Issue 4 |Volume 107

@TheColonnade

@TheColonnade

The Official Student Newspaper of Georgia College & State University Feburary 24, 2025

Single Copies Free

bobcatmultimedia.com

GCSU’s annual Battle of the Bobcats Anakate Cox

Niro,” “Delco,” “Avant

alongside

to

celebration of student

Staff Writer

Garde” and “MINDA”.

ensure events are lo-

talent and community.

As a part of GCSU’s

Sara Goodleman, GC-

gistically

students thought

out

“On campus, we have many different student

Homecoming week fes-

organizations and stu-

tivities, student musi-

dent populations, but

cians took center stage

at the end of the day, we

Feb. 19 as the Battle of the Bobcats returned to Rus-

all share a love for mu-

sell Auditorium from 6

sic,” Goodleman said.

to 9:30 p.m., giving cam-

Battle of the Bob-

pus bands a chance to

cats is an event for stu-

showcase Bobcat talent.

dents, also put on and

Bands that competed

organized by students.

in Battle of the Bobcats

Goodleman emphasizes

performed in front of

the importance of stu-

a crowd of friends and

dents showing up for

judges for the opportuni-

one another to amplify

ty to kick off one of the

their goals and to cre-

semester’s biggest events:

Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor

the GCSU Spring Con-

SU’s student engagement

and run smoothly. For

cert. The competition

coordinator and campus

Goodleman, the event

lineup included Charley

advisor for the Campus

is more than just a mu-

Countess, “Giant De-

Activities Board, works

sic competition; it is a

ate a supportive space where their hard work and talent can shine.

See BATTLE | Page 8

Removal of pride flag at Stonewall Inn Students react to the Trump Adminstration’s flag policies Annalie Parker Asst. News Editor On Feb. 9, the Trump administration removed an LGBTQ+ Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument in New York following new restrictive policies regarding what flags can be flown on National Park sites.

The “One Flag Policy” states that as of Jan. 21, only the U.S. flag and other federally approved flags can be displayed on the National Park Service’s flag poles. According to The New York Times, the flag was removed quietly overnight, as employees of the Stonewall Inn noticed its

absence when they arrived the next morning.

Several nonprofit groups in New York, including the advocacy organization Equality New York, have filed a lawsuit with the argument that the flag’s removal was an act of discrimination rather than one of law. They believe the removal of a Pride flag from an LGBTQ+ rights monument is too specific to simply be about flag neutrality laws.

“It doesn’t make sense to stop someone from being able to represent themselves in a place that represents them and their history,” said Madelyn Rodriguez, a senior psychol-

ogy major and former president of the GCSU Pride Alliance. “Even without the flag, their history still exists there, so what’s the point?”

On Feb. 12, hundreds of people gathered at the monument to watch protesters raise a replacement Pride flag. Despite the federal policy dictating neutrality, New Yorkers remain adamant that LGBTQ+ history is important and should be represented openly.

The Department of the Interior, a Cabinet-level agency within the executive branch that protects and manages the nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage, referred to the protest

as “political pageantry” and accused the New York officials and representatives in attendance of being “utterly incompetent and misaligned” with the other problems going on in the city.

The Stonewall National Monument is the United States’ first national monument to LGBTQ+ rights. The Stonewall Inn is the landmark of the threeday-long riots that took place in 1969, fighting systemic police brutality against queer people. It is widely considered to be the birthplace of LGBTQ+ rights in America.

See PRIDE | Page 2

Joe Palmese | Asst. Sports Editor

GCSU Intramurals Why are they important?

Rosalyn Chapman Staff Writer Intramurals at GCSU is an interactive way for students to get involved with club sports, engage in socialization and continue in athletics beyond high school.

In fact, roughly one in every four students will participate in intramurals each year. From volleyball to flag football, students love to take part in competitive sports.

GCSU’s West Campus serves as the hub for intramural sports. Many activities, programs and club sports are located indoor and outdoor on courts and fields.

“My favorite intramural to play is indoor and beach coed volleyball,” said Abigail Moyer, a junior nursing major. “It is a great way to stay active and continue to play the sport I love just for fun.”

Intramurals play a role shaping the “culture” at GCSU. Since club sports run all year long, it is foreseeable that many students will engage in athletics here and have daily conversations about upcoming sporting events.

“It’s a great, competitive atmosphere while students are still able to have fun,” Moyer said.

GCSU is known for its shared community on campus. Intramurals create a space where students can interact in a unique way that is intended for people with a shared interest.

“It strengthens the culture here at GCSU and provides a sense of community while doing something active,” said senior Callie Rae Carter, an exercise science major.

“Everyone loves to show sportsmanship with the team you’re on and the team you’re playing.”

See INTRAMURALS | Page 5

GCSU joins “Campus Race to Zero Waste” Maggie Hinton

Zero Waste encourag-

coordinator intern for

collected from The MAX

Staff Writer

es schools to track how

the Office of Sustain-

and reports that data to

much waste they reduce

ability, explained how

throughout the competi-

the competition works.

the competition website.

tion. The program began

“It’s a competition be-

in 2001 and has expand-

tween United States and

ed into a nationwide

Canadian

universities,

lected from The MAX,

sustainability initiative.

and it’s basically to in-

and I enter it into the web-

At GCSU, the focus

spire, empower and mo-

site,” Efird said. “Then

this year is on compost-

bilize students and fac-

you’re competing to see

GCSU is taking part in the 2026 Campus Race to Zero Waste this spring,

joining

more

than 1,000 colleges and universities across the U.S. and Canada in an eight-week competition

ing food waste from

ulty to improve efforts to

reducing

The MAX dining hall.

reduce waste,” Efird said.

food waste and improv-

Caroline Efird, a ju-

During the eight-week

ing sustainability efforts.

nior environmental sci-

period,

The Campus Race to

ence major and events

how much food waste is

focused

on

GCSU

tracks

“We report our compost data that’s being col-

who is able to reduce the most food waste or recycling around campus.”

See WASTE | Page 3

Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor

NEWS | PG. 2

SPORTS | PG. 5

ARTS & LIFE | PG. 9

THE CATERWAUL | PG. 10

A high school in British Columbia, Canada experienced a school shooting that resulted in eight deaths.

A giant luxury burger has been added to the menu for fans to try out during Braves games.

Each of the student media organizations met on campus to celebrate and spread awareness.

Have you ever wondered who is behind The Colonnade’s articles? Now you know!

CANADIA HAS DEADLIEST SHOOTING

NEW BALLPARK FOOD SHOCKS BRAVES FANS

ANNUAL STUDENT MEDIA DAY RETURNS

MEET THE EDITORIAL BOARD

2

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

02.24.2026

NEWS

CANADA NAMES COUNTRY’S DEADLIEST MASS SHOOTING IN DECADES Joe Palmese

Van Rootselaar’s stepmother and step-brother were also found dead at a nearby home.

Authorities noted that police visited Van Rootselaar’s residence on multiple occasions, including as early as last spring over concerns regarding mental health and self harm.

No information has been released from investigators regarding the motive behind the attack.

As authorities work to determine what prompted the shooting, some GCSU students say gun violence in Canada is not something they have frequently encountered or discussed.

“I feel like I haven’t heard as much gun violence in the news from Canada,” said Sean Lynch, a senior management and information systems major.

“I’m not sure what their gun laws are, but it’s sad that the same trag-

Asst. Sports Editor On Tuesday, Feb. 10, Canadian authorities stated that eight people were killed and 25 wounded in one of the country’s deadliest mass shootings at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School, located in British Columbia, Canada.

Police identified the individual, 18-year-old Jesse Van Rootselaar, as the suspect. Van Rootselaar “was not currently attending school,” said Deputy Comissioner Dwayne McDonald on the following Wednesday. The suspected shooter was found dead at the scene from self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

The currently identified victims of the shooting include three 12-year old female students and two male students, ages 12 and 13.

PRIDE

Continued from page 1 The Pride flag is a representation of the struggles of queer people in America. It’s a monument to the adversity and discrimination queer people have overcome and a symbol of the community they find with one another through the united historical struggle for equal rights and representation. “[The Pride flag] is truly a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community as well as a representation of queer people,” Rodriguez said. “It doesn’t make sense why [Trump] would need to take that down other than to just try and ignore its existence.”

Critics say the decision reflects the administration’s broader policies regarding LGBTQ+ issues. Lillian

edies that are happening here in the U.S. are happening in Canada.”

Aside from gun regulation, conversations surrounding student mental health have

Crime scene tape

stemmed from the attack. Caleb Mitchem, a senior finance major, believes there is a correlation between mind wellness and student-identifed shooters.

“I feel like these stories keep showing up where a teenager has

Crooks, a freshman political science major and a member of the GCSU Pride Alliance, believes this incident to be an act of erasure.

“My generation grew up in a period marked by historic landmarks for queer rights and visibility,” Crooks said. “As it currently stands, there have been landmark cases to revoke the rights of minorities under the current administration, as well as the first Trump administration, and it scares me.”

In addition to social concerns, the Pride flag’s removal has prompted a great deal of debate across the country about whether federal sites should adhere to neutral flag policies. The intention behind the policy is national uniformity and neutrality, but many believe flags represent the freedom of expression

VOLUME 107 | NO. 4

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.

been found as the one responsible for school shootings,” Mitchem said. “I’m not sure if it’s a societal issue with mental health around teenagers, but some-

thing has to be done.

We cannot go on living in a world where school shootings are normal.”

The Canadian government has made continuous strides in the past decade to ensure gun safety in its nation. In March of 2025, Canada banned

and should be unregulated.

“It makes sense for there to be regulations on what flags can be flown where, especially on federal grounds protected by the national government,” Crooks said. “However, Stonewall is a historical monument and not related to the central U.S. Government.”

Because Stonewall National Monument falls under the category of National Park Sites, as designated by former President Barack Obama in 2016, it is technically in the jurisdiction of the policy. However, Crooks believes that the flag’s direct connection to the history and values that the monument represents warrants its position there.

“Flying the Pride flag on Stonewall is a form of political speech, and is protected under the First

over 2,500 makes and models of assault-style firearms. Many of these firearms have been illegal to sell and own.

Gun ownership in Canada is also federally regulated, a process that makes obtaining a firearm more tedious than in the states. Firearm owners are required to acquire a Possession and Acquistion Liscence following extensive background checks. Additionally, under Canada’s Firearm Act, all guns must be kept locked away and unloaded.

Understanding how gun laws differ across countries requires examining both policy and political culture. Claire Sanders, a political science professor at GCSU, examined the severity of the Tumbler shooting.

“Something of this magnitude coming from a country like Canada, where gun violence isn’t

Amendment,” Crooks said.

Others argue that the flag being flown over the monument is important for the recognition it brings to the social injustices overcome by those who rioted at Stonewall.

“As someone who studies social movements, [Stone-

common, is shocking news,” Sanders said. “The Canadian government differs from the U.S. government in how fast its parliamentary system passes any policy change.”

Despite concerns surrounding gun violence nationally and internationally, some students say they feel a strong sense of security between the GCSU and Milledgeville police departments.

“I feel very safe on campus,” said Jake McFarland, a senior management major. “Although we are seeing these school shootings, I feel like Milledgeville is a safe city. Between Public Safety and the Milledgeville Police Department, I feel safe here.”

Students wanting to stay informed on national policy can visit www.vpc. org. For students wanting to stay updated on Public Safety, visit www. gcsu.edu/publicsafety.

people, and in my opinion, moved people toward more justice,” said Sandra Godwin, a Professor of Sociology.

“That is something that should be able to be celebrated.”

Students wishing to learn more or discuss this topic further should attend the GCSU

Pride flags along the exterior of Stonewall Inn

wall] is a social movement that is very important to our history because it liberated

@TheColonnade

Pride Alliance meetings, which are held every Tuesday at 7 p.m. in Blackbridge Hall.

@TheColonnade

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3

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

02.24.2026

NEWS

Milledgeville City Council unanimously votes

Blocks vape shops and convenience stores from opening Jane Carr

tablishments that could

termined to obtain the

es choose to invest in

make it easier for un-

products will likely find

the area in the future.

unanimous

derage residents to ob-

alternative

vote aimed at limit-

News Editor In

a

methods.

Khiya Williams, a ju-

tain restricted products.

“These students are

nior majoring in English,

access

While council mem-

gonna find vapes, wheth-

Spanish and interdisci-

products,

bers framed the move

er it’s legal or not,” she

plinary studies, suggest-

the Milledgeville City

as a public health and

said. “Closing the conve-

ed the resolution could

Council has approved

safety measure, the de-

nience store, it’s not go-

create space for differ-

a

resolution

cision

prompted

ing to change anything.”

ent kinds of business-

ing

new

convenience

mixed reactions among

Others see the issue

es to move downtown.

stores, food marts and

students, many of whom

as more nuanced. Sarah

“Maybe it’s a good

vape shops from open-

say

understand

Loncon, a senior English

thing to give other shops

ing within city limits.

the reasoning but ques-

major, said she has mixed

an opportunity to open

tion

effectiveness.

feelings about the resolu-

up there, but I’m not

at a huge disadvantage.”

opted in late January,

Haley Hobson, a ju-

tion. While she expressed

sure that’s gonna change

The council’s action

is intended to curb the

nior business manage-

concern that the policy

much,” Williams said.

sale of vaping products

ment major, said she

could limit economic op-

and other age-restrict-

believes the city is try-

ed items to minors. According

ing

underage

to

harmful

The

prevent-

measure,

ad-

has

they

its

Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor

will be permitted to open in Milledgeville.

Williams also empha-

cerns across Georgia and

Existing businesses will

portunity and consumer

sized that the impact ex-

the nation about youth

continue to operate un-

ing to address a legiti-

choice, she also acknowl-

tends beyond college stu-

access to vaping prod-

reporting

der current regulations,

mate concern but doubts

edged that downtown

dents. While much of the

ucts. Federal and state

by The Union-Record-

the policy will achieve

Milledgeville

discussion has focused

laws prohibit the sale

er, city leaders said the

its intended outcome.

has several vape shops.

on

vaping

of tobacco and nicotine

resolution is part of an

“I’m sure they’re just

“I think it is not a good

among young people, she

products to anyone un-

effort to reduce the con-

trying to crack down

decision because it’s kind

said residents who are of

der 21, but enforcement

centration of business-

on underage kids ob-

of taking away people’s

legal age could also be

remains a challenge in

es that primarily sell

taining vapes,” Hobson

rights, but we also already

affected by the decision.

many communities. By

tobacco, nicotine and

said. “But honestly, it’s a

have vape shops down-

“There’s more than

limiting the number of

similar products, partic-

business, and if they’re

town, and I don’t think

just college kids here.

businesses that sell such

ularly in areas frequent-

doing it legally, they

we need any more,” Lon-

Locals look [for vapes]

products, city leaders ap-

ed by young people.

shouldn’t

closing

con said. “So it’s kind of

here too,” she said. “So I

pear to be taking a pre-

The resolution applies

down the convenience

an in-between decision.”

guess it’s kind of putting

ventative approach rath-

only to new business-

stores and vape shops.”

Loncon said the mea-

locals that would want to

er than relying solely on

es and does not require

Hobson argued that

sure may not drastically

go downtown and find

enforcement

existing stores to close.

restricting new stores

change

availabili-

City officials have said

may not significantly re-

the goal is to prevent further growth of es-

be

already

underage

broader

establishments

con-

to

reflects

similar

but future entrepreneurs seeking to open new food marts, convenience stores or vape shops will be denied approval under the new policy.

As the city moves forward, students and residents alike will be watching to see whether the decision has a measurable impact on un-

measures.

derage vaping and the

something like that at a

For now, the resolu-

local business landscape

ty of vaping products

disadvantage. This is un-

tion signals a clear stance

— or whether, as some

duce underage vaping

but

influence

fair because we already,

from city leaders: no ad-

students predict, little

because

what types of business-

at the college, put locals

ditional vape shops or

will ultimately change.

WASTE

students

de-

the

could

On average, about 400

al processes to occur to make

rector

Environmental

the program successful, from

Continued from page 1

pounds of food waste are col-

nutrients that plants can use,”

Health, Safety and Sustain-

daily compost collection to

Efird said the competition

lected from The MAX each day.

In addition to composting,

ability,

competi-

supporting sustainability ef-

allows schools to track their

Shira Funk, a junior envi-

the Office of Sustainability

tion supports GCSU’s long-

forts throughout the year.

progress and compare results

ronmental science major and

supports other waste reduc-

term waste reduction goals.

“Several students are al-

with other campuses. She said

compost intern, said she and

tion efforts across campus.

“This program is designed

ready

involved

this year’s main goal is to con-

fellow compost intern, Miche-

The office collects glass at

to help colleges and univer-

ensure

the

sistently report compost num-

al Zindel, manage the compost

drop-off locations on Front

sities develop solutions that

smoothly,”

bers and encourage students to

process from start to finish.

Campus and West Campus,

support zero-waste goals, spe-

As the competition contin-

be more aware of food waste.

“We take the food waste

recycles ink cartridges and

cifically by diverting at least

ues this spring, campus leaders

“The goal for this year is just

from The MAX and weigh it

helps offices dispose of card-

90% or more of food organics

hope the program will encour-

to report our compost statis-

every day.” Funk said. “On av-

board. Programs like “Dodge

from the trash stream,” He-

age students to think more

tics in pounds to the Campus

erage, we collect around 400

the Dump” during move-in

jazi said. “It serves as an ad-

about where their waste goes

Race to Zero Waste organi-

pounds of food waste per day.

and move-out also help reduce

ditional tool for advancing

and how small actions can

zation,” Efird said. “We’re fo-

It is then mixed with sawdust,

waste by collecting unwanted

GCSU’s sustainability efforts

make a difference. Through dai-

cusing on compost reporting

which is also weighed, and

items and donating them to

to reduce or eliminate waste.”

ly composting efforts, GCSU

and promoting food waste

brought into the composter for

local nonprofit organizations.

Hejazi said students play

reduction

it to process and allow bacteri-

Dr. Micheal Hejazi, Di-

an important role in making

across

campus.”

of

said

the

continues

and

help

program

runs

Hejazi

said.

working

toward

reducing waste on campus.

4

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

02.24.2026

NEWS

Buddhist “Walk for Peace” promotes national unity Aiden Kelley

Contributing Writer Buddhist completed

monks a

2,300-

mile “Walk for Peace” from Fort Worth, Texas to Washington, D.C. on Feb. 12, promoting national

unity,

com-

passion

and

healing.

The group, led by Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, departed Oct. 26 from the Huong Dao Vipassana Bhavana Center in Fort Worth and traveled on foot through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas and Virginia before concluding at the Lincoln Memorial in D.C. Over

nearly

four

months,

the

monks

walked along highways

port along the route. He

Buddhists in America,

outpouring of prayers

mascot of the pilgrim-

on the pursuit of inner

described the walk as

and that they’re actually

and support from fellow

age. Aloka had a pre-

peace and the alleviation

an act of loving-kind-

doing these walks, makes

monks and followers.

existing leg injury and

ness intended to remind

you feel a little closer

Despite the accident,

later required surgery

of suffering. Its teach-

people of shared human-

to history,” said Emma

the remaining monks

during the journey. Af-

ity despite differences.

Kevers, a sophomore En-

continued the pilgrim-

ter recovering, the dog

“The Walk for Peace is

glish major who followed

age,

their

traveled in a van that

a simple yet meaningful

the pilgrimage virtually.

schedule and route as

accompanied the monks

reminder that unity and

The group also faced a

needed. Some, includ-

and

kindness begin within

serious setback on Nov.

ing Pannakara, initially

ers at various stops.

each of us and can radi-

19, toward the beginning

walked barefoot as part

The presence of the

ate outward to families,

of their journey, after

of their religious prac-

monks and Aloka drew

adjusting

greeted

support-

ings

emphasize

com-

passion, generosity and kindness, while identifying greed and anger as sources of suffering.

Practitioners seek to attain nirvana, a state of liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.

communities and society

crowds in some com-

as a whole,” Pannaka-

munities. People lined

ra said. He emphasized

roadsides to receive brief

that the walk was not

blessings, offer charity

intended as a protest or

and take photos. Videos

have established mon-

political demonstration

documenting the walk

asteries and meditation

but as a spiritual prac-

were widely shared on so-

centers and have taken

tice rooted in mind-

cial media platforms such

part in interfaith dia-

fulness

and

as Facebook and Tik-

logue and community

The

journey

was

Tok, expanding the pil-

marked by both mo-

grimage’s reach beyond

outreach.

ments of solidarity and

those who encountered

service.

Julia Jensen | Art Director

significant hardship. In

dhism has grown in North America, monks

Individuals

choose monastic life for many reasons, including

spiritual

growth,

Georgia, a confrontation

a traffic collision near

tice,

hu-

“In the Walk for Peace,

and rural roads, stopping

drew attention on social

Dayton, Texas injured

mility and detachment

the monks are trying to

in towns and cities where

media when a Christian

three

monks.

from

com-

show the world a way of

supporters gathered to

man

Dom

Phommasan,

forts. As temperatures

living that is fundamen-

offer food, donations and

monks and urged them

Lao American Buddhist

dropped

winter

tally against the kinds

words of encouragement.

to renounce their faith,

monk and abbot of the

storms moved across the

of worldly conflicts and

At the Lincoln Me-

telling them their “souls

Wat Lao Buddha Khanti

Southeast, they began

disagreements that we in

morial, Pannakara ad-

were on the line.” Video

temple, underwent a leg

wearing shoes for safety.

our everyday lives find

dressed supporters and

of the exchange circu-

amputation on Dec. 3 as

Along the way, the

so important,” said Aron

reflected on the journey,

lated online, prompting

a result of his injuries.

monks were joined by

Bernstein, a professor

thanking those who pro-

commentary from sup-

According to the group,

a stray dog from In-

of philosophy at GCSU.

will continue to resonate

vided shelter, medical

porters and critics alike.

Phommasan is recover-

dia named Aloka, who

Buddhism is a spiri-

beyond the final steps

care and logistical sup-

“The idea that there are

ing and has received an

became

tual tradition centered

taken in Washington.

approached

the

Bhante a

symbolizing

the monks in person.

As interest in Bud-

material and

an

unofficial

renouncing worldly attachments and dedicating themselves to service.

For Pannakara and the monks who joined him, the 2,300-mile journey was both a physical test and a spiritual statement, one they hope

Plane crash on busy Georgia road damages vehicles Lillian Winn

“I am from a small town

Rogers’ reaction revealed

Fear can severely impact

cident on the news online,”

Staff Writer

that has a significant num-

the sense of fear and the

a person’s response to a lo-

Kiser said. “I’m subscribed to

On Feb. 9 around noon,

ber of pilots and where

“fight or flight” responses

cal emergency. Hargrove also

a news outlet, so I found out

a single-engine plane made

students

avia-

that arise in life-threaten-

reflected on how she may

by getting emails from that.”

an emergency crash land-

tion licence,” Morrow said.

ing situations. When an en-

have acted if she were put

Though the crash ended

ing on Browns Bridge Road

Though planes are very

gine fails in an aircraft, the

in such a perilous situation.

favorably, this Gainesville in-

in Gainesville, GA. The un-

familiar to her hometown,

only way of controlling the

“As the pilot I would’ve ra-

cident serves as a reminder

expected

damaged

Morrow says that crashes are

plane is by gliding into safe-

dioed or warned people or

that unexpected things can

multiple cars and inflicted

not common and that she has

ty through manual control.

tried to crash in water away

occur anywhere, and ordinary

minor injuries to two people.

not had any experience with

only

from people,” Hargrove said.

situations can quickly evolve

The pilots flying the air-

local aviation emergencies.

affected the pilots and by-

“As a bystander, I feel like I

into emergencies. It highlights

craft were Thomas Rogers

Though the plane landed on

and a student pilot who re-

a busy road at peak traffic hours,

but it impacted many other

mains unnamed. Both pi-

it did not interfere with power

Georgia residents, including

lots were able to walk away

lines or major infrastructure,

GCSU students, both emo-

from the scene unharmed.

nor did it inflict a great deal

tionally

The aircraft had recently

of harm. Three vehicles were

Haley Hargrove, a sopho-

taken off from the Lee Gilmore

damaged in the process, and

more Business major, shared

Memorial Airport in Gaines-

two people sustained minor

her thoughts on the plane

ville when they realized that

injuries, but no lives were lost.

crash and the idea of such an

the plane’s engine had failed.

One of the most emotion-

incident happening locally.

Rogers quickly understood

al aspects of the incident was

“I think it’s crazy that ran-

that they were too far from

a recorded exchange between

dom stuff like this can hap-

the airport to turn around

Rogers and air traffic con-

pen right by you, because

and land safely and that they

trol. According to a report

you never think that it could

were in a dangerous situation.

of the incident by Fox 5 At-

happen to you, or that you

Thankfully, Rogers used his

lanta, Rogers requested that

could’ve been one of those cars

skills as an experienced pilot,

a message be relayed to his

on the road,” Hargrove said.

which in turn allowed quick

loved ones, seemingly be-

She added that local emer-

maneuvers in order to land the

lieving that the situation at

gencies are especially unset-

plane safely on the roadway.

hand

tling because they highlight

landing

get

was

life-threatening.

This standers

incident directly

and

not

involved,

academically.

not

going

to

how unpredictable life can

business major, shares her

make

it…please

tell

my

be. She also reminds peo-

perspective on growing up

wife Molly I love her…and

ple that unexpected events

around pilots and air traffic.

my parents,” Rogers said.

can

Mia Morrow, a sophomore

“We’re

their

occur

at

any

time.

Pilot in cockpit

would just freeze and watch it.”

the importance of skill, quick

The impact of the in-

thinking and preparedness can

cident

recorded

be crucial to community safety.

through local and nation-

For GCSU students and

al news sources, including

all Georgia residents, it re-

Fox 5 Atlanta and 11 Alive.

inforces the idea that unex-

Leah

was

well

a

soph-

pected events can occur at

psychology

ma-

any time, in any place. It is

jor, shares how she heard

of utmost importance that

about the Gainesville story.

students

omore

Kiser,

“I found out about the in-

remain

vigilant

and prepared for anything.

5

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

02.24.2026

SPORTS

Intramurals

the other team,” Carter said. “Lots of

most of my time doing intramurals. We

that students may not know about is

times you play other teams where you

believe that our program really empha-

called “Free Agent”. “If you are inter-

know people from different places

sizes and thrives on the strengths and

which adds to the socialization factor.”

benefits of how small our university is.”

Alumni Hunter Payne, GCSU’s coor-

Although GCSU is a small school,

dinator of intramural and club sports,

many students pride themselves on

joined as a Wellness and Recreation

making so many valuable connec-

staff member in 2024 after graduating

tions. A notable reason that students

with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing.

join intramurals in college is because

and join teams in an accessible way.”

said.

While attending GCSU as a stu-

of the organized quality of club sports.

Payne’s motivation for becom-

Many students get involved with in-

dent, he was seriously involved not

“I owe most of my social interac-

ing a staff member is to expand

tramurals for the socialization aspect

only as an intramural participant but

tions to this program,” Payne said. “So-

of playing sports for fun. While most

also as a student employee. The Well-

cialization is probably one of the big-

play because they are eager to continue

ness and Recreation staff try to create

gest things that can make or break your

in their favorite sport after high school,

an inviting environment for students

college experience. So many students

others play to gain lasting friends.

from all backgrounds to participate.

played sports in high school and they

“Socialization factors in a lot be-

“I joined as a referee, which is when I

will probably never play in an organized

cause it gives students an opportu-

started finding my sense of belonging at

and competitive sports league again.”

nity to interact with each other, even

GCSU,” Payne said. “I started spending

Continued from page 1

One of the main reasons students love intramurals is because of their recreational environment. It is unlike high school or college sports because it is less serious and more playful.

“Kickball

or

volleyball

is

probably the most fun to play for

enjoyment,”

Carter

Luxary food in sports Elizabeth Kohler

it is an outrageous trend.

Staff Writer

“I think that’s unnec-

Football fans attending this past Super Bowl were met with a new item on the concessions menu: a $180, 3.5-pound luxury burger featuring a braised bone-in-beef shank topped with mirepoix demi-glace and finished with a rich Point Reyes blue cheese fondue.

The burger, named the LX Hammer Burger, was created and sold at Levi’s Stadium as a limited-edition item meant to be shared by four people. The stadium reportedly only made 200 of these gourmet burgers.

The addition of this item on the menu is part of a larger scale trend involving an increase in luxury items on stadium menus, such as the

kets—markets

where

the

have

consumers

essary, because the point

a limited number of

of the game is the cheap

competitive suppliers,

food,” Brookshire said.

so their only choices

Other fans share her

are to purchase what

sentiment that the mon-

is available or to make

ey fans spend on the

no purchase at all—in

event should not be spent solely on concessions.

“I feel like if you are going to a sporting event, you shouldn’t be wanting $180 cheeseburger, you should be wanting $2 nachos,” said Zach Scott, a freshman finance major.

However, some think it may enhance the experience and would like the chance to try it one day.

“If I did have the income, and there was something really cool that the stadium was offering that was unique to them and it was a luxury item, I would be

stadiums have driven up concession prices by over 40% in some cases.

According to data reported by Statista on the average concession stand prices in the National Football League,

“I’m kind of prepared to spend anywhere

between

$20

Ballpark food

the most expensive con-

In addition to an in-

cession item sold to date.

crease in luxury items

These luxury

over-the-top

on the menu, sports

to $40 [at the concessions stand],” Faas said.

Despite these cost increases, fans are still willing to take out their wallets at the concession

stands.

menu

items

fans have also noticed

spurred

conver-

an increase in the pric-

“The food experi-

among

sports

es of traditional items,

ence is the most im-

fans about the future

such as hot dogs, na-

portant part for me.

of the concession stand

chos

It’s

menu. Saree Brookshire,

the past two decades.

you go to a game, you

a sophomore account-

Factors such as infla-

get a hot dog and a

ing major, believes that

tion and captive mar-

coke,” Brookshire said.

have sations

and

beer,

over

athletic

Bryan Cade

Sports Editor GCSU men’s club rugby, despite the snow sprinkled over Milledgeville, went out to the field between the West Campus Village apartments for a scrimmage in below-30-degree weather on January 31.

“It brought us together and showed that we will play in any condition,” said Ethan Yancey, a sophomore player on the

nostalgic,

when

here.

ing an intramural sport, purchase a player pass today using a IMLeagues account that is

peratures, running the length of the field using the various methods Kuipers announced.

Around half an hour later, the team split in two, keeping a few players on the sidelines as substitutes in case the situation became too unbearable. Yancey, who could not play because of an injury, yet made sure to be there for his team, kept track of the time, helping create a full simulation of a real game.

“I did enjoy us do-

Rugby in the Snow

men’s rugby club team.

The team fielded around nine players, with even injured players showing up to watch their team’s scrimmage.

Some were not even in weather-appropriate clothing, such as team captain Matthew Kuipers, who wore a generic sweatshirt and shorts, who embraced the cold weather, using it to toughen themselves before upcoming games.

“I am excited to be the president for this season! I can see that this team really cares and wants to play rugby,” Kuipers said. “That is the best kind of team I could ask for, and I want to do the best I can for them in scheduling a lot of matches.”

The teams quickly took to warm-ups to battle the brutal tem-

programs

For students interested in join-

Men’s club rugby

more in concessions.

tomahawk ribeye with

major.

student

lars, leading fans to pay

Axe at Truist Park, a

management

mit to leaving a lasting impact on

dog could cost six dol-

oli and the $99 All-Star

Burger takes the cake for

the intramural program and com-

in 2023, the same hot

with a lemon garlic ai-

Logan Faas, a junior

just an easy way to make new friends

erage stadium game;

served on a brioche bun

But the LX Hammer

intramurals

picked up on teams,” Payne said. “It’s

to four dollars at an av-

tail with chorizo sausage

willing to buy it,” said

of

join a sport as a [Free Agent] to get

hot dog in 2006 for three

Park, a grilled lobster

with a baked potato.

aspect

don’t have a team already, you can

a sports fan could buy a

$39 Lob Dog at Petco

demi-glace and served

Another

ested in playing intramurals and you

ing the snow scrimmage even though the snow already melted away,” Yancey said. “I had a great time being the sir for the game.”

The Bobcats went back and forth throughout the half, with the teams rushing past each other on multiple tries. While no one necessarily kept track of the score, with it being so cold out that neither team cared, it gave the team the opportunity to bond even more.

Yancey, as the sir for the snow scrimmage, made sure to keep track of the time as well as make sure a clean game was called between the two scrimmaging teams.

“We are going to play a lot of matches this season,” Kuipers said. “I want everyone to be tired and a little banged up

$15 per semester.

by the end of it because we need to improve, and the only way to do that is to play rugby!”

With the spring season for men’s rugby underway, the GCSU club team had its eyes set on its biggest competition of the year, with the Gold Wing 7s on February 21, at Kennesaw State University.

The team competed throughout the day on Saturday, starting with their first match as early as 9 in the morning and finishing with five in the evening. Team captain Kuipers trotted out seven men for his starting squad, including himself, Ben Witham, Alex Gerlach, Mason Waldrip, Caleb McCormick, Brayden Steadham and Ethan Mattace.

The team competed against two Division I teams in Kennesaw State and Auburn, while also playing against Division II opponents in North Georgia and Georgia Tech. While the team could not pull out a victory, the experience will be impactful for the club team’s future.

“Rugby is a sport in which teamwork is paramount,” Kuipers said.

“We act as a team, and we succeed. We are brothers, and I love everyone on the team, and I hope people want to join us for this active, fun sport!”

While the Gold Wing 7s tournament did not end the way the GCSU men’s club rugby team expected, the team is constantly hungry for competition and looks to change things heading into their next match.

6

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

02.24.2026

SPORTS

Eyes on the Braves at GCSU Lily Mahaffey Staff Writer

Ahead of the 2026 Major League Baseball season, students at GCSU are sharing their expectations and predictions for the Atlanta Braves as the team prepares to take the field at Truist Park, just over 100 miles from

GCSU

campus.

Lacey Allen, senior interdisciplinary

stud-

pus. As opening day

chance to meet numer-

ly needs to improve if

year,” Giglio said. “If we

Kinkaid, a junior nursing

approaches,

is

ous players and experi-

we want to make it to

keep our pitching staff

major. “The stadium is so

a key factor that plays

ence the atmosphere of

the postseason,” Giglio

healthy and find replace-

into the season in de-

the event made the sea-

full of life with their fire-

said. “We couldn’t gen-

ments from our farm

termining how far the

son feel more real and ex-

erate any momentum

system, we can make

work celebrations, crowd

team goes this year.

citing for fans like Allen.

last season, but the off-

something

“In January, I had the

While Allen’s behind-

health

and

the

Home Depot tool races.”

Truist Park has so

opportunity to attend

the-scenes

the 2026 Braves Fest

increased her excitement

Gala and Braves Fest at

for the season, others are

type of fan, as well as the

The Battery,” Allen said.

concerned about how of-

battery now being a fac-

“Getting to meet play-

fensive production will

tor for a perfect Braves

ers and walk the field

be the deciding factor

gameday

made me even more ex-

in this season’s success.

cited for this season.”

ies major, feels opti-

interaction,

happen.”

Kyle

experience

Giglio,

many amenities for every

This event gave Allen

exercise science major,

a greater appreciation for

kept last year’s strug-

the team’s behind-the-

gles in the back of his

scenes preparation and

mind

Multiple restaurants now

Ronald Acuna Jr. of the Atlanta Braves

junior

experience.

include bowling alleys

season trades will hope-

On the other hand,

and even indoor golf

fully give us the ros-

some students are sim-

simulators. They provide

ter to go the distance.”

ply looking forward to

a vast amount of activi-

Still, Giglio remains

the experience of being in the stadium this

ties for students and fam-

ter this season,” Allen

realistic about the team’s

said. “However, I am

outlook,

addressing

season. Many students

nervous for our play-

that staying healthy and

believe that attending

ers who are already in-

making the right ad-

games and being part of

jured and hope they can

justments will be key

the Braves’ fan commu-

make a quick recovery.”

to

potential

nity makes the season

into results this season.

feel even more special.

“I don’t have very

“Truist Park’s atmo-

down the days, hop-

mistic about the team heading into the season.

“I’m

pretty

confi-

dent in the Braves ros-

when

thinking

The arrival of warm weather and the begin-

Truist Park

turning

ilies coming to support.

With the first game of the 2026 season set for Saturday, Feb. 21 at 1:05 p.m., GCSU fans are

already

counting

ning of the MLB season

boosted her confidence

about the Braves’ per-

high

for

sphere is so unique be-

ing their team can turn

tends to bring a differ-

in the roster heading into

formance

and

flow.

this season. Especial-

cause of how die-hard

pre-season

ent atmosphere to cam-

this year’s season. The

“Our

offense

real-

ly after what I saw last

the fans are,” said Ella

into postseason success.

expectations

excitement

2026 Winter Olympics Rosalie Ritz Staff Writer

Are

GCSU

The U.S. earned three medals in

figure skating, two gold and one siltune

ver. The team earned gold in the team

with the 2026 Winter Olympics?

event. Madison Chock & Evan Bates,

The 25th Winter Olympics wrapped

who are long-time Olympic veterans,

up in Milan, Italy from February 6 to 22

scored a silver medal in pairs free dance.

which featured around 2,871 athletes.

Another popular event is the wom-

These 92

students

athletes

nations

in

come

from

en’s free skate. Hopes for a medal were

116

hinged on Alysa Liu, who displayed a

disciplines.

near-perfect score and rested in third

competing

for

medals

across

16

While

many

students

Olympic Rings

was between the US and Canada,

cheating and foul language on the ice

The men’s gold medal game featured

that have spread through social media.

Canada vs. the U.S. The game went into

Clips have been circulating online of

overtime as the U.S. won. It is the first

a Canadian player “double-touching”

Alysa Liu returned to the Olympics

some who prefer the winter Olym-

in hopes of redeeming herself from her

pics. One of those students is Hol-

last Olympic performance. She finished

land Tait, a senior rhetoric major.

the free-skate program, earning the top

time the U.S. have won gold since 1980.

“I greatly prefer the Winter Olym-

score and a gold medal for the U.S.

“I’m excited to see who wins,” Tait said.

pics. I like that there’s this element of

Japan followed the U.S., earn-

Skiing seems to be another popu-

the stone twice. The stone must pass

a mountain of snow below you or like

“I’ve been learning about the dif-

Skiing is an overarching term for

there’s knives on your feet,” Tait said.

ferent types of spins and it’s hard to

various events. Freestyle focuses on

The most popular sports this

tell which ones they are, but you can

tricks and aerials, alpine focuses on

skat-

tell which ones they are depending

speed and downhill risk, cross-coun-

curling.

how fast they’re going,” Chapman said.

try skiing shows athletes’ endurance

Students also agreed that both wom-

Both the U.S. men’s and wom-

and stamina over a long period of

en’s and men’s hockey has been a favorite.

en’s hockey team won a gold med-

time. The U.S. currently has six medals.

“I watch pretty much whatever’s on,

al. Students around campus were

Another fan favorite, and also the

but I specifically tune in to figure skat-

excited for the gold medal games.

most controversial, is curling. Students

ing and then all of hockey,” Tait said.

“I like how fast paced it is.” Chapman

have noticed the drama on social me-

The U.S. finished the Olymic games

Hannah Beth Chapman is a se-

said. “I’ve watched football a lot of my

dia as Canada was accused of cheating.

with the second most medal’s, with 33 to-

nior history major. She also enjoys

life, and it’s a lot of going and stopping

Phoebe Davis, a freshman exercise

tal. Norway finished with 41 total med-

watching figure skating and hockey.

but hockey is nonstop going. It defi-

major, has not been watching the Olym-

als, including 18 gold medals, the most

“I like figure skating because it’s very

nitely keeps my attention a lot more,”

pics but has heard about them online.

in the tournament. For more informa-

similar to dancing.” Chapman said.

The women’s gold medal game

to

be

ing,

hockey,

skiing

figure and

gold

ble touching is when a player touches

lar sport that students are watching.

appear

and

the stone, which is an illegal move. Dou-

medal.

year

bronze

said.

women’s team scored a gold medal.

the summer Olympics, there are

a

Davis

There have been allegations of

place after the women’s short program.

ing

curling,”

who are long-time rivals. The U.S.

prefer

danger if you mess up. There’s either

rounding

“I

like

the

drama

sur-

through the hog line untouched, which is what Canada was accused of doing.

Curling is known to be a “gentleman’s sport,” meaning that there is no official or referee watching the game. This allows players to go off the honor system.

Canada went on to win the gold

medal

amidst

the

allega-

tions of cheating and foul play.

tion, please visit www.olympics.com.

7

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

02.24.2026

ARTS & LIFE Homecoming’s Snow Extravaganza brings fun to front campus Kate Walker

Despite

70-degree

snow as they took pho-

that we have a lot more to

political science major.

of the upcoming events

A&L Editor

weather, the university

tos, sipped hot chocolate

offer than other colleges

Free GCSU Home-

and basketball games.

As part of Home-

partnered with vendors

from

Grind

in terms of communi-

coming t-shirts were dis-

“People love joining

coming 2026 celebra-

to install a faux ice-rink

and skated on the min-

ty and being there for

tributed at the event, and

in on pretty much any-

tions, GCSU hosted a

and falling snow effects,

iature rink set up next

each other, and I think

Thunder was on hand to

thing, especially if it’s

Snow Extravaganza on

creating a convincing

to the Magnolia Ball-

Homecoming is a great

take photos with students

got

Feb. 18 from 12 to 4

winter atmosphere. Ac-

room across from Front

way to showcase that.”

while sporting his own

people, with music, with

p.m. on Front Campus.

cording to Graham, this

Campus. Jane Walsmey,

Many students said

Homecoming

t-shirt.

food,” Walmsley said.

year’s Homecoming com-

a junior English major,

they were pleasantly sur-

“I finally got the shirt

“I think it’s just a great

mittee has been planning

said she especially en-

prised by the number

because I missed the

way to get to know peo-

joyed making bracelets

of activities and were

event on Monday, they’re

ple and to get people

make a memorable ex-

so cute,” said Piper. “Peo-

excited

about

perience for students.

ple love free stuff, and

coming

on

“I look back on my

Thunder. I love Thunder!”

For Graham, the event

own homecoming ex-

As part of the ongoing

was not only about bring-

home-

GCSU Bobcat Games,

ing winter fun to campus

coming experiences as

a skating challenge was

but also giving students

a staff member, and I

held from 2 to 3 p.m.

a moment to pause and

think those are oppor-

on the ice rink. Inspired

enjoy themselves during

tunities for us to just

by Olympic speed skat-

a busy academic season.

be together out here on

ing,

competition

“I hope that they’re

campus,” Graham said.

welcomed students of

just taking away this

“That ability to be in

all experience levels to

moment of fun,” Gra-

community

simply sign a waiver

ham said. “We really just

Reaghan Sheehee | Digital Media Editor

and lace up their skates.

wanted today to be a day

In keeping with this year’s theme, Ignite the Thunder:

The

Bobcat

Games, the event transformed

front

campus

into a winter wonderland with open ice skating, a hot chocolate bar, a snowthemed photo booth, falling snow effects and a bracelet-making table.

“When we decided to go with our Winter Olympics theme, we felt like we needed to bring some winter vibes to this week,” said Dr. Jennifer

events since October to

periences

and

Morning

together

the

community

with

home-

Saturday.”

Graham, GCSU’s inter-

and make memories and

im dean of students. “We

have fun with friends, I

with her friends and

glad to spend time out-

Walmsley said inter-

where folks could, even

wanted to bring lots of

think that’s just a piece

noted that Homecoming

doors with their friends.

active events like the

if it was just five minutes

fun out for students to-

of what creates some of

represents

community.

“I didn’t even know

Snow Extravaganza are

in between classes, come

day so they could expe-

those core memories of

“I think it’s just Geor-

the bracelet-making was

a great way for students

and have a moment of

rience a snow day with-

our college experiences.”

gia College coming to-

going to be here and I’m

to engage with each oth-

pause, a moment where

out all of the mess that

Students enjoyed both

gether as a community,”

having so much fun,” said

er and build Homecom-

they could just laugh

a real snow can bring.”

the sunshine and the

Walmsley said. “I believe

Mary Piper, a sophomore

ing spirit in anticipation

and be with friends.”

Max Mexican revamps to “The Mini” Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor Students walking past the newly revamped Max Mexican on GCSU’s campus may notice more than just a fresh sign, as the dining experience itself has been given a major makeover and now features a rotating menu with new dishes every two weeks under the name “The Mini,” offering another location for students to use dining dollars.

“Every two weeks there’s

one of our very own Bobcats.”

According to Dadhich, the

ticipate in shaping the campus

something different and we’re

The winning idea came

rotating menu format allows

dining experience, GCSU has

expecting students to just

from Anna Ten Kate, a fresh-

GCSU Dining to keep things

made feedback opportunities

come over and find what-

man

fresh and exciting while re-

easy and accessible. Students

ever they like,” said Maya

She was celebrated for her

Moore, a senior creative writ-

contribution

ing and education major who

a Bobcat plushie in recog-

works with GCSU Dining.

“It’s

definitely

something

that’s new and exciting to try.”

Involvement

from

stu-

dents was important to the development of The Mini, from the concept to the

and

major. received

nition of her role in shaping the new dining concept.

“I decided on the name on a whim,” Kate said. “My first thought was that if we have the MAX, we could have The Mini.

I thought the names fit together well and were relatable. I

“Over time, we have seen

simply didn’t see a better fit. It

that students are looking for

also represented how small the

more variety and new expe-

little order window was. A lot

riences in campus dining,”

of people miss it when walking

said Anika Dadhich, mar-

Reaghan Sheehee | Digital Media Editor

by, but hopefully this revamp

keting manager with Sodexo and GCSU Dining. “That idea led to the creation of The Mini, a pop-up restaurant concept where the menu changes every two weeks.”

Courtesy of GCSU Dining

The pop-up concept allows students to explore new flavors,

psychology

naming

of

the

location.

will attract more students.”

sponding to student feedback.

can share their feedback and

The new menu at The Mini

“We want students to feel

suggestions by texting the

expands beyond the original

like they’re part of the pro-

keyword ‘GCMAX’ followed

Mexican dishes to include a

cess and that their opinions

by their message to 55744.

wider range of options that

are valued,” Dadhich said.

Any student with a meal plan

accommodate dietary pref-

Moore also noted that the

can also register to join the

restrictions.

new concept encourages stu-

monthly Culinary Councils,

erences

and

seasonal dishes and menu op-

“Student input has been

“I’m all for it, especially

dents to explore different

where they receive a com-

tions that mix things up from

central to this process from the

in menu items,” said Loren

options each time they visit.

plimentary special dinner in

what’s offered at other campus

very beginning,” Dadhich said.

Sheffield, a junior exercise

“Every two weeks, stu-

exchange for feedback, plus

dining locations. Right now,

“In fact, students have been

science major. “People have

dents can expect something

some fun giveaways. Students

The Mini is serving as a potato

involved since the inception

preferences and especially re-

new, and that keeps people

can share suggestions anytime

bar, giving students the chance

of the idea. We even hosted a

strictions, and the institution

coming back to see what’s be-

through the GCSU Dining so-

to

meals

naming contest for the revamp,

should be willing to accom-

ing offered next,” Moore said.

cial media pages on Instagram

with a variety of toppings.

and ‘The Mini’ was chosen by

modate that the best they can.”

For students eager to par-

and Facebook, or via email.

customize

their

8

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

02.24.2026

ARTS & LIFE Amici’s Jazz Jam Session brings GCSU musicians together Jillian Thompson

are devoted to improvisation

tices music every day on top of

The performance had an

munity an opportunity to

Staff Writer

and jazz ensemble classes,

the group’s weekly rehearsals.

energy that filled the inside

engage with art forms they

life…ev-

of the restaurant with an

may not be familiar with.

ery day I wake up, it’s

upbeat and soulful sound.

Students said playing in an

just

The musicians played “Blue

easy-going restaurant setting

Train”

Coltrane,

like Amici’s can take some of

as well as pieces by Charlie

the pressure off a musician

Parker and Duke Ellington.

who may be intimidated by

Don Parker, a professor and

a formal concert hall setting.

Milledgeville’s Amici Cafe recently hosted a Jazz Jam Session featuring GCSU stu-

while the last hour is the ‘jam’ part, where anyone can join.

“If you show up and have

“My

entire

music,”

Wright

said.

dents, faculty and community members on Tuesday, Feb. 17, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Amici partners with GC-

by

John

chair of the music department

SU’s jazz program month-

at GCSU, remarked to the au-

ly to provide sessions that

dience that “You can’t play

are open to all members of

jazz without some Ellington.”

the community who are in-

Throughout

terested in working on their

Courtesy of Jillian Thompson

jazz and improvisation skills.

For Yalonda Wright, a jazz

a song that you’d like to play,

Wright said that something

jam musician and senior mu-

the faculty and some of the

that can be challenging about

sic education major, the ap-

students will provide that sup-

the performances is improvi-

peal of jazz is its freedom.

port, and you can play whatev-

sation because the solos are not

“It’s all about creativity,”

er song you call,” Stewart said.

written out for the musicians.

Wright said. “ In concert band,

Ethan Mattace, a sopho-

“The biggest thing is so-

a lot of things we play are

more chemistry major who

loing

very straight, and you have to

plays the saxophone, is an

thing is improv,” Wright said.

play what’s off the page, but

example of how the jazz

“There is no written solo.

this offers an opportunity to

jam sessions are available to

You whave to take ideas from

play what’s off the page and

more than just music majors.

the main belly and from oth-

come up with your own ideas.”

“I’m not a music major or

er famous jazz musicians

Amici’s Jazz Jam sessions

anything, I just do this on

and put your own spin on it.”

are open to everyone, not just

the side, and I’m enjoying

music majors. The sessions are

it,” Mattace said. “We have a

each

piece

accessible and inviting to those

really accessible music pro-

ends

with

who have an interest in per-

gram. It’s nice to just get up

because

Mattace

our

also

the

perfor-

mance, tables packed with couples, families and groups of friends relaxed and took in the rhythm coming from the

ground,” Mattace said. “It takes the pressure off a little bit.”

For those who have an interest,

Wright

encouraged

students to seek out opportu-

said

that

stage. Even the musicians got

nities to practice their skills.

begins

and

into their sound, bouncing

“Go for it,” Wright said.

main

cho-

and swaying to their songs.

“You’re never going to get

rus, with solos in between.

“The energy was there from

better if you don’t try. You make mistakes, but that’s a part of the process. It’s al-

a

there and play and have fun.”

“You kind of memorize a

GCSU music theory pro-

According to various bar pa-

scale beforehand, and then just

song,” Wright said. “We all had

fessor Robert Stewart ex-

trons, the jam session felt very

run with that scale during your

great solos, and everyone was

plained that musicians even

relaxed and well-paced. Much

solo,” he said. “It allows me to

bringing the energy, bringing

have time to warm up to the

of this is due to the musicians’

make mistakes and be comfort-

crowd before they play, as the

preparation and practice. Ac-

able with making a mistake and

first two sets of the jam session

cording to Wright, she prac-

then just working through it.”

their own ideas to the piece.”

GCSU’s Jazz Jam session offers students and the com-

ways going to be a fun time.”

For students interested in participating, the next Jazz Jam session at Amici’s will be Tuesday, March 24, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Each band’s perfor-

Continued from page 1

mance brought a dif-

“Every student has

ferent sound and vibe

their own path in life,

to Russell Auditorium.

but it is all the same pri-

From original songs to

ority,” Goodleman said.

covers of well-known

“It is all about match-

hits, the groups kept

ing their energy and

the audience engaged

giving them the same

throughout the night.

support that you would

Friends and fans waved

want for your priorities.”

their phone flashlights

Fostering this kind

Sydney Williams | Asst. Arts & Life Editor

place and claimed the

sophomore mass com-

opening spot for the

munications major, was

Spring Concert. The spot

helping to organize the

in the air while others

allows them to perform

event and shared her feel-

of unity can be crucial

crowded near the front

for one of the largest au-

for student engagement.

of the stage, creating a

diences on campus, giv-

It continues to shape

concert-like atmosphere.

ing them the chance to

a campus culture in

At the end of the

gain recognition and ex-

which there is a strong

night, “Avant Garde” was

pand their audience to a

sense of encouragement

announced as runner-up,

wider range of students.

and

and “MINDA” took first

passions.

the live music in the back-

Courtesy of Jillian Thompson

forming in front of a crowd.

shared

own conversations, enjoying

whole

the beginning to the end of the

BATTLE

“People are having their

Olivia

Johnston,

a

ings towards GCSU’s positive campus community.

“I think it is import-

arts major, was asked

creativity

to be one of the judges

across campus, bring-

for Battle of the Bob-

ing

cats and expressed her

through a shared pas-

anticipation

this

sion for music and Bob-

competition.

cat pride. The event is a

makes me proud to be

“I am so excited to

reminder that the GCSU

a Bobcat because we get

be here as a judge this

community extends far

to see all of the talented

year. I really like music

beyond the classroom.

people on campus, and

and listening to GC-

It is about showing up

soon see them perform

SU’s live bands per-

for each other and cel-

at the Spring Concert.”

form,” Anderson said.

ebrating

ant to support students that you go to school with and their talents so they can feel successful,” Johnston said.

“Battle of the Bobcats

Sydney Williams | Asst. Arts & Life Editor

year’s

for

and

students

the

talent

together

passions

Ander-

Events like Battle of

and talents that make

son, a sophomore fine

the Bobcats highlight

every student special.

Annabelle Sydney Williams | Asst. Arts & Life Editor

Sydney Williams | Asst. Arts & Life Editor

9

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

02.24.2026

ARTS & LIFE

“Opalite”: another Taylor Swift masterpiece Sydney Williams

overly cheerful promises introduce a

past relationship with Joe Alwyn.

nection. There is of course the familiar

Assist. Arts & Life Editor

product called “Opalite,” a spray de-

Kaitlyn Baty, a freshman English

‘90s tropes, like mall dates, karaoke

OPINION

signed to turn life’s crappiness into par-

major, noticed an important contrast

scenes and a classic playful montage.

adise. I immediately loved how it leans

I think one of the most meaningful

There are pop stars, there are

into satire while also setting up the

ideas in the video is tied to the concept

storytellers, and then there is Tay-

emotional message behind the story.

of opalite itself. Opalite is a man-made

lor Swift, whose “Opalite” music

Caitlyn Balcom, a senior psychology

stone, and the video makes it clear that

video may be one of her most cre-

major, said the concept stood out to her

happiness works the same way. It is

ative and entertaining concepts yet.

and made the video feel both nostalgic

not something that simply appears. It

nostal-

and impactful. She explained that the

has to be created. Swift and Gleeson’s

emotional,

infomercial format added another lay-

characters choose to leave behind re-

all wrapped into something that

er of meaning to the overall message.

lationships that feel like “trash” and

feels more like a short film rath-

“The music video was really rem-

move toward something healthier.

er than a traditional music video.

iniscent of those infomercials that

The release itself was strategic, de-

would show up on the TV when we

mass

buting exclusively on Spotify and

were kids,” Balcom said. “That made

glish major, felt that the message

Apple Music before later appear-

it both entertaining and meaningful.”

ing on YouTube. It is funny, strange,

Swift plays a lonely woman who

nostalgic and surprisingly emotion-

treats a literal pet rock like a part-

al, all wrapped into something that

ner, while Domhnall Gleeson por-

feels more like a short film rath-

trays a man deeply attached to a cac-

er than a traditional music video.

tus that clearly hurts him every time

The actors connect to Swift’s re-

he holds it. The symbolism is not

cent media appearance, when she was

subtle, but I think that is the point.

previously on “The Graham Norton

The rock represents a cold and

I feel like this moment sub-

Show” on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, to pro-

emotionally unfulfilling relationship,

tly echoes Swift’s “I’m the prob-

detail. Beneath the humor and absur-

mote her 12th studio album, “The Life

while the cactus represents a connec-

lem, it’s me,” lyric from “Anti-Hero.”

dity, the story actually reflects on per-

of a Showgirl.” Several guests from that

tion that is painful, yet hard to let go

When the video introduces the mag-

sonal growth and the journey toward

episode, along with host Graham Nor-

of. Both characters are stuck hold-

ical spray, everything shifts. Colors be-

self-acceptance. With “Opalite,” Swift

ton, later appeared in the music video.

ing onto something that gives them

come brighter, scenes become more

once again raises the bar, deliver-

The video for “Opalite” opens like

comfort and damage at the same

energetic and their worlds expand.

ing more than simple entertainment

a full-blown ‘90s infomercial. Bright

time. I found myself, like many view-

They leave their repetitive routines

and solidifying the video as yet an-

graphics, an exaggerated voiceover and

ers, wondering if it all nods to Swift’s

and start moving toward joy and con-

other carefully crafted masterpiece.

recent

memory, is

funny,

strange,

gic

and

surprisingly

In

It

Alana

Julia Jensen| Art Director

in how the characters use the spray.

“My favorite part was how the man in the video sprayed the cactus but Taylor sprayed herself,” Baty said. “It showed how he needed to fix his friend but she thought she needed to fix herself.”

Lanford,

a

communications

freshman and

En-

resonated with her after watching.

“The video shows how we go through life and not everything works the way we planned it, but we continue to find new beginnings and find what works for us,” Lanford said.

Taylor Swift’s creative vision shines through in every exaggerated infomercial frame and glitter-covered

GCSU celebrates Student Media Day Maggie Scarbrough

During the event, students were able to explore

tor with GCSU’s Career Center, said she be-

Staff Writer

opportunities in journalism, broadcasting, design

lieves students’ professional experience from Stu-

and digital storytelling. Simmons hoped the event

dent Media Day goes beyond the event itself.

would bring more participation and collaboration.

“I think it opens up a lot of doors and gives stu-

“We do our best to promote and photograph the event,

dents a lot of resources,” Pittman said. “The one thing

but I feel like we could improve in social media cover-

recruiters look for is making sure [students] have

age,” Simmons said. “Continued promotion through

all the experiences they need that are transferable.”

other organizations and the communications depart-

Pittman emphasized the importance of get-

ment could definitely help the organizations expand.”

ting involved and using resources such as GC

On Feb. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., GCSU

Andrew Earnest is a senior mass communications

Connect to learn more about different orga-

hosted Student Media Day in Terrell Hall, an

major and president of the Public Relations Student So-

nizations. She also recommended getting in

ciety of America (PRSSA). He believed raising aware-

touch with faculty members and student life.

ness could help those looking to get involved on campus.

“I think it being the same week as Homecoming makes

Reaghan Shehee| Digital Media Editor

event that celebrates and shares awareness of the student media organizations on campus.

Students had the opportunity to express themselves creatively and meet other organizations, allowing a collaborative space for new and returning members.

Juliana Simmons is a senior mass communications major and president of Bobcat Multimedia. She believed that being in a leadership role has contributed

“It is a great way for those who do not know about these organizations to learn about them in public,” Earnest said. “It’s also a great way for the clubs themselves to demonstrate what they’ve been working on.”

Earnest has been a part of PRSSA since his

sophomore

has

found

a

year,

and

since

career

path

he

then,

truly

he

enjoys.

Reaghan Shehee| Digital Media Editor

greatly to her personal and professional development.

“It means a lot because it’s something I’m

it easily accessible, and it helps knowing friends or class-

“I adore being able to put on Student Media Day,”

very passionate about,” Earnest said. “Every-

mates could be in those organizations,” Pittman said.

thing from newspapers, to headlines and so-

Student Media Day is a space for students to ex-

cial media - it finds its way everywhere.”

press their ideas, meet like-minded people, explore

Although it was raining, student ambassa-

career opportunities and gain practical experi-

dors hosted the event on the front porch of Ter-

ence that can be used in professional settings. The

rell Hall. There were tables set up with raffle

hands-on activities foster collaboration by bring-

and giveaway tickets, snacks, stickers and inter-

ing together students from different majors, which

est forms. The Podcasting Club also included an

leads to a more inclusive campus environment. Fi-

open-mic station where students from differ-

nally, making connections through fun activities

ent organizations could talk about their interests.

and conversation can introduce students to col-

Reaghan Shehee| Digital Media Editor

Simmons said. “Bobcat Multimedia has been a huge part of my college experience, and teaching others about it is one of my favorite parts of being an ambassador.”

Danielle

Pittman,

an

internship

coordina-

leagues and mentors who may share similar interests.

10 AMELIA MCEWEN, MANAGING EDITOR

02.24.2026

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

Peach Cobler Recipe Card By: Bryan Cade Ingredients - (1 Serving) 8 Fresh Peaches - peeled, pitted and sliced into thin wedges. ¼ Cup White Sugar ¼ Cup Brown Sugar ¼ Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon ⅛ Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg 1 Teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice 2 Teaspoons Cornstarch 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour ¼ Cup White Sugar ¼ Cup Brown Sugar 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder ½ Teaspoon Salt 6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter - chilled and cut into small pieces ¼ Cup Boiling Water 3 Tablespoons White Sugar 1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

Step 1: Gather All Ingredients Step 2: Preheat Oven to 425° Fahrenheit Step 3: Combine Peaches, ¼ Cup White Sugar, ¼ Cup Brown Sugar, ¼ Teaspoon Cinammon, ⅛ Teaspoon of Ground Nutmeg, 1 Teaspoon Fresh Lemon Juice, and 2 Teaspoons of Cornstarch into a large bowl; toss to coat evenly, and pour into a 2-Quart Baking Dish. Bake in a preheated oven for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Meanwhile, combine 1 Cup All Purpose Flour, ¼ Cup White Sugar, ¼ Cup Brown Sugar, 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder, and ½ Teaspoon of Salt in a large bowl. Blend in 6 Tablespoons of Unsalted Butter with your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ¼ Cup of Boiling Water until just combined.

Step 5: Remove peaches from the oven, and drop spoonfuls of topping over them.

Step 6: Mix 3 Tablespoons White Sugar and 1 Teaspoon Cinnamon together in a small bowl; sprinkle over the entire cobbler.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven until topping is golden, about 30 Minutes.

Step 8: Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

A message from the Colonnade staff On behalf of The Colonnade staff we would like to present our newest submission column, “The Caterwaul.” This is an opportunity for students to share their poetry, flash fiction, photography, drawing, comic strips and more. We are extremely excited to give students more of a place in the paper and for their creativity to be acknowledged and published. We encourage any and all students to reach out and ask questions. In the spirit of GCSU’s mascot, Thunder, the name of this column takes inspiration from all that is a bobcat. Caterwauling is the noise bobcats make often, and that is what

Interested in submitting?

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

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

Follow our instagram @thecolonnade or scan the QR code

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