Issue 2 | Volume 107

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University February 10, 2026

Single Copies Free

bobcatmultimedia.com

Milly Day Trips Lillian Winn Staff Writer

Amelia McEwen | Managing Editor

GCSU STUDENTS HOLD “STAND AGAINST ICE” PROTEST ON CAMPUS Elizabeth Kohler Staff Writer Students walked out of class on Friday, Jan. 30, at 11:30 a.m. to gather at the Arts & Sciences fountain and march around campus to speak out against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) recent involvement in the deaths and deportation of citizens.

The protest was organized and led by the GCSU Mutual Aid Society as part of a greater nationwide anti-ICE strike and walkout involving hundreds of schools.

“The intention of this strike is to gather Georgia College students as best we can, to show what the power of organizing can do,” said Patrick Lingafelt, president of GCSU Mutual Aid Society.

The protest called for an end to ICE operations in Minnesota and justice for affected individuals. A strike was held against shopping, school and work as well.

Other activist clubs joined Mutual Aid, such as the GCSU Black Student Alliance.

“We cannot go along with our normal, every-

day lives when people are going through these tough times,” said Daisha Brown, president of the Black Student Alliance.

On Jan. 7, 37-year-old mother, Renee Good, was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Good was in her SUV, partially blocking a residential street, while observing a group of ICE agents a few blocks from her home.

According to Reuters, Good attempted to pull away from the scene, appearing to make contact with ICE officer Jonathan Ross as she re-

2026 WORLD CUP

GCSU gears up for soccer takeover Annalie Parker Asst. News Editor The FIFA World Cup has made its way to North America, holding matches in 16 different cities

Atlanta has hosted multiple

international

other events combined.

“It’s definitely going

soccer games, as Mer-

to attract a lot of tour-

cedes-Benz Stadium has

ists, and that’s why the

hosted events like the

prices are so high, but

versed. Reuters could not determine how the contact was made. Ross then fired three shots at Good as she drove away.

Good’s SUV crashed into a parked car and a lamppost shortly after the incident. She was later taken to Hennepin County Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.

Only a few weeks later, on Jan. 24, 37-yearold intensive care unit nurse Alex Pretti was also shot multiple times

by ICE agents in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

With warm weather and lighter spring schedules ahead, many GCSU students are looking for quick getaways close to home, and central Georgia offers plenty of easy day-trip options within driving distance of Milledgeville.

From Athens and Madison to Macon and beyond, a free afternoon and a tank of gas can lead to lasting memories with friends.

About 40 minutes from Milledgeville resides Monticello, a quiet, cozy town most known for being the hometown of Trisha Yearwood, a well-known country singer. Students said that it is the perfect spot to take a relaxing afternoon to shop, eat and enjoy time in nature.

There is lots to do

See ICE PROTEST | Page 3

and see in Monticello, both indoor and outdoor activities, along with unique restaurants and coffee shops.

Students said that Monticello holds a multitude of delicious eateries. Ashleigh Ellis, a senior nursing major, dove into some of her favorite destinations. Ellis said she always enjoys Mesquite, a local Mexican restaurant in Monticello.

“Every time I’ve eaten there the food has always been delicious,” Ellis said.

The students also recommended starting the day with a latte from Morning Grind Coffee, and if lunch is on the itinerary, Five Loaves Bakery is a great spot to grab a fresh sandwich and a baked treat. As for dinner, students said Martha Jane’s Southern Cookin’ is a must for authentic southern cuisine.

See DAY TRIPS | Page 9

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

The reality of dating:

GCSU students share their crazy dating stories Lily Mahaffey

friendships and relation-

walked me back to my

Staff Writer

ships frequently crossing

dorm, he asked if I had

paths. What may begin

ever been in the reflec-

as a casual interaction

tion pool, then he just

or mutual friend intro-

threw me in it. I was

duction can quickly turn

extremely

into something more, or

guard at that moment.”

As Valentine’s Day approaches, GCSU students are opening up about their dating experiences,

including

Copa America tourna-

I’m pretty hyped that

across Mexico, Canada

ment in 2024 and the

the World Cup is going

and the United States.

Premier League sum-

to be at Mercedes-Benz”,

campus. From chance

Eight of the tourna-

mer

2025.

said Evan Angeles, a

encounters to every-

The upcoming World

freshman exercise sci-

will be held in Atlanta

Cup, however, is project-

at Mercedes-Benz Stadi-

caught

off

memorable

While she laughed

for entirely different rea-

about it later, the ex-

sons. These experiences

perience reminded her

show how unpredictable

that first impressions can

student dating life can be.

be misleading and that getting to know some-

life plays a quiet role

“I met this guy in the

one beforehand matters.

ence major. “If my par-

library when he fixed

in bringing these re-

the printer for me and I

“The experience was

ed to bring more than

ents want to splurge

lationships

together.

thought he seemed re-

both

um, attracting spectators

300,000 people to the

for the World Cup,

On campus, many

ally nice,” said Sophie

memorable, but also gave

from all over the globe

“City in a Forest,” a num-

students find that dat-

Williams, a sophomore

then I’ll be attending.”

ing is not separate from

biology major. “We went

to GCSU’s home state.

ber greater than both

See SOCCER | Page 5

their social lives, with

to dinner, and when he

ment’s 104 total matches

series

in

chaotic moments and surprise connections on

day routines, campus

something

surprising

and

me an early lesson on dating,” Williams said.

See CRAZY DATES | Page 9

NEWS | PG. 3

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7

THE CATERWAUL | PG. 10

President Cathy Cox recently delivered the State of the University Address, highlighting university focuses.

GCSU students weigh the pros and cons of having a football team, something the school has never had.

Students comment on the multiple overlooked hang out spaces and study spots that reside on GCSU’s campus.

Individuals have expressed themselves emotionally, whether that is through poetry or protesting.

CATHY COX DELIVERS MAJOR SPEECH

SHOULD GCSU HAVE A FOOTBALL TEAM?

STUDENTS ENJOY HIDDEN GEMS ON CAMPUS

POETRY & PROTESTING

2

JANE CARR, NEWS EDITOR ANNALIE PARKER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.10.26

NEWS

Black life on campus James Cordero

A large part of black cul-

when the students need it.

rectly related to race. Students

Similar to the consumption

Contributing Writer

ture, of the black identity, is

“The second figure [who

study more famous black au-

of culture and erasure of voices

While not overtly present

community; a community that

I look up to] would be our

thors-authors who talk about

is the enrollment rates of peo-

or a large group, the black

is constantly shrinking and

on-campus advisor, Mr. An-

issues still present at the school

ple who are African American.

community at GCSU has

has always been decreasing.

dre Joseph,” Ingram said. “He

and in the entirety of Georgia.

McClure is currently study-

found a way to form a fam-

Being able to see one anoth-

currently writes books to help

“I think it’s bell hooks who

ily and build connections.

er and have pride in a shared

guide college students, I’m

writes about this [cultural ap-

According to GCSU stu-

history and celebrate is the

not quite sure what her job is

propriation],” said Stephanie

dent enrollment data, Afri-

central point of black culture.

over at the BSA, but Ms. Jas-

McClure, a sociology professor.

can American admission to

“My favorite part about

mine Kelly... Mr. Eric Carlisle

“That it’s always been the case

GCSU has been on a steady

black culture is just knowing

and Dr. Carlisle, very help-

that white culture could con-

decline and it has become

there was a legacy before me,”

ful, and I’m very grateful.

sume… the products of people

harder to find people of color

said CeDarius Ingram, a ju-

While there are many black

who are not racialized as white,

outside of designated clubs,

nior middle grades education

people on campus, many peo-

but not the people themselves.”

organizations and activities.

major. “I feel like I’m not just

ple look back to their fami-

bell hooks is referring to

ing the decreasing enrollment rate at GCSU and how it has been consistently decreasing.

“The line of decline is continuous; it’s not like it was good and then it was a cliff; It’s been a continuous,” McClure said.

According to United States census data, 41.5% of Milled-

have

geville citizens are black and

formed and discovered clubs

40.5% of the city is impover-

where they can support each

ished. Because Milledgeville

other, clubs like the Black

has two colleges in it, many

Student Alliance (BSA), the

stores are likely to meet the

National Pan-Hellenic Coun-

needs of the students, who like

cil (NPHC) fraternities and

spending money but leave most

Women

Students

&

Collective

of

color

Allies

Action

weekends, over the people who

(WAAC).

These

live in the city permanently.

have become clubs where

Black people at GCSU have

they feel like they belong

found their own communi-

and can build camaraderie.

ty despite the odds and stand

Some students believe there is a problem, however, with the

Annalie Parker | Asst. News Editor

proud of who they are despite the number of non-black peo-

representation at GCSU, and a

only being successful for my-

ly and friends at home when

the fact that a lot of black and

problem with how the school

self, but I feel like I’m being

thinking

models.

brown culture is taken by peo-

as a whole sees people of color.

successful for generations.”

“My coach… besides my

ple in majority communities,

“They need to put more

Black students have found

granddad and, of course, my

but don’t actually listen to the

black scholars on the mag-

many figures on campus to

father, he basically turned

voices or accept the people

azines,” said Faith Beamon,

bond with and to help them

me from a boy to a man

who created the traditions, as

a senior mass communica-

connect to their community.

and showed me the ropes

she said in “Eating the Other:

tion major. “If you want to

Faculty like Andre Joseph, Jas-

of the game,” Ingram said.

Desire and Resistance”. This

derstand or embrace me [being

talk

representation,

mine Kelly and Eric Carlisle

Black studies programs are

is very common in forms of

black at a predominantly white

show us in all ways [not just

stand as role models to stu-

limited at GCSU, with the offer

the arts like music, language,

school], but it is my responsi-

doing community service.]”

dents and offer support to them

of two classes, one being di-

food,

bility to find people that do.”

about

VOLUME 107 | NO. 2

Editorial Board

Mary Ciucevich.............. Editor in Chief Amelia McEwen............. Managing Editor Julia Jensen...................... Art Director Jane Carr............................ News Editor Annalie Parker................. Asst. News Editor Bryan Cade....................... Sports Editor Joseph Palmese..............Asst. Sports Editor Arts & Life Editor Kate Walker...............

Sydney Williams.............Asst. Arts & Life Editor Isabella McComis..........Digital Media Editor Reaghan Shehee............Digital Media Editor Rebecca Ocampo..........PR Manager Haley Quimby.................. Ad Sales Manager Mikkel Christensen....... Faculty Adviser

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

of

role

fashion

@TheColonnade

and

ideals.

ple around them. They understand where they are and are unapologetic for their culture.

“At first, it was more out of fear,” Beamon said. “I knew people wouldn’t directly un-

@TheColonnade

Contributing writers are always welcome at The Colonnade. Contact thegcsucolonnade@gmail. com for more information.

If you have a tip or wish to contact The Colonnade, email thegcsucolonnade@gmail. com or message our Instagram @thecolonnade.

The Colonnade is now primarily published online. Read at issuu.com/thecolonnade or on bobcatmultimedia.com.

Ad Disclaimer The Colonnade is not responsible for any false advertising. We are not liable for any error in advertising to a greater extent than the cost of the space in which the item occurs. The Colonnade reserves the right to edit or reject any advertising copy submitted for publication. There is no guaranteed placement of ads. The Colonnade does not accept advertising concerning firearms nor guarantee ads concerning alcoholic beverages.

Corrections

If you feel anything we’ve printed or posted online has been reported in error, please send an email to thegcsucolonnade@ gmail.com.

Copyrights

All stories and photographs appearing in this issue and previous issues, unless otherwise noted, are copyrighted by The Colonnade.

Contact Us Office: Terrell 301 thegcsucolonnade@gmail. com bobcatmultimedia.com

3

JANE CARR, NEWS EDITOR ANNALIE PARKER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.10.26

NEWS

IDENTITY THEFTS

Online scams at USG schools

State of the University

Cathy Cox delivers annual address

Anakate Cox

Jane Carr

Staff Writer

News Editor

A recent online scam appeared early this year, disguised as job offers or tolls, uses personal information to fraudulently open OnePay credit card accounts with Synchrony Bank. GCSU affiliates should be wary of this, as USG college systems have been the most common targets.

Students and employees across Georgia universities are at risk for potential identity theft and credit fraud. The scams, often sent via email or text, have led to fake accounts being created under victims’ names.

University officials are working with local and state law enforcement agencies on the investigation, as this presents a risk for GCSU affiliates.

Reports from affected individuals and university alerts say the scammers commonly pose as employers offering easy and high-paying remote jobs, university departments requesting personal information or government agencies issuing fake toll violations and fees. The true number of affected victims is unknown due to possible underreporting.

College students are often targeted in these types of identity theft schemes because they likely have a limited credit history and frequently use university-affiliated email addresses for jobs, financial aid and other official communication.

These scammers take advantage of the fact that students rely heavily on digital platforms, as well as their openness to remote employment with quick and easy income opportunities. Additionally, many students are learning how to manage finances independently for the first time, which can make fraudulent activities harder to detect.

According to The Red & Black, UGA’s student newspaper, a call was

GCSU President Cathy Cox highlighted record enrollment, major philanthropic gains and national recognition during the 2026 State of the University Address.

The address, delivered Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. in Russell Auditorium, continued a long-standing university tradition in which the president reflects on recent accomplishments and outlines priorities for the years ahead. Student Government Association (SGA) leaders, faculty, staff and community members were among those in attendance.

“The start of a new year always brings promise,” President Cox said. “Since 2022, GCSU has experienced a period of unprecedented growth.”

President Cox pointed to record enrollment figures as a major indicator of that growth. The university reported an enrollment of 7,300 students last year, the highest in its history, along with a 3% increase in applications compared with 2022. She also emphasized the university’s continued commitment to service, noting that 100% of students participate in community service initiatives.

Philanthropy was another focal point of the address. President Cox announced a 100% increase in philanthropic giving to the university, including a $9 million donation from Gertrude Ehrlich, a 1963 GCSU alumna who fled Nazi Germany as a child. The gift establishes a needbased scholarship fund aimed at expanding access for local students.

President Cox described Ehrlich’s story as emblematic of the institution’s values and mission.

“Wherever two or more are gathered, I sing GCSU’s praises,” President Cox said, crediting alumni support as a driving force behind the university’s progress.

The president ad-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

made to UGAPD on Jan. 7 regarding a student having multiple credit cards fraudulently opened in her name. The police report states that multiple students have reported similar incidents. Some GCSU students have experienced receiving these texts and have not known the possible dangers.

“I honestly did not realize these questionable texts and emails were leading to things as serious as identity theft,” said Elsa Smith, a sophomore education major.

UGAPD and the Office of Information Security advised students and staff in a campus alert email to exercise caution by asking for more information about questionable offers, refraining from opening attachments or links sent by unknown sources and relying on traceable methods of payment.

It is also encouraged to use strong and unique passwords, as well as methods of multi-factor authentication.

Piper Weatherly, a sophomore biology major, says she has received multiple questionable text messages regarding state toll violations in the past. She explained how she knows of several people who also received these messages, in addition to herself.

“It was obvious to me that the text messages were not legit because I do not own a car under my name,” Weatherly said. “However, it is worrying that it might not be as obvious [to other people] that the messages are a scam.”

Katherine Lee, writer

ICE PROTEST Continued from page 1

According to the New York Times, Pretti was attending an anti-ICE protest when an agent pushed a woman to the ground. He tried to intervene and was then pepper-sprayed and brought to the ground by several agents. An agent then fired at him 10 times within 5 seconds.

These deaths, in addition to the six others in ICE detention facilities in January, have caused national outrage. Students at more than 100 Georgia high schools and universities walked out to protest against ICE. The GCSU protest was attended by hundreds of students and facul-

for The Red and Black, detailed USG Chief of Police A. Kerry Stallings’ advice to students in her recent article on the identity thefts.

“Stallings recommends checking bank account statements and reviewing credit with Equifax, Experian and TransUnion,” Lee said.

If students find suspicious activity, they should file a police report with the University of Georgia Police Department, email the Georgia attorney general’s office and contact the financial institution’s fraud department.

As the investigation continues, Synchrony Bank has not made any official responses or acknowledgements to the fraudulent accounts.

University officials emphasize the importance of awareness and how it remains the most effective way to avoid being a victim of identity theft and financial fraud.

Students and employees alike should be cautious when receiving unsolicited emails and texts, especially those requesting personal information, and those who discover suspicious activity are advised to report it immediately to avoid potential damage. Protecting personal information is a shared responsibility, and attentiveness and caution remain key as these digital scams continue to evolve. GCSU’s IT officials encourage students to report any suspicious emails immediately and verify with IT directly before sharing any sensitive information online.

ty who wanted to exercise their First Amendment right of free speech and support a cause they believe in.

For many participants, the protest represented more than just a public demonstration. It served as a space for students to come together, share their beliefs and show solidarity with others who feel directly affected by the issue.

“It is very empowering and important for people to know they’re not alone and that there are people who stand with them and stand for those who can’t stand up for themselves,” said Avery Schock, a junior history major.

Lauren Bricker, a junior physics major, was another student who attended the protest.

ditionally highlighted national rankings and student success metrics, referring to the current academic year as the university’s “year of five.”

Among the distinctions, GCSU was ranked the No. 5 best public college in the South and No. 5 for undergraduate teaching among public and private institutions in the region. The university also marked its fifth consecutive year ranking No. 1 for academic success rate, according to President Cox. In addition, five GCSU students were awarded U.S. government-funded grants for international academic exchange known as Fulbright scholarships, emphasizing what President Cox described as the institution’s strong academic culture and global engagement.

Campus improvements were another area of emphasis. Recent and ongoing projects include the growth of the esports lab, a new music rehearsal hall, an alumni welcome center and renovations to Herty Hall. President Cox then noted improvements to campus security, with additional details available through the university’s official website.

“These investments reflect our commitment to providing students with spaces that support learning, creativity and safety,” President Cox said.

President Cox cited the university’s broader impact beyond campus, stating that GCSU contributes an estimated $333 million an-

“We didn’t vote to have ICE have this power, and we are here to show that there are people who are willing to stand up and take action against this,” Bricker said.

In addition to the protestors that showed up, many students and faculty members stopped by to watch.

“It makes us feel good that our community was so collective,” said Celia McDaniel, a senior economics major. McDaniel was watching the protest from the outskirts with her friends, along with a few other students and faculty members.

For those students passing by, the strong turnout signaled a level of engagement that ex-

nually to the regional economy. She framed that figure as evidence of the institution’s role as both an educational and economic anchor for the community.

The address coincided with a milestone year for the university’s identity as Georgia’s designated public liberal arts institution. GCSU is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its liberal arts mission, a theme President Cox returned to repeatedly throughout her remarks.

On Tuesday, the University System of Georgia Board of Regents is scheduled to meet to review the university’s mission statement, a process President Cox described as timely given the institution’s recent growth and achievements.

The mission statement says, “Georgia College & State University’s distinctive liberal arts model provides innovative undergraduate and graduate programs that challenge future leaders to do more, learn more and seize more opportunities to make a positive difference in the world.”

President Cox concluded the address with a call to action for students, faculty and staff as the university looks ahead.

“Let’s be bold, fearless and audacious,” she said.

The State of the University Address reaffirmed GCSU’s focus on academic excellence, access and service, while positioning the institution to continue building on what President Cox characterized as one of the most significant periods of progress in its history.

Courtesy of University Communications

tended beyond the event itself.

Amanda Bass, a sophomore biology major, who walked by the protest on her way to work, found the turnout to be impressive.

“It is encouraging, because if these people are willing to go out and protest for 30 minutes to an hour, they’re willing to drive to a polling station and vote,” Bass said.

Another Mutual Aid protest against ICE is scheduled for March 4th.

To stay informed about future campus demonstrations, check the bulletin boards in A&S, the Russell Library and The Den. For students who would like to get involved with Mutual Aid, visit their Instagram page @gcsu_mutual_aid.

4

JANE CARR, NEWS EDITOR ANNALIE PARKER, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.10.26

NEWS

Panic buttons in schools Rosalie Ritz

In response to the shooting, the

Staff Writer

Georgia Legislature passed House Bill

School shootings have been on the

268. The bill requires all Georgia public

rise, a trend that’s been recognized since

schools to provide mobile panic notifi-

the events of Columbine High School in

cation devices to all staff. The devices

1999. The number of school shootings

will aid in crisis alerts and notify law en-

has nearly tripled between 2020 and

forcement in the event of emergencies.

2024. As a result, the Georgia legislature

Under House Bill 268, public

has altered its school safety precautions

schools have until July 1 to implement

to include mobile panic devices, such

these systems in place. On Tuesday,

as Centegix wearable panic buttons.

Jan. 20, the Baldwin County Board

On Sept. 4, 2024, an armed indi-

of Education unanimously approved

vidual entered Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. They shot and killed two students and two teachers,

purchases of the Centegix wearable

Jones County—that had them, and it’s

“Most of our schools have a cri-

panic buttons for $367,990 to be fund-

a really interesting system,” Slinn said.

sis alert system. It’s a panic button

ed by E-SPLOST (Education Special

while seven others were injured by

experi-

that they can press, and it imme-

enced schools with delayed, pro-

diately notifies them [authorities]

tected

automatical-

that there’s an issue,” Price said.

terms of prevention, it does help in terms

ly locked doors, but her preferred

In addition to panic button systems,

of response, which is one of the leading

security major is the Centegix system.

schools can improve safety by increas-

issues in terms of school shootings, as

“The idea is that you could be

ing access to mental health counselors

delayed communication and coordina-

walking down the hallway and see

and social workers. Other measures in-

tion often result in increased harm and

something and press that button,

clude metal detectors and delaying en-

confusion during critical moments.

and it’ll send a call out,” Slinn said.

tryways, as well as anonymous reporting

Georgia’s school safety precautions

Madelyn Bynum, a sophomore

systems, threat assessment teams and

Purpose Local Option Sales Tax).

gunfire. According to WABE News,

Although Centegix does not help in

the events at Apalachee make it the deadliest school shooting in the state.

Before the attack, several warning signs were reported. The shooter’s mother contacted the school in an attempt to locate her son, believing there to be an “extreme emergency.”

The shooter’s algebra teacher also

Julia Jensen | Art Director

Slinn

said

entry

that

she’s

and

have influenced other states to re-eval-

special

dreams

training for staff beyond panic buttons.

uate their own security measures, no-

of teaching in a classroom and

With a growing need for student

staff. Minutes later, the shooting began.

tably regarding panic alert systems and

said school safety is an import-

safety, precautions like the Cen-

Shortly after the first shots were fired,

School Resource Officers. States like

ant concern for future educators.

tegix panic buttons may just be in

multiple teachers and staff members

Utah are reviewing the effectiveness

“I go into schools for observation

every classroom as schools con-

activated their Centegix panic buttons,

of Georgia’s rapid response protocols.

hours, and I think about it often—

tinue to prioritize faster emergen-

a wearable panic button that allows

Some education students have al-

about my future classroom and how

cy response and improved commu-

staff to discreetly alert emergency re-

ready encountered the system during

to keep my students safe, so I think

nication during critical incidents.

sponders while providing precise loca-

fieldwork. Kelsey Slinn, a junior elemen-

it’s definitely important,” Bynum said.

tion information, placing the school on

tary education major, said she has stu-

Milledgeville Superintendent Dr. No-

lockdown and notifying the authori-

dent-taught in schools using Centegix.

ris Price says several schools in the dis-

tegix

ties. They arrived within three minutes.

“I’ve been in schools—I think it was

trict already use panic button systems.

role in improving school safety.

reported a concerning comment made by the student in an email to school

education

major,

Students,

teachers

and

pub-

lic safety alike believe that Censystems

play

a

significant

GCSU blood drive brings community together Maggie Scarbrough Staff Writer The Office of Community Engagement and Service at GCSU held a blood drive February 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Donahoo Lounge. This was in response to the current blood shortage in Geor-

schedule

an

appoint-

thoughts and donation

ment using the link on

demographics.

what to expect in the

local blood drive, stu-

experiences. As a long-

“I always do [encour-

procedure. New donors

dents help patients in

the “Front Page” under

time donor, Professor

age donations] through

can rest assured it is a

the Events tab on the

Mead believes donating

my lectures, but I also

thorough process with

their own community.

GCSU website. Those

is an important contribu-

tell [students] that it is

multiple steps to ensure

who assisted with ta-

tion to the community.

not for everyone,” Mead

the donor is suitable.

bling, canteen or check-

“Well, to start off with,

said. “Sometimes they

“I have never given

in visited the GCSU

[the shortage] is a terri-

check your blood and

blood before, so I felt

Give Pulse website. In

ble thing. We need dedi-

find out you are CMV

like it would be a quick

reward for their con-

cated donors,” Mead said.

negative and able to give

process,” said Tori Segal,

tributions, donors re-

The gap in blood

your blood to babies.”

a junior mass communi-

gia affected by the recent winter storms and unsafe travel conditions.

The American Red Cross is currently facing a severe shortage of blood products by 35%.

Inclement weather over the past month has prevented 400 blood drives from

happening

and

thousands of donations

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

from being collected. In response, officials have

ceived a $20 e-gift card

donors remains an on-

urged healthy individuals

and a coupon for Sonic.

going issue in health-

to donate so patients can

Professor of Biological

care. Some blood types,

receive life-saving care.

and Environmental Sci-

however,

Students were able

ences Al Mead shared his

donors a wider range of

give

certain

patient

CMV

“I think the main misconception is that it hurts,” Mead said. “All that it is, is a little prick.”

Giving blood, whether it be at a doctor’s office or a national blood drive, connects people to

[cytomegalo-

cations major. “In reality,

virus] is a common flu-

you have to answer a lot

like virus that up to 85%

of questions before they

in need across diverse

of adults have been ex-

take your blood pressure.”

communities and de-

posed to by age 40, with

Giving blood can be

mographics. Those who

most experiencing mild

uncomfortable at first,

or no symptoms. O-neg-

but the pain felt from the

are interested can visit

ative

O-positive

needle is only tempo-

donors are CMV-neg-

rary. A small pinch of the

ative and are known

needle can provide life

as Heroes for Babies at

saving blood for some-

the Red Cross. Their

one in a health crisis.

and

blood is the safest for

Raising

awareness

a vast network of patients

the American Red Cross website or GCSU front page news to learn more about the donation process, eligibility requirements, upcoming drives and other resources. Ul-

newborns & premature

about the blood short-

babies whose immune

age not only saves lives,

systems are more fragile.

but it gives students the

Giving blood can be

opportunity to donate

the individual and their

a new experience for

toward a good cause.

medical history, sched-

those who do not know

By giving blood in a

ule

timately, the choice to donate blood depends on

and

accessibility.

5

BRYAN CADE, SPORTS EDITOR JOSEPH PALMESE, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

02.10.26

SPORTS SOCCER

Continued from page 1 The FIFA World Cup is the largest soccer event across the planet, and has been held every four years since its first match in 1930.

This year, 48 different countries will compete, a noteworthy increase

and is to be co-hosted by

together to enjoy and

the best, but family and

bringing many world-fa-

three separate nations.

celebrate the same thing:

tradition have a great

mous players to Atlanta.

[Jamal]

watching

coun-

deal of influence on who

Mercedes-Benz will even

[Joshua] Kimmich play

tries’ teams go at it.

others are rooting for.

get to see Portugal’s su-

for the German National

“I live in England,

“It’s a tradition in my

perstar Cristiano Ronal-

team,” Johns said. “Mu-

“Soccer is a major sport in all other countries,

so

[the

World

Cup] kind of unites everybody together,” said Kaiden Blazina, a freshman

biology

The

major.

international

their

Musiala

and

so I guess it kind of

siala is just really special

brings home here,” said

to watch because he’s like

Caleb

a

magic, and he just came

freshman business ma-

back from a pretty horrif-

jor. “It’ll be less trav-

ic injury, so I’m just glad

McCormick,

el and bring fans over,

Poland vs France FIFA World Cup match

that he’ll be able to play.”

family that we all get to-

do for the United States

gether and watch it. My

friendly match against

dad is from Munich, so

Portugal, in what he has

we definitely have to root

stated to be his last in-

for Germany,” said Ari

ternational tournament.

United States as in other

Johns, a senior biology

Though, Atlanta is no

GCSU’s

countries, GCSU is home

major. “I don’t want to be

stranger to internation-

soccer fans are planning

to many dedicated World

biased, but I think Ger-

al stars, this tournament

their watch schedules.

Some

many is going to win.”

in particular is getting

The 2026 World Cup

GCSU fans excited for

has the potential to be

and make soccer have a bigger influence here.”

Even though soccer is not as popular in the

FIFA World Cup Trophy

“I’m excited to watch

As

Mercedes-Benz

prepares to be the center of the world’s attention for eight matches, international

from the 32 teams of the

unity the event creates

2022 tournament. The

is exactly what makes

Cup

2026 edition will be both

it so large. It produces

spectators

their

Aside from attracting

the first to include this

an atmosphere where

faith in the teams they

international fans, the

their

over-

the biggest soccer in-

many competing nations

different cultures come

think are strategically

2026 World Cup is also

seas soccer celebrities.

fluence on America yet.

watchers. place

favorite

Students question absense of football at GCSU Joe Palmese Asst. Sports Editor

school spirit overall,” said

“Not having a football team

Harry Harris, a senior busi-

is definitely a disadvantage

GCSU has never fielded a

ness major. “I know a lot

varsity football team since its founding in 1889, a fact that

for UGA games in the fall.” campus

game, also reported a 10%

for trying to attract students

were vocal about taking off

rise in applications attribut-

of people that go to Athens

to come here,” said Cal Bre-

to nearby schools to sup-

ed to national exposure from

for UGA games in the fall.”

itbart, a senior management

port their football teams.

participating in the game.

finan-

information systems major.

Research supports those

“Having a football team

and debate among students.

cial report for 2025 includ-

“Some of my friends chose

perceptions. The Washington

would be fun,” said Owen

GCSU was ranked fifth

ed revenue and expenses.

to go to Georgia Southern

Post reported that football suc-

among public colleges and

1.7% GCSU’s operating ex-

strictly for a football team.”

cess at top Southeastern Con-

universities in the South by

penses

scholarships

While some applicants may

ference schools often translated

the U.S. News & World Re-

and fellowships for students.

not choose to attend GCSU

into increased student interest,

continues to spark curiosity

port’s

2026

Best

GCSU’s

annual

were

Students

across

2011 national championship

Colleges

Higgins, a junior business major. “I think it would build a better culture for students.”

Students emphasize the social and cultural role that foot-

list. The four schools ranked

ball plays in the fall. Whether

ahead have a football program.

it be tailgating, getting to-

“The idea of a football team

gether with friends and fam-

sounds really cool, but in prac-

ily, or watching downtown,

ticality, it’s difficult to begin

students attach this cultur-

with the thought”, said Ra-

al role with football season.

chel Pope, wellness educator

Football may not be a

at GCSU. “When entertaining the idea of it, you have to

Joe Palmese | Asst. Sports Editor

sport at GCSU, but the GCSU men’s baseball games pick

think like Cathy Cox. Do we

GCSU is a Division 2 col-

because there is no football

with each win associated with

have the net profit to support

lege. Its revenue and expens-

team, it’s important to note

a 16% increase in applications.

it and, would it be sustainable,

es differ from bigger schools.

that in the 2025 academ-

In 2011, an Auburn Uni-

where would they play, etc.”

Division 1 schools must spend

ic year, the school had a re-

versity Dean of Enrollment

Questions raised by Pope

more on scholarships to bring

cord 7,304 students enrolled.

contacted officials at LSU and

ball games”, said Zach Stein-

are questions to be asked

in student-athletes. GCSU’s

“I think having a foot-

Florida, both recent nation-

berg, senior business major.

when

the

financial situation is not ca-

ball team would bring more

al champions, who said their

“I would say the baseball

process of adding a new ath-

pable of granting scholarships

school spirit overall,” said

institutions experienced sim-

games are mostly Georgia

letic program to a school.

for student-athletes, making

Harry Harris, a senior busi-

ilar enrollment boosts fol-

College students who kind of

“I think having a foot-

one factor of supporting a

ness major. “I know a lot

lowing title runs. Oregon, de-

replace not having a football

ball team would bring more

football team more difficult.

of people that go to Athens

spite losing to Auburn in the

team with the baseball team.”

thinking

about

up a majority of the student body at their games.

“I have had fun at base-

6

BRYAN CADE, SPORTS EDITOR JOSEPH PALMESE, ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

02.10.26

SPORTS

GCSU softball opens season against Young Harris

Bobcats walk it off for first win Bryan Cade

single; however, the Bob-

contest, with the Mountain Lions limited by Bobcats’ Sydney Garrett,

Young Harris tied things later in the fifth as Haley Cummings drove

of the second game.”

years of my college ca-

Kacie Wiggins singles

reer,” Hobbs said. “Sitting

with one out in the in-

out for my entire junior

Head Sports Editor

cats struck for three once

GCSU softball opened

third, as Lancaster drove

nings and later advances

year definitely gave me

in Kent on a single and

to second base on a wild

a new perspective on the

Reina Checo doubled in

pitch. With only one out

game. It truly is a bless-

Todd and Hutcheson.

in the inning, Young

ing to be back on the

“We were aggressive,

Harris head coach Jessie

field to help my team.”

stole bags, and then what

Homesley went to her

really helped us, we had

freshman pitcher Natalie

the at-bat, looking for

clutch two-out hits,” said

Paolino, out of the bull-

her pitch, and she got

Head

Brittany

pen, to face the Bobcat

it, sending it down the

Johnson. “I think may-

lead-off hitter in Hobbs.

left field line to drive

“They changed the

in Wiggins and deliver

pitcher before my at-

the Bobcats their first

bat,” Hobbs said. “Coach

win of the new season.

Johnson told me that she

GCSU softball’s next

was a freshman and that

home contests are set for

I needed to welcome her

Friday, Feb. 13, against

to college. I said that this

the University of West

its season with a series split against the Young Harris College Mountain Lions. The team lost the season opener and the first game of the doubleheader. However, big hits late in the second game flipped the script.

Tiffany Caban started the first game for the Bobcats, yet she found her way into and out of trouble in the first inning, giving up only one run, but escaping a bases-loaded However,

situation.

the

Bobcat

more in the bottom of the

Coach

be four of our six runs came with two outs–I think a lot of them also had two strikes. So just staying nice and calm and keeping it one pitch at a time, I think we did that really well early on.”

The Mountain Lion

Courtesy of Alexus Duncan

bats had the back of the

bats came alive in the

starter, plating three runs

top of the fifth, plat-

in the bottom of the in-

ing six runs, as Brady,

ning, as Emily Hutches-

Hannah Davis, Bailee

on drove in Kimber

Brown, Shelby Duncan,

Kent on a fielder’s choice

Addie Heal and Gracie

and Maddie Todd dou-

Hughes drove in the re-

bled

Hutcheson

spective runs, putting

and Sydney Lancaster.

the Bobcats down 8-6.

Caban allowed anoth-

Neither team scored

er run on a Mady Brady

in the remainder of the

in

Courtesy of Alexus Duncan

who pitched the rest of the contest, throwing a total of 2 and 1/3 innings while striking out a pair, including her first collegiate strikeout.

“As a pitcher, when I face a batter, I do the normal things like looking at where the batter is in the box and what their swing is like,” Garrett said. “I’d best attack the zone by throwing pitches that I think are relevant and competitive to the zone and the batter.”

Garrett later went out to start the second game, and she’d stay out there in the circle for the remainder of the day.

The Mountain Lions’ Brady plated the first run the team scored off Garrett in the second inning, but the Bobcats scored two in the bottom of the third, as Emily Hobbs drove in Emma Sundermeyer and Kent drove in Hobbs.

in Duncan. However, Garrett pitched two clean innings afterwards to put the Bobcats in a walk-off situation for the bottom of the seventh. After her seven innings of work in the contest, adding to her previous two and a third, she ended her day having pitched more than the average baseball pitcher, while collecting seven strikeouts.

“I would say around the sixth inning of the second game was when I could feel myself getting tired, but something Coach Johnson has told us is that your mental will always give out before your body,” Garrett said. “That basically means that our body can do and go longer than we think. So that was when I told myself I had more gas in the tank and that I was going to challenge myself to last the full seven innings

Hobbs

battled

in

Courtesy of Alexus Duncan

senior,

grandma,

will

Florida with a double-

give her a warm wel-

header. The first game

come. I just wanted to

is scheduled for 2 p.m.,

be relaxed in the box,

and the second for 4 p.m.

so that funny conversa-

“I was so proud of

tion definitely helped.”

the way we bounced

Hobbs was not able

back from the loss of

to play a single game in

the first game,” Hobbs

the 2025 GCSU softball

said. “It was a very close

campaign due to injury,

game as it came down

so this was her first cou-

to the last half inning

ple of games since 2024.

of the 7th. I am real-

“I have been blessed to

ly looking forward to

be a starter my first two

the rest of this season.”

James Nichols III - Zaxby’s player of the week James Cordero

scored 34 points against

a member of his com-

Many fans of the GCSU

Contributing Writer

Clayton State Univer-

munity. Nichols stands

basketball team look to

The GCSU men’s bas-

sity on January 23 and

as a motivator for his

ketball team improved

21 points five days later

greatly

against Middle Geor-

between

this

year and last year, and one of the reasons for

gia

the crowd behind us.” numbers

his personal life. He aims

him as a key figure of

have stood out to fans.

to be better, even when he

team, but his team also

the team, and while that

In his game against Clay-

is doing something well.

drives him to be better.

brings a lot of pressure,

ton State University, he

Nichols

it.

made 12 of his 13 shots,

somewhat of a flow-state,

“The pressure to suc-

three of which from out-

I still had things I could

State

University.

“Knowing [my team-

Nichols’

gameplay

mates] trust me and look

embraces

Nichols’

both on the court and in

“It

definitely

felt

this change is James

has left a positive mark

side the three-point line.

have been better on and

Nichols III. Nichols, a

on the rest of his team,

“[Nichols] is fun to be

making the game easier.”

junior marketing ma-

that being his abili-

around, easy to talk to,

Nicols stands as a fig-

jor who plays forward

ty to work well with

and just an all-around

ure of motivation for all

on the team, credits his

those

good guy,” Green said.

those around him and

“When

around

yet remains motivated by

around

him.

family as the reason

“He brings so much to

for his determination

the game, whether it’s in-

each other, it’s nothing

those very same people in

and drive on the court.

side the paint or outside.

but smiles and laughs...”

his life. He is determined

“My family is a big part

Running actions with

Nichols played well

to grow as a person, even

Courtesy of Mike Ghazaleh

of my basketball journey,

him makes it really easy

and I just want to make

for me…” said Khalil

at me as one of the lead-

ceed is a good thing

University, but he is

“There is also an in-

them as proud as possi-

Green,

sophomore

ers of the team pushes me

because it drives the

still looking to improve.

ternal fire and motiva-

ble every time I step on

exercise science major

to play harder and stay

team…” Nichols said.

He found flaws in his

tion that I use as fuel to

the court,” Nichols said.

and guard on the team.

focused,” Nichols said.

“There is no better feel-

game

his

continue to push my-

with

Nichols derives mo-

ing than getting the

electric

performance.

self so that I can be the

also made monumental

Nichols on the court

tivation from both his

crowd

contributions to the team

and sees how he acts as

team and his family, as

we

in his last few games. He

a player, a student and

well as from the crowd.

Nichols himself has

Green

a

plays

engaged

while

playing,

against

we’re

Clayton

even

after is

outside

of

basketball.

always

best version of myself

and

looking to become better

on the court and help

feeling the support of

in every aspect of his life,

my team,” Nichols said.

are

Nichols

State

7

KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.10.26

ARTS & LIFE

2026 Spring Duolingo Challenge Sydney Williams

part of the Duolingo chal-

earned.

Asst. A&L Editor

lenge was the extra perks

the

The World Languages and

you got from participation,

Culture Department at GCSU has launched its Spring 2026 Duolingo ing

Challenge,

students,

invit-

faculty

and

staff to compete by earning language-learning

experi-

ence points, known as XP, through the Duolingo app.

Top point earners in each division are rewarded with prizes. Gina Towner, coordinator of the Duolingo Challenge and language resource coordinator, shared details about the incentives participants can win.

“I am very grateful to the folks at our campus Barnes & Noble bookstore for donating

wonderful

prizes

each semester, so our winners can enjoy some GCSU

short-term travel needs and

ing I established a produc-

long-term

learn-

tive and intellectually stim-

among staff across campus.

ing goals for participants.

ulating habit,” Harding said.

which made it far easier to

“The faculty and staff chal-

“I’m currently studying Ko-

get through,” Sarrazin said.

lenge has become incredibly

The Spring 2026 challenge

Many students are motivat-

competitive in recent semes-

rean,” Harding said. “When

is open to all levels of learners

ed by their personal goals and

ters,” Towner said. “Friends

I studied abroad at Kook-

and participants can choose

friendly competition, especial-

from

min University for a month

from a variety of languages.

ly when progress is tracked

across campus take part in a

in 2023, I was able to speak

“There are still a few spaces

daily and shared with peers.

friendly but lively rivalry as

“The streak on Duolin-

they try to outdo one another in

go with some of my friends

the final days of the challenge.”

is a partial motivator, as well

Learning a new language

as the experience multipli-

can be both personally and

er potions for completing

academically fulfilling, giv-

the gold chest challenge each

ing participants skills they

day,” said Emma Harding,

can use in travel, course-

a freshman fine arts major.

work and future careers. It

Sarrazin also offered advice

also encourages daily disci-

for other students participating

pline and cultural awareness.

this semester. She emphasized

Towner uses Duolingo out-

the importance of consistency

side of the campus challenge

and setting achievable goals

to prepare for real-world in-

throughout

teractions

the

challenge.

Towner

growing

various

described

participation

departments

while

full

language

sentences

and

could

left for this spring, so I encour-

kind of talk to strangers at

age people to sign up. I will

restaurants by the time the

take people until each roster

traveling.

“My advice for other stu-

“I have used Duolingo be-

swag in exchange for their

dents willing to give it a try is

fore trips abroad to help give

hard work,” Towner said.

to never take too much time

me enough language to inter-

Casey Sarrazin, a senior

off, go the extra mile when you

act with shopkeepers, restau-

theater major, was the win-

can and collect those month-

rant servers and public trans-

ner of the Fall 2025 chal-

ly

said.

portation employees in a polite

lenge. She came in first place

The competition is not

and culturally appropriate way

with an impressive 11,860

limited to students. Facul-

that makes me feel more re-

XP

ty and staff members take

spectful as a visitor in someone

challenge, she used Duolingo

part

else’s homeland,” Towner said.

to pick the language back up

learning

recognition

French. and

The

rewards

helped keep her motivated.

“The

most

rewarding

badges,”

in

a

Sarrazin

separate

chal-

lenge, competing for overall hours of engagement and XP

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

accelerated

course

ended.”

hits its capacity,” Towner said.

Like many students, Hard-

For questions about enroll-

ing said she fell out of practice

ing in the challenge, partici-

after returning from studying

pants can email lrc@gcsu.edu.

abroad. During the Fall 2025

reflects

and rebuild her confidence.

how the app can support both

“The best part was know-

Her

experience

The challenge runs through May 6 and top finishers in each division will be recognized during finals week.

Hidden gems at GCSU: underrated spots for studying and more Maggie Hinton

frame,” Silfies said. “We like that spot

can sometimes make that difficult.

Staff Writer

because it was nice to sit in the sunlight,

“There’s so many great hidden spots,”

From quiet study corners to over-

and it was nice and warm typically.”

Miller said. “All the best ones are out-

tion systems student Ezra Ryall said

looked hangout spaces, GCSU’s cam-

Silfies said the courtyard stood out

side, which is really unfortunate during

his favorite place to study is the

pus is full of hidden gems that often

because it offered peace and quiet when

this rainy winter season, but I love being

front porch of Atkinson Hall, which

go unnoticed by students rushing

other campus spaces felt overcrowded.

on main campus at the tables, especial-

between classes. While popular lo-

“The library’s really crowded in the

ly the ones outside of Bell Hall, because

cations like the library draw crowds

morning, so it worked out because you

the chairs are just so nice to go read at.”

throughout the day, many students

I was able to fully lock in,” Miller said.

Junior

management

informa-

features a row of rocking chairs.

“My favorite study spot is definitely the Atkinson front porch, with all the rocking chairs,” Ryall said. “It’s super nice, especially when it gets a lit-

say some of their favorite places to

tle warmer out, and it’s not freezing.”

study or relax are tucked away in qui-

Ryall said the porch is a re-

eter, less expected areas of campus.

These underrated spaces offer students a chance to focus, unwind or spend

laxing

place

to

get

while

enjoying

the

work

done

outdoors.

“I study there a lot with my girl-

time with friends without the noise and

friend, and it’s nice to get some air

distractions of busier locations. From

while doing my homework,” Ryall said.

outdoor courtyards to building loung-

Students say these hidden spots

es, students say these hidden spots

offer a sense of calm and comfort

create a balance between productivi-

that makes studying more enjoy-

ty and comfort that helps them make

able. Whether it’s sunlight in a quiet

the most of their time on campus.

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

Freshman pre-nursing student Ben Silfies said one of his favorite study

got a lot more peace and quiet out in

As a community advisor, Mill-

spots is the Arts and Sciences courtyard,

the courtyard, and also it was just nice

er said dorm study rooms con-

especially in the early morning hours.

to be out there in the morning when

tinue to be one of her most-

“During the fall, my friends and I

no one else was there,” Silfies said.

used spaces during the semester.

English

literature

study room or the relaxed feel of a porch, exploring these spaces can help students stay productive while also enjoying their time on campus.

As the semester continues, stu-

stu-

“I remember my freshman year using

dents may find that checking out over-

our 8 a.m. bio lecture, and we would go

dent Morning Miller said many of

that nonstop because it was just a really

looked areas of campus leads them to

knock out most of our work for bio and

her favorite study spots are out-

nice way to be at home and I had all my

new favorite spots for studying, re-

other shared classes during that time

doors, even though the weather

stuff nearby, but also be in a room where

laxing or spending time with friends.

would go to the A&S courtyard after

Junior

courtyard, the familiarity of a dorm

8

KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.10.26

ARTS & LIFE

68th Annual Grammy Awards Rosalyn Chapman

casting System Network

major. “As one of her

it finally won an award

Staff Writer

on paid streaming ser-

biggest fans, I can’t wait

at this year’s Gram-

vices

Paramount

to see her success grow

mys,” said Grace Peager,

my Awards took place in

Plus and YouTube TV.

throughout her career.”

a junior fine art studio

Los Angeles, California

The host of the cere-

A highly anticipated

major. “Though all the

on Feb. 1, 2026, celebrat-

mony, comedian Trevor

category for audienc-

other songs nominated

ing last year’s music. This

Noah, broke the news

es is Song of the Year.

were good, Billie defi-

major pop culture event

that it was his last time

The winner, Billie Eilish,

nitely deserved the win.”

hosting

Grammy

won after not winning

Awards. He gave an open-

a single award in 2025

award, presented last in

ing monologue, com-

for her breakthrough al-

the ceremony, is Album

menting on current pol-

bum “HIT ME HARD

of the Year. Bad Bunny

itics and celebrity drama.

AND

SOFT,”

despite

received the award for

One of the surpris-

having

several

nomi-

his album, “DeBÍ Ti-

es of the night was the

nations. Fans were left

RAR MáS FOToS,” after

winner of the category

disappointed when she

a moment of gratitude

Best New Artist. Nom-

left last year’s ceremo-

before he took the stage.

inees like Sombr and

ny without an award.

In his acceptance speech,

The 68 Annual Gram-

brought GCSU students together, enjoying discussions on music, fashion and anticipated wins.

Major musicians like Lady Gaga, Billie Eilish and Sabrina Carpenter made their way across the red carpet debuting designer outfits. While some celebrities lined

like

the

The Marías have main-

Eilish

claimed

awaited

the

he thanked the people

award

song

who have supported him

ty across social media

“Wildflower” from her

throughout his career.

platforms for a couple of

latest album, even with

He ended by dedicat-

years. Despite this, the

more

recent

popular

ing the award to anyone

winner of the category

hits

like

“Manchild”

who has left their home

was Olivia Dean, who

by

Sabrina

Carpen-

to pursue their dreams.

gained success with her

ter and “Golden” from

The red carpet pre-

newest album, “The Art

miered live on major free

others were interviewed by reporters. The carpet gives viewers a sneak peek into what is to come

her

most

tained their populari-

up to be photographed,

for

The

Julia Jensen | Art Director

that many people listened

to

his

Group

Performance.

album;

While the ceremony

however, I think he defi-

only presented top cate-

nitely deserved the win

gories, the total runtime

because the album is

was around three and a

incredible,” said Mary

half hours. To fill the time

Smith, a junior psychol-

in between awards, nom-

ogy major. “I did not ex-

inees and other known

pect Harry Styles to show

musicians

up at the Grammys, but

songs.

I was very happy to see

danced and sang to each

him back in the game.”

performance,

performed

The

audience

keeping

Other celebrated win-

the show full of energy.

Harry Styles made a

ners of the night were

With another Gram-

K-pop Demon Hunters

surprise appearance as

Lady Gaga for Best Pop

my Awards in the books,

of Loving,” which was

also being nominated

the presenter of this cat-

Vocal Album, Kendrick

celebrating

platforms like YouTube,

released in Sept. 2025.

in the same category.

egory, since he won the

Lamar and SZA for Re-

music, many musicians

TikTok and their official

“I was so thrilled see-

HARD

same award in 2023 for his

cord of the Year, Lola

plan to top the charts

during the main show.

website,

“‘HIT

ME

last

year’s

live.grammy.

ing Olivia Dean win her

AND SOFT’ was one

album “Harry’s House.”

Young for Best Pop Solo

with upcoming releas-

com. The main show,

first Grammy,” said ju-

of the best albums to

“At first, I was shocked

Performance and Cyn-

es in 2026, in hopes of

WINTER WEAR TRENDS ON CAMPUS

however, is streamed live

nior Lauren Broadnax,

come out in 2024, so I

by Bad Bunny winning

thia Erivo and Ariana

earning a nominee for

on the Columbia Broad-

an elementary education

was really excited when

because I didn’t think

Grande for Best Pop Duo/

next

year’s

ceremony.

Kate Walker

Parke sweatshirts. Everywhere

ple warm on campus,” said

for a dependable winter look.

on one standout item, like a

A&L Editor

I go, there’s the girls with the

Rebecca Whitten, a junior el-

“I really love my Georgia

favorite jacket, to elevate more

Parke sweatshirts on. I want

ementary education major.

College sweatshirts because it’s

laid-back or casual outfits.

one so bad, they’re so cute.”

For their go-to winter piec-

always freezing,” McDade said.

“Just make one part of your

cam-

es, students agreed that casual,

“I always throw on the

outfit something cute that you

pus or trips between class-

versatile items are key to staying

same one - I just love this

feel good about, that you’re

es,

confident in,” McDade said.

As freezing temperatures hit Milledgeville and GCSU has already experienced two rounds of snow and ice, students are navigating the challenge of staying warm while keeping up with campus fashion trends. With winter weath-

For

walks

across

students

said

fleece-

both comfortable and stylish.

crew neck, it’s so reliable.”

clothes

and

heavy

“I like these white boots,

For some students, staying

jackets have become essen-

because I feel like I can wear

warm starts with what they

tial when temperatures drop.

them with any outfit and they

wear first thing in the morn-

lined

ing. The base of a good out-

er in full swing, students said

fit may be something that no

trends have shifted toward

one sees, but practical foot-

comfort-focused styles, featur-

wear and layers can make a

ing thicker fabrics designed to

big difference on cold days.

protect against wind and rain.

“Definitely

“Around campus I’m see-

fluffy

socks,”

Whitten said. “I don’t like

ing a lot of really comfy wear,

my feet being cold, so when

like slippers and Uggs and

you wake up in the morning,

those kinds of things, espe-

you’ve got to put on fluffy

cially on really cold days,”

socks so you don’t get cold.”

said Elin Smith, a senior ex-

To balance warmth with

ercise science major. “There’s

style, Smith recommended

a lot of baggy sweatpants and

mixing looser and more fit-

fluffy jackets, just cozy stuff.”

ted pieces for a polished look.

Beyond athleisure, students

“I try to always pair some-

“The rest can just be comfy.”

While comfort on campus is essential, some students felt that slippers and pajamas take the trend too far, and it would be nice for students to commit to looking presentable.

“Low-key like with the Uggs, I just see people wearing pajamas out in public,” Smith said. “I think things are very casual now, and I like when people dress up a little bit.”

McDade agreed that she’s ready for the pajamas to phase out of campus fashion, noting that simply switching out a pair of pants can be all it takes to leave the sleepwear at home.

have also noticed sherpa jack-

thing

ets and Parke sweatshirts as

thing a little tighter,” Smith

“You can tell they just wore

said. “If I’m wearing tight

that to sleep, which is fine,”

leggings, then it’s a baggy

McDade

sweatshirt. But if it’s baggy

I’m rolling out of bed too, but

pants, then I’ll wear a tighter

maybe just put yourself to-

top or something like that.”

gether, with leggings or sweat-

McDade suggested focusing

pants instead of the pajamas.”

popular cold-weather staples.

Kate Walker | A&L Editor

“I definitely see a lot of sherpas and cute little jackets,” said MaKayla McDade, a senior marketing major. “Also, sweatpants, joggers and lots of

“I’ve been seeing a lot of sweatpants

and

big

keep me warm too,” Smith said.

fluffy

When the weather outside

jackets, Uggs and a lot of

turns frosty, McDade said she

comfy wear that keeps peo-

turns to her favorite sweatshirt

baggy

with

some-

said.

“Sometimes

9

KATE WALKER, A&L EDITOR SYDNEY WILLIAMS, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.10.26

ARTS & LIFE

Adventures. joy the water during versity of Georgia cam- ery,” McDonald said. Kitchen + Bar to The DAY TRIPS Ocmulgee Cayleigh Brooks, a the warmer months. pus. Some notable spots The gardens are a Continued from page 1

Ellis also talked about her love for the welcoming atmosphere of Morning Grind, a coffee shop local to Milledgeville with a location in Monticello.

“It is absolutely beautiful inside…everyone who works there is so sweet,” Ellis said.

Along with cuisine, Monticello has attractions year-round, including local farmer’s markets, the Shoppes of Monticello and rafting at

sophomore education major, shared some insight into local events throughout the year.

“Every once in a while, they’ll have events which are really fun,” Brooks said. “Local people will come and do little booths.”

The Georgia town resides near Lake Jackson, which hosts an array of activities including swimming, boating and fishing. There are also rental shops with boats and jet-skis to en-

“There’s nothing better than a sunset on Lake Jackson,” Ellis said, reminiscing on times she spent with family and friends at the lake.

For those looking for a more popular destination full of activities and noteworthy sights, students said that Athens is a perfect spot for a day trip. Most known for being the home of the UGA Bulldogs, Athens holds a day full of shopping, eating and sightseeing on the Uni-

to explore include the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, the Georgia Museum of Art and the infamous Sanford Stadium. Caroline McDonald, a sophomore education major, shared her favorite parts of Athens.

“My favorite spot is the Botanical Gardens,” McDonald said.

McDonald elaborated on the accessibility and the beautiful sights within the center.

“It’s free, so you just go and enjoy the scen-

well-known hot spot for locals and tourists alike, especially in the spring when flowers are in bloom. Along with these sights, students said the downtown Athens shops are a perfect place to find a new outfit, an old record and a myriad of eclectic stores.

“There’s pretty much everything you’d want,” McDonald said.

Along with the sights and shops, Athens hosts many renowned restaurants. From South

National, students said there is a wide range of cuisine and lively environments for all to enjoy.

Though there is plenty to see and do in Milledgeville, day trips allow students to explore new places and enjoy new opportunities. Whether students are looking for a quiet, peaceful afternoon or a day full of shopping bags and diverse dining, central Georgia has it all.

MORE THAN MUSIC:

Bad Bunny’s Superbowl performance resonates with GCSU students Jillian Thompson

per-

was recently detained by

that is not how democ-

the clothing brand, Zara,

formance sent a strong

ICE, while others say the

racy works,” Licata said.

complemented the per-

Lady Gaga sparked

cultural

and

boy was meant to repre-

Another point of con-

formance by allowing

excitement with her un-

SU’s campus have ex-

aimed to send a message

sent Bad Bunny as a child.

versation was his choice

the cultural elements in

expected guest appear-

pressed excitement over

of love and acceptance.

halftime

of clothing. Bad Bunny

the background, pop.

ance. She blended her

the upcoming Super Bowl

Bad Bunny named over

performance, discourse

is known for his bold,

With that being said,

pop persona with Lat-

Halftime

20 different countries in

was

fashion-forward

America,

highlighting

which left many people

his passion for peace.

At the end of his per-

Staff Writer Students across GC-

performance,

with the show potentially being more anticipated than the game itself.

This year’s featured artist was Bad Bunny, a proud Latin artist who has

recently

sparked

pulic discussion due to his “ICE OUT” speech during

his

Grammy

acceptance

speech.

Many students had speculated that another similar statement would occur during this year’s Super Bowl performance.

“I am watching it because, given the political

The

halftime message

With

this

sparked

online,

style.

the

show

rights.

in rhythms to tie into

“Some people were

thoughts on America’s

the overall message of

questioning whether the

mad because they said he

history, roots and cul-

the performance. Her

Super Bowl was an ap-

was going to wear a dress

ture. It highlighted how

custom

different cultures have

held up a football that

come together through-

read “Together, We are

out history to create a

America,” before spik-

shared identity among

ing the ball out into the

American

people.

field, signaling for the

“It’s a great remind-

game to begin. This ges-

er of how much of a

ture

melting

his

pot

America

statements on Ameri-

is,” said Cole McDan-

can unity, immigration

iel, a GCSU alumni.

and love for all people.

Audiences heard per-

Throughout

the

performance,

there

er famous artists such

were various moments

as Lady Gaga, Green-

that

used

symbolism

day and Brandi Carlile.

to

create

meaning.

climate in this country, it

LGBTQ+

provoked

formance, Bad Bunny

emphasized

in

formances

from

oth-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

Carlisle appeared be-

blue

flamen-

co-style dress, designed

by Luar, paid homage to Puerto Rico’s heritage. “ I thought it was really fun and just really entertaining to watch,” said Katie Hedden, a sophomore middle grades education major. “I liked seeing guest artists like Lady Gaga and Cardi B.” Overall, the halftime performance was said to extend beyond just music. Bad Bunny used his stage to highlight

“My favorite moment

propriate venue for a Bad

for the show,” said Dylan

fore the game and per-

is a borderline historical

was when Bad Bunny

Bunny halftime show.

Thayer, a junior busi-

formed a rendition of

decision and there are

gave the Grammy to the

“I think it is a perfect

ness major. “Personally,

“America the Beautiful,”

unity. For many GCSU

going to be a lot of peo-

little kid, ” said Zoey

time to make a political

I don’t care. If the dude

which was widely praised

students

ple that are mad about

Belifante, a senior envi-

statement, especially giv-

wants to wear a dress,

as a powerful opening

the halftime show was

it, which makes no sense

ronmental science major.

en the political climate

let him wear a dress.”

performance. Carlisle is

a reminder of not only

to me,” said Jack Licata,

There were various

of our country right

Although Bad Bun-

a part of an all-female

America’s diversity but

an elementary educa-

debates online on wheth-

now. We need more of

ny did not wear a dress

country

Americana

also the power an artist

tion graduate student. “I

er this five-year-old boy

that because we are be-

during his performance,

group called “The High-

has to make a difference

am curious to see how

was implemented as a

ing censored and put

his matching cream col-

woman” and is also a

and send a message in a

people are gonna react.”

reference to a child who

down and silenced, and

ored outfit designed by

known activist involved

heated political climate.

DATING

culture,

identity

and

and

alumni,

home and I get to see him again.”

mistakes in college help shape healthier

understanding of someone’s charac-

Students find meaningful connec-

expectations and boundaries over time.

ter and decide whether there is confi-

tions that often are presented when

“Take a break from dating and fig-

dence in pursuing something more.

they least expect it. Whether it’s on

ure out your expectations in a relation-

the front campus green, the library

ship, then figure out what you want

“It’s not going to come easy,” Rib-

or at the MAX. For McClay, a mutu-

and what you are looking for,” said Ol-

al meeting turned into a relationship

ivia Ribley, a freshman nursing major.

that challenged her assumptions about

Ribley’s past dating experiences

dating and demonstrated that not all

taught her the importance of step-

oddly enough, he wasn’t the person

campus romances follow a predictable

ping back and reevaluating what

who was supposed to be my ‘man’

path, especially long-distance ones.

she truly wants in a relationship.

in that situation,” McClay said. “We

Not all relationships start off easy,

“Looking back, I wish I had un-

are in a long-distance relationship

yet the missteps often become the most

derstood

meaning-

is part of the experience. As Valen-

of about 2,000 miles, and it’s forced

valuable lessons. For some, it takes ex-

ful relationships take time and pa-

tine’s Day approaches, these stories

me to really get to know him. It also

tra trials and efforts to reach a point of

tience

said.

serve as a reminder to others about

makes it more special when he comes

content. Many students find that dating

It can take months to develop an

the reality of the college dating scene.

Continued from page 1

Addie McClay, a freshman nursing major, said her dating experiences took an unexpected turn when she met her current boyfriend.

“I

met

my

current

boyfriend

through a double date scenario, but

to

earlier

that

develop,”

Ribley

ley said. “You must stay patient and trust the process.You aren’t going to meet your soulmate right off the bat. It’s all about trial and error.”

Dating in college is full of surprises, humor and growth, reminding students that unpredictability

10 AMELIA MCEWEN, MANAGING EDITOR

02.10.26

The Caterwaul CATERWAUL: a shrill howling or wailing noise like that of a cat; commonly associated with a bobcat

“Badge of Honor” By: Natalie Newman

“We the People” By: Amelia McEwen

I often stare at it My dad’s EMT badge frozen in time, Threads pressed flat by an iron.

I see the sun rising Through the rear-view mirror of an ambulance, Eyes drooping from exhaustion, Stomach rumbling out of hunger.

A life lived in a a void Between sirens and breath.

For a while This badge only symbolized work.

A shift. A title. A responsibility.

As time goes on It taught me that caring is not always gentle, It is ruthless and resilience.

It shows up when all signs point to no And no matter what, My dad was there.

He retired his uniform before I could understand But the job never retired him.

I saw a lightness, gentle and bright, And I saw days where getting out of bed was a battle occasionally lost.

It wasn’t strength that resonated with me, It was humanity.

The ability to feel everything, And push anyway.

Now when I trace the frayed stitching of the badge, I feel my father pass by me.

Close enough to almost feel his touch again, Close enough to remind me everyone has a story, Every stranger carries a story sewn beneath their skin.

My dad may be gone now, But his badge hangs high with honor.

Stitches with purpose Not as a relic, but as a compass.

A soft hope that one day.

When the time is right, My purpose will be stitched into me.

A message from the Colonnade staff On behalf of The Colonnade staff we would like to present our newest 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.

Follow our instagram @thecolonnade or scan the QR code

3. Examples of submissions include; Photography, drawing, flash fiction, comic strips, poetry and more!

4. Submissions are due on Fridays to be included in the following Issue.