FALL BACK INTO PLACE
WHAT’S INSIDE
Your pick of the patch: a Homecoming events guide
By LIBBY ADDISON The Breeze
This Homecoming, there are many events hosted by the university which celebrate JMU. Here are a few Homecoming weekend ctivities that are either free or low-cost for alumni, family and students across campus. Additional information can be found on JMU’s website.
Autumn Attire Harvest
Donate your business casual clothing to the JMU Career Closet. Locations include Leeolou Alumni Center on Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Hotel Madison front desk from Friday to Sunday; Hartman Hall from Friday to Sunday; and Harrison Hall from Friday to Sunday.
QuadFest
The Quad will be full of free food and activities for the entire family to enjoy as well as performances from groups including the Marching Royal Dukes, Dukettes Dance Team and the JMU Cheer Team. QuadFest will last
Friday, Oct. 25
Saturday, Oct. 26
Picnic and Potluck at the JMU Farm
JMU’s geology and environmental science department will host a potluck from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Located at the JMU Farm, students, faculty, staff and alumni are encouraged to meet and mingle.
Math and Statistics Homecoming Cookout
The Math and Statistics Homecoming Cookout will take place Saturday at University Park (UPARK) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends are welcome.
Saturday tailgates:
College of Business Tailgate
Located on the second floor of Hartman Hall, College of Business (CoB) alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends are welcome to the CoB tailgate. You must be 21 or older to attend and pre-register for the event.
College of Education Alumni Tailgate
College of Education alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends are welcome to the college’s tailgate, which is located on Hillside Field from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Homecoming Tailgate
Located on Hanson Field, this tailgate is open to all students and their families from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Registration and tickets are required, which are available on JMU’s website. Registration includes an all-you-can-eat barbeque buffet, four drink tickets, soft drinks and water.
A student’s recommendations for sipping the perfect autumn drink
By ISABEL LEWIS contributing writer
Looking for a pumpkin spice latte? Here are some Harrisonburg locations to try.
As the weather cools down and the leaves begin to fall, students look for different ways to get in the fall spirit. Whether it’s wearing a favorite sweater, going leaf peeping or visiting a pumpkin patch, there are plenty of snack options on and around campus to satiate your autumn desires.
Several cafes and dining locations nearby offer a seasonal fall menu. Most cafes have twists on the original Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), while some offer new and unique fall drinks.
The Pumpkin Spice Latte’s creator: Starbucks
Starbucks released the famous PSL in 2003.
Peter Dukes, who led the espresso beverage team at the time, is credited with the original creation of the PSL. The drink has a flavorful cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin and clove blend.
The ever-popular fall-themed drink has inspired the creation of many other drinks and treats — such as Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai, Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato and the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso.
In addition, the Pecan Crunch Oatmilk Latte and the Iced Apple Crisp Nondairy Cream Chai made their debut among Starbucks’ variety of fall-themed drinks this season.
Last year marked the release of the Pumpkin Cream Chai Latte and the Apple Crisp Oat Milk Shaken Espresso.
A Starbucks barista in Rose Library said the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai is overwhelmingly the most popular fall beverage among Dukes. In addition, Starbucks has seen a shift in cafeculture to prefer non-dairy milks due to the increased popularity of plant-based milks such as oat and soy.
“We have more versatility when it comes to customization,” junior and Mr. Chips Starbucks barista Emily Stratford said. “We have a pumpkin spice powder that we put on top of the cold foam. You can also change what kind of milk you want to do. I really love the Pumpkin Cream Chai, and I like to add brown sugar and vanilla syrup in it. It’s such a cozy drink to me. It’s such a perfect drink all around.”
Apart from its flavor, these drinks also evoke the cozy and nostalgic feeling people look for when they picture fall. Ordering fall beverages has become a seasonal ritual, among other fall-related activities like rewatching “Gilmore Girls” or wearing fuzzy socks.
Treats in The Union
Merge Coffee Company, located in Taylor Down Under (TDU), advertises its fall-themed drink this season: a Pumpkin Chai Latte.
Merge is a family-owned, local business with three locations in Harrisonburg — one on Mount Clinton Pike near Eastern Mennonite University’s campus, and Nightcap, its cafe that’s open until 9 p.m.
“The drink has pumpkin mixed into our chai and pumpkin cold foam,” sophomore and Merge barista Sofia Scott said.
Merge offers an option for a fall-drink fix with local roots. Scott said what sets its drink apart from leading companies like Starbucks and Dunkin’ are ingredients, and Merge is committed to community and quality.
The coffee shop is offering a pumpkin spice muffin to pair with its fall beverage. This cozy fall combo is perfect for a crisp fall day between classes.
from AUTUMN DRINKS, page 8
Comfort drinks and meals at grace+main cafe
The grace+main cafe is located inside Hotel Madison, near the on-campus Grace Street Apartments — a convenient spot for students. This nearby cafe combines with Monty’s upscale dining restaurant, previously known as Montpelier Restaurant, offering both casual and fine-dining options under one roof.
According to barista Jack Logan, its best fall drink is the Pumpkin Pie Latte. Other popular options include the Honey Lavender Latte, made with honey and lavender syrups to create a flowery and nature-esque taste. Additionally, it has a Blueberry Pancake Latte, made with white chocolate sauce, caramel sauce and blueberry syrup. The blueberry complements the strong espresso, giving it a delicate, fruity taste.
Besides coffee and tea, the cafe sells food items like pizzas, sandwiches and bakery options. It also has a mini quiche and spinach feta puff pastry, perfect for an afternoon with warm comfort foods. Its blueberry cheese Danish pairs well with its Blueberry Pancake Latte. It has several types of margherita pizza for those looking for an Italian twist on its seasonal snacks.
“[The Pumpkin Pie Latte is made of] caramel, white mocha and pumpkin spice, and you can choose any milk with it,” Logan said. “The syrup we use is more than getting a pumpkin spice latte.”
The Pumpkin Pie Latte uses a pumpkin spice concentrate to create a full-bodied and rich fall flavor that’s perfect for the season.
Its menu says it uses white chocolate sauce, pumpkin spice syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon to flavor its Pumpkin Pie Latte, which can be purchased hot or iced.
Cinnamon spice and everything nice at Java City
Java City Coffee Roasters is located on D-Hall’s first floor — perfect for students who want to grab a quick coffee. This season, it offers The Great Pumpkin Latte and Chocolate Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew for its fall specialties.
Java City uses 100% sustainably certified coffee and espresso, according to its website. The cafe is open seven days a week: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
Java City offers its Cinnamon Spice Latte all year, which is the shop’s most popular drink among Dukes, per its baristas. When the fall season is over and you’re still craving a cozy drink, the Cinnamon Spice Latte is the way to go.
According to its website, the brand uses green coffee beans. This choice offers a unique flavor profile, setting Java City coffee apart from its competitors.
Dukes on Dunkin’
Dunkin’ is located in the Student Success Center (SSC), making it a popular destination for students. On an average weekday, you can see them lined up across the whole first floor of the SSC. This season, the coffee chain will serve its Pumpkin Spice Iced Signature Latte, alongside its pastry companion: the Pumpkin Donut. This duo’s become a go-to pair for a pumpkin spice fix. Additionally, it offers an Almond Spice Iced Latte and Maple Sugar Bacon Breakfast Sandwich.
Dunkin’ also debuted its newest fall drink this season: the Dunkalatte. What makes this drink stand out from its other lattes, is that instead of using milk, it uses coffee milk — milk flavored with coffee extract.
The new drink has taken the internet by storm. It’s said to taste like a melted milkshake. Coffee milk makes the drink creamier, giving it the cozy vibe customers look for. Although the drink doesn’t have traditional fall spices like pumpkin and cinnamon, it’s still attracted a large audience that’s excited to try coffee milk.
Black Sheep Coffee
Located in downtown Harrisonburg, this shop offers a variety of unique fall drinks. In addition to the staple pumpkin spice latte, Black Sheep also serves a Toffee Nut Chai, Maple Spice Brown Sugar Latte, Honey Cardamom Latte and Vanilla Rooibos Tea Steamed.
Its Toffee Nut Chai gives a nutty flavor to a regular chai latte, adding more depth to its fall flavor. Its Honey Cardamom Latte has a similar nutty taste with a creamy flare, like a chai latte but made with espresso. Its Vanilla Rooibos Tea Steamed is sweet and smooth, with lavish milk foam on top. In addition to its fall seasonal drinks, it has specialty drinks like its London Frog: a London fog latte made with a unique rosemary cold foam.
This diverse offering of drinks allows students and customers to try something new this fall, instead of resorting to the classic pumpkin spice latte. The drinks can be made hot or iced, which is perfect for the uncertain fall weather.
CONTACT Isabel Lewis at lewisik@dukes.jmu.edu. For more on the culture, arts and lifestyle of the JMU and Harrisonburg communities, follow the culture desk on X @TheBreezeJMU and Instagram @BreezeJMU.
DUKE DOG THROUGH THE YEARS
Game-day style lookbook
By LIBBY ADDISON The Breeze
For Dukes who love JMU football, tailgating is way of showcasing school spirit. Dressing for the occasion is tradition, as students don their best JMU gear — whether it’s hoodies, accessories or creative attire — the right look lets students express unique style. Here are a few current game-day style trends:
Clear bags are a must for game day, since they’re the only type allowed into Bridgeforth Stadium. They can be easily accessorized with game-day pins and fun straps to showcase personality.
Rebuilding a tradition: SGA revives Homecoming Parade
By KAYLA KATOUNAS contributing writer
After years of absence, a tradition is returning to JMU this fall: the Homecoming Parade.
The Student Government Association (SGA) resurrected the classic event to get students more invested in the typically alumni-centered Homecoming festivities. The parade, held Oct. 25 at 4 p.m., will travel from Festival Lawn to the Quad and feature student organizations, alumni and more. Onlookers are invited along the parade route to watch students, staff and alumni as they pass.
“Getting students excited, making floats [and] getting them to participate in this parade gives them an activity to do during homecoming, which is really exciting, and also allows them the opportunity to connect with alumni members,” senior public administration major and Student Body President Brielle Lacroix said.
The Homecoming Parade has taken place at JMU in the past, though it’s been several years since its last occurrence. After last year’s
Legislative Affairs Chair Marcus Rand (’23) found photos of past parades in old yearbooks, he proposed its comeback.
“When I got into [the] role [of Student Body President] this year, [the parade] was something that I really wanted to prioritize and take on,” Lacroix said.
The SGA began planning the event over the summer, and it considered multiple routes and locations before deciding to hold the event on campus.
“Originally, we wanted the Homecoming Parade in the Harrisonburg community,” Lacroix said. “We wanted to go downtown, not on campus, because we really wanted it to be an opportunity for the Harrisonburg community to also participate in Homecoming.”
Lacroix said holding the parade proved impossible due to cost, permits and required planning, but there was still an effort to include the Harrisonburg community. She added that the SGA contacted downtown businesses downtown and local high schools. The event will feature high
school marching band performers and two 18-wheeler trucks, one owned by a Harrisonburg trucking company.
Holding the event on campus required contact with the following JMU groups: Alumni Association, Office of Student Life, Police Department, Athletics, Event Management, Student Affairs and Facilities Management. These connections helped determine road closures and safety precautions to clear the parade route.
In addition to finalizing logistics, the SGA reached out to student orgs, asking them to walk in the parade. Organizations participating this year include Student Ambassadors, SafeRides, Dancing Dukes, Alpha Phi Omega, HerCampus, Club Taekwondo, Madison Motorsports, softball, cheer and the Dukettes. The Marching Royal Dukes will also perform in the parade.
Some participants are already preparing themselves for the festivities. For instance, the Dancing Dukes’ performance troupe has been practicing a dance for the parade since its announcement.
“We’re just really excited to teach these girls a dance and to show everyone what we got,” junior graphic design major and Dancing Dukes President Joelle Juneau said.
The parade will also welcome alumni who were members of the participating student organizations to walk.
“It’s nice to be able to reach out to those alumni and take a look back on how the club has progressed,” Juneau said. “I think it’s just beautiful to see the timeline of it.”
The event provides an avenue for students and alumni to connect — organization alumni were invited to sign up for the parade via the Alumni Association’s website.
“I think that the more invested students are now, the more likely they’ll be to be engaged as alumni,” junior international affairs major and SGA Historian Grace Treml said. “And I also think it provides a really cool opportunity for students to meet alumni and be in that space without it feeling like a formal networking event.”
This year, many student orgs wanted to participate in the parade but were unable to due to missing the early sign-up deadline Sept. 8, Lacroix said. She and Treml both said they’re interested in expanding the parade to include more student orgs, Harrisonburg businesses and alumni in the future.
Lacroix also mentioned incorporating competition — such as a float decorating contest — to get students more involved. She said she believes making the parade a larger, more popular event will help establish it as a permanent JMU Homecoming tradition.
“I think we’re trying to set a framework that’s hopefully able to be replicated and be able to succeed in the future,” Treml said. “Even though it’s bringing so many different people across campus together, hopefully it’s doing it in a way that’s sustainable and able to be continued on as a tradition, and not just exist as a one-time thing.”
Participating groups like Dancing Dukes are also looking forward to making the parade a tradition within their clubs, Juneau said.
“If they have us back, I would love to do it again,” Juneau said. “We’re very excited for the parade.”
The parade will travel from Festival Lawn, past King Hall and across the bridge onto Main Campus. It will then pass the bookstore, Hillside, the Student Success Center and finish on the Quad, where QuadFest will start at 5 p.m.
“The success of the event really depends on the amount of bodies that are there, even if it’s for five seconds to take a break from your studying or whatever you’re up to,” Lacroix said. “Whatever’s going on that day, just show up, stand, watch the parade, cheer, get some candy.”
CONTACT Kayla Katounas at katounkm@dukes.jmu.edu. For more on the culture, arts and lifestyle of the JMU and Harrisonburg communities, follow the culture desk on X @TheBreezeJMU and Instagram @BreezeJMU.
HEY DUKES LET’S GO DUKES!
One Duke’s preparation guide for Swae Lee’s Homecoming performance
By EVAN MOODY The Breeze
Chances are, Swae Lee wasn’t your most-streamed artist last year. However, Lee has likely provided an infectious hook on your top artist’s most popular song.
With collaborations like Travis Scott, Post Malone and even Madonna, the southern rapper’s style is easily recognizable and will be showcased as the headlining act at this year’s Homecoming concert.
Lee is best known for his ability to adapt to genres, his hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd and features on some of the most recognizable songs of our generation: “Sunflower” and “Unforgettable.” Complete with the best of his previous work with Slim Jxmmi, here are the tracks to prepare for his takeover of the Atlantic Union Bank Center (AUBC), so you can go bar-for-bar with the artist.
“No Type” - Rae Sremmurd
Throwing it back to 2015, this track comes from the latter half of Rae Sremmurd’s debut album “SremmLife.” While not the most popular track off the tape — “This Could Be Us” — anyone involved in the hip-hop scene during this time will recognize the provoking melody of this hit.
Completed with production from Mike WiLL Made-It, this banger is a perfect introduction to Lee and the era that placed his voice on a pedestal. According to setlist.fm, the song is Lee’s personal favorite to open his longer sets with, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he decided to do the same at JMU.
“This Could Be Us” - Rae Sremmurd
Continuing with the duo’s successful debut album, “This Could Be Us” is another key, mid-2010s track that’s essential to learn for Lee’s Harrisonburg show. While Mike WiLL Made-It’s production takes a more passive approach with piano keys and a slower tempo, the track features another signature hook from the duo: “So back to what I was saying / This could be us but you playing.”
As time has passed since the track’s release, it’s only grown in popularity due to its timelessness. It wouldn’t be out of reach to hear while pregaming today. With changes in beats per minute (BPM) throughout the song, this track is sure to be a crowd favorite.
“Swang” - Rae Sremmurd
Coming off Rae Sremmurd’s second record from 2016, “SremmLife 2,” “Swang” is a fan-favorite that wasn’t propelled into commercial success like previous tracks. With horns that build upon one another into 808s and high hats, there’s no doubt that this song was meant for stadiums.
In “Swang,” the hip-hop duo matures from its previous work and collaborate with producer P-Natzy. As Swae Lee and brother Slim Jxmmi trade bars, P-Natzy cuts the beat out and back in to fully build upon the tension of the party track. It’s difficult not to think of simpler times from the song’s release date when listening, and the track will surely be a great transition into other material at Lee’s Homecoming show.
“Powerglide (feat. Juicy J)” - Rae Sremmurd
After the song’s debut in 2018, it was difficult not to see a sports highlight reel, car with the windows down or hype playlist that didn’t feature the track. Returning to the group’s roots with Mike WiLL MadeIt production, this track is an easily recognizable hit from the duo and hones another infectious, easy-to-sing melody.
On the song, Juicy J delivers respectable accompanying verses blended well with the duo’s floating upon the beat and propels the song to a longer, five-minute runtime. According to setlist.fm, Swae Lee typically ends his shows with the track, leaving attendees with a great impression as they head toward the doors and into the night.
“Sativa” - Rae Sremmurd
Moving from Swae Lee’s previous work with Slim Jxmmi, “Sativa” is a complete turnaround. Going from quickly paced hip hop to a spacy R&B love track, Lee does more than his part on Aiko’s song, even outshining the artist. Despite the change, Lee delivers a memorable chorus that sets a bar and blends his rap experience perfectly.
On the hook, he sings, “Why you make it so complicated? / Off the drink, we concentration’ / I know you won’t leave me hangin’ / Smokin’ weed out the container.” As a slower track, I expect Lee to showcase his vocals by performing the song at some point during the show, breaking things down before another banger.
“Sunflower”Post Malone, Swae Lee
Even if you’re not a movie fanatic, Marvel fan or a Post Malone listener, there’s no denying the rhythms of this track. Released for the film “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” this song perfectly showcases Lee’s talented writing on the hook and is undoubtedly his largest song to date.
Switching into the pop genre with industry titan Post Malone, Lee adapts well yet again and delivers a great verse to begin the track. The production is the epitome of a feel-good, soul-lifting song, and the track is sure to be the loudest song sung in the AUBC. You’ll want to know the track inside and out before the Homecoming performance.
Before Lee’s performance, DJ HORIZONTE and DJ Ronald Jonald will be performing to kick off the concert. Tickets are available through JMU Ticketing.
CONTACT Evan Moody at moodyte@dukes.jmu.edu. For more on the culture, arts and lifestyle of the JMU and Harrisonburg communities, follow the culture desk on X @TheBreezeJMU and Instagram @BreezeJMU.
WHICH HARRISONBURG BAR ARE YOU?
1. You sit down at the bar, what's the first thing you order?
A . Classic vodka cran.
B. You confidently order a Long Island!
C . Old fashion, please!
D . You opt for your favorite beer.
E . You boldly yell, “Give me a trashcan!”
5. What's your go-to pregame song?
A. “The Spins” by Mac Miller
2. What classic Halloween costume are you?
A . You stick with the nurse/doctor costume from last year.
B . You’re, unfortunately, a little unlucky— just like a black cat.
C . A witch/wizard: A little mysterious and anything but boring.
D . A ghost: You like to keep things simple and light.
B. “All Night Longer” by Sammy Adams
C. “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
D. “You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC
E . “No Hands” by Waka Flocka Flame
3.At the bar, typically you are …
A . a karaoke star!
B . talking to everyone you know! Quite the social butterfly.
C. going with the flow! Wherever your friends take you, you’re having a good time.
D . observing. You’ve always been more of a people watcher anyways.
E . busting a move, you’re the dancing queen!
By Maya Skurski
4. Your fall obsession is …
A. Sweater weather!
B. You can’t get enough pumpkin spice!
C. Can’t go wrong with a caramel apple!
D. Football season, obviously!
E . With the way you stay up all night, a vampire.
6.Which JMU tradition are you?
A. “Dukes hold doors”.
B. Stealing a Quad brick!
C. Refusing to step on the Quad’s circular plaque.
D. Swimming in Newman Lake.
E. Rubbing “Little Jimmy’s” nose for good luck.
7. It’s “Thirsty Thursday” at 8 p.m. You …
A. have no plans! Finally!
B. are ready to go out! Why are your friends not already here?
C. are finishing up this week’s homework.
D. already ordered your third drink!
E. decide to go wherever the night takes you.
E. You go straight for the haunted houses!
8. It’s football season! What’s your game day routine?
A . You take on the cheerleader persona, repping every purple clothing item you own.
B. You’re hosting the biggest watch party Harrisonburg has ever seen!
C. The game day rituals never change, you have to stick to the routine your dad taught you.
D. You take this very seriously, but it's all about your fantasy league.
E. Get to the tailgate ASAP!
MOSTLY A’S …
You are Ruby’s Lounge! You're the type of friend who never says no to plans — a free spirit who can’t resist a night out, no matter how hard you try. Your relaxed attitude means you're up for anything — including Tuesday night karaoke. While you bounce between craving a dance-off and yapping at the bar, Ruby’s has the vibe for your indecisiveness. You might not always know what to expect, but that's part of the charm, and you embrace the unpredictability of a night like the one at Ruby’s.
MOSTLY B’S …
You are Urgie’s Cheesesteaks! Radiating a bright energy and charisma that brings people together you take charge of social situations and can talk about anything. Your ability to listen makes you a trusted friend to all. Just like Urgie’s, which is bursting with excitement and chatter, you thrive in social settings and know how to keep the conversation flowing. Your friends would describe you as loyal, outgoing and family-oriented. Your way with people makes you the friend everyone loves to be around.
MOSTLY C’S …
You are Billy Jack’s Shack! You’re a comforting presence, giving your friends a sense of reliability. They see you as someone who’s always there, ready to lend a hand or ear. You make people feel at ease, a lot like Harrisonburg’s most classic bar. College kids flock to Billy Jack’s, and it’s not difficult to see why; the sense of home is hard to avoid, just like with you. Just like the graffitied walls of Billy Jack’s, you’re filled with exciting stories and your easy charm brings good company and good times throughout long nights.
MOSTLY D’S …
You are Finnigan’s Cove! Like Finn’s, you offer a chill refuge to your friends. You prefer a bit more of a mellow scene — one where you can have intimate conversations with a few friends, rather than in a big group. Your presence brings a nonjudgmental vibe that invites a feeling of ease. While you may not be the center of attention, you know how to close out a night better than the rest of your friends. You probably have a sleeve full of dad jokes and know how to keep your friends laughing until the sun comes up.
MOSTLY E’S …
You are The Golden Pony! Loud and exciting are two words that have been used to describe you. You really are the “life of the party” and can bust moves like nobody’s business. You know how to keep spirits high and drinks flowing. You thrive in high-energy environments and always challenge your friends to live every moment as their last. Everything is a celebration with you, creating a space where everyone feels comfortable and ready to enjoy themselves. Like the loud music at The Golden Pony, you ensure every outing is unforgettable and spirited.
The best place for banking isn’t a bank at all!
CommonWealth One is JMU’s trusted, full-service credit union, and student banking is better here. We’re conveniently located on campus and offer everything you might need financially as a student. What we don’t have? Excessive and unnecessary fees.
When it comes to handling your finances as a student, we’ve got your back with:
The secret is out – CommonWealth One is here to help you thrive financially at
To open an account or learn more about JMU Student Perks, which include special events, free food and prizes, visit cofcu.org/DUKES or stop by our branch in The Union (next to the post office)