Issue 3 | Volume 107

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University Feburary 17, 2025

Single Copies Free

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GCSU’s 2026 homecoming lineup

GCSU embraces a Winter Olypmic themed events Sydney Williams

dents, who shared details

with our official open-

but you don’t have to be

Asst. A&L Editor

about the week’s events.

ing ceremony as we

super sporty,” Graham

at

“We’re definitely gon-

light the Olympic torch

said. “They are really

GCSU will feature a Win-

na have some throw-

and launch a week of

geared towards anybody

ter

Olympics-themed

backs to 1996 when

Olympic-inspired

fun.”

who wants to participate

lineup of events and

the Summer Olympics

also

in the ‘Bobcat Games’.”

alumni programming on

actually came through

pick up Homecoming

Office

Feb. 16 to 21, highlight-

Milledgeville,”

Gra-

swag and T-shirts on

decorating

ed by Tent City, a parade

ham said. “So we plan

Front Campus. Mon-

turns this year, after

through campus, home-

to tie in some historic

day’s featured “Bobcat

being absent in 2025.

coming court announce-

Olympic moments that

Games” event will be

“We are bringing it

ments and the Bob-

happened on campus.”

human curling, the first

back this year, so hope-

of several Olympic-style

fully there will be lots

begins Feb. 16 with an

activities

of offices and doors

spiration from the on-

official

opening

throughout the week.

going global Olympic

emony

on

Homecoming

Sydney Williams | Assist. A&L Editor

Homecoming

cats’ basketball games.

The theme draws in-

Games, Dr. Sydney Williams | Assist. A&L Editor

according

Jennifer

Week cer-

interim dean of stu-

planned

and

door

also

decorated,”

re-

Graham

said. “It’s a way for folks

Thursday, there’s gon-

across campus to show

“Kick

na be a different kind

their

off Homecoming Week

of fun sporty activity,

See HOMECOMING | Page 10

GCSU

Graham,

can

through

campus.

As described on the

to

Students

website,

“Monday

Bobcat

spirit.”

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT ON CHLOE MELTON James Cordero

curacies and implica-

time that my concep-

Dean of the Honors Col-

Contributing Writer

tions on health science.

tualization of BMI had

lege, Brian Newsome.

At the age of 14 years

actually been challenged

When Melton figured

Chloe Melton, a junior

old, Melton struggled

beyond

you’re

out she wanted to do

with her self-image and

kind of normally told.”

work surrounding BMI,

eating

BMI is a measure of

she originally went to see

disorder. This led her

body fat based on height

Helen Dupree, lectur-

man Anatomy and Phys-

to question the legiti-

and weight and is used

er of Public Health and

iology Society (HAPS),

macy of BMI, a simpli-

as a measure of health.

member of the National

a peer review and open

fied measure of health

However,

doesn’t

Eating Disorders Associ-

source journal, gave a

that

a

take into account mus-

ation, to focus on some-

TEDx Talk and had her

stigma around weight.

cle mass, bone density

thing related more to

work added to a presti-

“When I was 14, I

or body composition.

the science of the index,

gious anatomy textbook.

actually suffered from

Melton did not start

but was turned down

Melton’s research re-

anorexia and went to a

out with the intention to

in the interest of time.

vealed that BMI’s his-

residential home treat-

write a research paper.

“Originally, we were

thing kind of empirical,

think that we can do this

tory and origin are the

ment

Melton

She was recommend-

going to do something

and she turned me away

in 10 days,” Melton said.

crucial keys to its inac-

said. “That was the first

ed to do research by the

more scientific, some-

because she said I don’t

See SPOTLIGHT | Page 4

history major, recently published research on the history of the body mass index (BMI) in the Hu-

developed

often

an

creates

center,”

what

it

Bella McComis | Digital Media Editor

GCSU WELCOMES NEW HEAD BASEBALL COACH JEFF PELKEY Maggie Hinton

tion with Wendell, our athletic di-

guys gave every day,” Pelkey said.

Staff Writer

rector, and he just kind of sold me,”.

“Not just with Coach Belcher, but

baseball

Pelkey’s interest in GCSU’s

Coach Eller before him, and just

team is entering a new chap-

tradition and consistent success

the constant success they’ve had.”

ter under first-year head coach,

in the Peach Belt Conference

He also said the universi-

Jeff Pelkey, on July 17, 2025.

drew him to the position. During

ty’s academic standards and the

No-

his time at Flagler, he frequent-

character of its players played

lan Belcher left the program

ly competed against the Bobcats

a major role in his decision.

after

GCSU.

and saw the program up close.

“Because of the school and

“When Coach Belcher left, they

“Being in the Peach Belt for

obviously had a national search

eight years at Flagler College, I

type of character every play-

and opened it up”, Pelkey said. “I

got to see firsthand in the oth-

er

was able to have a great conversa-

er dugout what kind of effort the

The

GCSU

Former

Courtesy of GCSU Creative Services

four

men’s

head years

coach at

the

academics here

has,”

and

just

Pelkey

the said.

See HEAD COACH | Page 5

NEWS | PG. 4

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 8

CATERWAUL | PG. 11

Four political organizations at GCSU convened for a friendly debate to discuss controvertail topics.

The Seahawks defeated the Patriots in this year’s Superbowl, with a viewership of 125 million.

“Heated Rivalry” is a newly released show that has gained traction for being LGBTQ+ friendly.

Are you hungry for a sweet treat, or are you more in the mood for a bittersweet poem? The Caterwaul has it all!

POLITICAL CLUBS DEBATE HOT TOPICS

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS TAKE THE SUPERBOWL

NEW TV SHOW FORMS STRONG FAN BASE

A TASTE TO TRY, A POEM TO SAVOR

2

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

02.17.2026

NEWS

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,

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

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

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/.

VOLUME 107 | NO. 3

Editorial Board

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

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

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

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

Reaghan Sheehee | Digital Media Editor

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.

@TheColonnade

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. g c s u . e du / e du c at i on .

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3

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

02.17.2026

NEWS

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-

Julia Jensen | Art Director

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

cords spanning genres and de-

Bennett Bahnsen, a fresh-

Staff Writer

cades, along with CDs, music

man psychology major, said

Wax Galaxy Records, a

posters, wearable merchan-

music has long played an im-

record store in downtown

dise and DVDs. The store’s

portant role in his life and

Milledgeville,

celebrat-

layout encourages browsing,

that Wax Galaxy Records

ing its first anniversary this

with organized bins and dis-

quickly became one of his fa-

week, marking a year since

plays that highlight both clas-

vorite spots in Milledgeville.

the independently owned re-

sic artists and new arrivals.

“I grew up in a town with a

cord store opened its doors

In an era dominated by

lot of record stores, and I was

in January 2025 and brought

streaming platforms, the shop’s

blessed with the amount of

vinyl culture back to the

success reflects a continuing

good stuff I had,” Bahnsen said.

city’s

district.

demand for physical media and

“When I heard something like

Co-owners Mike Turner

in-person retail experiences.

that was opening up in Milled-

and Marie Uhler spent much

For many customers, flipping

geville, I was very excited.”

of 2023 and 2024 search-

through vinyl bins offers some-

Bahnsen said he appreciates

ing for the right location be-

thing algorithms cannot: dis-

the diversity of the store’s se-

fore finding their current

covery through touch, conver-

lection, which includes artists

space on North Wayne Street.

sation and shared enthusiasm.

such as rhythm and blues sing-

“We spent most of 2023

“It’s been cool to get to

er James Brown and hip-hop

and 2024 chasing storefronts,

know the regulars and see

artist MF DOOM. From classic

which became one dead end

enough of their purchases to

soul and funk to underground

after another until we lucked

feel okay with making sug-

rap and contemporary indie

out on the space we are in

gestions that they might like,”

releases, the store aims to serve

now, signing the lease in

Turner said. “Each month

a wide range of musical tastes.

summer 2024,” Turner said.

seems to do a little better than

He also noted the shop’s

After signing the lease,

the one before, and we are see-

consistent social media pres-

Turner dedicated six months

ing more first-time custom-

ence, particularly on Insta-

to preparing the store for its

ers still discovering the shop.”

gram, where owners post

debut. He built record racks,

That steady growth has been

painted and decorated the

is

downtown

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

it open…that’s really dope,”

that are often overlooked

Bahnsen said. “ They are still

in digital listening formats.

diversifying

their

catalog.”

For sophomore sociology

Turner

expressed

grat-

itude for the support that

major Katie Mei Montgom-

has

sustained

ery, the appeal of vinyl ex-

through

its

the

shop

first

year.

tends beyond the music itself

“To anyone who bought a re-

to the artistry of the format.

cord, CD, shirt, cassette, VHS,

“I really love how peo-

or DVD, seriously thank you,”

ple can piece together their

Turner said, “To the customers

thoughts and their feelings

who got the nerve to start con-

weekly updates featuring new

or their stories and pres-

versations, thank you as well.”

fueled in part by students from

arrivals and staff picks. Those

ent them in a really beauti-

Located at 124 N. Wayne

interior and unboxed and

GCSU, who make up a signifi-

posts often generate conversa-

ful way,” Montgomery said.

St., Wax Galaxy Records con-

cataloged hundreds of re-

cant portion of the store’s cus-

tion online before customers

cords, CDs and other items.

tomer base. For many students,

As the only record store

Her

comment

reflects

tinues to welcome longtime

even walk through the door,

a broader cultural shift in

collectors, curious newcomers

Wax Galaxy Records provides

extending the store’s reach

which younger listeners are

and students alike, all unit-

in downtown Milledgeville,

both a nostalgic connection

beyond its physical walls.

rediscovering album art, liner

ed by a shared appreciation

Wax Galaxy Records offers

to home and a new commu-

“I feel like it’s even more

notes and the intentional se-

for music and the experience

a wide selection of vinyl re-

nity hub in their college town.

diverse now than when I saw

quencing of songs, elements

of discovering it together.

4

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

02.17.2026

NEWS

Campus groups hold civil debate forum Jane Carr

among

News Editor Students

repre-

senting four campus political

organiza-

tions gathered Monday, Feb. 9, in the Pat Peterson Room from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for a structured po-

students.

the United Nations

ism and socialism,

The first topic ad-

are frequently by-

was mentioned as

dressed U.S. foreign

passed and argued

a historical exam-

policy, an issue that

that if adversaries

ple

often reflects the di-

do not follow es-

armed self-defense.

vide about the coun-

tablished rules, the

College Republi-

try’s role in global

United States should

cans cited the Second

affairs. Participants

not feel obligated to

Amendment as the

were asked to re-

do so unilaterally.

foundation of their

spond to questions

A speaker from

position, stating that gun ownership is a

al involvement and

focused on economic

constitutional right

national

dimensions,

saying

Jordan, second vice

advocated for ex-

can government had

and that government

long,

U.S. foreign policy of-

chair of the organiza-

panding the Afford-

a duty to protect the

involvement should

America has acted

ten advances corpo-

tion, while also em-

able Care Act and

people of Venezuela.

remain

limited.

as the world’s po-

rate interests rather

phasizing the need

protecting Social Se-

The release of files

A Young Dem-

lice force,” said Ellie

than those of work-

for secure borders.

curity, arguing that

ocrats

related to Jeffrey Ep-

Prothro of Turning

ing-class Americans.

federal

programs

tive said individu-

stein was also brief-

Point USA, express-

The conversation

crats

argued

that

provide

essential

als have the right to

ly mentioned, with

ing concern about

then shifted to gun

immigration

pat-

support for vulner-

bear arms, but em-

all parties agreeing

extended

legislation, a topic

terns

able

phasized safe and

that

in-

that remains contro-

connected to U.S.

responsible

own-

abroad.

versial in national

foreign policy deci-

stressed the impor-

ership

practices.

representative

debate. Participants

sions and suggest-

tance of strength-

Point

from Mutual Aid So-

were asked to address

ed that addressing

ening the nuclear

ciety argued that U.S.

constitutional rights

USA expressed sup-

root causes abroad

family as a social

foreign policy pri-

and

public

port for gun rights

is

for

foundation. Mutual

and

marily serves Amer-

ty

considerations.

in line with limited

long-term solutions.

Aid Society called

30-second time lim-

ican interests and de-

A Mutual Aid So-

it and transitioned

scribed it as aligned

ciety speaker argued

between topics with-

with

imperialism.

that firearm owner-

debate

College Republi-

ship enables com-

speakers.

cans framed the is-

munities to defend

sue around interna-

themselves

the event was cre-

tional

enforcement

necessary. The Black

ated in response to

and global competi-

Panther Party, a rev-

what they described

tion. Representatives

olutionary

as growing political

said

zation

tension and distance

institutions such as

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

out

open

between

Organizers

said

internationinterest.

“For

and

too

political

volvement A

military

international

Young

organized

Democrats

litical forum focused

about

of

safe-

when

organi-

advocating

for Black national-

representa-

Turning

government

regu-

SPOTLIGHT

Demo-

are

closely

necessary

Turning

Point

for broader system-

lation. The organi-

USA maintained that

ic changes to better

zation

advo-

violations of immi-

support

families,

cated for legislative

gration law require

suggesting

struc-

efforts that protect

enforcement

and

tural reform rather

individual

consequences,

fo-

than

also

liberties

Turning

populations.

Point

incremental

the

distribu-

tion 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

and uphold consti-

cusing on adherence

tutional

freedoms.

to existing statutes.

Immigration pol-

“ICE is the tool

licans argued that

icy produced some

of imperialists,” said

current welfare pro-

of the clearest con-

Patrick Lingafelt of

grams are not struc-

trasts of the evening.

Mutual Aid Society,

tured

The issue was framed

criticizing

federal

long-term indepen-

around border secu-

immigration

en-

dence, raising con-

rity, legal processes

forcement practices

cerns about sustained

and

humanitari-

and their broader po-

reliance on govern-

conversation can at-

an

considerations.

litical

ment

tend future forums,

implications.

policy adjustments.

College

to

Repub-

promote

assistance.

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

connect

with

the

College Republi-

The final major

The event con-

cans said legal immi-

topic centered on

cluded with a brief

participating

grants should be wel-

social welfare pro-

discussion of Presi-

nizations or seek out

comed and called for

grams. The discus-

dent Donald Trump’s

additional

reforms to improve

sion

handling of Vene-

discussions focused

the current system.

federal policy, eco-

zuela,

Turn-

on civic engagement

“No one wants

nomic security and

ing Point USA and

and respectful di-

family

structure.

College Republicans

alogue across po-

Young Democrats

believing the Ameri-

litical

to see families sepIsabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

Young

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

arated,” said Owen

touched

on

with

orgacampus

differences.

lege Conference (GCHC) and the

search. After five edits with Saladin and

fears right now don’t matter,” Melton

Southern Regional Honor Confer-

another revision after that, Melton was

said. “You’re going to be okay. You

ence (SHRC), which serve as chances

able to publish her work in the HAPS.

have to hold on because you’re go-

for students to show off their research

Melton was then chosen to give a

ing to do so many amazing things.”

to peers and others in similar fields.

TEDx Talk on her research, being one

That is not where her journey stopped.

of three students chosen to do so that

Newsome was having lunch with

day. She was able to expand her reach

Kenneth Saladin, a distinguished pro-

even further, but also come full circle

fessor emeritus of biology, and talking

with the story of her 14-year-old self.

about Melton’s research. Saladin re-

Melton said that when she was 14,

alized that the research could be a

she would look for TED Talks that

“People don’t talk about the histo-

good contribution to his book, one

were inspirational. Now, getting her

ry of BMI.” Melton said. “They just

of the biggest Anatomy and Physiol-

own moment on stage meant a lot to

kind of talk about the science behind

ogy (A&P) textbooks in the country.

Melton, because it meant doing some-

for a reason.” Melton said. “I learned all

it, but they really go hand in hand,”

Saladin then edited a sidebar essay in

thing she couldn’t dream of doing at 14.

of this for a reason. I want to help oth-

Melton later presented her work

his textbook based on Melton’s paper, but

“I think I would tell [my 14-year-

er people who are going through the

at the Georgia College Honors Col-

Melton wasn’t finished sharing her re-

old self] that some of my biggest

same things that I was going through.”

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.

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]

5

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

02.17.2026

SPORTS HEAD COACH Continued from page 1

Pelkey’s

baseball

career

ries in Cary, North Carolina,” Pelkey

“I think every coach has short-term

said. “We had one year where we won

and long-term goals,” Pelkey said.

48 games or something ridiculous.”

“Right now, our short-term goal is

Before arriving at GCSU, Pelkey

just to play solid, sound, good base-

began

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.

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-

Courtesy of GCSU Creative Services

spent eight seasons at Flagler Col-

ball, making sure guys are going to

lege

Florida.

class, focusing on their schoolwork,

Now leading the Bobcats, Pelkey stat-

making sure they’re in the weight

ed his focus includes both short-term

room, keeping their bodies in shape

and long-term goals for the program.

and getting out there and competing.”

in

St.

Augustine,

Super Bowl 60

Sports movies

Students react to the Seahawk vs. the Patriots Why they matter to GCSU students Jillian Thompson Staff Writer

part of the game was not

little bit of a let-down.

the game itself, rather the

I thought it would

The Seattle Seahawks

commercials. It’s estimat-

be a closer game, but

On any given af-

defeated the New En-

ed that it costs around $8

the Seahawks showed

ternoon, the sprawl-

gland Patriots in Super

to $10 million dollars.

Bowl 60 on Sunday, Feb. 7

Commercials, the na-

The Seahawks led

Around 125 million

tional anthem, the half-

12-0 at halftime, with

watched the game, in-

time show and more are

cluding many students

a big reason why people

here on campus at GCSU.

watch the Super Bowl.

“I watched the game

Some students that are

at the Velvet Elvis with

not huge football fans but

their

dominance.”

no touchdowns being scored in the first half.

“I watched the game with a couple roommates at home. Or-

some of my friends.

business

major.

raling

footballs

long

frisbee

and

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

exercise science major

senior

whose favorite sports

“The

movie is Just Wright.

Sports films continue

game itself was kind of

to resonate with GCSU

a let-down. Very defense

students because they

heavy, which isn’t exact-

reflect familiar strugSuper Bowl snacks

ly what I wanted to see.”

Many

GCSU fills with spi-

India Collier, a junior

good food,” said Jake a

ing Front Campus at

but very powerful,” said

Had a few drinks, some McFarland,

me feel like I can do “The Sandlot beIsabella Trickey Contributing Writer anything,” said Car- ing this idea of letting

businesses

still watched the game.

dered some pizza and

gles. The same themes students

experience

on campus every day.

Charlie

wings and just kind of

geville stayed open late

Puth on the national an-

chilled for the game,”

roes battling villains

on Sunday for the game.

them was phenomenal,”

said Owen Higgins, a

or starships jumping to hyperspace, sports

in downtown Milled-

“I

thought

“I watched the game,

said David Schauer, a

junior fiance major. “I

actually while I was

freshman business ma-

know people go all out

working at the brick. I

jor. “Bad Bunny’s perfor-

was going to watch the

mance was cool to see,

Unlike

superhe-

movies are grounded.

ter Maym, a freshman

the outsider in, like the

psychology

major.

new kid in town trying

That theme of com-

to join up in a group

munity appears to res-

that he didn’t imme-

onate

most

strongly

diately fit into,” said

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,

back-

grounds and experiences. They may not know

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 de-

and have Super Bowl

not

anyone on their first day

watch sports movies as

of college. Yet over time,

parties, but I wasn’t

often now, but she can-

through shared class-

even though I don’t really

feeling it this year.”

not resist Just Wright

es,

there were still some ac-

listen to his music. It was

According to a Co-

when it appears on

pickup games on Front

quaintances eating, so I

cool to see Ronald Acu-

lumbia

television. The charac-

Campus, bonds form.

could post up and watch

na Jr. and a couple other

System article, the Brick

periodically,” said Owen

stars in the performance.”

in Macon, Ga. expect-

Payne, a junior exercise

are so many good ones

Bad Bunny starred

ed to sell 400 pizzas

out there. Rudy, Invin-

science major. “The Half-

in the highly anticipat-

and 3,000 wings. Many

time show was proba-

ed half-time show. He-

bly my favorite because

students

was Spotify’s most lis-

everybody in the house

agreed that eating pizza

tened to artist in 2025.

kind of raising me on these movies so I would

had their eyes glued to

“I watched the game

and wings during the

the television. I didn’t see

with a bunch of room-

much of the commer-

mates

cials, however, I thought

brought a TV and every-

the ones I saw were

one brought a snack or a

way too politically fo-

dip so everyone could eat

cused, taking away from

well during the game,”

the game experience.”

said Harry Harries, a

Many students high-

senior management ma-

lighted that their favorite

jor. “The game was a

game

regardless,

but

outside.

We

Broadcasting

Collier

may

organizations

and

feated the Soviet Union in Lake Placid, New York. The U.S. as large underdogs

and

man-

aged to upset the Soviets.

“Coach probably

Carter my

is

favorite

sports movie, but there

cible,” said Drew Stopp, a senior management

interviewed

major. “My dad grew up

be motivated in whatev-

Super Bowl is common.

er I do in life. I appre-

Students across cam-

ciate my dad for that.”

pus watched the big

Similarly to how stu-

game in different ways,

dents often find themStreaming platform

and for different reasons. The Super Bowl has a large audience, as GCSU students are a part of this demographic

ters feel authentic, and

Community

is

their journeys mirror

what draws many stu-

everyday perseverance.

dents to GCSU, and

“Characters

with

it is what draws them

determination

make

to

sports

movies.

selves 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.

6

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

02.17.2026

SPORTS

How do sports impact your education?

Annakate Cox

tion of student-athletes.

that athletes are support-

Staff Writer

GCSU’s national-leading

ed on and off the field.

GCSU has been rec-

title reflects the campus

Staton also empha-

culture in which long-

sizes that the NCAA

lence and success on the

term achievements and

system itself is inten-

court, field, or green,

education are a priority.

tionally designed with

but Bobcats are prov-

For student-athletes,

academic checkpoints to

ing that their impact

competing at the Divi-

hold athletes account-

reaches far beyond the

sion II level gives them

able. Eligibility require-

games and competitions.

the chance to pursue

ments, progress toward

Behind the scenes,

their athletic goals while

degree

the athletic department

still receiving a strong

GPA benchmarks are

emphasizes

education. The universi-

structured to keep ed-

and

ty’s structured schedules,

ucation and academics

involve-

abundance of academic

at the forefront of the

ment, reinforcing the

resources, and ability to

collegiate

ideals that being a Bob-

have close relationships

cat

excelling

with professors are key

ic department is built

in all aspects of life.

factors to their success.

on academics and stu-

GCSU is ranked first

Wendell Staton, Di-

dents first, and athletes

among all NCAA Divi-

rector of Athletics at

second and they can

sion II public institutions

GCSU, believes that ath-

co-exist,”

in the nation for academ-

letes always have a better

ic success rate, demon-

academic

ognized for its excel-

ic

academ-

accountability

community

means

strating the university’s commitment to developing student athletes

performance

during their seasons because of the structure and support built into

standards

and

experiences.

“GCSU’s

athlet-

Courtesy of GCSU Creative Services

Thompson,

cipline and achievement

to-day routines as a

a member of the Bob-

in all areas of life. For

student-athlete

cat competition cheer

athletes like James and

explains how students

team,

how

Thompson, the lessons

must plan around the

support from her pro-

learned through com-

busy schedule and find

fessors

coaches

peting extend far beyond

has helped her to stay

their respective sports.

er, describes his dayand

gaps in the day to study, or even start studying several days in advance.

said.

“Playing at GCSU has

His statement reflects

made me realize that ev-

Staton

Autumn

describes and

confident and focused.

“Competing at GCSU

Time

management,

resilience and account-

has helped me to de-

ability

become

habits

velop strong discipline

that shape who they are

and time management

both inside and out-

skills, as well as how to

side the classroom. The

hold

account-

wins and achievements

able,” Thompson said.

may hang on the walls

ide-

ery day is a grind, and

als and philosophy that

you have to give your best

academic

excellence

performance whether it’s

achieve-

on the court or in a class-

These students’ expe-

of Centennial Center,

riences reflect the larg-

but it is the degrees, the

highlights

er truth about GCSU

skills

the

department’s

and

athletic

myself

who thrive both athlet-

their daily routines. Ac-

ments are not com-

room,” James said. His

ically and academically.

cording to Staton, the

peting

perspective

athletic

department

instead work together.

the importance of a good

athletics: success is not

the futures built that

Rate measures academic

strives to foster a holistic

Cam James, a GCSU

mindset and account-

defined by wins or tro-

truly demonstrate the

performance and reten-

environment to ensure

Men’s Basketball play-

ability in every setting.

phies, but instead by dis-

legacy of the Bobcats.

The Academic Success

priorities,

and

developed

and

GCSU men’s and women’s tennis open season Maggie Scarbrough

months of preparation.

Barsby said. “With tennis

affect a student’s grades

els for me,” Black said.

On Wednesday, Feb.

Contributing Writer

“The Peach Belt is one

being an individual sport,

and stress management.

“They go above and be-

18, the Bobcats will

of the top three confer-

it is most important that

Black explained that

yond to truly know us

play Abraham Baldwin

ences in the country,

as a person, not just as a

Agricultural

and our goal is always

player. This pushes me to

(ABAC) on the Cen-

to compete for the top

also be intentional about

tennial

spots,” Barsby said. “That

building

would put us in a very

with those around me.”

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

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

Black

relationships shared

that

the NCAA tournament

this

mentorship

has

at the end of the year.”

helped

her

good position to play in

A

team’s

become

more confident during

internal

beliefs and values can

Courtesy of Alexus Duncan

greatly affect how it navigates a series of wins

players remain success-

using her time wisely and

and losses. Statistics are

ful towards their team.”

taking breaks has helped

Rachel Black, a soph-

reduce overwhelm when

omore biology major,

managing multiple tasks.

shared her personal ex-

“I’m able to balance

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 circum-

College

Center

Ten-

nis 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 in-

perience with tennis and

[sports

academ-

stances to play their

how it has shaped her.

ics] by taking advan-

hardest. From now until

She expressed her grat-

tage of the in-between

the end of the semester,

itude towards the sport

moments,” Black said.

coaches and players will

and how it has taught

“I try to compartmen-

work to see their team

her time management

talize by focusing on

Courtesy of Gray Sims

and provided her with a

the task at hand and

not always within play-

supportive community.

not worrying about the

ers’ control, but char-

“It is a unique expe-

things I can’t control.”

acter is. Maintaining a

rience to get to live out

Black’s strategy is one

a dream that I’ve had

way to divide tasks into

for years,” Black said.

smaller steps and can be

Student-athletes

of-

useful for busy students.

ten face the responsi-

Additionally, close men-

bility to manage mul-

tors can support athletes

tiple worlds at once,

in their goals and help

goals become a reality.

making

which can be difficult

build stronger relation-

For some, playing a sport

a good way to enjoy

and

ships on and off the court.

is not just about the game,

a

have

but a part of them they

side and support uni-

been great role mod-

honor through practice.

versity athletic teams.

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,”

time-consuming.

Packed schedules, long practices and travel can

“My

and

coaches

cludes Parent Central, where parents can access more information.

Spring is on its way,

Courtesy of Gray Sims

sports

pleasant

day

games out-

7

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

02.17.2026

ARTS & LIFE

Are analog bags the new hobby at GCSU? Elizabeth Kohler

ever, recently she has shifted to

University of New England, published

es offered at the GCSU Wellness

Staff Writer

listening to audiobooks while she

in “Issues in Mental Health Nursing”

Center were the perfect answer.

works on the new hobby she picked up.

(2025), found that hobbies reduce

“[Yoga] is very relaxing and reju-

“I recently took up crochet as well

daily stress and build community.

venating, and it really helps me fo-

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 re-

relaxation

cus on my breathing,” Niane said.

I listen to an audiobook,” Frayne said.

and pleasure, playing a crucial role

Hobbies can provide an outlet for

Reading is a common hobby that

in mitigating anxiety, stress and

self-expression away from social me-

depression

dia and a grounding experience that

and enjoy practicing my stitches while

is not only easily accessible, but also

“Hobbies

facilitate

and

promoting

over-

offers a sense of fulfillment and pas-

connect with more tangible projects.

sion outside of work and school.

In recent years, the general public

“In a world where I feel like I spend

has seen a growing amount of time

more time every year on a device or

spent in the digital world. As a result,

looking at a screen, finding a hobby

many members of the GCSU student

that gets us off our phones is more im-

body have decided to take a step back

portant than ever now,” Frayne said.

and take up more tactile hobbies.

“I

recently

picked

up

GCSU

collag-

offers

many

opportuni-

ties for students looking to explore

ing. [It] keeps me entertained with-

new hobbies. On campus organiza-

out looking at my phone every

tions such as the Gardening Club,

two minutes,” said Dhara Weav-

the Creative Arts Alliance, the Liter-

er, a junior creative writing major.

ary Guild and the Intramural sports

Weaver has been tracking her

program provide a space for students

screen time and has become concerned Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

with the large portion of the day she

to try out new activities and interact with other like-minded hobbyists.

has spent on her phone. She picked

diverse in its subject matter. This al-

all life satisfaction,” Cleary said.

If students would like to make their

up collaging from a friend in an ef-

lows the participant to become inter-

Some students are looking for ways to

own analog bag and don’t know where

fort to bring her phone usage down.

ested in a literary piece and interact

destress and distance themselves from

to start, they can check out Sierra

Other students have maintained

with the community surrounding it.

coursework for a short break to avoid

Campbell, @siececampbell, on TikTok,

their hobbies from when they were

“I really enjoy losing myself in

burnout,especiallyasmidtermsapproach.

who is credited with starting the trend.

young, but have since incorporat-

a story,” Frayne said. “For that rea-

“Exams require so much read-

Some common items to include in an

ed other activities with collaging.

son, I mainly tend towards fantasy,

ing and note-taking that I forget

analog bag are notebooks, pens, a book

Eden Frayne, a freshman nurs-

science fiction or traditional fiction

to make time to relax,” said Aicha

or two, word searches, coloring books,

ing student, has been an active read-

when I’m picking out a new book.”

Niane, a junior psychology major.

a deck of cards and coloring pencils to

er since she was four or five. How-

A study by Michelle Cleary at the

Niane found that the yoga class-

keep one occupied and off their phone.

Spotlight: GCSU Psychology Club Rosalyn Chapman

in to talk about a topic,” Gibson said. “Last semes-

Staff Writer

ter, we had one of our professor’s students, who re-

The GCSU Psychology Club is an on-campus or-

cently published a book, give a talk, and at our most

ganization that offers students a collaborative way

recent meeting, one of our new professors gave a

to learn about psychological science, mental health

talk about potential career paths in this profession.”

and professional development within the field.

Other leadership roles, like managing social media

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

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

Courtesy of Addy Strickland

back to the greater Milledgeville community.”

en communication skills and build confidence.

Furthermore, the club has a close connection with

“You get to interact with your peers in a fun, relaxed

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

bene-

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

major, anyone interested can interview to be a part

fits of joining the club during their freshman

of the executive board and earn a leadership role.

year, now that they have a community of peo-

“When elections came around, I decided that I would

ple who share common interests and passions.

put my name in for secretary, and I ended up getting

“I wanted to connect with a group of psychol-

had in Psychology Club,” Walker said. “I connected

that position,” Gibson said. “As people graduated, I

ogy students outside of the students I was tak-

with students that I never would have met otherwise.”

moved up on the leaderboard until I became president.”

ing classes with in my freshman year,” said Carly

Upcoming events can be seen on the Psychology

Another thing that the club provides is an opportu-

Walker, a senior psychology major and club mem-

Club’s Instagram, @gc_psychclub. For students inter-

nity for students to explore career paths in psychology.

ber. “As well as gain more resources, context and

ested in getting involved with the club this semester,

“Oftentimes, we will have talks throughout the se-

connections within the psychology department.”

the next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 3 at

mester where we either bring alumni or professors

Within the club, opportunities arise that strength-

6 p.m. in room 240 of the Arts & Science building.

take, which research labs to join, and which opportunities to pursue at GCSU based on conversations I

8

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

02.17.2026

ARTS & LIFE

“Heated Rivalry” sparks interest on campus Rosalie Ritz

“The fact that we’re turning more and more

glish major, who is also a fan of the show. She

Staff Writer

fan fictions that are loved by a lot of people into

loves the exposure that “Heated Rivalry” is get-

“Heated Rivalry” is capturing the attention of

these big stories is really cool,” Holbrook said.

ting, and she hopes that it opens more doors

GCSU students and beyond, spotlighting a story of two

Josie

Harris,

a

junior

pub-

major-league hockey rivals whose high-stake compe-

lic health major, is also a fan of the show.

tition slowly turns into a romantic relationship; the

“I really love the show. I think one of the things

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

that really drew me to watch it was that it had such positive LGBTQ+ representation,” Harris said.

Often,

LGBTQ+

characters

lack

hap-

py endings, and their character arcs end in

series

by

author

Rachel

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.

the same title, taking place in the “Game Changers”

for

“Hockey is known for being a little ho-

Reid.

mophobic.”

Anna Holbrook, a freshman psychology and

Holbrook

said.

“They

banned

criminal justice major, is an avid book reader and

gay tape and the pride flag for a while,”

hockey fan. She loves “Heated Rivalry,” after first

Many LQBTQ+ sports fans hope that “Heated

watching it with her friends over winter break.

Rivalry”

changes

the

environment

with-

stories

be-

in sports and the acceptance of their athletes.

Holbrook

said.

With the popularity of the show, new online

The main characters of the show are Ilya

trends have emerged. One trend that was popu-

“My hind

favorite all

the

part

is

characters,”

the

Rozan-

lar was where users post a picture of their younger

ov is Russian, drafted No. 1 in 2009, and has a

self playing their sport, captioned with something

rocky relationship with his brother and his fa-

like, “This show would’ve changed my life when

Rozanov

and

Shane

Hollander.

Ilya

ther, 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 charover

Holbrook ed

the

the

also show’s

span

of

said

she

origins

in

For example, “The 100,” “Yellowjackets,” “Call Me

By Your Name” and “Brokeback Mountain” are notable

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

years.

However, with shows like “Heated Rivalry,” it

door for other networks to feel more comfort-

appreciat-

gives many fans hope for more happy endings.

able green-lighting shows that have LGBTQ+

fiction.

One of those fans is Bella Young, a senior En-

nine fan

tragedy or sadness one way or the other.

I was younger,” or “Little me needed this show.”

for their tragic endings with their LGBTQ+ characters.

acters develop a slow burn, on-and-off, situationship

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

storylines

as

the

forefront,”

Harris

said.

Lockerly Arboretum - Milledgeville’s hidden gem James Cordero

grams, staff and a management plan.

monly forgotten part of Lockerly,

teaching the kids, and college students

Contributing Writer

“It is a beautiful place,” said Mat-

yet stand as one of the most accessi-

are happy to have a fun summer job.

Lockerly Arboretum, a botani-

thew Kuipers, a sophomore environ-

ble ways to support the Arboretum.

“I’m going to be leading the kids

cal garden and historical site serv-

mental science major. “You’re sur-

“On those Saturdays that I’ll work,

ing as a living museum of nature, is

rounded by trees and beautiful plants

I will get one tour a day… and I’m

ing about nature; I’m really excit-

two and a half miles away from GC-

around you with informational signs

there for nine hours,” Kuipers said.

ed and proud of myself to be able

SU’s main campus and a well-loved

about the trees, so you can learn.”

It is free for people to visit the arbo-

to do that for them,” Kuipers said.

part of the Milledgeville community.

Kuipers works at the arboretum

retum, but Lockerly workers sell plants

Students and many visitors walk

The arboretum has more than 6,000

as a docent, giving tours of Rose Hill

once a year to raise money for the arbo-

through the park without noticing

species and cultivar plants, trails to

every Saturday; the tours are $5 and

retum from those who want to support

its hidden gems. The quiet corners

walk and the historic house, Rose Hill.

take about 30 minutes to go through

the park they enjoy walking around.

cherished by those who know it best

Lockerly is what is known as a Level

the entire house, which was built in

The arboretum also has many op-

are easy to ignore if someone doesn’t

1852 after it burned down a year ear-

portunities to volunteer. Their “Dirt

know what they are looking for.

II accredited arboretum through the

Diggers” program hosts volunteers on

“[My favorite secret spot is] the ob-

ArbNet Accreditation Program, which

lier. Rose Hill was designed to be the

the first and third Wednesday of each

servation deck in the climax forest. It

means it has over 100 species or vari-

center point of the arboretum when

month to do work across the arboretum.

is located in the back corner of the Ar-

eties of woody plants. The accredita-

Lockerly was established in 1965.

“I just like to go on walks through

boretum,” said John Jackson, a member

tion also means it has educational pro-

The tours of Rose Hill are a com-

there because it’s a very calming

of the board of trustees at Lockerly.

place and I really enjoy the scen-

According to its website, https://lock-

ery,” said Noah Rodriguez, a sopho-

erly.org/, Lockerly was founded by E.J.

more environmental science major.

Grassmann to “contribute to the natural

Many people said they enjoyed the

beauty, cultural atmosphere and envi-

serenity and the peaceful nature of the

ronmental education of his community.”

park, as the pond and walkways serve

With 60 years of experience and a

as a way for students to relax. The ar-

board of executives passionate about the

boretum also has educational pro-

park, Lockerly Arboretum stands as a

grams and even a summer camp. But

key location in Milledgeville, even mak-

according to the Lockerly website, the

ing its way onto the Milledgeville ver-

“centerpiece” of their outdoor educa-

sion of Monopoly, “Milledgvilleopoly.”

tion program is the Woods Museum.

“I am proud that the park is a wel-

Lockerly’s summer camps teach

coming place for all of Milledgeville

kids about nature and take in children

and Baldwin County, where peo-

from first to ninth grade. They offer a

ple of all ages and backgrounds can

hands-on approach to learning and

come and enjoy nature,” Jackson said.

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

through

experiments

and

learn-

9

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

02.17.2026

ARTS & LIFE

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

families can’t seem to get enough.

“We just enjoy getting out here and

to kick off the weekend. Everyone has

“I highly recommend First Fri-

engaging with all attendees, especially

their favorite local spot. Anna Carey, a

day to anyone. I’ve had an amazing

in this beautiful weather,” said Robert

senior political science major, chooses

time so far getting outside and en-

Neil, an associate for American Axes.

to spend her First Fridays at The Brick.

joying the weather,” Clayton said.

“We see just about every type of crowd

“I love going to The Brick,” Carey

For students like Clayton, First

while we are out here, which makes

Friday offers more than just food

First Friday just as exciting and unique.”

and they always have such fun energy.”

First Friday brings an abundance of

and shopping to axe-throwing, First

life to the downtown scene. For many

Friday had a wide variety of activi-

restaurants and shops, the month-

ties for everyone in the community.

ly event is one of the busiest nights

This tradition of festivities started

of the semester. It also gives them an

in 2014 as a community celebration

opportunity to showcase what they

for winning the national title of Great

have to offer for students and families

American Main Street City by the Main

who don’t regularly come to the area.

Street America organization. Since

Downtown has all the options if you

then, First Friday has become a huge

want to play it safe or find your new fa-

hit for all members of the Milledgeville

vorite spot. From burgers and pizza to

community. The Milledgeville community encourages anyone and every-

said. “The food and drinks are amazing,

Couresty of Lily Mahaffey

sushi or Greek cuisine, these restaurants

and shopping. It creates a reason

Local vendors and organizations

to step off campus and fully enjoy

lined the streets and created a steady

the town without thinking about

flow of connection among the com-

the stress and pressures of college.

munity. From families with young

Along with live music and food, the

children to college students, this event

event also has sponsors and local non-

reflected the diversity of communi-

will make First Friday a monthly tra-

profits with fun booths of activities

ty members that First Friday contin-

dition. If you missed this past event,

that First Friday has to offer. Wheth-

for everyone. The company Ameri-

ues to bring together year after year.

the next First Friday will be on March

er it’s your first time or a tradition for

can Axes has offered an axe-throw-

Local restaurants thrive during First

6 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., so grab some

you and your friends, students and

ing activity for the past two years.

Friday as more customers are present

friends and enjoy all it has to offer.

one 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.”

It’s never too late to participate in all

can satisfy any craving you might have.

With different themes planned throughout

the

semester,

Milled-

geville is anticipating that even more students and community members

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

room,

markers

were

still welcome to attend.

ees to fill out an opin-

frequently

put to paper and cards

The Sorority, Gam-

ion-based survey about

with the Georgia Veter-

home’s website, “many

were made to encour-

ma Sigma Sigma, which

the event, which allowed

ans Home, located on

veterans service organi-

age and thank veterans.

dedicates itself to volun-

the students to enter a

2249 Vinson Highway

zations, civic groups and

“I enjoy crafting, and

teer work at GCSU, had

drawing for a free 3D

in Milledgeville. It hous-

church groups sponsor

I thought that other stu-

some of its members at-

printout at the library.

es elders who dedicat-

activities such as mov-

tend the event. One stu-

The cardmaking itself

ed their lives to serving

dent saw the event on

could be put towards ser-

their country. According

dents would like to find a way to give back to the community,” said Eliz-

collaborate

According

to

the

ies, games, dance parties, bingo, picnics and other activities and pro-

abeth Hobbs, a rotating

grams for the general

librarian at GCSU who

well-being of the veteran

organized the event. “It

residents at the home.”

was really important for

This facility will con-

me to find something

tinue to partner with

that was hands-on and

GCSU in the projected

something

may-

future. Events like this

be they could do and

draw the college’s staff

zone out for a bit be-

and students closer to-

cause school is stressful.”

gether.

that

A crafter in her free

a

ing at GCSU this past July gether an event that benefited both students and the local veterans home.

At the event, Hobbs sup-

stu-

dents were there to leave

time, Hobbs began workand enjoyed putting to-

Whether

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

meaningful

impact

on veterans, for service hours or to socialize,

GC Connect, where stu-

vice hours on GivePulse,

to the home’s website, it

dents can find and attend

an app students can use

is licensed and certified

events, and she suggest-

to find volunteer service

by the U.S. Department

ed that other members

activities. This is benefi-

of Veterans Affairs to

cial to students because

provide skilled nursing

nity service at GCSU,

Hobbs hoped this gave back to the community.

For students looking to participate in commu-

the time to talk about

plied

scis-

attend. Several members

experiences from their

sors, markers and craft

of the sorority partici-

they are able to monitor

care to aged Georgia war

visit the GivePulse site

personal lives, activities

paper for volunteers to

pated in the event fol-

their volunteer hours,

veterans, and features

at

occurring on campus

work with. Even if one

lowing this suggestion.

get involved hands-on

a fitness center, minia-

munity-engagement/

and larger-scale occa-

was not an artist or a

After the event, Hobbs

and include on resumes.

ture golf course, library

givepulse for a calen-

sions. Chatter filled the

skilled crafter, all were

and

dar of upcoming events.

gluesticks,

wished

for

attend-

GivePulse

events

recreation

room.

www.gcsu.edu/com-

10

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

02.17.2026

ARTS & LIFE HOMECOMING

and some snow falling. We’re literal-

pic-style competitions with a biathlon

Games and offers a place for everyone

Continued from page 1

ly gonna make it snow,” Graham said.

event on front campus, followed by

to gather in a convenient location.”

elec-

During the men’s and women’s

Wednesday.

matchups against Georgia Southwest-

says students have a surprise in store.

Some of the excitement has al-

ern, the university will announce the

“Some of the players in The Macon

ready begun with sorority chalk-

winners of the week’s competitions

Mayhem, which is our local hockey

ing, which started Tuesday, Feb.

and crown the Homecoming court.

team, will come out and play hockey

11, as students decorated sidewalks

Planning for Homecoming Week

with us for a little bit,” Graham said.

with names and symbols to pro-

Students have been eagerly antic-

mote Homecoming court candidates.

ipating the spring concert headliner,

“Chalking is one of the biggest and

which will be announced during a si-

most important events for home-

Tuesday’s ‘Bobcat Games’ event will feature a hockey puck shoot and Graham

Homecoming tions

open

court on

coming,” said Cameron Cooper, a junior environmental science major and member of the Delta Gamma sorority. “We all go out there and

began months in advance with a campuswide Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

worked

to

committee, create

a

which

jam-packed

judging for the office and door decorat-

week of events and activities for

ing contest. That night, students can at-

students, faculty, staff and alumni.

tend “Battle of the Bobcats,” where the

“We started the homecoming com-

winner will open for the spring concert.

mittee this year in October and our

Friday’s

schedule

shifts

toward

committee is ten folks from across the

we wait till midnight, because if you

welcoming alumni back to cam-

chalk before, you get in trouble, but

pus

once it hits midnight, we’re official-

ties throughout the day. The Home-

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

ly allowed to chalk and it gets crazy.”

coming parade will also take place.

lent disco on Tuesday evening. The

Cooper explained how the tradi-

“We would love for the streets

event also gives students a chance

tion helps build energy across campus.

to be lined as the parade comes

to dance and celebrate on campus.

“I think it gets a lot of people excited,

through and have students show

alum-

just because it’s so confusing, walking

their support. Hopefully we’ll see

ni-focused events, including a “Bis-

to class on Monday and seeing nothing

some really good parade decorations

cuits & Brew with the Alumni Crew”

and then coming to class Tuesday and

and floats this year,” Graham said.

breakfast for faculty and staff. The

seeing the entire sidewalk filled with

Homecoming concludes Saturday

day will also include a snowy-themed

random letters,” Cooper said. “You feel

with Tent City and the Homecoming bas-

extravaganza

Campus.

the energy, you feel the competition,

ketball games at the Centennial Center.

Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor

“We’re gonna have ice skating on

you feel the competitive nature that ev-

According to the university web-

student feedback as much as we can. We

campus and a hot chocolate bar, some

eryone just has, but it’s all in good fun.”

site, gcsu.edu, “Tent City is the official

want it to be just a week where you get

fun take-and-makes, a photo booth

Thursday will continue the Olym-

‘tailgating’ event for the Homecoming

to show up and engage and have fun.”

Wednesday

will

on

feature

Front

with

engagement

institution,” Graham said. “We try to get

opportuni-

11 AMELIA MCEWEN, MANAGING EDITOR

02.17.2026

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.

Interested in submitting?

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!

If you are interested in submitting your work to be featured in The Caterwaul, consider this general info!

1. The content relates to or is catered toward GCSU students.

2. Your specific piece has not been published anywhere else.

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

Follow our instagram @thecolonnade or scan the QR code

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