Issue 3 | Volume 105

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University bobcatmultimedia.com

February 25, 2025

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GCSU Homecoming Week 2025 Madi Hummel Staff Writer

GCSU hosted its annual fun-filled Homecoming Week from Feb. 17 to Feb. 21. Campus organizations hosted a variety of unique and engaging events for students to show their school spirit.

Many different departments were involved in the Homecoming planning and worked hard to organize the events. Each department used its own diverse set of skills to help plan, set up, run and promote Homecoming Week.

Student Engagement Program Coordinator, Sara Goodelman, played a big role in the planning that went into creating the festivities, with the preparations beginning

in the months that lead up to Homecoming Week.

The Homecoming 2025 theme was Thunder’s Safari Adventure and included many events and decorations related to the wild, animals and Thunder keeping up school spirit.

“When the theme was presented to the office of student engagement I was over the moon excited,” Goodelman said. “Immediately the ideas came flowing.”

Every year, the new Homecoming theme gives creative freedom to the planners.

“This year, my favorite part about Homecoming will be having the events that go along with the theme,” Goodelman said.

“Another favorite about planning Homecoming is seeing all different

campus departments come together to plan and execute a successful campus-wide event.

The planning departments hosted many unique events that featured a taste of safari adventure. This year, the planning committee introduced an exciting new way to encourage students to attend all of the events.

“Another cool thing we are doing this year is passing out really cute buttons and stickers that have seven different Thunder graphics on them,” Goodelman said, “We encourage all students to try and collect them all.”

The Homecoming Week festivities began on Monday, Feb. 17, with a petting zoo on the library green space where visitors were able to see a wide variety of animals The petting zoo had

animals donkeys, rabbits, ducks, piglets, a range of reptiles and more. Visitors could touch all of the animals and hold many of the small creatures.

Chloe Lyerly, a sophomore English major, expressed her excitement in seeing animal-focused events like petting zoos, on campus. Out of all the animals at the event, Lyerly’s favorite was the baby goats.

“I made sure to go to every one since I was a freshman,” Lyerly said, “I really enjoy them.”

GCSU held its “Happy Hump Day” event on front campus, on Tuesday, Feb. 18 that showcased two large camels and an accompaniment of music, snacks and drinks and free GCSU Homecoming t-shirts.

See HOCO | Page 6

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

Black history Georgia NIL income month at GCSU tax legislation Sarah Burnhart Staff Writer Americans celebrated the first day of Black History Month this year on Feb. 1. It is a national commemoration celebrated in the United States every year, observing the effects Black Americans have had on the nation and the overall people of America Created first as Negro History Week in 1926

by Carter G. Woodson, Black History Month has since become an entire month to appreciate all that Black Americans and their culture have done for this country.

Woodson was a scholar who dedicated his life to celebrating Black people’s contributions leading to the establish-

ment of Black History Month. He believed that Black people should be proud of their heritage and everyone in America should understand their impact.

He founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915. Since its inception, it has promoted the study of African American history year-round.

February was chosen to commemorate the birthdays of two historical figures who helped shape black history, Abraham Lincoln and Fredrick Douglass.

Lincoln was the 16th U.S. president who issued the Emancipation Proclamation which declared that all enslaved people were free.

See HISTORY | Page 2

NEWS | PG. 3

BREAKING DOWN TRUMP’S TARIFFS After a series of executive orders on Mexico and Canada, how will tariffs effect the Milledgeville

Allie Smith Staff Writer Earlier this month, Georgia state lawmakers proposed a bill that would exempt NIL, or name, image and likeness, earnings for college athletes from the state’s 5.49% income tax.

Proposed by state senators Brandon Beach, Greg Dolezal, Ben Watson, Carden Summers and Frank Ginn, the bill would even out competition for athletic recruiting with states like Tennessee, Florida and Texas, which have no state income tax.

In the relatively new age of NIL, it seems like many college athletic recruiting battles are now won by the highest bidder, and many college athletic pro-

grams are eager to use any benefit they can on the recruiting trail.

Many states, especially in the south, have passed bills in recent years to keep NCAA oversight out of NIL activity, with Missouri passing a bill allowing even high schoolers who have signed with in-state colleges to begin to seek endorsements.

This legislative action comes from the major positive effect that college athletics can have on local and state economies.

On average, the SEC, or Southeastern Conference, brings in 75,000 people per football game, which means there are more people giving business to local shops and restaurants.

See NIL | Page 4

Julia Jensen | Art Director

A picky eater’s paradise Molly Goff

Opinion Editor

OPINION

In recent memory,

“Thunder’s Safari Adventure”

College can be a stressful time, where anxiety can creep in and we lean into comfort.

The phenomenon of picky eating is increasingly popular among college campuses and sometimes can hinder social experiences and nutritional health.

As students navigate the complexities of academic life, their food choices—often based more on comfort than nutrition—can reflect broader issues of adaptability and openness.

At its core, picky eating may seem harmless, but it can have significant implications on both individual well-being and community dynamics. For one, restrictive eating habits limit exposure to diverse cuisines and culinary experiences, which are integral to social bonding during these formative years. When students opt for familiar foods, they miss out on opportunities to connect with peers through shared meals, recipes and culinary adventures.

There is a fine line between having preferences and being close-minded to not trying new things. For example, I dislike mushrooms. Although I have tried mushrooms before and decided I didn’t like them, my experience allowed me to make an informed choice. In contrast, many students refuse to attempt foods they have never tried.

During a recent discussion with friends about our least favorite foods, I discovered that several of them had never experienced the very dishes they claimed to dislike. All of them surprisingly admitted they had not even tried foods like sushi or eggplant, perpetuating a cycle of limited experiences.

In my life, my parents encouraged me to try new things, but that it was okay to like what I liked. For my other friends, they were forced to eat whatever was given to them that day which poses the gray area on whether that is beneficial or not reaping all the benefits as their parents hoped.

I asked some of my friends what their thoughts are about picky eating, especially on GCSU’s campus along with some of our favorite Milledgeville restaurants.

“My go-to restaurant would probably be Barberitos,” said Sonni Stephens, a sophomore world languages and cultures major. “I usually get a burrito bowl with rice, beans, chicken, cheese, lettuce and sour cream.

Unfortunately, I got the enzyme that makes cilantro taste soapy, so a lot of things there aren’t things I can eat. I think an unwillingness to try things is what makes someone a picky eater.”

Certain limitations make it hard for students to be as adventurous as they would like while having restaurants that have go-to staples is a must on campus.

See PARADISE | Page 8

SPORTS | PG. 4

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 7

OPINION & MISC. | PG. 8

GCSU’S CENTENNIAL CENTER

CHARITY EVENT FOR LOCAL KIDS’ HOSPITAL

BRUNO MARS FANS UNITE

Home of Bobcat basketball, career fairs and more, the space holds a unique history at GCSU.

GC Miracle is set to host its annual Miracle Man Auction on Thursday, Feb. 27.

See what our opinion editor thinks about this famous pop singer’s career.

2 SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR RYLEE HOLLAND, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.25.2025

NEWS HISTORY Continued from page 1 Douglass was arguably one of the most important figures in the African American civil rights movement in the 19th century and was a national leader of the abolitionist movement in Massachusetts and New York.

President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976, urging all Americans to recognize the important contribution made to our nation’s life and culture by black citizens.

Every president since then has designated February as Black History Month and has given it a theme. This year, it is “African Americans and Labor.”.

The 2025 theme focuses on the various ways that work of all kinds intersect with the collective experiences of Black Americans. Work is at the very center of Black history and culture. This theme sets out to highlight and celebrate the impact of this work.

“A yearly repetition of Black History Month encourages continued dialogue about Black struggles and challenges, highlights Black successes and ensures that history isn’t erased,” said Chika Unigwe, Ph.D, interim coordinator of MFA and Undergraduate Creative Writing Program.

The GCSU Black Student Alliance is an organization that aims to promote diversity and bring students of all backgrounds together. The objective of the BSA is to enrich the understanding of African American culture and enhance the educational experience.

“I think the yearly commemoration of black history month is important because it shines a lot on all that black culture has given to the world,” said Kenda Williams, a senior exercise science major. “It also allows younger generations to understand their culture and hear stories that may not be told during other months. I remember as a kid, the first and only times I would

ever hear about black history leaders like MLK, Rosa Parks or Harriet Tubman was during black history month.”

GCSU’s The HUB, which stands for Honoring, Uniting, Building, strives to unite and honor all the identities of the campus while challenging oppres-

Being from the Atlanta area, I grew up seeing black people not only survive but thrive.

-Jasmine Kelly

sion through support. It is home to the Cultural Center, the LGBTQIA+ Center and the Women’s Center.

The Cultural Center works closely with BSA to integrate diversity into the community and the university.

“Despite African American’s origins here in the U.S., we have transcended and continue to thrive amongst all of the conditions that have been put in place and are being put in place to prohibit such, and that alone deserved to be acknowledged and celebrated, especially among African Americans,” said Jasmine Kelly, associate director of Student Inclusion and Belonging.

Representation has become important in media and real life for all cultures. It gives people of all races and cultures a place to see themselves in.

“Being from the Atlanta area, I grew up seeing black people not only survive but thrive,” Kelly said. “I am accustomed to seeing black people in leadership. I do believe that you cannot be what you cannot see and it’s important for black people to understand that other black people have the capability and have always had the capability to experience joy and not only survive but to thrive like we have always done.”

Professor Spotlight: English James S. Owens Shadimon Smith

texts to help students understand the

While working with GCSU pro-

News Editor

human condition. A few of those se-

fessor Bruce Gentry he built a love

lected texts are Aesops’ Fables, Dan-

for the classroom and students.

te’s Inferno and Madame Bovary.

“ He was patient with me when

“But it’s also so important to why

maybe some others wouldn’t have

we’re even doing this stuff we’re do-

been, so patience is important,” Ow-

ing,” Owens said. “You know, if we

ens said. “I think never forgetting

can take the past and learn from it

that never judge a book by its cover.

for the future, then that’s one of the

I think we all, we all give a lot of lip

most valuable things we can do.”

service to judging books by its cov-

Owens works to have his students

er, but don’t ever do it, you know.”

understand the why of past writers and

Listening to his students is one

how the themes in the chosen texts can be

of the top priorities of Owens.

applied to situations in the world today.

In his classes, Owens works to build

English is one of GCSU’s many majors and the department employs professors with different perspectives on English and literature. One of those professors is James S. Owens, or Jim Owens a limited-term lecturer in the English department.

Owens attended Auburn University, earning a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature. He then enrolled at the University of Alabama at Birmingham for his mas-

Being

ter’s degree in nonfiction. Owens fin-

a

ished his education at GCSU, earning

by

accident

a Master of Fine Arts in nonfiction

he

has

professor

site view of a text or theme in a text.

Owen’s ultimate goal is to ensure all his students leave his classroom

thinking

Owens dents

to

for

themselves.

also

wants

his

stu-

see

their

value

and

use that in their everyday lives.

“They have a unique thumbprint,

among students. He provides students

learning.

an opportunity to interpret the text

class-

“I had a lot of really good profes-

that is assigned while also bringing

English

sors,” Owens said. “Learning has al-

up different perspectives that the stu-

of those are not the best things. Some

1101 and two English 2110 class-

ways been important, and I’ve always

dents can agree with or disagree with.

of them are very good things, but they

es

literature.

liked the professors who did it right,

This builds healthy thought pro-

have the ability to, it’s almost like every

In his classes, he uses assigned

and I think I wanted to be like them.”

cesses for each student and helps them

human being is its own little piece of art.”

es

this

is

teaching

semester,

which

is

five

three

world

always

VOLUME 105 | NO. 3

Editorial Board

Delaney Derry................. Editor in Chief Paige Blakemore............ Managing Editor Julia Jensen...................... Art Director Shadimon Smith............ News Editor Rylee Holland................. Asst. News Editor Brennan Schmitz........... Sports Editor Benjamin Clark............... Asst. Sports Editor Mary Ciucevich............... Arts & Life Editor Kennedy Welker.............. Asst. Arts & Life Editor Molly Goff......................... Opinion Editor Isabella McComis.......... Digital Media Editor Matthew Malkowski..... Digital Media Editor Rebecca Ocampo.......... PR Manager Kassie Arps....................... Ad Sales Manager Scott Dillard..................... Faculty Adviser

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

Owens,

an environment for healthy exchange

to constantly think about the oppo-

and

Owens

for

happened

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

liked

@TheColonnade

like based on where they’re from, their aunts, uncles, grandmothers, the way they’re raised,” Owens said. “And some

@TheColonnade

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Corrections

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

3 SHADIMON SMITH, NEWS EDITOR RYLEE HOLLAND, ASST. NEWS EDITOR

02.25.2025

NEWS Times Talk: “I Found Faith in a Crowded Subway Car” by David Brooks Hope Martin Staff Writer

This week’s chosen

in a crowded subway car.

the message of finding

butions would be tak-

periences, or lack of,

article is “David Brooks:

He says becoming reli-

real meaning and joy

en and how my identity

and their opinions on

For almost two de-

I Found Faith in a

gious happened slowly.

in life from the article.

would be perceived as

how religion affects us.

cades, the Times Talk

Crowded Subway Car.”

Brook compares loving

“Communica-

a visibly queer person.”

has facilitated commu-

In the article, Brooks

God to worshipping gen-

tion is not a commu-

Cazacu went on to

ued talking long after

discussions,

discusses how half his

erosity itself and strong-

nion,

dissemi-

explain that Christians

the Times Talk ended

this week’s topic tackles

life was spent going to

ly connects religion and

nation,” Bedsole said.

are far from hateful, but

about

faith and was led by Na-

Synagogs and churches.

spirituality with the or-

discussed

that they have had ex-

ship

with

than Bedsole, assistant

He did not feel attached

dinary and day-to-day.

finding faith, how they

periences in the past

how

religion

professor of rhetoric and

to either religion as he

that put them on guard.

everyone

coach of the speech and

did not believe in a god.

“But I had a won-

“Overall, the Times

debate team. Times Talk

Brooks spent 50 years

derful time having a

Talk was so rich and

is an event open to every-

of his life as an agnostic.

much-needed

conver-

complex that 50 minutes

one every Wednesday at

“I thought it was all

sation about faith,” Ca-

simply wasn’t enough,”

Brooks

zacu said. “I’m happy I

Cazacu said. “I hope

“What I get out of

said. “You had to be-

could be there to provide

that future talks may

every Times Talk and I

lieve that certain things

a non-Christian contri-

explore similar ideas so

hope others do, is new

are true, that God really

bution that some people

that we may continue to

understanding, new in-

does exist, that the sto-

Hope Martin | Staff Writer

were curious about, while

expand upon the com-

sights and new questions

ries in the Bible are true.

The pros and cons

can relate the mun-

also listening to various

plex discussion of faith.”

about that week’s top-

And so I was looking for

of the article were dis-

dane to the spiritual and

Christian perspectives.”

ic,” said Janet Hoffman,

books or arguments or

cussed in the room, with

the ethics of religions.

Times Talk partici-

doesn’t

wish

professor of rhetoric and

something that would ra-

people being given the

“I believe I was one of

pants discussed philos-

learns

anything,

host of the Times Talk.

tionally convince me that

power to ask their own

the few non-Christians

ophers, where the mun-

just hopes he provid-

Participants read or

there was indeed a God.”

questions for discussion.

in the room, and I’ll be

dane meets the holy and

ed a little “jiggling.”

listen to a New York

Brooks then describes

Bedsole chose the arti-

honest, I felt a little fright-

how in waiting for the re-

cho-

how he starts to come to

cle because he likes other

ened at first,” said Diana

turn of the sacred we can

had many staying over

sen by a speaker, who

terms with his religion

works by Brooks, and he

Cazacu, a junior philoso-

create heaven on earth.

30 minutes after the

leads a discussion on

by visualizing the souls

liked that it was an audio

phy and art major. “I was

Participants

talk had ended to con-

the

of everyone around him

piece. Bedsole also liked

worried how my contri-

their own religious ex-

nity-wide

noon in Russell Library.

Times

article

topic

afterward.

about

belief,”

it’s

a

People

discussed

Participants

their

tinue

relationGod,

and

affected

differently.

Bedsole

This

contin-

says

Times

he

anyone he

Talk

discussions.

An insight to tariffs Amelia McEwen Staff Writer President Trump

Donald

has

recently

placed tariffs on a multitude of the United States trading partners with the incentive of boosting the economy, raising tax revenue and protecting the country from the flow of illegal drugs.

Trump has placed a 25% tariff on steel and

Though

they

have

The tariffs Trump is

their benefits, tariffs can

threatening Mexico and

also have highly nega-

Canada with are intend-

tive effects. They lead

ed to pressure them into

to reduced trade, drive

taking stronger actions

up prices for consumers

against illegal immigra-

and cause conflict with

tion and the flow of drugs.

the exporting countries.

The economic impact of

“The overall economy

these tariffs is said to be

for the U.S. is negatively

significant, with poten-

impacted,” said Brooke

tial increases in consum-

Conaway, a professor of

er prices and disruptions

economics. “Tariffs have

to global supply chains.

both benefits and costs,

According

to

the

but who gets the benefits

U.S. International Trade

and who pays the costs

Commission, the tariffs

are

people.”

have caused steel prices

An increased cost for

to rise 2.4% and alumi-

consumers can be expect-

num prices to rise 1.4%.

ed through the current

Aside from the eco-

tariffs in place, as well as

nomic impacts of tariffs,

the potential tariffs being

they can also create po-

benefit of this is the pos-

lect government revenue

“That leads me to think

placed on Canada and

litical impacts all around

itive impact on domestic

to provide public goods

he may be counting on

acting this tax to pres-

Mexico. Projected price

the world. The possibil-

industries. With import-

or fund government pro-

it as being a perma-

sure the country to pull

increases include steel

ity of a country retali-

ed goods being more

grams, which is neces-

nent source of revenue.”

back and fix the issue.

and aluminum parts and

ating against the tariff

expensive, it encourages

sary,” said Leah Smith, a

Tariffs can also be

The term tariff refers

products from China.

is not uncommon. This

citizens to buy products

junior economics major.

used to address unfair

with

is known as a trade war.

from inside the coun-

Tariff revenue is be-

trading policies. Trump

goods. One of the most

the 10% tax on China’s

A current example

try. Additionally, tariffs

lieved as being high-

is placing tariffs on China

common reasons that

exports, a $10 product

of this would be how

can generate revenue for

ly significant by most

to address their trading

countries

incentivize

can be expected to cost

China and the U.S. have

the country. These funds

people, but it is only a

policies in the U.S. which

tariffs is to push con-

an additional $1. Firms

been going back and

can be allocated towards

relatively small portion

are said to be unfair.

sumers to buy domes-

often choose to allocate

forth placing taxes on

necessities

benefit

of the federal budget.

Over time the tax

tic, rather than foreign

this upcharge on con-

one another’s goods. At

the country as a whole.

“One thing that does

can encourage foreign

products. More revenue

sumers to maintain their

a certain point, trade

“Any tax will always

worry me, though, is that

companies to invest in

can then be generat-

profit margin. In oth-

conflicts can escalate and

make

consumer

President Trump seems

domestic production to

ed within the country

er words, they want to

impact foreign relations

worse off, there is no

to mention the revenue

avoid paying higher pric-

through the support of

be able to continue to

and international supply.

avoiding that, but the

a lot,” said JJ Arias, a

es, which could boost the

homegrown businesses.

stay financially healthy.

The most outstanding

point of a tariff is to col-

professor of economics.

economy of the country.

aluminum imports in order to prevent foreign competition in that market. He also has placed a 10% tax on all imports from China due to his belief that they are

practicing

unfair

trade policies. He is en-

to a tax on imported

different

For

example,

Julia Jenson | Art Director

any

to

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

02.25.2025

SPORTS NIL Continued from page 1 In Athens, Ga., local businesses saw a large increase in engagement following the University of Georgia Bulldogs’ 2021 national championship win. Success sells, and an elite football team combined

with

mass

celebration

for

mile-

stone wins, like national championship parades,

get to acquire the top tal-

day. “If we want to get

ent in the country to com-

the best that’s out there,

pete for national titles.

we’ve got to make sure

UGA, whose football

we have an even playing

team is one of the pre-

field with those three

mier collegiate athletic

states that have very

programs in the state of

good football programs.”

Georgia, is in constant

In the realm of college

competition with other

football, there seems to

schools in the SEC for

be a direct correlation

the best talent from the

between money spent

south. With schools like

on players through NIL

the University of Ten-

and

on-field

success.

2025

national

nessee, the University of

The

Florida and the Univer-

champion

sity of Texas at Austin

Buckeyes famously field-

holding the advantage

Julia Jensen | Art Director

ing will likely push teams

bad for college athletes

fair, but other residents

to focus even more on

in that sense,” said Dylan

of Georgia will still pay

NIL efforts and was like-

Lewis, a senior market-

their share of taxes if

ed the “$20 million ros-

ly an influence on the

ing major. “They’re get-

the bill becomes law.

of being states with no

ter” this past season,

bill being proposed in

ting paid pretty decent-

“If everyone else pays

college athletics being

income tax, the law-

and breezed through the

the Georgia state senate.

ly, so I would say they

taxes, so should they,”

amplified by the transfer

makers who proposed

playoff, defeating their

The idea of the spe-

should pay taxes on it.”

said Owen Faulk, a se-

portal, the name given

the bill feel a need to

opponents by an average

cific exclusion of certain

For states like Flori-

nior accounting major.

to the database listing

level the playing field.

margin of 16.5 points

earnings

for

Georgia

da, Tennessee and Texas

If the bill is passed,

athletes seeking transfers

“[The bill] helps us

on their way to a title.

student-athletes

may

that have no income tax,

recruiting could look

means money rolling in for the college town.

However,

success

starts with recruiting, and with that factor of

Based on these results,

upset some Georgians.

there is no advantage

very different for the

athletic programs need

Florida and Tennessee,”

the Buckeyes’ big-spend-

“Nobody wants to get

that athletes receive that

state

of

every advantage they can

Beach told USA To-

ing approach to recruit-

taxed, but I don’t feel

could be deemed un-

the

coming

institutions,

with

State

Texas,

between

compete

Ohio

Georgia

in

years.

The GCSU Centennial Center spotlight Allie Smith

foot building was com-

as restrooms, a bath-

room and a weight room

eat. This would be great

Additionally, the Cen-

Staff Writer

pleted to guarantee that

house, lockers and show-

for

student-ath-

for athletes because we

tennial Center facilitates

The GCSU Centennial

the Bobcats would be

ers for athletes to use.

letes to train and prog-

could grab something

the Career and Gradu-

Center is located with-

competing in one of the

This building has oth-

ress

sport.

and go while also meet-

ate School Fair, an event

in the historic district

finest on-campus are-

er amenities such as a

“I like t letes think that

ing our nutrition goals.”

that

of Milledgeville and is a

nas in the state of Geor-

portable dance floor, five

there still needs to be

The Centennial Cen-

cornerstone for the uni-

gia and the southeast,”

classrooms, two tennis

some improvements and

ter serves as a central

versity’s expansion and

according to the Ina

courts and an outdoor

updates to the building.

hub for important aca-

athletic

growth

the in

their

since

employers, providers,

internship and

repre-

The Centennial Cen-

ed to improve educa-

ter is an exceptional fa-

tional opportunities by

cility that caters to the

providing physical ed-

diverse needs of students

ucation and intercolle-

and

giate athletic programs.

student-athletes.

It provides a top-tier

The building aims to accommodate the growing needs of GCSU’s

training

environment

where

student-athletes

can hone their skills

student body and ath-

and prepare for up-

letic programs, as well as

coming

provide special services

competitions.

Serving as a fantas-

to the university fam-

tic venue for hosting

ily and its community.

Centennial

its primary use was for

students with potential

uate school programs.

1989. It was construct-

Center was first built

GCSU

sentatives from grad-

it was built in October

When

connects

Matthew Malkowski | Digital Media Editor

Dillard Russel Library.

Centennial

Center

pool. The pool is available

“I think it almost has

demic events throughout

for public use through

everything it needs for

the year. Twice annually,

athletes,”

Finley

in both the winter and

home games against other schools, fostering a sense of community and school spirit and creat-

sports

activities,

with

has a seating capacity of

the

limited

facilities

for

about four thousand plus

Department

Parks

Burns, a sophomore fi-

spring seasons, the Cen-

events. Now GCSU has

an extra eight hundred

and Recreation with an

nance major. “One thing

ter acts as a venue for the

GCSU to host all kinds

built multiple different

on the floor. The gym

entry fee, but students

I wish it had is a nutrition

university’s Commence-

of large-scale events, the

facilities, including fields,

has fold-out end zones

can use their Bobcat

bar because when we

ment Ceremonies, mark-

Centennial Center is a

courts, and an athlet-

with

Card to exempt that fee.

have practices or weights

ing the culmination of

quintessential landmark

ics performance center.

and three full-sized bas-

Cen-

right before classes it

academic

achievement

for GC Athletics, and the

“The 95,000 square-

ketball courts, as well

ter also has a training

is hard to find time to

for graduating students.

student body as a whole.

upper

bleachers

Baldwin

Centennial

County of

said

ing a central arena for

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

02.25.2025

SPORTS

GCSU softball takes first game vs. SVSU Bryan Cohen

Contributing Writer The GCSU Bobcats softball team split a two-game doubleheader against Saginaw Valley State University on Friday, Feb. 21, with both games being decided by a single run.

This doubleheader was the season opener for the Cardinals of University Center, Michigan, as they began their season with a trip around the south, starting with Georgia before traveling to Florida.

Senior pitcher Shelby Jones got the start for game one of the doubleheaders. Entering the afternoon, Jones sported a 3.46 ERA in 28.5 innings of work.

Jones was backed up by her defense to open the afternoon contest on an awkward double-play, with one out coming from a fielder’s choice and the other coming on the basepaths when a runner tried to advance from second to third. Jones finished the inning with a punch out for the first of her night.

The following two half-innings flowed quickly as the Bobcats went 1-2-3 to begin their day, as Jones threw an answering three-up,

three-down inning in the top of the second.

The bottom of the second was where the scoring began, as junior first base Stephanie Condland got a hold of a pitch and sent it over the wall for a 1-0 Bobcat lead, giving Jones a bit of insurance.

“I’m super proud of myself,” Condland said.

“I’ve been working extra hard day in and day out, and it’s all thanks to my coaches and my teammates’ support.”

Jones stepped back to the circle for the seventh to finish what she began, and while the Cardinals sent the tying run to second, Jones struck out the next two to end the game and secure the complete game, her third of the year.

“I think I did pretty good, but still got some things to work on,” Jones said.

Jones’s final line score was seven innings pitched, giving up five hits, one run and two walks while striking out eight. She also threw 106 pitches.

Condland, along with senior utility player Divina Checo and sophomore outfielder Emily Hutcheson had the three hits for GCSU in the first game

of

the doubleheader.

Sophomore pitcher Tiffany Caban received the call for the second game of the doubleheader for the Bobcats, sporting a solid 2.88 ERA entering the day, which also led the Bobcats before the doubleheader.

Caban worked through some early trouble, as the Cardinals doubled to open up the ballgame. However, the following three struck out, a pair swinging and one looking, as Caban escaped trouble.

The Bobcats scored even earlier in this game, as a hit-by-pitch to Checo was followed by a pair of singles from sophomore catcher/infielder Karlie Gutierrez and senior outfielder Caroline Pollock to put the first run of the nightcap on the board. Finally, Condland quickly increased the Bobcats’ score to two, as she singled up the middle to score Pollock.

Both pitchers worked relatively quick second innings. However, a leadoff walk for SVSU in the third inning put the tying run up to the plate.

Caban managed a pair of outs following the walk and would come within one strike from escaping the inning unscathed,

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics

Senior pitcher Shelby Jones winds up

but the Cardinals sent the next pitch over the wall to even things up at two.

Neither pitcher let up for the next few innings, and even when it seemed either offense was putting something together, the pitcher shut things down.

However, things changed in the bottom of the sixth inning, where a lead-off single by Condland was quickly turned into a run from a triple

by Hutcheson, which was followed by a hitby-pitch and fielder’s choice to load the bases.

Then, senior infielder Kam Caldwell plated a pair on a single to the right side, and Checo scored another off of a single to center. GCSU ended the inning with a four-run lead: 6-2.

Nonetheless, the Cardinals’ offense came into play in the next half-inning, and they made it close off of a couple of GCSU mistakes, including a wild pitch that put SVSU within one run from tying it. A single from a Cardinals batter completed the comeback and evened things back up at six.

With there being extra innings, in the rules, a ghost-runner, the person who ended the last inning with an out, will be placed upon second base to begin each inning.

The Cardinals plated their ghost-runner to give them the lead, their first of the entire day. Sophomore pitcher Annalise Knop escaped further damage

from the bullpen, and the Bobcats entered the bottom of the inning in desperate need of scoring their ghost-runner.

The Bobcats, however, would have two quick outs on the scoreboard, and with runners on first and second, the last hopes were down to Pollock. However, the defense handled her left-handed shift perfectly, and the Cardinals scooped out the victory.

“I’m super proud of the girls,” Condland said.

“I’m super proud of how we came out of the gate, swinging, ready to go.”

The GCSU softball team plays a doubleheader against the Erskine College Flying Fleet on the road on Wednesday, Feb. 26.

Multiple Bobcats pick up PBC honors Bryan Cohen

over five rebounds her

reached 1,087 rebounds

entire career as a Bob-

in her career. These

cat until she stepped it

numbers place Warren

up to eight per game

seventh for rebounds in

her sophomore season.

a season in PBC histo-

Senior forward Jada

She has lit up the

ry and fourth all-time

boards column on the

in rebounds in a career.

Warren earned the hon-

stat sheet this year, av-

or for women’s basketball

eraging 14 rebounds per

ic basketball career at

and senior right-hand-

game, including an all-

GCSU and historic sea-

ed pitcher Will Sims

time game-high against

son helped her achieve

and freshman catcher

the University of North

her

Greenville

23.

Belt Conference Play-

In a game against

er of the Week award.

Contributing Writer Three

Bobcats

played to standout levels the week of Feb. 10.

Caleb Miele were recognized

for

baseball.

Specifically,

Sims

won PBC Pitcher of the Week, and Miele won PBC Freshman of the Week for baseball.

Warren not only won

Flagler

with

College,

Warren’s

first-ever

histor-

Peach

War-

Warren will return

ren quickly crossed the

for her final regular sea-

1,000-rebound

mark,

son home game as a

and with 7:58 remaining

Bobcat on Tuesday, Feb.

in the third quarter, she

25, at 5:30 p.m. inside

collected her 11th re-

the Centennial Center

bound of the night and

against Augusta Univer-

Courtesy of GCSU Athletics

numbers on the mound

only allowed two walks

his batting average still

climbed to elite levels

in the last three outings.

stands at an impressive

in the week he won the

He made his second

.438, leading the Bob-

award. Sims pitched 5.0

career start and first of

cats when the qualifica-

innings in two relief appearances, allowing only one run and one hit.

In

a

performance

against Southern Wesleyan University, Sims struck out eight, allowing not one baserunner.

Sims next pitched against Eckerd College, giving up only a solo home run while striking out four.

These

performances

lowered his season ERA to 1.50, with batters hitting .095 off the reliever.

Since that week, Sims Courtesy of GCSU Athletics

has continued to over-

the all-time GCSU re-

sity, as she tries to climb

whelm batters, giving

bound record of 1,006.

even higher up the re-

up only two runs in 5.1

cord list on Senior Day.

more innings of work,

season. The 6’1” se-

Warren has registered 364 rebounds this sea-

Sims took home the

nior has always had a

son, leading the PBC

knack for getting after

category

the ball, as she averaged

the honor recently, but she has also had an alltime

historic

GCSU

the season against Erskine

College,

where

he pitched 4.0 innings, giving up three hits, but that was all he would give up, as all four innings of the Flying Fleet offense was shut down. Sims also struck out three in

the

performance.

Miele has taken off with

the

GCSU

of-

fense. In his first two games with an actual at-bat, Miele batted 5-for-6 (.833), driving in five runs while scoring himself three times.

He also showed patience at the plate, walking two times in the first

tion statistic of playing in 75% of GCSU baseball games is considered.

Miele continues to be patient at the plate, walking another two times.

The freshman catcher has also played the backstop role well, having made only a single error in his five starts behind the dish and having a fielding percentage of .962.

He

has

also

corded

24

The

Bobcats

re-

putouts. base-

ball season will continue Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 4 p.m. on the road against the No. 24 University of

Eckerd.

Mount Olive. The next

increasing his strikeout

Since these games,

home game will be a

honors for Pitcher of the

total to double-digits at

Miele has cooled off

three-game series against

by

Week, and while he may

13. Sims continues to

slightly, going two for

Augusta University on

100 at one point, and has

not have set history, his

limit the free pass, as he

his last 10. However,

Friday, Feb. 28, at 5 p.m.

precisely

game

against

6 MARY CIUCEVICH, A&L EDITOR KENNEDY WELKER, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.25.2025

ARTS & LIFE HOCO Continued from page 1 “It’s something exciting to look forward to after class,” said Ellen Gunji, a sophomore art major.

“The animals take away my negative emotions.”

Students were invited to Magnolia Ballroom for the silent disco on Tuesday, Feb. 18, where attendees used wireless headphones to listen to one of three music sta-

tions. The silent disco had a live DJ and participants enjoyed their own personal stations in a completely silent room.

The event allowed students to experience a unique twist on a normal dance.

During the week, the ballots for the Homecoming Court opened, and participating organizations worked hard preparing and tabling to win over students and promote their candidates. Voting closed at

the end of the week and crowned Jackson Lowe as King, Adrienne Davis as Queen, Jason Eliqwe as Duke and Ava Davis as Duchess during the men’s basketball game on Saturday Feb. 22.

GCSU Campus Activities Board hosted the Battle of the Bobcats on Thursday Feb. 19, an event where five musicians and bands performed against each other in the Russell Auditorium. The winner of the battle, Subatomic, will

get the chance to open for the 2025 spring concert later in the semester.

One of the big events leading up to the Homecoming game is the Homecoming Parade, which was held on Friday Feb. 20. Different student organizations on campus rode down the main campus in cars, trucks and decorated trailers.

The Annual Tent City Tailgate was held in the Centennial Center parking lot on Saturday, Feb. 21. Students,

alumni, businesses and other visitors gathered outside of the center as well as music, games and food trucks to accompany the tailgate.

The week’s festivities ended with the basketball games played by both the women’s and men’s basketball teams in the Centennial Center.

Every year, Homecoming Week raises school spirit and helps bring the GCSU community together. The week allows students to take

Environmental consciousness on campus Kennedy Welker Asst. A&L Editor In 2025, with conversations revolving around environmental crises on the rise, GCSU students are becoming more aware of their effects on the environment and their carbon footprints.

José Genao, a junior English major, who is an active recycler said that while he is already very conscious of his effects on the environment, he could contribute to sustainability even more by educating others.

“Some students don’t know how to recycle properly,” Genao said.

“Like when you recycle Coca-Cola bottles, you have to rinse them out and take off the ribbon.

And it’s a better idea to leave the caps on the bottles than take them off.”

Genao proposed a program in his residence hall, a competition-style event where many students are motivated to contrite recyclable materials in large quantities.

“I wish I used a different kind of detergent,” said Sydney Auriemma, a senior English major who is very passionate about recycling. “They have this dissolvable kind but I still use the plastic stuff. I’m a college student and I can’t afford the fancy stuff.”

Auriemma also said that if she had the time, she would reuse rags for cleaning and drying instead of buying and throwing away large quantities of paper towels.

Kalina Manoylov is a professor and interim chair of the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences who

has her PhD in Zoology and Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior. She teaches the lecture course Introduction to Environmental Science which is a highly informative course on environmental processes and issues and is available for all GCSU students to take.

Manoylov says that students have control over what they buy and demand to exist on the

TikToker to popstar?

Staff Writer Addison Rae embarked on her TikTok journey in 2019, quickly becoming an internet sensation known for her bubbly, stereotypically feminine personality. As a member of the Hype House in California, a content creation collective designed for creators to grow their audiences through collaboration, Rae’s platforms rose rapidly in the social media world.

During her time in the content house, Rae started dating Bryce Hall, a controversial personality from another content house, Sway House, also known as Sway LA. The couple’s on-again, offagain relationship lasted from 2019 until 2021, ending with cheating rumors and speculation.

As her TikTok popu-

an establishment where recycling the valuable materials is possible. Prolonging the life of clothes can also lessen the bulk of what goes to the landfill.

The college campus itself provides easily accessible, labeled recycling bins, but this is not the only effort GCSU makes to lessen its carbon footprint.

There are solar panels at every campus bus stop and golf carts are

equipped with solar panels as well. Sodexo, the company that provides GCSU’s dining services, partners with the GCSU Maxwell Student Union to collect food waste for compost.

“What you put on your plate is very important,” Manoylov said. “If the food is not touched it can be reused and reserved. But if it is touched, it goes to compost, in which there are restrictions. What we put on our plate is something we have control over.”

There are also places on campus for students to bring their used batteries for recycling. The Office of Sustainability collects used batteries and there are two buckets in Herty Hall for battery collection, one outside of room 106 and one next to the elevator on the third floor.

“We don’t recommend putting batteries in the garbage,” Manoylov said. “They are dead, but they have positive and negative elements that can be reactivated and chemically alter the disposed material.”

GCSU has also implemented the use of motion lights in many halls throughout campus.

However, not all rooms use them which means everyone on campus is responsible for turning off lights to conserve energy.

That same year marked a significant turning point in her career with the release of “AR (EP),” a four-track collection featuring a collaboration with critically acclaimed pop artist Charli XCX, a partnership that earned her newfound respect in the music industry.

Rae’s acting career took a positive turn with her role in the 2023 horror thriller “Thanksgiving,” starring alongside A-list actor Patrick Dempsey. The film received widespread critical praise, demonstrating Rae’s growth as an actress.

Rae further cemented her musical credibility in March 2024, through another collaboration with Charli XCX on her remix album. A viral TikTok video captured the studio session where Rae let out her distinctive high-pitched scream to the track “Von Dutch” showcasing their creative chemistry.

Momentum in her career continued with the

release of her song “Diet Pepsi” in 2024, which became a streaming phenomenon, receiving over 200 million plays on Spotify. In a candid Rolling Stone interview, she revealed that this career evolution was always part of her plan and that she needed to take a step back from posting on social media and take the risk of making her dreams work out.

“I thought the song was really catchy,” said Abbey Clayton, a sophomore business major.

Clayton noted that she had been following Rae since the beginning of TikTok and how she has seen her grow into a musician, acknowledging that this career seemed to fit her better.

Her rising status in the pop music world was further pushed when she performed “Diet Pepsi” and “Von Dutch” alongside Charli XCX at the New York stop of Charli XCX’s and Troye Sivan’s Sweat Tour.

Julia Jenson | Art Director

ADDISON RAE Madi Hummel

market. Students should think of the bulk of what they use every day and make it as sustainable as they can afford.

Manoylov pointed out that some smaller decisions in life that add up could be made more environmentally friendly.

When students dispose of electronics, go to

larity began to plateau, Rae made moves to expand her career beyond social media. Her first venture into music came in March 2021 with the single “Obsessed,” which was met with doubt from critics who dismissed her as another famous person with no talent trying to step into the music industry.

“Personally, I am not a fan of her music, it sounds fake to me like too much autotune,” said Emma Measley, a freshman business major. “It sounds like she is trying to be different but it’s just not working for her.”

In late 2022, Rae made her acting debut in the Netflix film “He’s All That,” which received mixed reviews regarding her acting skills and the general plot of the film.

Rae remained relatively quiet about her musical pursuits until a 2023 Vogue interview.

“We want people to be comfortable so they can create and learn and have all this potential to be the best students, faculty and staff,” Manoylov said. “But also we need to be doing that in a conscious way.

When we leave the room, switch off the light.”

Manoylov was told by students that they drink plastic bottled water on campus because the water from campus dispensers is not cold when filling reusable glasses or metal reusable cups. If campus water was colder, students might not buy as much bottled water.

“All water dispensers on campus are safe,” Manylov said. “They have carbon filters which remove harmful bacteria.”

Manoylov said the reason is it is so important to be environmentally conscious in the modern day is this: The more and more carbon dioxide people release when breathing in a room, the hotter the room gets. The rest of the planet reacts in the same way. Replacing necessary oxygen with other particles is not sustainable.

“Any particle, visible and invisible, that we release can retain heat.

All those particles are on this one single planet and they change and trigger the environment to go into a direction

the opportunity to get involved with events that support the school and their fellow students.

“College isn’t just about getting an education but it is also about the experience,” Goodelman said. “Academics can be hard and stressful so when there are events and different programs across campus I encourage each student to get out of their comfort zone and attend as many events as possible.”

that we cannot predict.”

Manoylov said that the biggest change in carbon reduction is due to decisions to burn less coal, an energy source that has been replaced with other sources such as nuclear and hydrogen-produced energy. However, humans are still increasing the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.

“There’s an overload of information,” Manoylov said, about the tendency of students to push aside their commitment to the environment.

“People are naturally curious, but they are not necessarily trained on who to trust and how to incorporate environmental information into everyday life.”

Manoylov supports the proposal for GCSU to partner with an important environmental app called “Get Green,” with the potential to be available to students before fall 2025.

If implemented, the Get Green app will be paid for by the Sustainability Office Council and will be a free source of information on campus sustainability programs. It will create visible signs of the Green Initiative on campus and encourage habits that promote sustainability within the student body.

Julia Jenson | Art Director

Rae released her next single “Aquamarine” in October 2024, further establishing her place in the pop music world.

With each new release, she continues to receive increasingly positive critical reception.

Most recently, Rae dropped her single “High Fashion” on Valentine’s Day 2025, building anticipation for her debut full-

length album expected for release later this year.

“My first initial response to the song was that her voice sounded good but the music video threw me off,” said Avery Arnold, a sophomore nursing major.

“I feel like her music is the completely opposite of what she introduced herself to begin with on social media.”

7 MARY CIUCEVICH, A&L EDITOR KENNEDY WELKER, ASST. A&L EDITOR

02.25.2025

ARTS & LIFE

Super Bowl commercials Brianna Heard Staff Wtiter The Super Bowl is a competitive sporting event, all about sports fans cheering on their favorite United States football teams. For some, however, the real fun is in the entertainment of the Super Bowl commercials.

Company advertisers take advantage of this nationwide sports TV event to create emotional, inspiring and comedic advertisements, encouraging viewers to buy or use their products.

Companies pay millions for Super Bowl airtime slots. Anne Lee, in her CBS News article “How much do 2025 Super Bowl commercials cost,” says that a mere 30-second advertisement slot cost advertisers an average of nearly $8 million during Super Bowl LIX. This staggering expense highlights just how important Super Bowl advertisements are for companies aiming to make a lasting impression on a massive audience.

Over 120 million viewers tune into the Super Bowl, making it a prime

opportunity for brands to make an impression. Expectations are high, with viewers demanding creativity, humor and emotional resonance.

“I thought the commercials were random and funny,” said Ryan Collins, a junior mass communication major. “I wasn’t convinced to buy anything because I know they try so hard for the Super Bowl.”

Big budgets and effort do not always equal sales. Sometimes, consumers want something more genuine than a flashy Super Bowl commercial.

Some students were unimpressed by the performance of this year’s Super Bowl advertisements. Large sums of time and money go into planning their marketing strategies, so viewers expect only the best quality advertisement during this highly-promoted sporting event.

Sam Conner, a sophomore marketing major, said that he did not pay much attention to the ads, as he was more focused on the game itself.

Conversely, other students enjoyed the commercials and felt ad-

Miracle Man Rylee Holland Asst. News Editor

GC Miracle is hosting its Miracle Man event on Thursday, Feb. 27 in the Arts & Sciences Auditorium for an entry fee of five dollars to raise money for Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital (BKO).

Miracle Man is the organization’s Valentine’s Day-themed event.

In this event, several GCSU male students volunteer to wear a suit and show off their talents, then dream dates and gift cards are auctioned off to the crowd.

While the fun parts of Miracle Man may entice some to attend, GC Miracle’s biggest project is to raise money for the kids at BKO. GC Miracle is a part of the larger organization called Children’s Miracle Network,

eral assistant and committee members. Over the course of a school year, they work together to raise money with fundraising events like Miracle Mile, Miracle Man and Thunderthon.

The Atrium Health Navicent in Macon, Ga. has been providing pediatric care for 30 years.

In 2019, they expanded this care, opening the BKO Children’s Hospital.

“To make sure every child gets the best care, right in our area,” said BKO’s website, about why Navitient Health opened the children’s hospital.

GC Miracle is a major reason BKO is as successful as it is today. The events that GC Miracle holds and the year-round fundraising make for an abundance of support for the children at BKO. GC Miracle has been hosting the Miracle Man

Courtesy of Abigail Lee | GC Miracle President

where GCSU and many other colleges around the nation are involved.

GC Miracle is the largest student-run organization on campus and gives their unwavering support to BKO, the closest children’s hospital to GCSU, by volunteering and raising money.

GC Miracle is made up of 18 executive members, a morale team and sev-

event for years and ever since they began, it has been popular among the students at GCSU as a fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Hailey Zerkle, a junior special education major and the internal branch director for GC Miracle, stated her favorite part of Miracle Man. “When all the boys do their talent,” Zerkle

vertisers used humor effectively to make a good impression.

Lee’s article emphasizes how comedy is an essential advertisement strategy during the Super Bowl. Comedy is often considered a safe choice because it appeals to a broad audience and avoids controversy that might divide viewers.

Advertisers use humor to make their commercials memorable and ensure their messages resonate positively with a diverse audience.

In their AP News article, “Super Bowl commercials rely on comedy”, Dee-Ann Durbin, Mae Anderson and Wyatte Grantham-Philips discuss how the Super Bowl advertisements of 2025 were in development during the recent presidential election race, which means avoiding controversy was of the utmost priority.

Super Bowl commercials reflect modern marketing strategies. With the ability to leave people in tears of laughter or emotion, these advertisements have become an event in their own right.

Some students admit to watching the Super Bowl just to see the advertisements. This year, there were over 50 minutes of commercial time, providing plenty of opportu-

nities for brands to make an impact.

“My favorite commercial handsdown was the Bud Light commercial with Post Malone and Shane Gillis,” Taylor said. “It is really smart what they are doing. Getting a guy like Shane Gillis to promote their beer is genius. Those two guys made the commercial hilarious.”

Not all commercials were winners, however.

Students voiced their disappointment with certain advertisements, such as the Uber Eats commercial featuring Matthew McConaughey and the Yeezy commercial with Kanye West.

These examples show that even big budgets and famous faces do not guarantee success. A poorly conceived concept or a misaligned celebrity partnership can lead to a commercial falling flat.

“Putting celebrities together in unexpected combinations can broaden the appeal of a commercial,” Durbin said. “Celebrities can also get so much attention that viewers don’t remember which brand they’re advertising.”

Whether funny, inspiring or quickly forgotten, Super Bowl commercials can be a spectacle that can show the lengths companies will go to capture the audience’s attention.

Arts & Science building said.“I think it is such a fun time to see them do goofy things rather than just walk across the stage.”

The boys who participate in Miracle Man display a special talent on stage to encourage the crowd to bid on them and the gift card they are giving away. At last year’s Miracle Man, many amazing and funny talents were revealed.

“One boy rode around on a razor scooter and jumped off the stage on it,” said Lilah Gapp, a junior public health major and the financial branch director of Miracle, about attending the 2024 Miracle Man. “One boy turned a hamster into a puppy which was fun. A couple of boys did some soccer skills and one boy sang, so it’s just fun little things like that.”

The executive members were asked why people should go and support Miracle Man and what is in it for them.

“You should go because it’s so much fun and also you might win a date or a gift card,” said Drew Hill, a junior mass communication major and the external branch director of GC Miracle.

Each person who is a part of GC Miracle or is registering to attend Thunderthon creates a Donor Drive account with Children’s Miracle Network. These accounts are where the money is stored that goes to BKO kids who need GCSU’s help.

As well as attending Miracle Man, there are several other ways to become involved in GC Miracle’s organization.

“We also have committees and assistants to our executive board,” Gapp said. “There’s a lot of opportunities for whatever you’re interested in: marketing, finance, morale, hospital relations, there’s really a place for everyone.”

Is it time for maintenance and updates?

Kate Walker Contributing Writer The Arts & Sciences Building on GCSU’s main campus was constructed in 1995, and 25 years later, there are some concerns that the building is in need of maintenance and updates. The three-story, 124,000-square-foot structure houses a variety of freshman and introductory classes, in addition to higher-level math, history and English courses. While the building is structurally sound, many students and professors believe the classrooms need updates to be used most effectively.

Chris Clark, an economics professor at GCSU, has encountered several issues while teaching in the building, including old, broken items lying about in classrooms, rolling chairs that are not conducive to quantitative studies and a lack of trash cans in classrooms.

“I’ve been asked to teach in several classrooms with rolling chairs,” Clark said.

“Typically, when I come into those classrooms the chairs are all pushed together in one corner, so we spend the first five minutes of class actually making room for people to sit down in chairs, which is not great for learning.”

In addition to the rolling chairs, Clark recalled a lectern full of trash, a whiteboard set up directly next to the door that students consistently tripped over, one classroom with an endless buzzing noise, an entire box of stolen chalk and one instance where Presidential Scholarship Candidates were led into a room with a broken metal lectern in pieces on the desk.

“Imagine you’re a

Isabella McComis } Digital Media Editor

freshman, it’s your very first day of class, you walk in and there’s a bunch of broken stuff in the rooms lying around,” Clark said. “What are you going to tell your parents the first night?”

Some students have also noticed a general lack of organization and modern furnishings in the building, as it is used for a variety of purposes and classes.

“Overall, it’s nice, I’m very thankful to have a building to study in, but it massively needs some updates,” said Jordyn Waller, a senior marketing major. “The classrooms are just uncomfortably too small, and the chalkboards need to go, especially when you have an SI session in there and you have to use the chalkboard instead of a whiteboard.”

While the building features a courtyard, students hardly use the space as it’s situated in the dark, shaded center of the building, with little sunlight, greenspaces or color in general. Clark mentioned that murals or other artwork could brighten up the space if added.

“It’s an arts building, why not paint something on it?” Clark said.

Janelle Blackstock, a sophomore management information systems major, noted that while the building is architectural-

ly sound, it doesn’t offer students anything more than classroom space.

“It’s just fine, I go there, I go to class, and I leave,” Blackstock said.

With the newly constructed music building and plans to renovate Herty Hall in the coming years, the Arts & Sciences Building may not need a complete renovation, but simple changes in furnishings, maintenance and organization could make a vast difference.

“I just think it needs some character to it, there’s so much going on in that building and it’s not really organized,” Waller said. “Some classes are math, some are sciences, I had management class in there, and it’s just very unorganized.”

The building currently features 44 regular classrooms, three electronic classrooms and a GSAMS Distance Learning Center, in addition to faculty offices and an auditorium. With such space and technology, the building has a lot of potential and with simple updates can be more conducive to student learning and success.

“I think very rudimentary things could be changed that cost almost nothing, like trashcans,” Clark said. “I do think that the building is a bit run down, and some renovation does need to happen.”

8

MOLLY GOFF, OPINION EDITOR

02.25.2025

OPINION

BRUNO MARS’S EVOLUTION Molly Goff

became evident with his

my soul, and that I didn’t

Opinion Editor

second album, “Unorth-

take any shortcuts. I have

Bruno Mars is a pop

odox Jukebox,” released

to really believe in what

icon and the epitome

in 2012. This album

I’m doing for it to work.’”

of ambiguity in music.

marked a period of bold

The pinnacle of Mars’s

From his first album,

experimentation, as he

evolution arguably ar-

“Doo-Wops & Hooli-

incorporated

elements

rived with his third stu-

gans,” to his latest col-

of funk, rock and soul.

dio album “24K Magic,”

laborative single, “Fat

Tracks like “Locked Out

released in 2016. This al-

Juicy & Wet,” his range

of Heaven” and “When I

bum exuded confidence

of music stuns both the

Was Your Man” demon-

and showcased his mas-

charts and listeners alike.

strated a broader emo-

tery of diverse genres.

Not many artists pos-

tional depth and musical

With its funky grooves

sess the versatility of

complexity. Critics began

and throwback vibes,

Mars. Drawing inspi-

to see him not just as a

tracks like “24K Magic”

ration from a wide ar-

hitmaker but as a seri-

and “That’s What I Like”

ray of musical genres,

ous artist willing to push

brought a fresh perspec-

Mars has crafted a dis-

creative

tive

tinctive

sound

that

defies

categorization.

boundaries.

My favorite track from

contemporary

music. Mars embraced

Silk Sonic, marked an-

troversially, “Fat Juicy

might make you ques-

other significant mile-

& Wet” with Sexyy Red.

tion every life choice

stone. The project’s first

“Die With A Smile”

that led to pressing play,”

single, “Leave the Door

is reminiscent of one

Rotate Magazine notes

Open,” was not only a

of his top hits “When I

in their “Single Review.”

commercial success but

Was Your Man,” bring-

Despite the skepti-

also demonstrated Mars’s

ing in an audience to

cal reviews, any press is

ability to weave narra-

crave a new wave of nos-

good press, and Mars

tives and emotions into

talgia and excitement

continues to rise in the

his music. The duo’s soul-

for

collaboration.

charts and public opin-

brought

to-

ion, proving his abili-

musical greats while con-

gether international fans

ty to create outlandish

tinuing to forge its path,

and local fans alike com-

songs with suggestive

further solidifying Mars’s

bining a K-pop sound

lyrics while remaining a

reputation as an art-

with lyrics that any-

significant figure in mu-

ist unafraid to embrace

one can sing along to.

sic. His credibility shows no signs of waning.

the

“APT”

ful sound paid tribute to

Jukebox”

his roots while redefining

Bursting onto the mu-

is “When I Was Your

them, blending nostal-

sic scene in 2010 with his

Man.” It combines pow-

gic sounds with modern

debut album “Doo-Wops

er ballad intensity with

production techniques.

&

Mars

heartfelt lyrics, resonat-

It was clear he had de-

showcased his smooth

ing with anyone who

veloped a distinct artistic

vocal style and knack for

has experienced the pain

identity that celebrated

new styles and ideas.

While “Die With a

catchy melodies through

of lost love and mov-

innovation and homage.

“In addition to his

Smile” and “APT” are

chart-topping hits like

ing on. Mars perfectly

This period marked

collaborative work, Bru-

fan favorites, “Fat Juicy

trajectory of Mars’s ca-

“Just the Way You Are”

encapsulates the emo-

one of Mars’s peaks,

no Mars is set to release

&

stirred

reer, it is evident he

and “Grenade.” The al-

tions we feel in relation-

gaining traction through

his first solo album in

some

controversy.

has transformed from

bum blended pop, R&B

ships through his lyrics.

the rise of social media

seven years, following

“Bruno Mars, a man

a promising newcomer

and reggae influences,

“‘Whatever you’re do-

and online discussions.

up on his 2016 hit al-

known for silky-smooth

into a multifaceted artist

laying the groundwork

ing just has to be honest

Platforms like Musical.

bum, ‘24K Magic,’” said

pop-funk perfection, has

who transcends genres

for his future endeavors.

— that’s really become

ly, now known as Tik-

Anubhav

Chaudhry,

taken a sharp left turn

and

However, at that point,

the most important thing

Tok, utilized his sounds

a

writer

on

Yahoo.

into raunchy absurdity

he continues to evolve,

Mars was still largely con-

for me in my career,’

for various trends, while

In

meantime,

with ‘Fat Juicy & Wet,’

listeners can anticipate

sidered a conventional

Mars explains,” said Mor-

promotions on Insta-

Mars has collaborated

his unexpected collabo-

more innovations and

pop star, celebrated more

gan Smith, a writer for

gram highlighted artists

with key figures in the

ration with Sexyy Red.

surprises in his music,

for

radio-friendly

CNBC. “‘So if I’m writ-

showcasing their music.

music industry, includ-

If the title alone wasn’t

affirming that Mars is

singles than for his pro-

ing a song, I have to be

His collaboration with

ing “Die With a Smile”

enough of a warning,

not just a fleeting phe-

found

vision.

sure that this is the best

Anderson Paak in 2021,

with Lady Gaga, “APT”

the track itself is a full-

nomenon but a lasting

His artistic growth

I can do, deep down in

under the duo name

with Rosé and, most con-

on spectacle—one that

force in the music world.

Hooligans,”

his

artistic

“Unorthodox

to

Bruno Mars

PARADISE

the

Wet”

has

Reflecting

on

expectations.

the

As

Luckily in Milledgeville, we have a

wood Tacos and Metropolis expand-

inviting setting, institutions can help

ton of restaurants that have comforting

ing our palettes, we should be learn-

dismantle preconceived notions about

classics including The Brick’s and Ami-

ing what is out there foodwise just like

ci’s wings and pizza favorites, as well as

how we are living independently and

certain ingredients or dishes. Peer in-

places that put a spin on the classics.

doing things for ourselves on campus.

Bollywood Tacos is a Mexican-Indi-

The social ramifications of picky

an fusion restaurant that has unique

eating go beyond just personal choice;

taco combinations on the menu, like

they underscore a crucial aspect of

their buffalo chicken taco. Metrop-

college

building.

While some degree of pickiness

olis is the hidden gem of Milled-

Shared meals are often where friend-

can stem from personal preference

The general consensus from friends

geville though, due to their flavorful

ships blossom and cultural exchange

or health conditions, it’s essential to

I both intentionally as well as unin-

dishes centered around Greek food.

occurs, enhancing the college experi-

tentionally asked is that people like

recognize that food is a cornerstone

On many college campuses, it is easy

ence. Students who are unwilling to try

what they like and that food can be a

to find what I like to call the “unholy

new foods may find themselves isolat-

of cultural identity and connection.

source of comfort in students’ day-to-

trinity” of cuisines: Mexican, Italian,

ed, standing on the sidelines while oth-

day lives. It only becomes a problem

and American because it is so easy to

ers bond over dinner tables filled with

when avoidance comes into play when

get food that can be what I mentioned

unfamiliar flavors and ingredients.

a student isn’t willing to branch out.

as a “comforting classic” like pizza, que-

This trend of avoidance not only

sadilla, burgers, fried chicken and fries.

around food can foster a more inclu-

to personal growth but also enhanc-

affects an individual’s palate but can

This isn’t a bad thing! I just believe

sive atmosphere on campus. By expos-

es our college community, feeding

also extend to nutritional health.

that when there are places like Bolly-

ing students to different foods in an

both our bodies and our relationships.

Continued from page 1 “My favorite restaurant in Milledgeville is The Brick,” said Andrea Barnett, a sophomore management information systems major. “My go-to order is the gourmet white pizza, but I have the tomatoes put on after it comes out of the oven instead of before.”

life—community

Encouraging

open-mindedness

fluence also plays a pivotal role because when adventurous eaters share their experiences with picky eaters, they can inspire curiosity and open-mindedness.

Rather than allowing picky eating to define our collegiate experience, let’s embrace a wider palate. Exploring new tastes not only contributes