GCSU’s 2026 homecoming lineup
GCSU embraces a Winter Olypmic themed events
Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor
Homecoming at GCSU will feature a Winter Olympics-themed lineup of events and alumni programming on Feb. 16 to 21, highlighted by Tent City, a parade through campus, homecoming court announcements and the Bobcats’ basketball games.
The theme draws inspiration from the ongoing global Olympic Games, according to Dr. Jennifer Graham, interim dean of stu-
dents, who shared details about the week’s events.
“We’re definitely gonna have some throwbacks to 1996 when the Summer Olympics actually came through Milledgeville,” Graham said. “So we plan to tie in some historic Olympic moments that happened on campus.”
Homecoming Week begins Feb. 16 with an official opening ceremony on campus.
As described on the GCSU website, “Kick off Homecoming Week
with our official opening ceremony as we light the Olympic torch and launch a week of Olympic-inspired fun.”
Students can also pick up Homecoming swag and T-shirts on Front Campus. Monday’s featured “Bobcat Games” event will be human curling, the first of several Olympic-style activities planned throughout the week.
“Monday through Thursday, there’s gonna be a different kind of fun sporty activity,
but you don’t have to be super sporty,” Graham said. “They are really geared towards anybody who wants to participate in the ‘Bobcat Games’.” Office and door decorating also returns this year, after being absent in 2025.
“We are bringing it back this year, so hopefully there will be lots of offices and doors decorated,” Graham said. “It’s a way for folks across campus to show their Bobcat spirit.”
See HOMECOMING | Page 10
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT ON CHLOE MELTON
James Cordero
Contributing Writer
Chloe Melton, a junior history major, recently published research on the history of the body mass index (BMI) in the Human Anatomy and Physiology Society (HAPS), a peer review and open source journal, gave a TEDx Talk and had her work added to a prestigious anatomy textbook.
Melton’s research revealed that BMI’s history and origin are the crucial keys to its inac-
curacies and implications on health science.
At the age of 14 years old, Melton struggled with her self-image and developed an eating disorder. This led her to question the legitimacy of BMI, a simplified measure of health that often creates a stigma around weight.
“When I was 14, I actually suffered from anorexia and went to a residential home treatment center,” Melton said. “That was the first
time that my conceptualization of BMI had actually been challenged beyond what you’re kind of normally told.”
BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight and is used as a measure of health. However, it doesn’t take into account muscle mass, bone density or body composition.
Melton did not start out with the intention to write a research paper. She was recommended to do research by the
Dean of the Honors College, Brian Newsome.
When Melton figured out she wanted to do work surrounding BMI, she originally went to see Helen Dupree, lecturer of Public Health and member of the National Eating Disorders Association, to focus on something related more to the science of the index, but was turned down in the interest of time.
“Originally, we were going to do something more scientific, some-
do
we
thing kind of empirical, and she turned me away because she said I don’t think
in 10 days,” Melton said.
GCSU WELCOMES NEW HEAD BASEBALL COACH JEFF PELKEY
Maggie Hinton Staff Writer
The GCSU men’s baseball team is entering a new chapter under first-year head coach, Jeff Pelkey, on July 17, 2025.
Former head coach Nolan Belcher left the program after four years at GCSU.
“When Coach Belcher left, they obviously had a national search and opened it up”, Pelkey said. “I was able to have a great conversa-
tion with Wendell, our athletic director, and he just kind of sold me,”.
Pelkey’s interest in GCSU’s tradition and consistent success in the Peach Belt Conference drew him to the position. During his time at Flagler, he frequently competed against the Bobcats and saw the program up close.
“Being in the Peach Belt for eight years at Flagler College, I got to see firsthand in the other dugout what kind of effort the
guys gave every day,” Pelkey said.
“Not just with Coach Belcher, but Coach Eller before him, and just the constant success they’ve had.”
He also said the university’s academic standards and the character of its players played a major role in his decision.
“Because of the school and the academics and just the type of character every player here has,” Pelkey said.
See HEAD COACH | Page 5
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Sydney Williams | Assist. A&L Editor
Sydney Williams | Assist. A&L Editor
MILLEDGEVILLE NAMES NEW MAIN STREET DIRECTOR
Jane Carr News Editor
The City of Milledgeville announced Monday, Feb. 2, that Jennifer Graham Stasney has been appointed director of Milledgeville Main Street, effective immediately, placing a lifelong resident at the helm of the city’s downtown development efforts.
Stasney, a graduate of GCSU, earned a degree in mass communications with an emphasis in public relations. City officials said her professional background, spanning public relations, fundraising, retail operations and administrative leadership, positions her to guide the downtown district through its next phase of growth.
“As a lifelong member of the Milledgeville community, Jennifer has a longstanding passion for the downtown area and a strong desire to see it flourish as a vibrant hub for residents, businesses and visitors alike,” the city said in a press release announcing her appointment.
Stasney brings 12 years of experience from roles with Georgia Military College (GMC) and Empire Financial Services. Over the course of her career, she has raised funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Court Appointed Special Advocates.
Her leadership style, she said, has been shaped both by her education and by mentors she has worked alongside.
“Georgia College gave me more than a degree,” Stasney said. “It gave me confidence in communication and a heart for building meaning-
ful relationships, while serving with purpose.”
She added that the leadership principles emphasized during her tenure at GMC reinforced “the importance of character, integrity and leading by example.”
Stasney said her career has consistently centered on service.
“My career has always centered around building relationships, service to others, dedication, and heart,” she said. “As a lifelong resident of Milledgeville, stepping into downtown development feels like a natural extension of that work; it’s about advocating for the heart of our community and helping it thrive.”
Milledgeville Main Street operates under the nationally recognized Main Street Approach,
which encourages economic development within the context of historic preservation, emphasizing local empowerment and revitalization of traditional commercial districts based on their unique assets.
Community members have voiced support for Stasney’s appointment.
Vickie Harmon, a resident of Milledgeville, commented on the organization’s Facebook page, saying Stasney “certainly knows the ‘hits’ and ‘misses’ and knows how
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to capitalize on the hits.”
In her new role, Stasney said her immediate priorities include strengthening partnerships among downtown businesses, city officials and residents.
“My immediate focus is strengthening partnerships between downtown businesses, the city, and our community,” she said. “I’m especially excited about expanding event engagement and focusing on opportunities that draw students and families alike to our charming downtown.”
Long-term, she hopes to expand initiatives that support small businesses while preserving the district’s character.
“People want to live in and visit cool places,” Stasney said. “Milledgeville has so much to offer in our rich history as well as its current vibrancy. I look forward not only to highlighting, but also enhancing, all our wonderful features.”
For Stasney, the appointment is also deeply personal. A mother of two, she described downtown Milledgeville as part of the fabric that helped shape her family’s life.
“This isn’t just a job for me, it’s personal,” she said. “With my deep roots in downtown Milledgeville, it’s a full circle moment that quite honestly chokes me up. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the city that’s shaped me, the community that has devotedly served as ‘the village’ to raising my children.”
For students seeking information on Stasney’s progress, visit the city’s official Main Street website at https://www.milledgevillemainstreet.com/.
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GCSU prepares future educators
Joe Palmese Asst. Sports Editor
The state of Georgia has reported over 6,000 teacher vacancies in 2025, according to the Georgia Department of Audits & Accounts, some of which have been filled by teachers without full credentials.
On Jan. 30, GCSU hosted its annual Teacher Recruitment Fair, where recruiters from across the U.S. came to connect with the next generation of educators. Over 60 different school districts made an appearance. This event allows future educators to network with recruiters and explore different job openings in the education field.
“GCSU has given me the opportunity to chase my dreams and I’m forever grateful,” said Ansley Abner, a senior education major. “I’ve traveled to Indianapolis and other places for conferences and seminars. I’m excited to get my career started here in a couple of months.”
Just days after GCSU’s annual teaching fair, the College of Education hosted high school students on Feb. 4 as part of the Future Georgia Educators Day. These students were given the opportunity to interact with future educators at GCSU and learn about what it takes to become a teacher at GCSU.
As part of the event, Rachel Kinsaul, 2026 Georgia Teacher of the Year, gave a seminar about what it means to chase your dreams to GCSU future educators as well as high school students. She encouraged aspiring teachers to continue in their
pursuit of nurturing young minds, motivating them to stick with it through hardships and appreciating the oppor-
GCSU students have a thorough process in which early education majors must complete. The process starts with
tunities they have now.
“Considering my teaching career is young, I love everything about being able to inspire children where I am,” said junior education major Manisha Rushing. “GCSU has been awesome and I cannot express how much love I have for this school and my cohort.”
There is a significant need for teachers across the state of Georgia and GCSU has been working hard to help reduce this shortage.
GCSU has been proactive, as the John H. Lounsbury College of Education has produced nearly 1,000 educators in the past five years.
“I have loved student teaching so much,” said Aubrey Gerber, a senior education major. “My cohort has been the best. I can’t wait to start teaching and pouring into these children in August.”
GCSU offers multiple routes for students who aspire to be teachers. Between a special education B.S., or an elementary education B.S., GCSU wants to continue to inspire future teachers, especially in Georgia.
applying to the John H. Lounsbury College of Education cohort. Students can apply in their second year at GCSU. Following the application process, students must go through an interview process to be considered for acceptance into a cohort. Students will then spend most of their undergraduate program student-teaching around the Milledgeville and Eatonton area.
“The cohort process is stressful because you know you have to get in to be a teacher,” said Pressley Painter, a senior education major . “I’ve spent most of my life knowing that I want to give back and teach children. Getting accepted into the education cohort was such a joy.”
As GCSU continues to address the statewide teacher shortage, it will continue to invest in the next generation of educators, from high school classrooms to college cohorts. For more information regarding GCSU’s College of Education, visit www. gcsu.edu/education.
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Study links U.S. wildfire smoke to annual deaths
New evidence examines long-term health effects
Annalie Parker Asst. News Editor
Smoke from wildfires across the U.S. is contributing to premature deaths each year, according to new research examining the long-term health effects of air pollution.
A study published Feb. 4 in Science Advances found that air pollution from wildfire smoke has caused an average of 24,054 deaths annually in over 95% of states in the U.S. from 2006 to 2020.
The smoke pollutes the air in the form of particulate matter, meaning we breathe it in daily. Milledgeville generally has moderate PM2.5 levels, often within the Moderate category on air quality indexes, meaning some pollution exists but is not always at unhealthy levels. On occasional days, localized conditions (weather, traffic, seasonal smoke) can push PM2.5 higher, potentially making the air unhealthy for sensitive groups.
PM2.5 refers to particles about 30 times smaller than the width
of a human hair, small enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream. This undetected inhalation is where the health concerns stem from.
The study has found strong links between long-term exposure to PM2.5 and increased risk of cancer, mental disorders, circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, metabolic and nutritional diseases.
PM2.5 is also released by global occurrences like industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust. However, the study found wildfire-related PM2.5 was associated with mortality rates up to five times higher than other sources of fine particulate pollution.
“I consider wildfire smoke kind of like tobacco smoke without the nicotine,” said John Balmes, a professor of environmental sciences at the University of California, and an expert on air pollution.
The inhalation effects are more prevalent in cool weather and rural areas, as well as more detrimental to communities with young-
er populations. Firefighters face elevated exposure risks as well.
“My grandfather briefly worked for the U.S. Forest Service. The majority of all of the smoke jumpers he worked with had health complications at some point due to excess smoke inhalation,” said Parker Davis, a sophomore environmental science major and aspiring firefighter.
According to federal fire data, most U.S. wildfires are started by human activity. Howev-
er, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies them as natural disasters, which are considered outside the jurisdiction of local authorities.
Because wildfire smoke is generally classified as a natural event under federal air quality rules, states face limits in how those emissions are regulated under the Clean Air Act.
“I believe that more of the [EPA] budget needs to be hedged towards the prevention of wild-
fires and a change in climate policy concerning fuel efficiency and waste reduction,” Davis said.
Among possible regulators are prescribed burns, which involve professionals intentionally igniting a specific land area in order to reduce flammable vegetation, which also revitalizes the environment before a wildfire can occur.
Associate Professor of Biology Bruce Snyder, who currently teaches wildfire ecology, believes prescribed burns are the most efficient solution for controlling wildfires and directing where the smoke is spread.
“Things are going to burn one way or another, and doing prescribed fire is really a very useful way to do that in a more managed fashion,” Snyder said. “It can then allow us to, when those wildfires do show up, have systems that are going to be able to handle that effectively.”
The scientists behind the study also advise increased monitoring of air quality, issuing smoke warnings and air purification measures in heavily affected areas.
Isabella Trickey, a sophomore psychology and philosophy double-major, believes that care options for the people and areas affected by the smoke are just as important as wildfire prevention.
“We need to start offering medical solutions for people who already have pollution and prioritize them,” Trickey said. “Not only are we hurting people with this pollution, we’re also killing animals and killing viable and fertile environments that we need.”
The study suggests that the long-term public health effects of the smoke are a call to action for more attention to and control of wildfire smoke. For more information, students should review the study entitled “Wildfire smoke PM2.5 and mortality rate in the contiguous United States” at science.org. Additionally, recommendations for wildfire prevention and management can be found on the National Interagency Fire Center website.
Wax Galaxy Records celebrates its first anniversary
Record store keeps physcial media alive in Milledgeville
Lillian Winn Staff Writer
Wax Galaxy Records, a record store in downtown Milledgeville, is celebrating its first anniversary this week, marking a year since the independently owned record store opened its doors in January 2025 and brought vinyl culture back to the city’s downtown district.
Co-owners Mike Turner and Marie Uhler spent much of 2023 and 2024 searching for the right location before finding their current space on North Wayne Street.
“We spent most of 2023 and 2024 chasing storefronts, which became one dead end after another until we lucked out on the space we are in now, signing the lease in summer 2024,” Turner said.
After signing the lease, Turner dedicated six months to preparing the store for its debut. He built record racks, painted and decorated the interior and unboxed and cataloged hundreds of records, CDs and other items.
As the only record store in downtown Milledgeville, Wax Galaxy Records offers a wide selection of vinyl re-
cords spanning genres and decades, along with CDs, music posters, wearable merchandise and DVDs. The store’s layout encourages browsing, with organized bins and displays that highlight both classic artists and new arrivals.
In an era dominated by streaming platforms, the shop’s success reflects a continuing demand for physical media and in-person retail experiences. For many customers, flipping through vinyl bins offers something algorithms cannot: discovery through touch, conversation and shared enthusiasm.
“It’s been cool to get to know the regulars and see enough of their purchases to feel okay with making suggestions that they might like,” Turner said. “Each month seems to do a little better than the one before, and we are seeing more first-time customers still discovering the shop.”
That steady growth has been fueled in part by students from GCSU, who make up a significant portion of the store’s customer base. For many students, Wax Galaxy Records provides both a nostalgic connection to home and a new community hub in their college town.
Bennett Bahnsen, a freshman psychology major, said music has long played an important role in his life and that Wax Galaxy Records quickly became one of his favorite spots in Milledgeville.
“I grew up in a town with a lot of record stores, and I was blessed with the amount of good stuff I had,” Bahnsen said. “When I heard something like that was opening up in Milledgeville, I was very excited.”
Bahnsen said he appreciates the diversity of the store’s selection, which includes artists such as rhythm and blues singer James Brown and hip-hop artist MF DOOM. From classic soul and funk to underground rap and contemporary indie releases, the store aims to serve a wide range of musical tastes.
He also noted the shop’s consistent social media presence, particularly on Instagram, where owners post weekly updates featuring new arrivals and staff picks. Those posts often generate conversation online before customers even walk through the door, extending the store’s reach beyond its physical walls.
“I feel like it’s even more diverse now than when I saw
it open…that’s really dope,” Bahnsen said. “ They are still diversifying their catalog.”
For sophomore sociology major Katie Mei Montgomery, the appeal of vinyl extends beyond the music itself to the artistry of the format.
“I really love how people can piece together their thoughts and their feelings or their stories and present them in a really beautiful way,” Montgomery said.
Her comment reflects a broader cultural shift in which younger listeners are rediscovering album art, liner notes and the intentional sequencing of songs, elements
that are often overlooked in digital listening formats.
Turner expressed gratitude for the support that has sustained the shop through its first year.
“To anyone who bought a record, CD, shirt, cassette, VHS, or DVD, seriously thank you,” Turner said, “To the customers who got the nerve to start conversations, thank you as well.”
Located at 124 N. Wayne St., Wax Galaxy Records continues to welcome longtime collectors, curious newcomers and students alike, all united by a shared appreciation for music and the experience of discovering it together.
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Campus groups hold civil debate forum
Students representing four campus political organizations gathered Monday, Feb. 9, in the Pat Peterson Room from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for a structured political forum focused on civil discourse. The event featured members of Turning Point USA, College Republicans, Mutual Aid Society and Young Democrats.
The stated goal of the forum was to encourage engagement across differences while maintaining civility. Throughout the 90-minute event, moderators enforced a 1-minute and 30-second time limit and transitioned between topics without open debate between speakers.
Organizers said the event was created in response to what they described as growing political tension and distance
among students.
The first topic addressed U.S. foreign policy, an issue that often reflects the divide about the country’s role in global affairs. Participants were asked to respond to questions about international involvement and national interest.
“For too long, America has acted as the world’s police force,” said Ellie Prothro of Turning Point USA, expressing concern about extended military and political involvement abroad.
A representative from Mutual Aid Society argued that U.S. foreign policy primarily serves American interests and described it as aligned with imperialism.
College Republicans framed the issue around international enforcement and global competition. Representatives said international institutions such as
the United Nations are frequently bypassed and argued that if adversaries do not follow established rules, the United States should not feel obligated to do so unilaterally.
A speaker from Young Democrats focused on economic dimensions, saying U.S. foreign policy often advances corporate interests rather than those of working-class Americans.
The conversation then shifted to gun legislation, a topic that remains controversial in national debate. Participants were asked to address constitutional rights and public safety considerations.
A Mutual Aid Society speaker argued that firearm ownership enables communities to defend themselves when necessary. The Black Panther Party, a revolutionary organization advocating for Black national-
SPOTLIGHT
Continued from page 1
Later, however, Dupree reached out to Melton about looking at BMI from a more historical lens, a perspective not many people have used before regarding this topic. With her abstract formed, Melton started her honors independent research under the mentorship of Newsom.
“People don’t talk about the history of BMI.” Melton said. “They just kind of talk about the science behind it, but they really go hand in hand,” Melton later presented her work at the Georgia College Honors Col-
ism and socialism, was mentioned as a historical example of organized armed self-defense.
College Republicans cited the Second Amendment as the foundation of their position, stating that gun ownership is a constitutional right and that government involvement should remain limited.
A Young Democrats representative said individuals have the right to bear arms, but emphasized safe and responsible ownership practices.
Turning Point USA expressed support for gun rights in line with limited government regulation. The organization also advocated for legislative efforts that protect individual liberties and uphold constitutional freedoms.
Immigration policy produced some of the clearest contrasts of the evening. The issue was framed around border security, legal processes and humanitarian considerations.
College Republicans said legal immigrants should be welcomed and called for reforms to improve the current system.
“No one wants to see families separated,” said Owen
lege Conference (GCHC) and the Southern Regional Honor Conference (SHRC), which serve as chances for students to show off their research to peers and others in similar fields. That is not where her journey stopped.
Newsome was having lunch with Kenneth Saladin, a distinguished professor emeritus of biology, and talking about Melton’s research. Saladin realized that the research could be a good contribution to his book, one of the biggest Anatomy and Physiology (A&P) textbooks in the country.
Saladin then edited a sidebar essay in his textbook based on Melton’s paper, but Melton wasn’t finished sharing her re-
Jordan, second vice chair of the organization, while also emphasizing the need for secure borders.
Young Democrats argued that immigration patterns are closely connected to U.S. foreign policy decisions and suggested that addressing root causes abroad is necessary for long-term solutions.
Turning Point USA maintained that violations of immigration law require enforcement and consequences, focusing on adherence to existing statutes.
“ICE is the tool of imperialists,” said Patrick Lingafelt of Mutual Aid Society, criticizing federal immigration enforcement practices and their broader political implications.
The final major topic centered on social welfare programs. The discussion touched on federal policy, economic security and family structure.
Young Democrats
advocated for expanding the Affordable Care Act and protecting Social Security, arguing that federal programs provide essential support for vulnerable populations.
Turning Point stressed the importance of strengthening the nuclear family as a social foundation. Mutual Aid Society called for broader systemic changes to better support families, suggesting structural reform rather than incremental policy adjustments.
College Republicans argued that current welfare programs are not structured to promote long-term independence, raising concerns about sustained reliance on government assistance.
The event concluded with a brief discussion of President Donald Trump’s handling of Venezuela, with Turning Point USA and College Republicans believing the Ameri-
search. After five edits with Saladin and another revision after that, Melton was able to publish her work in the HAPS.
Melton was then chosen to give a TEDx Talk on her research, being one of three students chosen to do so that day. She was able to expand her reach even further, but also come full circle with the story of her 14-year-old self.
Melton said that when she was 14, she would look for TED Talks that were inspirational. Now, getting her own moment on stage meant a lot to Melton, because it meant doing something she couldn’t dream of doing at 14.
“I think I would tell [my 14-yearold self] that some of my biggest
can government had a duty to protect the people of Venezuela.
The release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein was also briefly mentioned, with all parties agreeing that the distribution of the files was poorly done. Audience members listened throughout the discussion, with occasional reactions but no disruptions.
“I feel this event went really well in promoting intercampus understanding and discourse,” said Westray Schultz, vice president of Young Democrats. “I believe that we can do much better in the future regarding this, but this is a great start.”
Students interested in continuing the conversation can attend future forums, connect with the participating organizations or seek out additional campus discussions focused on civic engagement and respectful dialogue across political differences.
fears right now don’t matter,” Melton said. “You’re going to be okay. You have to hold on because you’re going to do so many amazing things.”
Even in the chaos of research and TEDx Talks, Chloe Melton is also a student, barista at Black Bird Coffee, and an executive member of multiple clubs. She is able to find a balance between all of these parts of her life through her friends and her passion for this project.
“I got through this [eating disorder] for a reason.” Melton said. “I learned all of this for a reason. I want to help other people who are going through the same things that I was going through.”
Jane Carr News Editor
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
HEAD COACH
Continued from page 1
Pelkey’s baseball career began in a small town in New Hampshire, where he played both basketball and baseball in high school. He went on to pitch at Keene State College, a Division III program.
“I had an unbelievable four-year experience in every shape, on the field, off the field and academically,” Pelkey said.
After graduating, Pelkey stayed at Keene State to complete graduate school and began coaching, working primarily with catchers. Two years later, he moved to Franklin Pierce University. He coached pitchers and assisted with recruiting during one of the most successful stretches in program history.
“We went to the College World Se-
ries in Cary, North Carolina,” Pelkey said. “We had one year where we won 48 games or something ridiculous.”
Before arriving at GCSU, Pelkey
“I think every coach has short-term and long-term goals,” Pelkey said. “Right now, our short-term goal is just to play solid, sound, good base-
spent eight seasons at Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida.
Now leading the Bobcats, Pelkey stated his focus includes both short-term and long-term goals for the program.
Super Bowl 60
Students react to the Seahawk vs. the Patriots
Jillian Thompson Staff Writer
The Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots in Super Bowl 60 on Sunday, Feb. 7
Around 125 million watched the game, including many students here on campus at GCSU.
“I watched the game at the Velvet Elvis with some of my friends. Had a few drinks, some good food,” said Jake McFarland, a senior business major. “The game itself was kind of a let-down. Very defense heavy, which isn’t exactly what I wanted to see.”
Many businesses in downtown Milledgeville stayed open late on Sunday for the game.
“I watched the game, actually while I was working at the brick. I was going to watch the game regardless, but there were still some acquaintances eating, so I could post up and watch periodically,” said Owen Payne, a junior exercise science major. “The Halftime show was probably my favorite because everybody in the house had their eyes glued to the television. I didn’t see much of the commercials, however, I thought the ones I saw were way too politically focused, taking away from the game experience.”
Many students highlighted that their favorite
part of the game was not the game itself, rather the commercials. It’s estimated that it costs around $8 to $10 million dollars.
Commercials, the national anthem, the halftime show and more are a big reason why people watch the Super Bowl. Some students that are not huge football fans but
little bit of a let-down. I thought it would be a closer game, but the Seahawks showed their dominance.”
The Seahawks led 12-0 at halftime, with no touchdowns being scored in the first half.
“I watched the game with a couple roommates at home. Or-
still watched the game.
“I thought Charlie Puth on the national anthem was phenomenal,” said David Schauer, a freshman business major. “Bad Bunny’s performance was cool to see, even though I don’t really listen to his music. It was cool to see Ronald Acuna Jr. and a couple other stars in the performance.”
Bad Bunny starred in the highly anticipated half-time show. Hewas Spotify’s most listened to artist in 2025.
“I watched the game with a bunch of roommates outside. We brought a TV and everyone brought a snack or a dip so everyone could eat well during the game,” said Harry Harries, a senior management major. “The game was a
dered some pizza and wings and just kind of chilled for the game,” said Owen Higgins, a junior fiance major. “I know people go all out and have Super Bowl parties, but I wasn’t feeling it this year.”
According to a Columbia Broadcasting System article, the Brick in Macon, Ga. expected to sell 400 pizzas and 3,000 wings. Many students interviewed agreed that eating pizza and wings during the Super Bowl is common.
Students across campus watched the big game in different ways, and for different reasons. The Super Bowl has a large audience, as GCSU students are a part of this demographic
ball, making sure guys are going to class, focusing on their schoolwork, making sure they’re in the weight room, keeping their bodies in shape and getting out there and competing.”
He also emphasized the importance of representing GCSU and its athletic department in a positive way.
Long term, Pelkey is motivated to continue to maintain strong academic and graduation rates, increasing community service efforts and continuing to build success on the field.
The Bobcats have not reached the Division II College World Series in Cary since 2010.
“I’d like to get back there,” Pelkey said. “There are a lot of alumni who have had those experiences, and I want to give that to the players here now. As a coaching staff, I think we just wake up every day and work hard and see where this leads.”
As the season approaches, Pelkey and the Bobcats look to build on the program’s tradition while setting the tone for this new chapter.
Sports movies
Why they matter to GCSU students
Isabella Trickey Contributing Writer
On any given afternoon, the sprawling Front Campus at GCSU fills with spiraling footballs and long frisbee throws.
But when the sun sets and the lawn empties, where does that love of sports go?
“Nostalgia. They feel homey and calm. They can be fictional but very powerful,” said India Collier, a junior exercise science major whose favorite sports movie is Just Wright.
Sports films continue to resonate with GCSU students because they reflect familiar struggles. The same themes students experience on campus every day.
Unlike superheroes battling villains or starships jumping to hyperspace, sports movies are grounded.
Collier may not watch sports movies as often now, but she cannot resist Just Wright when it appears on television. The charac-
me feel like I can do anything,” said Carter Maym, a freshman psychology major.
That theme of community appears to resonate most strongly with GCSU students.
Remember the Titans remains a favorite among students. The 2000 film tells the story of a newly integrated high school football team in Virginia navigating racial tension and division during desegregation.
Throughout the movie, players who begin as strangers come together to accomplish a goal, whether that is winning a game, or overcoming adversity. Similar to how GCSU students come together and support each other.
Students arrive in Milledgeville from different towns, backgrounds and experiences. They may not know anyone on their first day of college. Yet over time, through shared classes, organizations and pickup games on Front Campus, bonds form.
ters feel authentic, and their journeys mirror everyday perseverance.
“Characters with determination make
Community is what draws many students to GCSU, and it is what draws them to sports movies.
“The Sandlot being this idea of letting the outsider in, like the new kid in town trying to join up in a group that he didn’t immediately fit into,” said Ethan Mattace, a sophomore chemistry major. Mattace said he found his own version of that story at GCSU. He came to GCSU without many certainties. He is now a member of the rugby team, taking a similar path to Scott Smalls of Sandlot.
“Miracle on Ice is my favorite movie ever. The way the movie draws you into this hope and belief of how anything is possible,” said Evan Gray, a sophomore business major. “Sports movies have the ability to give you this sensation of absolute belief that you can do anything you set your mind to.”
In 1980, the U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team defeated the Soviet Union in Lake Placid, New York. The U.S. as large underdogs and managed to upset the Soviets.
“Coach Carter is probably my favorite sports movie, but there are so many good ones out there. Rudy, Invincible,” said Drew Stopp, a senior management major. “My dad grew up kind of raising me on these movies so I would be motivated in whatever I do in life. I appreciate my dad for that.”
Similarly to how students often find themselves in college, students find themselves in these characters on screen. Sports movies give us the wins students crave, as well as the taste of home that brings us closer.
Courtesy of GCSU Creative Services
Super Bowl snacks
How do sports impact your education?
Annakate Cox Staff Writer
GCSU has been recognized for its excellence and success on the court, field, or green, but Bobcats are proving that their impact reaches far beyond the games and competitions.
Behind the scenes, the athletic department emphasizes academic accountability and community involvement, reinforcing the ideals that being a Bobcat means excelling in all aspects of life.
GCSU is ranked first among all NCAA Division II public institutions in the nation for academic success rate, demonstrating the university’s commitment to developing student athletes who thrive both athletically and academically.
GCSU’s national-leading title reflects the campus culture in which longterm achievements and education are a priority.
For student-athletes, competing at the Division II level gives them the chance to pursue their athletic goals while still receiving a strong education. The university’s structured schedules, abundance of academic resources, and ability to have close relationships with professors are key factors to their success.
Wendell Staton, Director of Athletics at GCSU, believes that athletes always have a better academic performance during their seasons because of the structure and support built into their daily routines. According to Staton, the athletic department strives to foster a holistic environment to ensure
The Academic Success Rate measures academic performance and retention of student-athletes.
that athletes are supported on and off the field.
Staton also emphasizes that the NCAA system itself is intentionally designed with academic checkpoints to hold athletes accountable. Eligibility requirements, progress toward degree standards and GPA benchmarks are structured to keep education and academics at the forefront of the collegiate experiences.
“GCSU’s athletic department is built on academics and students first, and athletes second and they can co-exist,” Staton said.
His statement reflects the department’s ideals and philosophy that academic excellence and athletic achievements are not competing priorities, and instead work together.
Cam James, a GCSU Men’s Basketball play-
er, describes his dayto-day routines as a student-athlete and explains how students must plan around the busy schedule and find gaps in the day to study, or even start studying several days in advance.
“Playing at GCSU has made me realize that every day is a grind, and you have to give your best performance whether it’s on the court or in a classroom,” James said. His perspective highlights the importance of a good mindset and accountability in every setting.
Autumn Thompson, a member of the Bobcat competition cheer team, describes how support from her professors and coaches has helped her to stay confident and focused.
“Competing at GCSU has helped me to develop strong discipline and time management skills, as well as how to hold myself accountable,” Thompson said.
These students’ experiences reflect the larger truth about GCSU athletics: success is not defined by wins or trophies, but instead by dis-
GCSU men’s and women’s tennis open season
Maggie Scarbrough Contributing Writer
GCSU Men’s and Women’s tennis opened its spring season on Feb. 6, 2026. The outlook starts hopeful, with the men’s team securing a 5-2 win over Tuskegee University on the Centennial Center Tennis Courts. In the Peach Belt Conference this April, the men’s team is expected to finish fifth
months of preparation.
“The Peach Belt is one of the top three conferences in the country, and our goal is always to compete for the top spots,” Barsby said. “That would put us in a very good position to play in the NCAA tournament at the end of the year.”
A team’s internal beliefs and values can greatly affect how it navigates a series of wins and losses. Statistics are
and the women’s fourth.
Head Coach Steve Barsby shared his main goals for the season and conference. He emphasized that consistent practice is key to individual and team development. Working towards a specific goal can help when entering major conferences that require
not always within players’ control, but character is. Maintaining a healthy mindset is just as important as a winning streak on the court.
“The thing we talk about consistently is being the best version of ourselves and being relentless competitors throughout the series,”
Barsby said. “With tennis being an individual sport, it is most important that
affect a student’s grades and stress management.
Black explained that
players remain successful towards their team.”
Rachel Black, a sophomore biology major, shared her personal experience with tennis and how it has shaped her. She expressed her gratitude towards the sport and how it has taught her time management and provided her with a supportive community.
“It is a unique experience to get to live out a dream that I’ve had for years,” Black said.
Student-athletes often face the responsibility to manage multiple worlds at once, which can be difficult and time-consuming. Packed schedules, long practices and travel can
using her time wisely and taking breaks has helped reduce overwhelm when managing multiple tasks.
“I’m able to balance [sports and academics] by taking advantage of the in-between moments,” Black said.
“I try to compartmentalize by focusing on the task at hand and not worrying about the things I can’t control.”
Black’s strategy is one way to divide tasks into smaller steps and can be useful for busy students. Additionally, close mentors can support athletes in their goals and help build stronger relationships on and off the court.
“My coaches have been great role mod-
els for me,” Black said. “They go above and beyond to truly know us as a person, not just as a player. This pushes me to also be intentional about building relationships with those around me.”
Black shared that this mentorship has helped her become more confident during matches and has given her a more positive mindset going forward.
The GCSU tennis season may have just begun, but players continue to show up in all circumstances to play their hardest. From now until the end of the semester, coaches and players will work to see their team
cipline and achievement in all areas of life. For athletes like James and Thompson, the lessons learned through competing extend far beyond their respective sports. Time management, resilience and accountability become habits that shape who they are both inside and outside the classroom. The wins and achievements may hang on the walls of Centennial Center, but it is the degrees, the skills developed and the futures built that truly demonstrate the legacy of the Bobcats.
On Wednesday, Feb. 18, the Bobcats will play Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College (ABAC) on the Centennial Center Tennis Courts. A previous matchup on Apr. 9, 2025 shows a 7-0 win, extending the winning streak to two matches. This will be GCSU’s third time against ABAC.
To learn more about upcoming matches and purchase tickets, fans can visit the GCSU Official Athletics Website.
The website also includes Parent Central, where parents can access more information. Spring is on its way,
goals become a reality.
For some, playing a sport is not just about the game, but a part of them they honor through practice.
making sports games a good way to enjoy a pleasant day outside and support university athletic teams.
Courtesy of GCSU Creative Services
Courtesy of Alexus Duncan
Courtesy of Gray Sims
Courtesy of Gray Sims
ARTS & LIFE
Are analog bags the new hobby at GCSU?
Elizabeth Kohler Staff Writer
Analog bags, a current trend on TikTok, are tote bags filled with various offline items and crafts that have quickly become popular as a way to limit screen time and break digital addiction, so that users can reconnect with more tangible projects.
In recent years, the general public has seen a growing amount of time spent in the digital world. As a result, many members of the GCSU student body have decided to take a step back and take up more tactile hobbies.
“I recently picked up collaging. [It] keeps me entertained without looking at my phone every two minutes,” said Dhara Weaver, a junior creative writing major.
Weaver has been tracking her screen time and has become concerned with the large portion of the day she has spent on her phone. She picked up collaging from a friend in an effort to bring her phone usage down.
Other students have maintained their hobbies from when they were young, but have since incorporated other activities with collaging.
Eden Frayne, a freshman nursing student, has been an active reader since she was four or five. How-
ever, recently she has shifted to listening to audiobooks while she works on the new hobby she picked up.
“I recently took up crochet as well and enjoy practicing my stitches while I listen to an audiobook,” Frayne said.
Reading is a common hobby that is not only easily accessible, but also
University of New England, published in “Issues in Mental Health Nursing” (2025), found that hobbies reduce daily stress and build community.
“Hobbies facilitate relaxation and pleasure, playing a crucial role in mitigating anxiety, stress and depression and promoting over-
diverse in its subject matter. This allows the participant to become interested in a literary piece and interact with the community surrounding it.
“I really enjoy losing myself in a story,” Frayne said. “For that reason, I mainly tend towards fantasy, science fiction or traditional fiction when I’m picking out a new book.”
A study by Michelle Cleary at the
all life satisfaction,” Cleary said.
Some students are looking for ways to destress and distance themselves from coursework for a short break to avoid burnout,especiallyasmidtermsapproach.
“Exams require so much reading and note-taking that I forget to make time to relax,” said Aicha Niane, a junior psychology major.
Niane found that the yoga class-
Spotlight: GCSU Psychology Club
Rosalyn Chapman Staff Writer
The GCSU Psychology Club is an on-campus organization that offers students a collaborative way to learn about psychological science, mental health and professional development within the field.
The club offers psychology majors a chance to get to know faculty members in the department and gain insight on career opportunities after college.
“Some things we offer are advice about professors and classes,” said Lauren Gibson, a senior psychology major and president of the Psychology Club.
“Before registration, we have closed-door meetings about professors, research labs and classes.”
Students gain the most by joining the club early on, during their freshmen years; however, it is encouraged for anyone to join throughout their time at GCSU.
“I joined the club my freshman year because I wanted to learn more about my major,” Gibson said. “Through that, I joined a research lab and gained more leadership experience.”
As students become accustomed to the club and major, anyone interested can interview to be a part of the executive board and earn a leadership role.
“When elections came around, I decided that I would put my name in for secretary, and I ended up getting that position,” Gibson said. “As people graduated, I moved up on the leaderboard until I became president.”
Another thing that the club provides is an opportunity for students to explore career paths in psychology.
“Oftentimes, we will have talks throughout the semester where we either bring alumni or professors
in to talk about a topic,” Gibson said. “Last semester, we had one of our professor’s students, who recently published a book, give a talk, and at our most recent meeting, one of our new professors gave a talk about potential career paths in this profession.”
Other leadership roles, like managing social media and organizing community projects, are also accessible.
“I wanted to share Psychology Club’s sweet community with others,” said Addy Strickland, a senior psychology major and vice president of the Psychology Club. “Whether by creating social media posts to promote our monthly meetings or helping organize service projects that give back to the greater Milledgeville community.”
Furthermore, the club has a close connection with GCSU’s International Honor Society in Psychology, Psi Chi. The society aims to maintain scholarly excellence as well as continue in the study of psychology.
Throughout the school year, Psi Chi and the Psychology Club often collaborate on research projects and other interactive opportunities, given that several psychology majors are involved in both organizations.
Senior students reflected on the benefits of joining the club during their freshman year, now that they have a community of people who share common interests and passions.
“I wanted to connect with a group of psychology students outside of the students I was taking classes with in my freshman year,” said Carly Walker, a senior psychology major and club member. “As well as gain more resources, context and connections within the psychology department.”
Within the club, opportunities arise that strength-
es offered at the GCSU Wellness Center were the perfect answer.
“[Yoga] is very relaxing and rejuvenating, and it really helps me focus on my breathing,” Niane said.
Hobbies can provide an outlet for self-expression away from social media and a grounding experience that offers a sense of fulfillment and passion outside of work and school.
“In a world where I feel like I spend more time every year on a device or looking at a screen, finding a hobby that gets us off our phones is more important than ever now,” Frayne said.
GCSU offers many opportunities for students looking to explore new hobbies. On campus organizations such as the Gardening Club, the Creative Arts Alliance, the Literary Guild and the Intramural sports program provide a space for students to try out new activities and interact with other like-minded hobbyists. If students would like to make their own analog bag and don’t know where to start, they can check out Sierra Campbell, @siececampbell, on TikTok, who is credited with starting the trend. Some common items to include in an analog bag are notebooks, pens, a book or two, word searches, coloring books, a deck of cards and coloring pencils to keep one occupied and off their phone.
en communication skills and build confidence.
“You get to interact with your peers in a fun, relaxed environment where you will give back to your community, learn more about opportunities within our department, and get a better understanding of where you want to take your college career,” Walker said.
Being a part of the club may change intended plans for students, as participating may impact decisions during their college years, as well as for their future careers.
“I made many decisions about which classes to take, which research labs to join, and which opportunities to pursue at GCSU based on conversations I had in Psychology Club,” Walker said. “I connected with students that I never would have met otherwise.”
Upcoming events can be seen on the Psychology Club’s Instagram, @gc_psychclub. For students interested in getting involved with the club this semester, the next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 3 at 6 p.m. in room 240 of the Arts & Science building.
Courtesy of Addy Strickland
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
ARTS & LIFE
“Heated Rivalry” sparks interest on campus
Ritz Staff Writer
“Heated Rivalry” is capturing the attention of GCSU students and beyond, spotlighting a story of two major-league hockey rivals whose high-stake competition slowly turns into a romantic relationship; the series is currently available to stream on HBO Max.
The show highlights LGBTQ+ representation in traditionally male-dominated sports and reflects the growing visibility of queer athletes in hockey.
The series originated from a book with the same title, taking place in the “Game Changers” series by author Rachel Reid.
Anna Holbrook, a freshman psychology and criminal justice major, is an avid book reader and hockey fan. She loves “Heated Rivalry,” after first watching it with her friends over winter break.
“My favorite part is the stories behind all the characters,” Holbrook said.
The main characters of the show are Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander. Ilya Rozanov is Russian, drafted No. 1 in 2009, and has a rocky relationship with his brother and his father, whose health declines throughout the series.
Shane Hollander is an Asian Canadian, drafted No. 2 in 2009, and viewed as hockey’s “golden boy.”
The two play on rival teams, leading to frequent competition and interaction. The characters develop a slow burn, on-and-off, situationship over the span of nine years.
Holbrook also said she appreciated the show’s origins in fan fiction.
“The fact that we’re turning more and more fan fictions that are loved by a lot of people into these big stories is really cool,” Holbrook said.
Josie Harris, a junior public health major, is also a fan of the show.
“I really love the show. I think one of the things that really drew me to watch it was that it had such positive LGBTQ+ representation,” Harris said.
Often, LGBTQ+ characters lack happy endings, and their character arcs end in
tragedy or sadness one way or the other.
For example, “The 100,” “Yellowjackets,” “Call Me By Your Name” and “Brokeback Mountain” are notable for their tragic endings with their LGBTQ+ characters.
However, with shows like “Heated Rivalry,” it gives many fans hope for more happy endings.
One of those fans is Bella Young, a senior En-
glish major, who is also a fan of the show. She loves the exposure that “Heated Rivalry” is getting, and she hopes that it opens more doors for other shows with more representation.
“We need more sapphic representation, and we definitely need more queer representation and people of color in a couple.” Young said. “I think it’s [‘Heated Rivalry’] definitely a good start,” Additionally, “Heated Rivalry” has had an impact on the sports world. The National Hockey League saw an increase in ticket sales, teams hosted Pride nights and even coming-out stories from athletes.
“Hockey is known for being a little homophobic.” Holbrook said. “They banned gay tape and the pride flag for a while,”
Many LQBTQ+ sports fans hope that “Heated Rivalry” changes the environment within sports and the acceptance of their athletes.
With the popularity of the show, new online trends have emerged. One trend that was popular was where users post a picture of their younger self playing their sport, captioned with something like, “This show would’ve changed my life when I was younger,” or “Little me needed this show.”
Overall, “Heated Rivalry” has had a notable impact on GCSU students and broader audiences. The show highlights the role of LGBTQ+ storylines and representation in media and campus conversations.
“I really hope that this kind of opens the door for other networks to feel more comfortable green-lighting shows that have LGBTQ+ storylines as the forefront,” Harris said.
Lockerly Arboretum - Milledgeville’s hidden gem
James Cordero Contributing Writer
Lockerly Arboretum, a botanical garden and historical site serving as a living museum of nature, is two and a half miles away from GCSU’s main campus and a well-loved part of the Milledgeville community.
The arboretum has more than 6,000 species and cultivar plants, trails to walk and the historic house, Rose Hill. Lockerly is what is known as a Level II accredited arboretum through the ArbNet Accreditation Program, which means it has over 100 species or varieties of woody plants. The accreditation also means it has educational pro-
grams, staff and a management plan.
“It is a beautiful place,” said Matthew Kuipers, a sophomore environmental science major. “You’re surrounded by trees and beautiful plants around you with informational signs about the trees, so you can learn.”
Kuipers works at the arboretum as a docent, giving tours of Rose Hill every Saturday; the tours are $5 and take about 30 minutes to go through the entire house, which was built in 1852 after it burned down a year earlier. Rose Hill was designed to be the center point of the arboretum when Lockerly was established in 1965.
The tours of Rose Hill are a com-
monly forgotten part of Lockerly, yet stand as one of the most accessible ways to support the Arboretum.
“On those Saturdays that I’ll work, I will get one tour a day… and I’m there for nine hours,” Kuipers said.
It is free for people to visit the arboretum, but Lockerly workers sell plants once a year to raise money for the arboretum from those who want to support the park they enjoy walking around.
The arboretum also has many opportunities to volunteer. Their “Dirt Diggers” program hosts volunteers on the first and third Wednesday of each month to do work across the arboretum.
“I just like to go on walks through there because it’s a very calming place and I really enjoy the scenery,” said Noah Rodriguez, a sophomore environmental science major.
Many people said they enjoyed the serenity and the peaceful nature of the park, as the pond and walkways serve as a way for students to relax. The arboretum also has educational programs and even a summer camp. But according to the Lockerly website, the “centerpiece” of their outdoor education program is the Woods Museum.
Lockerly’s summer camps teach kids about nature and take in children from first to ninth grade. They offer a hands-on approach to learning and
teaching the kids, and college students are happy to have a fun summer job.
“I’m going to be leading the kids through experiments and learning about nature; I’m really excited and proud of myself to be able to do that for them,” Kuipers said.
Students and many visitors walk through the park without noticing its hidden gems. The quiet corners cherished by those who know it best are easy to ignore if someone doesn’t know what they are looking for.
“[My favorite secret spot is] the observation deck in the climax forest. It is located in the back corner of the Arboretum,” said John Jackson, a member of the board of trustees at Lockerly.
According to its website, https://lockerly.org/, Lockerly was founded by E.J. Grassmann to “contribute to the natural beauty, cultural atmosphere and environmental education of his community.”
With 60 years of experience and a board of executives passionate about the park, Lockerly Arboretum stands as a key location in Milledgeville, even making its way onto the Milledgeville version of Monopoly, “Milledgvilleopoly.”
“I am proud that the park is a welcoming place for all of Milledgeville and Baldwin County, where people of all ages and backgrounds can come and enjoy nature,” Jackson said.
Rosalie
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
Food Trucks and festivities kick off February First Friday in Milledgeville
Lily Mahaffey Staff Writer
On February 6, downtown Milledgeville hosted its routine First Friday Flannel and Food Trucks event by inviting students, faculty and families to come and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. From food trucks and shopping to axe-throwing, First Friday had a wide variety of activities for everyone in the community.
This tradition of festivities started in 2014 as a community celebration for winning the national title of Great American Main Street City by the Main Street America organization. Since then, First Friday has become a huge hit for all members of the Milledgeville community. The Milledgeville community encourages anyone and everyone to come out and have a great time.
“This is actually my first time experiencing First Friday,” said Abbey Clayton, a junior business management major. “I’m so excited to look at all the shops and get some dinner with friends.”
“I highly recommend First Friday to anyone. I’ve had an amazing time so far getting outside and enjoying the weather,” Clayton said.
For students like Clayton, First Friday offers more than just food
“We just enjoy getting out here and engaging with all attendees, especially in this beautiful weather,” said Robert Neil, an associate for American Axes.
“We see just about every type of crowd while we are out here, which makes First Friday just as exciting and unique.”
and shopping. It creates a reason to step off campus and fully enjoy the town without thinking about the stress and pressures of college.
Along with live music and food, the event also has sponsors and local nonprofits with fun booths of activities for everyone. The company American Axes has offered an axe-throwing activity for the past two years.
It’s never too late to participate in all that First Friday has to offer. Whether it’s your first time or a tradition for you and your friends, students and families can’t seem to get enough.
Local vendors and organizations lined the streets and created a steady flow of connection among the community. From families with young children to college students, this event reflected the diversity of community members that First Friday continues to bring together year after year.
Local restaurants thrive during First Friday as more customers are present
GCSU’s Russell Library hosts Valentines for Vets event
Aiden Kelley Contributing Writer
GCSU’s Russell Library hosted a “Valentine’s for Vets” event on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the second floor, where students and staff alike gathered to send themed cards to veterans.
“I think giving cards to veterans is a nice thing to do,” said Harris Martin, a junior business management major. “It’s important because it’s a nice way to ground yourself and give back to the community, and I think everybody should do community service, one way or another.”
Students enjoyed socializing with each other at the event. Many used the time to talk about experiences from their personal lives, activities occurring on campus and larger-scale occasions. Chatter filled the
room, markers were put to paper and cards were made to encourage and thank veterans.
“I enjoy crafting, and I thought that other students would like to find a way to give back to the community,” said Elizabeth Hobbs, a rotating librarian at GCSU who organized the event. “It was really important for me to find something that was hands-on and something that maybe they could do and zone out for a bit because school is stressful.”
A crafter in her free time, Hobbs began working at GCSU this past July and enjoyed putting together an event that benefited both students and the local veterans home.
At the event, Hobbs supplied gluesticks, scissors, markers and craft paper for volunteers to work with. Even if one was not an artist or a skilled crafter, all were
still welcome to attend.
The Sorority, Gamma Sigma Sigma, which dedicates itself to volunteer work at GCSU, had some of its members attend the event. One student saw the event on
ees to fill out an opinion-based survey about the event, which allowed the students to enter a drawing for a free 3D printout at the library.
The cardmaking itself could be put towards ser-
to kick off the weekend. Everyone has their favorite local spot. Anna Carey, a senior political science major, chooses to spend her First Fridays at The Brick.
“I love going to The Brick,” Carey said. “The food and drinks are amazing, and they always have such fun energy.”
First Friday brings an abundance of life to the downtown scene. For many restaurants and shops, the monthly event is one of the busiest nights of the semester. It also gives them an opportunity to showcase what they have to offer for students and families who don’t regularly come to the area.
Downtown has all the options if you want to play it safe or find your new favorite spot. From burgers and pizza to sushi or Greek cuisine, these restaurants can satisfy any craving you might have.
With different themes planned throughout the semester, Milledgeville is anticipating that even more students and community members will make First Friday a monthly tradition. If you missed this past event, the next First Friday will be on March 6 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., so grab some friends and enjoy all it has to offer.
frequently collaborate with the Georgia Veterans Home, located on 2249 Vinson Highway in Milledgeville. It houses elders who dedicated their lives to serving their country. According
GC Connect, where students can find and attend events, and she suggested that other members attend. Several members of the sorority participated in the event following this suggestion. After the event, Hobbs wished for attend-
vice hours on GivePulse, an app students can use to find volunteer service activities. This is beneficial to students because they are able to monitor their volunteer hours, get involved hands-on and include on resumes.
GivePulse events
to the home’s website, it is licensed and certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to provide skilled nursing care to aged Georgia war veterans, and features a fitness center, miniature golf course, library and recreation room.
According to the home’s website, “many veterans service organizations, civic groups and church groups sponsor activities such as movies, games, dance parties, bingo, picnics and other activities and programs for the general well-being of the veteran residents at the home.”
This facility will continue to partner with GCSU in the projected future. Events like this draw the college’s staff and students closer together. Whether students were there to leave a meaningful impact on veterans, for service hours or to socialize, Hobbs hoped this gave back to the community. For students looking to participate in community service at GCSU, visit the GivePulse site at www.gcsu.edu/community-engagement/ givepulse for a calendar of upcoming events.
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
Couresty of Lily Mahaffey
ARTS & LIFE
HOMECOMING
Continued from page 1
Tuesday’s ‘Bobcat Games’ event will feature a hockey puck shoot and Graham says students have a surprise in store.
“Some of the players in The Macon Mayhem, which is our local hockey team, will come out and play hockey with us for a little bit,” Graham said.
Students have been eagerly anticipating the spring concert headliner, which will be announced during a si-
lent disco on Tuesday evening. The event also gives students a chance to dance and celebrate on campus.
Wednesday will feature alumni-focused events, including a “Biscuits & Brew with the Alumni Crew” breakfast for faculty and staff. The day will also include a snowy-themed extravaganza on Front Campus.
“We’re gonna have ice skating on campus and a hot chocolate bar, some fun take-and-makes, a photo booth
and some snow falling. We’re literally gonna make it snow,” Graham said.
Homecoming court elections open on Wednesday.
Some of the excitement has already begun with sorority chalking, which started Tuesday, Feb. 11, as students decorated sidewalks with names and symbols to promote Homecoming court candidates.
“Chalking is one of the biggest and most important events for homecoming,” said Cameron Cooper, a junior environmental science major and member of the Delta Gamma sorority. “We all go out there and we wait till midnight, because if you chalk before, you get in trouble, but once it hits midnight, we’re officially allowed to chalk and it gets crazy.”
Cooper explained how the tradition helps build energy across campus.
“I think it gets a lot of people excited, just because it’s so confusing, walking to class on Monday and seeing nothing and then coming to class Tuesday and seeing the entire sidewalk filled with random letters,” Cooper said. “You feel the energy, you feel the competition, you feel the competitive nature that everyone just has, but it’s all in good fun.”
Thursday will continue the Olym-
pic-style competitions with a biathlon event on front campus, followed by
judging for the office and door decorating contest. That night, students can attend “Battle of the Bobcats,” where the winner will open for the spring concert.
Friday’s schedule shifts toward welcoming alumni back to campus with engagement opportunities throughout the day. The Homecoming parade will also take place.
“We would love for the streets to be lined as the parade comes through and have students show their support. Hopefully we’ll see some really good parade decorations and floats this year,” Graham said.
Homecoming concludes Saturday with Tent City and the Homecoming basketball games at the Centennial Center.
According to the university website, gcsu.edu, “Tent City is the official ‘tailgating’ event for the Homecoming
Games and offers a place for everyone to gather in a convenient location.”
During the men’s and women’s matchups against Georgia Southwestern, the university will announce the winners of the week’s competitions and crown the Homecoming court.
Planning for Homecoming Week began months in advance with a campuswide committee, which worked to create a jam-packed week of events and activities for students, faculty, staff and alumni.
“We started the homecoming committee this year in October and our committee is ten folks from across the institution,” Graham said. “We try to get
student feedback as much as we can. We want it to be just a week where you get to show up and engage and have fun.”
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor
The Caterwaul
CATERWAUL: a shrill howling or wailing noise like that of a cat; commonly associated with a bobcat
“Graduation”
By: Ansleigh Hester
walking across that stage and seeing you in the sea of green will destroy me. that means we are really separating and I don’t mean just because we are broken up or you will be hours away.
I mean by that invisible wall of time. we will be living separate lives, meeting different people, experiencing different things.
I’ll see you in a grocery store or walking down the street.
I’ll smile remembering those good times but feel the ache in my chest as our past mistakes still linger. but you will officially be a stranger to me. so when we cross that stage and say our goodbyes that will be the end.
a chapter in my book closing. no more glances in the hallways, no more waiting to see you at games. It will be all over.
I’m not sure how I feel about that.
“Oreo
Cinnamon Rolls Recipe”
By: Bryan Cade
Ingredients - (1 Serving)
(makes ~8 rolls)
Dough:
¾ cup (180g) warm milk
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 packet instant yeast (2¼ tsp/7g)
*If using active dry yeast, gently stir it in with the warm milk and sugar, then let it sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
1 egg + 1 egg yolk, room temp
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour (+ more if needed)
3 finely crushed Oreos
1 tsp salt + ⅓ cup warm heavy cream to pour over the rolls right before baking
Oreo Filling:
8-9 finely crushed Oreos
6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
½ tsp vanilla
Optional: chopped Oreos
Cream Cheese Icing:
6 oz (170g) cream cheese (block style, not spreadable), room temp
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, room temp
1½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
¾ tsp vanilla
Optional: extra crushed Oreos for sprinkling over the icing.
Instructions:
Combine the warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Add egg, egg yolk, and melted butter, mix.
Stir in salt, flour, and Oreo crumbs.
Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes.
*It should feel soft and slightly tacky but not messy. If it’s too sticky, add more flour, a tbsp at a time.
Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until doubled in size.
For the filling, mix the soft butter, Oreo crumbs, brown sugar, and vanilla until combined and spreadable. (add one more tbsp of butter if it’s too thick)
Roll the dough into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
Spread the filling evenly and scatter the chopped Oreos on top.
I like to use a pizza cutter or knife first to slice the pizza into eight pieces, then roll each piece up tightly. (Or you can tightly roll the whole thing, then slice)
Place in a greased 9x13 pan.
Cover and let rise 35-45 min.
Pour warm heavy cream over the rolls right before baking.
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. (tent with foil towards the end if the tops are browning too quickly)
To make the icing, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Then beat in powdered sugar and vanilla.
Spread over warm rolls. Top with more crushed Oreos. Enjoy!
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