, yet leaves a distinct line when you run your finger along the back. If it is not to your liking, add flour to thicken or water to loosen the batter. Preheat 1/2 cup neutral oil to 350º F, or medium-high heat. Dunk the sliced mushrooms into the batter and tap them on the side of the bowl to remove any excess before placing them in the oil. Once the mushrooms get light golden brown, flip them to get an even color and crispiness. Once removed from the oil, place them on a paper towel-lined plate and salt lightly. I recommend frying them in small batches to speed up the process.
A message from the Colonnade staff On behalf of The Colonnade staff we would like to present our submission column, “The Caterwaul.” This is an opportunity for students to share their poetry, flash fiction, photography, drawing, comic strips and more. We are extremely excited to give students more of a place in the paper and for their creativity to be acknowledged and published. We encourage any and all students to reach out and ask questions. In the spirit of GCSU’s mascot, Thunder, the name of this column takes inspiration from all that is a bobcat. Caterwauling is the noise bobcats make often, and that is what The Colonnade intends to do with this column: make noise with your voice.
Interested in submitting?
If you are interested in submitting your work to be featured in The Caterwaul, consider this general info! 1. The content relates to or is catered toward GCSU students. 2. Your specific piece has not been published anywhere else. 3. Examples of submissions include; Photography, drawing, flash fiction, comic strips, poetry and more!
Follow our instagram @thecolonnade or scan the QR code
4. Submissions are due on Fridays to be included in the following Issue.