Flipturn headlines
spring concert
Rosalie Ritz Staff Writer
GCSU’s annual Spring Concert was on March 28 at the Centennial Center, with Flipturn as the headliner and Futurebirds and MINDA opening the show.
The spring concert is one of the largest student events of each spring semester, bringing live music and a festival atmosphere to campus. Each year, students gather to enjoy a night of music, socializing, and entertainment as spring brings back warmer weather and Milledgeville’s
lively music scene.
In 2025, Wallows, an indie pop band, was the headliner. In previous years, Young Gravy and Quavo have also performed at the Spring Concert.
Flipturn, an indie rock band known for songs like “August,”
“Space Cowboy” and “Swim Beneath the Trees,” was the headliner of this year’s Spring Concert. The band has gained popularity among college students because of their energetic music and indie vibes.
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WOMEN’S BASKETBALL PEACH BELT CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT RECAP
Bryan Cade Sports Editor
GCSU women’s basketball defied expectations during this year’s rendition of the Peach Belt Conference Tournament, entering as a seven-seed and marching all the way to the championship.
“Never doubt us,” said Bailey Vick, senior guard on the women’s basketball team. “We
gusta University Jaguars on March 8 in the final round, GCSU pushed past the number two-seeded University of South Carolina Beaufort Sand Sharks in the quarterfinals and the three-seeded University of North Georgia Nighthawks in the semifinals.
Entering the tournament, the Bobcats concluded their regular season 12-16 and 8-12
cats entered the season with some changes in leadership, with Catrina Green taking over as GCSU’s new Interim Head Coach.
“I thought she did really great,” said Natalia Bolden, senior guard and forward on the women’s basketball team. “I know that was a big learning curve for her, and she was thrown into the fire, but she didn’t seem un-
struggled against in the regular season, falling to the team at home Dec. 17 and on the road Feb. 4. Both teams traded twenty-point quarters in the first half, as the Bobcats maintained a slim one-point lead entering halftime, 34-33.
“It started with belief,” Green said. “We were already looked at as one of the bottom teams, if not the bottom team, and we
might have struggled in the beginning of the season, but we stuck together as a team and knew that we were capable and proved that to all our doubters.”
While the Bobcats later fell to the Au-
Gas prices increase Georgia sees effects following Iranian Conflict
Amelia McEwen Managing Editor
Georgians have seen an uptick in gas prices following the joint U.S.-Israel operation against Iran, which started on Feb. 28, involving preemptive strikes to neutralize Iranian nuclear infrastructure.
“I am very concerned about long-term increases, because gas is something that most Americans cannot live without,” said Emma Jow, a sophomore English major.
Gas prices around the nation are collateral damage from the current war in Iran. The U.S. and Israel have partnered to reduce Iran’s nuclear and missile programs by deploying airstrikes in multiple key areas, such as Tehran and Natanz, and reportedly killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Because of the ongoing conflict, global oil supplies have been disrupted, explaining why U.S. gas prices increased by an average of $1 per
gallon between February and March of 2026. GCSU students have since begun to face the reality of this change.
“Gas is something I have to rely on for commuting [to school and practice], so there is not much flexibility to cut back,” said Sierra Piland, a sophomore public health major. “If prices keep going up, it could force me to make changes in spending in other areas just to keep up.”
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in conference play, and played their best basketball towards the end of the season, starting the conference tournament with a four-game winning streak, all against conference opponents.
Once again, the Bob-
derprepared. She bought into her role, and she poured into us with so much confidence.”
The team’s first adversary was the Sand Sharks of the University of South Carolina-Beaufort, a team the Bobcats
had to start believing in ourselves first and foremost. We got the girls to believe and buy in, and the switch flipped as we went into the conference tournament.”
Timothée Chalamet sparks controversy in interview
Annalie Parker Asst. News Editor
Timothée Chalamet has recently come under fire for comments he made during a Variety & CNN (Cable News Network) Town Hall interview with fellow actor Matthew McConaughey, which aired Saturday, Feb. 21. The interview served as part of Chalamet’s Oscars campaign for his recent role in “Marty Supreme,” as well as
a craft-focused reunion between the two actors, who previously played father and son in the 2014 film “Interstellar.”
“I don’t wanna be working in ballet or opera or things where it’s, ‘Hey, keep this thing alive,’ even though it’s like, no one cares about this anymore,” Chalamet said to McConaughey.
The comment came within a broader discussion about changing trends in movie view-
ership and the actors’ personal investment in preserving theatergoing from the perspective of screen acting. The conversation began with an acknowledgment of how cinema has evolved alongside modern audiences’ shifting attention spans, pacing preferences and methods of consumption, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms and short-form social media.
See CHALAMET | Page 2
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
Courtesy of Gray Sims
CHALAMET
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Chalamet’s now-infamous remark appeared to stem from a place of gratitude for his own medium, as he expressed appreciation for mainstream audiences’ continued dedication to cinema. He suggested that forms like ballet and opera may be more difficult to sustain careers in, given what he perceives as their declining popularity.
The viral clip represents only a brief moment from the full interview, which ran approximately one hour and 10 minutes. Still, Chalamet has faced widespread criticism for implying that ballet and opera are dying arts in comparison to film.
Vy Jarret-Lazzari, a sophomore theater and English double major with a dance minor, said Chalamet’s comments reflect a lack of respect for foundational art forms that helped shape screen acting.
“I think that he forgets where he stands,” Jarret-Lazzari said.
“All of these people in these art forms came before him and opened these doors for him to get where he is now, and I think he needs to remember that.”
Lily Floyd, a sophomore double major in theater and English, believes Chalamet spoke irresponsibly, especially given the scale of his platform and the communities his words would reach.
“I don’t think it was meant
from prominent figures such as Jamie Lee Curtis, who expressed concern that the comments may follow Chalamet throughout his career.
“His comments are silly, and I’m sorry that they’re going to be a bit of his leg-
Massey added that the growing impact of AI on the perceived value of human creativity contributed to why multiple artistic communities reacted strongly to Chalamet’s comments.
“People fight every day
to be as tone deaf as it was. However, I would like to point out that he is Timothée Chalamet in an interview with Matthew McConaughey that is going to be heard by thousands of people,” Floyd said.
“You would think, as a celebrity or an artist, to think before you say something.”
Despite the broader context, the remarks resonated deeply within the arts community, prompting strong responses
VOLUME 107 | NO. 7
Editorial Board
Mary Ciucevich..............
Amelia McEwen.............
Julia Jensen......................
Jane Carr............................
Editor in Chief
Managing Editor
Art Director
News Editor
Annalie Parker.................
Asst. News Editor
Bryan Cade.......................
Sports Editor
Joseph Palmese..............
Kate Walker...............
Sydney Williams.............
Isabella McComis..........
Reaghan Shehee............
Rebecca Ocampo..........
Haley Quimby..................
Mikkel Christensen.......
acy now,” Curtis said.
Many GCSU students pursuing fine arts believe the backlash was intensified by the current challenges artists face across disciplines.
“I think especially in this day and age that we’re fighting to be able to share art with AI usage and stuff like that, [AI] takes away from art itself,” said McKenna Massey, a junior theater major with an associate’s degree in film.
for the ability to be creative and to craft, and I think so many people have that same feeling: it feels offensive the way he said it,” she said.
Following the controversy, the Oscars ceremony took place Sunday, Mar. 15. Chalamet received multiple nominations, including Best Actor in a Leading Role for “Marty Supreme.” Among the nominees was Michael B. Jordan, recognized for his dual perfor-
mance as twins in “Sinners.” Jordan ultimately won the category, while “Marty Supreme” went home empty-handed despite earning nine nominations. In the aftermath, jokes circulated linking the film’s losses to Chalamet’s remarks, including a quip from Oscars host Conan O’Brien, who joked that security was preparing for “attacks from both the opera and ballet communities.”
Chalamet has yet to publicly respond to the backlash. Still, members of GCSU’s arts community remain hopeful that the controversy will ultimately draw more attention to less mainstream art forms like ballet and opera.
“There’s a tremendous amount of theaters that do ‘The Nutcracker’ every year,” Massey said. “I hope he rethinks his opinions. The art is important. It has been, and it always will be.”
Students interested in getting involved with GCSU’s fine arts community or continuing conversations about art’s role in society can visit the Department of Theatre and Dance page on the GCSU website for more information.
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“The Rehearsal of the Ballet Onstage” by Edgar Degas
PAST GCSU CHAIR AND ARTISTIC DIRECTOR PRESENTS STORIES OF SURVIVORS
Jane Carr News Editor
Dr. Karen Berman, former chair and artistic director of the Department of Theatre and Dance at GCSU, led a presentation and book signing for her latest work, “Stories of the Holocaust: Art for Healing and Renewal, Volume II,” on Wednesday, March 25, at 5 p.m. in the A&S Auditorium.
The new volume, co-edited with Dr. Gail Humphries, Associate Professor Emerita for the Department of Performing Arts at American University in Wash-
focused on performance and music, the second installment expands into screen and gallery spaces, exploring how these mediums foster empathy and educate future generations.
The book features contributions from more than 40 international scholars and artists and includes over 100 color images, along with references to films, performances and educational materials. It also incorporates personal stories from Holocaust survivors and their descendants, aligning with the editors’ mission to promote
the Smithsonian to off-Broadway and has received numerous honors, including the Georgia Governor’s Award for the Arts. She is also a former president of the Association for Theatre in Higher Education and served as Dean of the College of Fellows of the American Theatre.
Her work on Holocaust education is deeply personal. Berman has spoken about her family’s experiences with antisemitism, including her grandmother being targeted by the Ku Klux Klan and instances of discrimina-
ington, D.C., examines how visual art, film and museum curation contribute to preserving Holocaust memory and helping audiences process historical trauma.
As a continuation of the first volume, which
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Holocaust education.
Berman, who retired from GCSU in 2021 after 12 years in leadership, has had a long career in theatre and academia.
She has directed more than 150 productions in venues ranging from
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The projected added monthly expense of recent gasoline prices per person, according to The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy, is between $30.20 and $36.83. This pricing surpasses the sharp increase from the Russia-Ukraine War in 2022.
To combat this uptick, Governor Kemp has signed House Bills (HB) 1000 and 1199 into law. These laws were designed by state legislators to mitigate the potentially harmful effects of the gas price increase on Georgian taxpayers.
According to the Office of the Governor’s official website, HB 1000 returns just above $1 billion to Georgia taxpayers, while HB 1199 suspends a
vironment, all of the things that were happening in the world, every day, were telling me to do something,” Berman said of her motivation to complete the book.
The editing process, she added, was emotionally demanding. “Some of these stories, when you edit over and over and over… it was very difficult,” Berman said. “All I could think was, someone’s going to use this to heal or to teach.”
Alongside colleagues such as Wendy Mullen, a former GCSU professor of music, she helped bring Holocaust survivor Ela Weissberger to speak and perform with students. She also participated in planting daffodils on campus in remembrance of children lost during the Holocaust.
impactful. Lily Harris, a freshman environmental science major, said hearing directly from survivors adds a deeper level of understanding compared to classroom learning.
tion she faced growing up. These experiences, along with moments later in life when individuals denied the Holocaust, contributed to her commitment to education and remembrance.
“The political en-
tax on gas for 60 days. There is a 33.3cent tax on each gallon of gas that will thus be suspended in the coming days.
“I’m happy with Kemp’s bill and plan to ease the burden on citizens,” said Sebastian Gala, a junior finance major. “I think it’s a good solution [and] even though temporary, I imagine gas prices will go down eventually, and we can go back to normal.”
According to CBS News, President Trump has ordered the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to insure ships through the Persian Gulf and provide $20 billion worth of political risk insurance, pledging to minimize the costly effects of the war.
As of March 20, the DFC partnered with Chubb, the largest casualty and
One story that stood out to Berman was that of Manuela Ornstein, who was a child in France during the Nazi occupation of Paris. Berman worked with Ornstein for over two years to document her memories, which evolved as new details resurfaced over time due to Ornstein’s age of 90. Beyond publishing, Berman has been active in Holocaust education efforts on campus.
According to Berman, rising antisemitism legitimizes the urgency of such work. She cited a report from the Anti-Defamation League documenting 9,354 hate crimes against Jews in the United States in 2024.
Central to Berman’s message is the concept of being an “upstander,” or someone who actively speaks out against injustice rather than remaining a bystander.
“Be an upstander. Repair the world,” Berman said.
Students who attended the presentation described the experience as
publicly traded property insurer, to execute President Trump’s commitment. The idea is to create a sense of financial security and encourage private shipping lines to operate in greater numbers. If successful, more oil would be shipped, the global supply chain would be essentially unblocked and gas prices could be lowered in the long-run.
“From what I know and have seen, I do not see a reason for the gas prices to continue to rise, especially once the outside national factors are resolved,” Gala said.
Though, according to The Wall Street Journal, Senate Democrats have expressed concerns on the matter. Most notably, the idea that political insurance aiding ships in the Strait of Hormuz
“It was definitely interesting hearing from someone about their experience versus hearing it in school and reading it in a book,” Harris said.
Another student, freshman environmental science major Shay Purvis, said the topic can be unsettling but also meaningful.
“It makes me a little scared, but it’s cool to hear how people come out of it,” Purvis said. For students interested in continuing conversations about history, memory and the role of art in healing, stay updated on future book presentations and readings via the Daily Digest newsletter or their Bobcat email.
could benefit China, a top oil importer receiving shipments from the Strait.
Hopeful reduction of effects in D.C. and locally is continuing to unfold as the war in Iran persists.
“I personally cannot sustain these prices forever,” Jow said. GCSU students vulnerable to the gas price influx have a transit resource to reduce the negative implications on their daily lives. The school’s transit system has multiple shuttles running around campus, late-night, and to shopping centers, acting as a budget-friendly way for transportation.
For official updates on tax-relief, students can navigate to the official website of the Office of the Governor under the “Press Releases” section.
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
CAMPUS SORORITIES CONTRIBUTE TO COMMUNITY WELL-BEING
Anakate Cox Staff Writer
Across campus, sororities are redefining their roles by contributing to student engagement, leadership and community service through diverse philanthropic and service efforts that extend beyond the campus com-
with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to support pediatric treatment and research. Cary Hardwick, a sophomore mass communications major and a member of Phi Mu, highlights one of the sorority’s key philanthropy events hosted on campus.
munity to local organizations and families in need across Milledgeville.
Phi Mu focuses on supporting children’s healthcare through its national partnership
“We host a unique event called ‘Jammin’ for Julia’ to raise money for our philanthropy,” Hardwick said. The event is a music and dance-themed fundraiser open to all
students to attend or participate, regardless of Greek affiliation, encouraging a broader campus involvement. Teams consisting of members of sororities and fraternities on campus compete against each other, promoting unity and school spirit while raising funds and awareness for a meaningful cause.
Philanthropy events like “Jammin’ for Julia” not only raise money but also allow students who are not involved in Greek life to directly contribute to causes that extend beyond campus.
“All the Greek organizations on campus participate, so it is a great way to bring everyone together,” Hardwick said.
Alpha Gamma Delta’s philanthropy focuses on addressing hunger and food insecurity. Rivers Czech, VP of Chapter Wellness for Alpha Gamma Del-
ta, expressed her gratitude toward her sorority’s local service efforts.
“We do a lot with Milly Free Fridge and the Chard Wray Food Pantry,” Czech said. “Baldwin County is one of the most food-insecure counties in Georgia, and it is so great to see the impact that we’re able to have.”
Efforts like these provide support to local families, demonstrating the impacts of sorority involvement on ongoing challenges being faced within the Milledgeville community.
On March 25, Alpha Gamma Delta is hosting a “1K in a Day” fundraiser from which proceeds go toward fighting hunger, facilitating women’s education, increasing philanthropy and encouraging leadership. The chapter’s goal is to have each member raise $20, ultimately amounting to $1,000 in 24 hours.
Andalusia screens movie adaptation of “Wise Blood”
Elizabeth Kohler Staff Writer
Community members gathered on the lawn of Andalusia Farm on Wednesday, March 18, to watch the film adaptation of Flannery O’Connor’s first novel, “Wise Blood,” in celebration of what would have been the author’s 101st birthday.
The event was free and open to the public, with students encouraged to attend and honor O’Connor’s legacy and work.
“I want to get into more of Flannery O’Connor’s stuff,” said Anabel Thompson, a junior English major. “So, doing a picnic-type film was really cool.”
The screening began at 8:00 p.m., following a brief introduction from Professor Emeritus Bruce Gentry, who spoke about the history of the novel, the film and O’Connor herself.
Popcorn, cupcakes and refreshments were provided, and after the screening, attendees were invited to discuss the film with Gentry and Matt Bryant Cheney, an assistant professor and editor of The Flannery O’Connor Review, a peer-reviewed academic journal focused on the life, work and world of Flannery O’Connor.
The event was organized by Katie Simon, interim executive director of the Flannery O’Connor Institute for the Humanities and as-
sociate professor of English, in collaboration with Andalusia Farm as part of the Southern Gothic Film Series.
The Southern Gothic Film Series is an annual spring event hosted by the Flannery O’Connor Institute for the Humanities, showcasing films that highlight the dark, complex characters and themes often associated with the American South. This year’s series previously featured “The Night of the
thritis Foundation.
“We have at least 3 girls in our sorority who have juvenile arthritis, so it is really important to us,” Strickland said.
Earlier this month, Alpha Omicron Pi hosted “Strike Out Arthritis,” a fundraiser where participants compete in or attend a baseball game to help raise money for arthritis research and programs.
Many of these philanthropy events across chapters can show how members of sororities and fraternities work together to strengthen friendships in Greek life while promoting a culture of collabora-
tion and compassion. Through sorority philanthropy events and-
ing that Greek life extendsings and Greek letters. Their efforts raise vital support and visibility for a wide variety of causes. By collaborating across campus chapters and local organizations, members create meaningful connections with the community along with a lasting impact. Students interested in getting involved can explore sorority life through recruitment events or even just by participating in or donating to the many philanthropy events and fundraisers hosted throughout the school year, offering students multiple ways to engage with and support causes that are important to them.
Celebrating Flannery O’Connor’s 101st birthday
cult classic among scholars and fans.
“There are other adaptations of her work, but they, I think, leave something to be desired,” said Charlotte Aexel, a graduate assistant for the Flannery O’Connor Institute for the Humanities and an M.A. student in literature.
“Wise Blood” follows Hazel Motes, a returning World War II veteran who founds the “Church Without Christ,” preaching that Jesus is a liar and that
Hunter” (1953) and “Sinners” (2025).
“We’re inviting people to come and watch a film—it’s free—and to hopefully engage with this space as well, which is also part of her legacy,” Simon said.
“Wise Blood” was selected in honor of O’Connor in part because it was set and filmed locally in Macon, Georgia, and is considered a
people do not need redemption. Both the novel and the film explore themes of faith and redemption as Hazel struggles to escape his complicated religious past.
“It was cool to watch something outside of my comfort zone,” Thompson said.
The 1979 film adaptation, directed by John Huston, stars Brad Dourif as Hazel Motes and Harry Dean Stanton
as Asa Hawks. The screenplay was written by brothers Benedict and Michael Fitzgerald, who were once babysat by O’Connor during their childhood.
Andalusia Farm was O’Connor’s home from 1951 until her death from lupus in 1964. It was there that she completed “Wise Blood” in 1952, as well as her second novel, “The Violent Bear It Away,” published in 1960.
In 2017, the 544-acre property was gifted to GCSU, which now owns and manages it. Today, the farm operates as a museum that is free for students and faculty. It regularly offers tours and events and invites students to use the space for picnicking, hiking and relaxation.
“We’re really fortunate that we’re able to have these types of opportunities,” said Arya Sheth, a senior interdisciplinary and English major. “[I am very appreciative of] all of the work they’ve done here to preserve her legacy and her works and educate current and prospective students as well.”
The fourth and final film of this semester’s Southern Gothic Film Series will take place on April 22 at 8:00 p.m. and will feature “O Brother, Where Art Thou?,” directed by the Coen brothers.
The Andalusia Farm museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Sundays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
Courtesy of Elizabeth Kohler
Reaghan Shehee | Digital Media Editor
Professor spotlight: GCSU’s own Bruce Gentry
Maggie Hinton Staff Writer
Dr. Bruce Gentry, emeritus English professor at GCSU, has spent decades teaching, researching and promoting the work of Flannery O’Connor, helping establish GCSU as a key center for O’Connor studies while inspiring students and scholars alike.
Gentry first encountered O’Connor’s work in a college class, and the experience left a lasting impression.
“The first time I read any Flannery O’Connor, it was in the only creative writing course I ever took, and it scared me to death,” he said.
Years later, he picked up “Wise Blood” at a used book sale, drawn in by a comparison to his favorite writer at the time, Franz Kafka. That moment led him to explore O’Connor’s work more deeply and ultimately made her writing a lifelong focus.
“I fell in love with Flannery O’Connor through her first novel, which most people seem to read as an act of obligation,” Gentry said.
He added that her characters and family dynamics felt strikingly familiar.
“Her people are my people. I mean, my relatives are Flannery O’Connor’s characters. My family tension is Flannery O’Connor’s family tension. Well, it’s not that bad, but it’s comparable,” Gentry said.
Gentry’s interest in O’Connor eventually became the
focus of his dissertation, which he later turned into a book. His dedication ultimately brought him to GCSU—O’Connor’s alma mater and hometown—after
supporting events and research centered on her life and writing.
“I was just kind of on call to do whatever anybody wanted done having to do with Flannery O’Connor
attending an academic conference in Denmark in 2002.
“I really, really, really wanted to come to Milledgeville,” Gentry said. “I had a very high fever the day before my on-campus interview because I was so intense about it.”
At GCSU, Gentry spent more than 20 years teaching O’Connor’s works, editing The Flannery O’Connor Review, a peer-reviewed academic journal focused on the life, work and world of O’Connor, and
for all those years,” he said. “And it was quite thrilling.”
He said teaching O’Connor gave students the opportunity to grapple with complex ideas and develop critical thinking skills.
“I successfully pushed students to see the works as very complicated and ambiguous and confusing,” he said. “The fun was in complicating things and showing them you could easily just say the opposite.”
Gentry also worked to sup-
Intercultural connections
Language events on campus foster community
Maggie Scarbrough Staff Writer
On Wednesday, March 25, the GCSU World Languages department hosted an International Coffee Hour event called “The Great Outdoors” in Beeson Hall from 12-2 p.m. to encourage language students to connect with one another and apply their speaking skills to an intercultural environment.
This was one of the many International Coffee Hours held throughout the semester. During these events, students from different cultures and backgrounds practiced their communication skills in a low-pressure, informative and engaging way.
The event was called “The Great Outdoors” because the question prompts consisted of outdoor and nature-related questions, including national parks and wildlife. It included refreshments and conversation starter questions for students to use when communicating with peers in different languages.
There were many students at various levels of Spanish, German and French speaking in attendance. Sarah Nogin, a freshman philosophy major, said that meeting other students from diverse backgrounds has helped her build community and practice her Spanish.
“I think it’s lovely, and I get to talk to a bunch of other Spanish students,” Nogin said. “I think everyone can get involved.”
As a first-time attendee, Nogin said she felt as if everyone was able to find a common ground despite their differences.
“Even though we all had different teachers or language classes, everybody’s nice and we’re all just doing the best we can,” Nogin said.
Aurora Castillo-Scott, an Associate Professor of Spanish, believes that inclusion and representation can benefit students not only academically, but personally as well.
“[Students] can come here and feel like we care about them, the language learning, about the language process and that they enjoy the college experience,” Scott said.
Throughout the room, there were pictures on bulletin boards with facts from different countries for students to learn about the outdoor activities in each one. Professors like Castillo-Scott have access to learning materials, and the small class sizes will further enhance the cultural knowledge gained.
“[The activities] are not just about the United States, but they are about other countries,” Scott said. “Some of those countries represent our cul-
port other scholars in sharing their research on O’Connor.
“My job with The Flannery O’Connor Review was mostly to get to know people who are interested in O’Connor, encourage them to submit their work and send it out to scholarly referees,” he said. “I tried to spend as much time as possible being helpful rather than saying no.”
Over the years, Gentry has helped students gain opportunities, secure publications and build careers. He recalls moments such as receiving approval for National Endowment for the Humanities summer institutes and hosting visiting scholars as highlights of his career, but says some of the most meaningful experiences came from seeing his students succeed.
“When I have a student who gets into the school they want to go to, and they’re having their success, or they win a prize, or they get a publication— that’s almost as pleasurable as something for me,” he said.
Gentry has also played a key role in fostering scholarly conversation around O’Connor’s work, helping coordinate summer institutes, conferences and events that bring professors, scholars and students to Milledgeville to engage deeply with her writing.
“Mostly my response was to get into trouble,” he said of challenging scholars and students to think critically. “I find it all very amusing and fulfilling and fun. I’ve nev-
er wanted to force anybody to read Flannery O’Connor. If you open the door and say, ‘Anybody wants to talk about finding your own common stuff, come on in,’ we’ll do it.”
Being part of these efforts has given Gentry a frontrow seat to the ways O’Connor’s work continues to inspire both students and the broader GCSU community.
“Being around for these things to happen and thinking it’s fun, being involved, seeing projects grow—that’s great,” he said. “The most important thing about GCSU culturally is Flannery. If you have any interest in her, you will find yourself involved in all sorts of things that are fun and good for your career.”
Even in retirement, Gentry remains engaged with O’Connor’s legacy, hosting book clubs and giving presentations, always emphasizing discussion and debate.
“I’m happy to hand it off now and help others continue it,” he said. “There’s always new material, new projects and new students excited about it. That’s the fun part— watching it grow and prosper.”
For those interested in exploring Flannery O’Connor’s work, GCSU offers a wide range of resources, events and courses inspired by her legacy. Whether you’re a student or simply a fan, there are plenty of opportunities to engage with her work and discover why her stories continue to challenge and inspire readers.
tures and languages. In some way, they are intercultural knowledge.”
Senior history major Avery Schock shared how the opportunity to meet people outside of her culture helped her feel more connected on campus.
“I feel like it’s always good to have a broad understanding of different languages to expand your interactions with other people, especially the exchange students on campus,” Schock said.
Schock noted how meaningful connections can be made by acknowledging and discussing cultural differences. Inclusion through diversity leads not only to connection but to a more open mindset and language learning opportunities.
No matter your major, year, background or fluency level, students like Nogin and Schock can benefit from stepping outside of their comfort zone and learning more about
the diverse cultures in their community. Schock’s personal experience with communicating with GCSU’s exchange students supports this claim.
“I’m friends with multiple [exchange students], so it’s always interesting to see comparisons between languages and culture through discussion,” Schock said.
Attendees of the International Coffee Hour events feel that they have initiated conversation, fostered connection and promoted a greater sense of inclusion and belonging on GCSU’s campus. Students and professors have had the opportunity to meet people outside of their culture, providing a way of learning that extends beyond the classroom.
For more information, students and professors can find upcoming cultural events and dates on frontpage.gcsu.edu under the Department of World Languages and Cultures.
Courtesy of Lillian Elaine Wilson
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
TOURNAMENT
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Something clicked in the locker room between halves as the Bobcats pushed past the Sand Sharks in the third quarter, outsourcing them by 11 in ten minutes, and 44-30 in the second half in total to claim a 15-point, 78-63 statement victory in the first round of the tournament.
Deshone Gaither’s 26-point, 12-rebound double-double took charge amongst the Bobcats, while Nylah Nuri’s 17-point performance kept the momentum of Gaither.
While the Sand Sharks were an admirable opponent, the Bobcats had their eyes on their semifinal opponent: the Nighthawks of the University of North Georgia. GCSU split the regular season series with North Georgia, falling to them on the road Jan. 7 and taking a slim 67-65 victory Feb. 18 in front of the home crowd.
The last time the Bobcats won two games in a season against the Night-
hawks was the 2014-15 season, ironically, so long ago that it was the season in which newly inducted GCSU Hall of Fame Shanteona Keys last played for the
Bobcats. GCSU looked to truly do something that the odds were highly against.
Both teams were tied at 26 after the first half, with the Nighthawks scoring a majority of their points in the first quarter and GCSU starting with two thirteen-point quarters. Although the Bobcats continued to do something special coming out of the locker room, as GCSU’s offense exploded for a 29-point third quarter, pulling away so far in the quarter that UNG could not come back, leading to a 65-54 GCSU semifinals victory.
Gaither and Nuri both added 18
points, and Bolden put up a 13-point, 11-rebound double-double of her own.
“I loved our run in the tournament,” Bolden said. “I felt like once we got in and believed in each other, each game, we fought in the tournament, and I think that was a pivotal switch for us as a team. Although we came up a little shorter than we wanted, I’m pretty proud of our tournament run.”
Even in the conference finals contest, in which the Bobcats were outscored 37-23 in the first half, the team continued to fight until the end, as GCSU put up a 33-24 second half to just fall short
61-56 in their final contest of the season.
During the tournament run, GCSU had five players in their final contest, including Bailey Vick, who
had the opportunity to play alongside her sister in her final season.
“It was so exciting and amazing to be alongside Sloane,” Vick said. “We are super close, and it was really special to spend my last season of basketball with my sister. I love being on the court with her every game, and I will definitely miss being on the team with her next year.”
The Bobcats look to take this season as an example entering the 202627 season, as the Bobcats, even though they were the second-lowest seed entering the tournament, were able to push all the way to the end, and they’re expected to be hungry to not just make it to the finals but win them next year.
“Continue to fight and believe,” Green said. “Don’t let anybody put you in a box and say that you can’t achieve high things. You can make anything happen, and as long as you continue to believe, pour into each other, love each other and have tough conversations, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to.”
National Football League free agency update
Joe Palmese
Asst. Sports Editor
As the sports world calendar passes into springtime, the National Football League may not be playing games on Sunday, but the drama continues as 2026 free agency has begun.
On Monday, March 11, the official league
considering all circumstances”, said Jake Wilson, a senior management major. “Bringing in Tua Tagovailoa on a minimum deal is low-risk and high-reward signing. They added some pieces on the defensive side of the ball that I like.”
With a league-wide salary capacity, teams are
year calendar allowed for NFL players to officially negotiate and sign new contracts with teams across the league. Free agency serves as a key piece to teams searching to improve.
“The Falcons look pretty solid as of now,
allowed to allocate $279 million across their roster. Teams can elect not to spend all $279 million. If teams spend over the amount, they are subject to fines, voided contracts and loss of draft picks.
The NFL aims for “even playing-field,” allowing
teams to spend the same amount of money, with not one team spending more than the others.
The NFL has seen a significant increase in the league’s salary cap number in the past five years. In 2021, teams were allowed to spend no more than $182 million on their roster. The salary cap has risen by almost $100 million.
“I think some of these contracts are getting out of hand, in my opinion,” said Whit Wilson, a freshman business major. “Seeing Jaxon Smith-Njigba get over $40 million a year seems like a little too much for just one player. It is cool to see guys get paid what they deserve.”
Seattle Seahawks
wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba signed a record-setting contract on March 23. The wideout
signed a four-year, $168 million deal, making him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history.
“I am a little disappointed in the Cowboys’ free agency, especially seeing teams within the division getting better”, said R.J. Baggot, a sophomore accounting major. “Being a fan of the Dallas Cowboys can be exhausting. I would have liked to see them be more aggressive and improve the defense.”
As teams continue to negotiate contracts with free agents, it is important to note that there are different types of free agents in the NFL.
Unrestricted free agents (UFAs) are players who played four years under contract with a team. When their contract is up, they are allowed to enter free agency and negotiate with any team.
Restricted free agents (RFAs) are players whose contracts have expired
ing major. “Even though it is the offseason, there is still so much going on
after three seasons with a team, but the team still holds the rights to the player. They are allowed to negotiate with other teams when free agency comes, but if they are offered a contract from any other team, the team that holds the player’s rights is allowed to match the offer to retain the free agent.
“This is why the NFL is the best,” said Teddy Toth, a senior market-
across the league. It is a 365-day cycle that never ends. The drama between free agency, the draft, and everything leading [to] the regular season is one of the reasons the NFL is awesome.”
As free agency continues, fans can look forward to the NFL Draft. The draft will take place in Pittsburgh, Pa. on April 23.
Courtesy of Gray Sims
Courtesy of Gray Sims
Defenseive End Maxx Crosby
Wide Reciever Mike Evans
The biggest unbreakable records in sports
James Coredo
Contributing Writer
Barry Bonds, LeBron James or Simone Biles. Athletes all at the top of their sport who hold records thought almost impossible to break, but with athletes improving every generation, it’s unknown how long these “unbreakable” records will last.
No record can be de-
mathematically improbable or feats of athletic expertise, some sports records are commonly considered unbeatable.
“It’s longevity, these people have been in their prime for so long,” said Carter May, a freshman philosophy major.
“They have been in the game so long, they have so many records and improve as they go on.”
finitively determined to be unbreakable, because the future is a mystery, but some are close. Whether they are
In recent generations, athletes have gotten bigger, stronger and faster. According to an article published by UCLA
Health’s Chayil Champion, athletes of the new generation can improve through new training methods and further developments in nutrition.
Athletes are also getting more specialized coaching earlier in their careers. According to Champion, athletes are forming diets and workout routines at earlier ages that they take into their adult lives and sports careers.
Due to athletes physically improving on most levels, records that come from feats of athleticism may have a shelf life; records that stand as a large number could be beaten by an athlete who adds one to that already high number.
“I think all of them can be broken at some point,” said Issac Summers, soph-
omore history major.
Even with the physical advancements of new generation players, there are some records
ketball game. Because he played every minute of every game, including all the overtime, he played more than anyone
that are almost mathematically impossible to beat. Whether it be because the human body can not physically go any further or an unlikely circumstance that probably won’t happen again, these athletes set a challenge for all who try to break their records.
Wilt Chamberlain averaged 48.5 minutes a game in a season, a number higher than the minutes in a regular bas-
Atlanta Hawks sponsorship debate
Jillian Thompson Staff Writer
Atlanta’s Magic City adult entertainment venue recently partnered up with the National Basketball Association’s Atlanta Hawks that has sparked debates around the country.
On Feb. 26, the Atlanta Hawks announced that it would collaborate to celebrate Magic City’s cultural impact on the city of Atlanta on Monday, March 16, as the Orlando Magic were in town. The event was coined as Magic City Monday, The plan was to have live music performances from Atlanta native rapper, TI, performing live, market special merchandise and pay tribute to the establishment’s infamous lemon pepper wings.
On March 9, a week before the event was to be held, the NBA canceled the Hawks’ plans to partner with Magic City. The decision raised many opinions from NBA players to GCSU students.
“I think it was actually a cool idea,” said Aden Pasucal, a senior marketing major. “I know that to most people it looked like it was an unethical idea, but Magic City has been a staple in Atlanta for years and the night was going to promote its deep history.”
San Antonio Spurs center Luke Kornet spoke out against the event on March 2, a week after the Hawks’ announcement of the event.
“The NBA should desire to protect and esteem
women, many of whom work diligently every day to make this the best basketball league in the world,” Kornet said. “We should promote an atmosphere that is protective and respectful of the daughters, wives, sisters, mothers, and partners that we know and love.”
The controversy caused many to speak out both for and against the event. After the NBA called off Magic City Monday, the Hawks provided a statement regarding the controversy.
“While we are very disappointed in the NBA’s decision to cancel our Magic City Night promotion, we fully respect its decision,” said the Hawks.
Hawks principal own-
er, Jami Gertz, has a tie to Magic City. He was a producer in a documentary that dove into Magic City’s history and cultural impact on music and the city of Atlanta.
“I believe that the team should focus on celebrating and raising awareness for women around the city of Atlanta,” said Kristen Allie, a senior biology major. “The NBA did the right thing in not allowing this event to take place. It was a bad idea.”
Golden State Warriors center Draymond Green spoke out, supporting the Hawks for trying to shine a light on Magic City on his podcast, the DraymondShow.
“I object what Luke Kornet said,” Green said.
ble to break],” May said.
No matter how the records were set or the circumstances for achieving them, the athletes who set the records planted their names in the history of their sport. They hold a title that proves them the best of the best and at the top of their sport.
People look up to these players, seeing them as inspiring figures.
else in a single season.
There are also the records of players who endure longer than many others, staying in their sport of choice for longer than most other athletes could.
“LeBron James’ [record] in points, just because he is still going and he has already beat it, and Tom [Brady] in championships, just because he stayed so long [are close to impossi-
Whether they are athletes themselves or just appreciate the work they do, many people appreciate the work athletes do in the name of entertainment and competition.
“It can be really inspiring to people to see someone play at that level; it’s honestly really impressive,” said Mateo Olivia, a junior exercise science major.
“I think to point out that they have esteem issues because that the line of work [the dancers] chose, I actually think is less protective of women because you are condemning something that is actually an art.”
Steve Koonin, the Hawks’ chief executive officer, made a statement regarding the NBA’s decision on Dukes and Bell’s Atlanta sports talk radio show.
“We [the Hawks] saw it through a differ-
“Others in our community may view the event differently. I think they [NBA] stepped in because they saw the size of this thing and felt it needed to be managed.”
Despite the event being cancelled, when the Hawks played the Magic on March 16, over 18,000 fans showed up, according to a Central Broadcast Station article, Hawks fans turn game into unofficial Magic City night after NBA shuts it down.
ent lens,” Koonin said.
Outfielder Barry Bonds
Olympic Gymnast Simone Biles
World Baseball Classic recap
Rosalyn Chapman Staff Writer
The World Baseball Classic (WBC) is an international event that occurs every four years and attracts baseball fans around the world.
The tournament took place from March 5-17 this year, featuring 20 international teams in the first round of pool play, which is where teams are divided into “pools” that guarantee games for all teams. Since teams are from all around the world, the games were held in Tokyo, San Juan, Miami and Houston.
With teams closing in, the quarterfinals took place in Miami and Houston. For the grand finale, the semifinals and championship concluded in Miami.
One student believes that the WBC is a significant tournament for baseball fans to watch because of the community aspect, with fans gathering from
around the world to support their favorite teams.
“I like watching the WBC because it’s a showcase of the best players from every country,” said Emma Brady, a junior business major. “It’s fun to see fans be patriotic and cheer for America.”
This year’s championship ended with a game between the U.S. and Venezuela that surprised many American fans. The game made history when Venezuela defeated the U.S. by one run with a final score of 3-2.
“I was not surprised that Venezuela won, but I was a little sad that they beat the U.S. in the championship,” Brady said. “There were some standout teams with Italy making it farther than I thought they would and Japan getting eliminated earlier than I thought.”
When asked about why she initially wanted to watch the U.S. team, Brady shared a moment that went viral across social media.
“I started watching the U.S. team after getting sent a meme about team Italy’s espresso machine that they carried from game to game and wanted to see how the U.S. was doing,” Brady said.
The U.S. team lineup gave Brady hope for a strong run throughout the whole tournament.
“I don’t know if this was the best, but it was a really good lineup,” Brady said. “From pitching to the infield to the outfield, there were all-stars everywhere that were able to work very well together.”
Finishing as the runner-up in the WBC this year, the 2026 U.S. team roster aimed to win after their initial victory in 2017, which was their first and only time winning overall.
In Japan, the WBC became the most-watched title ever on Netflix. The streaming platform held a live event of the Japan vs. Australia game, which made history for the most streamed baseball game on all platforms.
According to Netflix, the total viewership for the WBC games is 31.4 million, with 17.9 million viewers for the Japan vs. Australia game only.
“Netflix’s exclusive streaming of the global baseball tournament in Japan this year delivered the largest-ever streaming audience across all platforms worldwide and marked the
most streamed baseball game ever,” Netflix said.
Another first in the WBC was when Christopher Sanchez, a player on the Dominican Republic team, became the first pitcher to strike out four batters in an inning.
According to the MLB, this occurred when the Dominican Republic played against Nicaragua. The final score that gave the Dominican Republic its victory was 12-3.
In the grand finale, Venezuela celebrated its win on the field as the crowd erupted with cheer. The FOX broadcast recorded a moment of triumph for the winning team.
“We are family here,” said Eugenio Suárez on the FOX broadcast, who scored the winning run for Venezuela. “That’s why we play with passion, with love. Because we feel that jersey, we feel our country in front of us. That’s why this is a lot for us as players, as people, as human beings and as Venezuelans. Now, we are the champions.”
For students interested in learning more about the highs and lows of the WBC tournament this year, go to netflix.com, mlb. com and FOX news for more information.
The impact of steroids on Major League Baseball
Joe Palmese Asst. Sports Editor
In the wake of Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurikson Profar’s 162-game suspension for violation of steroid use, Major League Baseball (MLB) has been plagued with steroids for decades.
The MLB has a rich history of its athletes being caught using performance-enhancing drugs.
According to Baseball Almanac, a website that tracks baseball’s history, over 12 baseball players have been suspended for violating the MLB’s strict policy in the past five seasons.
The policy states that when a player is found in violation for their first time, the MLB imposes an 80-game suspension. Second-time offenders face a 162-game season long suspension. Thirdtime offenders are subject to a lifetime ban.
“When I heard about Profar, it really upset me as a Braves fan,” said Tommy Kiser, a senior management information systems major. “For an athlete to be making that much money and fail not one but two drug tests is beyond frustrating. It makes no sense to me.”
Profar was found
According to the MLB’s website, the league has a policy named the Major League Baseball Joint Drug Prevention. Human-grown hormones and steroids are the leading variables that athletes have been found guilty of taking.
guilty of performance-enhancing drugs (PED) use before the 2025 MLB season, resulting in an 80-game suspension.
The MLB is largely known for the amount of PED use. In the 1990’s,
Hall of Fame were gone.
Other MLB athletes, including Barry Bonds, Aaron Rodriguiz and Jose Canseco, have been found guilty of violating the league’s steroids policy. These players were
Mark McGwire was a slugger for the St. Louis Cardinals. In 1998, he smashed 69 home runs in one season, the most ever in a season. In 2010, he later pleaded guilty to steroid use, resulting in his career being questioned, and his chances of making the Baseball
the face of the MLB in the late 1990’s and 2000’s. This time period of extreme steroid use was coined as The Steroid Era.
“I’m not an expert on steroids and how much it really affects players ability to hit the ball further, but I do know that it was common in
the time period,” said Brayden Wilson, a senior communications major. “The generalization is that if the MLB were to test every player in the 90’s, more than half would have tested positive for PED’s.”
“I think the whole scandal just shows how good Barry Bonds is,” said Ritvik Salla, a junior marketing major. “He is the best hitter ever and the MLB has tried to drag him down. If he was never found guilty, why is he not in the Hall of Fame?”
Steroids have been a part of the MLB’s history for the past 50 years. The league has a strict policy, and players continue to violate it. Jurikison Profar is the latest example of a professional athlete falling short.
For information regarding the MLB’s steroid problem, please visit www.baseball-reference.com/blog/steroids-in-sports.html.
Barry Bonds, a member of the San Francisco Giants back in the late 90’s and 2000’s, was found guilty of steroid-use after his playing career. Bonds won seven MVPs and also hit 762 home runs, the most home runs by a single player in the MLB. Bonds was accused by the federal government of supplying steroids to players across the MLB. Since the scandal, the MLB has denied Bonds entry into the Hall Of Fame as a result of the scandal. He was never found guilty in court.
2023 World Baseball Classic
2009 World Baseball Classic
Progressive Field
ARTS & LIFE
The Colonnade takes on New York City
Sydney Williams Asst. A&L Editor
OPINION
In recent memory,
From March 4 to 8, a group of The Colonnade’s staff traveled to New York City to attend the College Media Association Conference, while also exploring the city and learning how to navigate a much faster pace of life.
I was the one behind our very detailed, color-coded itinerary, mapping out times, locations and plans so we could fit as much as possible into a short visit.
Between conference sessions and time in the city, we kept a packed schedule.
We stayed at the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square, which meant stepping directly into crowds, bright screens and constant activity. From navigating airport travel to tracking the lengthy expenses, we were constantly figuring things out in real time, which made the experience feel like a week of “adulting.”
Each person played an important role in making the trip run smoothly. Editor-in-Chief, Mary Ciucevich, helped guide us through the conference and made sure we stayed on track with sessions.
Sports Editor, Bryan Cade, handled navigation and helped us get where we needed to go.
News Editor, Jane Carr, kept the group organized and brought humor to stressful moments.
FLIPTURN
Continued from page 1
In addition to Flipturn, Futurebirds and MINDA were the openers of the night. Futurebirds are a rock and roll band formed in Athens, Georgia, most known for songs like “Rodeo” and “Killing Ground.” MINDA is an indie and country band formed in Milledgeville by GCSU students.
The members of MINDA said they were stoked to perform at the concert, including GCSU students Miles Graham, T.J. Adams, Finn Schofield and Jackson Beckham, as well as electric guitarist Lewis Peacock.
Each year, the opener is a student band selected by the competition, Battle of the Bands.
“Yeah, that was an insane experience,” Peacock said. “We were going up against all these fantastic bands like Delco and Giant De Niro, and then they said, ‘MINDA’, [as the winner] and we all just exploded.”
“It was emotional, but it was the most fun we’ve ever had, and then just looking to build on that tonight with a bigger crowd,
Ad Sales Manager, Haley Quimby, documented the trip through photos with her digital camera.
Assistant News Editor, Annalie Parker, was a shoulder to lean on and became someone I grew especially close to during the week.
The conference itself focused on student media and offered sessions on layout, broadcasting, social media, writing, interviewing and building connections within the industry.
Many of the sessions were centered on practical ways to improve storytelling and better connect with readers.
Annalie Parker said the sessions emphasized audience engagement.
“We learned a lot about what to look for, as far as capturing audience attention and just generally what interests the public the most, and how to keep their attention once you’ve gotten it,” Parker said. “I think that’s the most important thing we learned, because it can help us expand the outreach of The Colonnade and make sure that people stay interested and keep reading our issues.”
Being in a city known for media also added perspective. Seeing how information is shared so widely and quickly made the role of journalism feel more immediate.
“Walking past ‘The New York
bigger names, and just happy to be a part of it,” Schofield said.
The members of MINDA are also big fans of Flipturn.
“I’ve known Flipturn for a while, so I couldn’t be happier,” Beckham said.
Although the crowd was smaller than in previous years, the energy was high. Students who attended were seen dressed in festival-style outfits, bopping and dancing along to the music.
Newly engaged couple and Flipturn superfans Charlotte Martin, a senior nursing major, and Sawyer Spears, a senior economics major, attended the concert.
“We’ve seen them once before in Atlanta at the Tabernacle, so obviously we had to see them again because they’re one of our favorite bands,” Martin said.
The couple never stopped dancing or singing along to the words, except when Flipturn performed an unreleased song.
“It was awesome,” Spears said.
Highlights of the performance included Flipturn’s drummer, Devon VonBalson, jumping into the barricade and handing his drum to students to hold while
Times’ was really nice…It gave me a bigger perspective of how news works throughout the daily lives of people out of college,” said Bryan Cade.
Outside of the conference, we spent time exploring different parts of the city together. We ate at places like Lillie’s Victorian Establishment, which stood out for its “Bridgerton”-inspired decor, and Liberty Ba-
gels, where I tried the rainbow bagel. Coffee stops, of course, became part of our routine throughout the trip. We even visited FAO Schwarz and the Nintendo Store, spent time shopping in SoHo and walked through Washington Square Park. A visit to the New York Public Library also offered a quieter moment during the trip.
One of the most memorable parts was seeing “Heathers: The Musical.” We were able to get discounted tickets shortly before the show, and it ended up being a major highlight for the group. Peyton List played Heather Chandler, which made it especially exciting for many of us who grew up watching her on “Disney Channel.”
Jane Carr expressed how the performance was also one of her favorites.
“One of my favorite things that we did during the trip was see ‘Heathers:
he played, and later placing that same drum on his head during the encore performance.
However, prior to the concert, student polls on the Spring Concert’s Instagram showed country artists Treaty Oak Revival and Zach Top as top preferences, leading many students to not attend this year’s concert. The results suggest that many students prefer country music, while the selected artists show that students enjoy a wide variety of music genres.
Clay Unruh, a sophomore exercise science major, did not attend this year’s concert.
“I just don’t know who’s performing,” Unruh said. “And there’s a UFC fight on, I’m going to watch that instead.”
Unruh said he usually listens to more rock and country music, and might have attended if there was a different artist headlining.
“I would have gone to the Spring Concert if it was Treaty Oak,” Unruh said.
The annual Spring Concert is hosted for students to enjoy the sentimental and lively atmosphere. Stay tuned to find out who is performing in Spring 2027.
The Musical,’” Carr said. “It was such a pivotal moment for me, for the trip. Also just walking around all together and getting to see everybody’s personalities outside of the newsroom was so much fun, and I left with better friendships.”
While the trip focused on professional development, it also gave us time to connect outside of the newsroom. Spending several days together in a new environment allowed us to build stronger relationships and understand each other better as a team.
As a freshman, I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to attend a conference like this with such
a dedicated group, especially in a major media hub like New York City. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I am thankful to GCSU for providing students with opportunities like this.
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Edtior
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Edtior
Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor
Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor
Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor
Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor
Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor
Isabella McComis | Digital Media Editor
GCSU STUDENTS SHARE APRIL FOOLS’ PRANKS
volvement as the medium of the prank.
April Fools’ is a day for playful distrust, minute mischief and the occasional untruth. For one day a year people and businesses, of a ranging scale, alike joke and trick, and the students at GCSU join in on the fun.
On April first many brands release advertisements for nonexistent products or products out for a limited time as a joke. Products like “100% pulp orange juice” and “fried chicken toothpaste” may seem strange to want, but some changes in things like branding and variation can be attractive.
“Sour Patch Kids made just ‘Patch Kids’, where they took off the sour stuff, and I really want to know what it tastes like when it is just sweet,” said Isabella Trickey, a sophomore psychology and philosophy major.
Fun jokes from brands on April Fools’ Day can build a stronger relationship with fans, but some pranks rely on that relationship. Jokes from production companies or different social media brands play jokes on the fans themselves, using the community in-
“There is one instance where two cast members on this YouTube channel, ‘Smosh,’were secretly dating and they revealed they got married on April first,” said Virginia Coplain, a freshman mass communication major. “Nobody believed them because they had been denying it for years.”
The more common way students spend April Fools’ Day is playing pranks on their friends, family or professors. Many students have fun stories about jokes they have played on people in the past and remember them fondly.
“In high school, we had this professor who dressed a very particular way every day, so for April Fools’ we decided to all dress up as him,” Trickey said.
Pranking on April first requires a level of trust between the pranker and the target; people fool their good friends because of the bond they have with each other.
“I don’t prank strangers because I want there to be a sense of trust between me and the person that I’m pranking because I want there to be that assurance that I won’t hurt them,” Trickey said.
This year, some GCSU students are looking back at classic pranks as inspiration for their jokes this year, moving away from more convoluted plans and reverting back to a simpler time in their pranking lives.
“I think we need to go back to the originals, like food dye in the toilet or hot sauce under the toilet seat, ” said Sarah Ansley, a freshman finance and business management major.
Pranking has changed for a lot of students since they were children, but it still brings them joy to play a joke on a friend or family member. For many students, it was a slower and more
enjoyable time in their lives, where they found enjoyment in everything
“When I was really little, I thought it was really funny that I covered my parents’ bed with ‘Tic Tacs,’ but they didn’t find it,” Ansley said. April first can be a day to reintroduce whimsy and joy for students, allow a break after midterms and a chance to reminisce on childhood nostalgia. Whether it be a white lie, a glitter bomb or a Whoopee cushion, a small amount of playful deceit designated to one day a year can be a way for students to wind down and relax from a stressful year.
Spring reset: seasons and habits changing on campus
As the campus shifts into spring, many students at GCSU are taking the opportunity to reevaluate their routines, reset their goals and find fresh ways to stay motivated towards the end of the semester.
The transition into the spring semester can cause some students to feel a sense of urgency to finish strong. With finals approaching and schedules becoming more challenging, students find new ways to balance productivity and well-being. This time of year may serve as a checkpoint to reflect on progress and make ad-
justments before the semester ends.
“When I think of spring reset, I think of tasks like cleaning out your closet and deep cleaning your room,” said Railey Young, a senior exercise science major.
With warmer weather arriving on campus, many students are using the seasonal shift as motivation to reorganize their living spaces and transition their wardrobes for the months ahead. This often includes organizing their bedrooms, switching out seasonal clothing and creating a more functional space for studying and daily routines.
Students often associate a clean and organized living space with improved focus and work ethic. An organized environment is often linked to reducing stress and improving students’ ability to concentrate.
This is also a time for students, like Young, to start creating new habits for themselves that can ease them into the end of the semester more swiftly.
“Procrastination is a bad habit I’m trying to break just in general, and I’m also very much a cluttered person, so I want to try and become more organized,” Young said.
Students are facing tighter deadlines and increased academic pressure, so breaking certain habits that can hold
them back is beneficial. Establishing routines can also help them stay consistent and avoid falling behind.
In addition to individual habit changes, the influence of peers may also play a key role in helping students stay motivated.
“I live with some of the most motivated people, so looking up to them helps motivate me as the semester ends,” said Anna Stowers, a sophomore sociology major.
Stowers demonstrated how shared environments can encourage accountability and consistency in daily habits. Motivation is often self-generated, but it can be reinforced by the actions of those in a student’s environment.
It can encourage students to adopt similar habits and remain focused during busy periods in the semester.
In addition to peers’ support, Sarah Hunter, a senior business management major, highlights a different approach.
“Recently, I’ve really relied on my professors and just asking them for help when I need it,” Hunter said.
Hunter’s perspective shows how academic support can reinforce students’ efforts to remain focused through the remainder of the semester. Many students are recognizing the importance of academic resources on campus by attending office hours and asking questions.
“This semester, my main motivation has been knowing that I’m graduating and enjoying the fact that I’m still able to go to class,” Hunter said.
For seniors like Hunter, motivation is not only about staying on track, but also appreciating the final moments of their college experience. This perspective allows students to remain focused while also reflecting on their journey and how far they have come.
Whether through personal habits, supportive peers or faculty guidance, students are using this seasonal transition as a way to regain momentum and finish out the semester strong.
Lily Mahaffey Staff Writer
James Cordero Contributing Writer
Julia Jensen | Art Director
Julia Jensen | Art Director
Kate Walker | A&L Editor
Cultivating community: GCSU celebrates National Garden Month
Kate Walker A&L Editor
April marks National Garden Month, and at GCSU, the Gardening and Botany clubs are in full swing with the spring planting season.
“It helps bring a lot of awareness to gardening, especially for Georgia College, it just helps students become more aware that we even have a local garden that they can come and get fruits and veggies from at any time,” said Camille Tobey, president of GCSU’s Gardening Club.
The Gardening Club maintains GCSU’s community garden on West Campus, where members meet regularly to plant and care for seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs.
“We’re always trying to make the garden look as nice and pretty as it can, but especially during the springtime, we really want to be planting those nice spring and summer veggies and fruits,” Tobey said.
Beyond planting and upkeep, the club also offers creative activities such as painting rocks and pots, along with other crafts to encourage student engagement and community.
“A week or so ago,
volunteer at the Alaha’ Ndem community garden in partnership with the service sorority, Gamma Sigma Sigma. Regular meetings also provide opportunities for students to learn practical gardening skills.
we made wind chimes, which was really fun,” Tobey said. “We try to sprinkle in some other things that’ll make people want to just come and hang because that is really what [the] gardening club is.”
This spring, the club will participate in Earth Fest on April 25 and
“Our main thing at almost every meeting is a whole lot of weeding because that is a constant battle,” Tobey said. “Our members learn more about how certain things grow, when to plant them, how far apart to plant them and how deep to plant them in the soil.”
Tobey said garden-
ing in general is a rewarding hobby for those passionate about nature and sustainability, even for beginners.
“It’s not as complicated as people think that it would be,” Tobey said. “Do your research online and find the correct supplies, but once you get started with it, it’s really easy to keep up with.”
GCSU’s Botany Club is another way for students to explore plant life. Isabella Guidera, the club’s event planner, said members take part in fun crafts and learn more about plants and propagation.
“For our club meetings, we do things such as tote bag painting, terrarium building and pumpkin painting for Halloween,” Guidera said. “We plant propagations for meetings sometimes, so from that, members can learn about different plants, what they look like, how to properly take care of them and how to propagate them without hurting them.”
According to the National Garden Bureau, national horticultural organizations began lobbying for National Garden Week in the 1980s. The observance was eventually signed into law by President Reagan in 1986 and later expanded to the entire month of April in 2002 by the National Gardening Association.
Guidera said that having a nationally designated garden month serves as an important reminder of the environment’s role in everyday life.
“As the human species develops new things with technology, sometimes you can push gardening and the environment to the side, so I think it’s important to take a moment to remember how important it is and how vital it is to our existence,” Guidera said. Students interested in getting involved can follow the clubs on Instagram @gcsu.gardeningclub and @gcsu. botanyclub for updates on meetings and events.
College cooking: exploring culinary lifestyles of GCSU students
Lillian Winn Staff Writer
For students at GCSU, college life comes with a multitude of new experiences and learning curves, with one of the most important being buying groceries and cooking meals.
While some students have experience using these skills and creating culinary masterpieces, some are learning to provide for themselves for the first time.
Many students use a budget to create quick and simple meals to fuel them for their busy academic and social lives. Luckily, Milledgeville provides a multitude of affordable grocery stores, including Walmart, Publix, Kroger and Aldi.
Ellison Whetzel, a sophomore education major, shared her smart shopping habits.
“I always shop at Aldi because the groceries there are cheaper and they are usually healthier than other stores,” Whetzel said.
Sierra McLaughlin, a sopho-
more psychology major, shared a similar opinion on the convenience and quality of Aldi.
“I usually shop at Aldi because it’s closer than Walmart and there are a lot of organic options that are cheaper,” Mclaughlin said.
McLaughlin went on to say that if she cannot find a certain item at Aldi, Walmart is also a good option.
While shopping is an important aspect of college living, these students prioritize a healthy and balanced diet as well. Whetzel elaborated on her favorite meals to make, making sure that they are nutritious and filling.
“My go-to meals are pasta with ground beef and roasted garlic marinara with cheese,” Whetzel said. “I also like to pick up protein, usually salmon or chicken, and I bake it and have roasted potatoes and roasted broccoli on the side.”
Caroline Faison, a sophomore nursing major, shared that she keeps multiple meal options on hand during the
week in order to have variety and convenience in her diet. She shared advice for students trying to stay
Whetzel said she also implemented habits into her life that encourage budget-friendly cooking. She prepares
low-budget and still eat well.
“Don’t feel like you have to have name-brand items,” Faison said. “Don’t go overboard when shopping, and try to shop at a place that has good deals.”
She explained that local stores carry important ingredients to support her lifestyle, including fruit, vegetables, chicken and rice.
weekly meals ahead of time so that she can grab a quick meal on the go. She also encouraged students to shop for on-sale items instead of paying for brand names.
One of Whetzel’s most meaningful tips was on students paying too much for convenience, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful shop-
ping and understanding the products students purchase.
“If I buy a block of cheese and grate it myself, I would much rather do that than buy a bag of shredded cheese,” Whetzel said, “I like to pay for products over convenience and do the work myself.”
McLaughlin’s best tip on inexpensive, healthy eating encouraged students to be mindful of their spending on expensive restaurants and fast food.
“Cook instead of going out to eat all the time,” McLaughlin said. “Getting whole foods and cooking for yourself is going to save you a lot of money.”
In addition to this advice, Whetzel and Faison recommend that others buy in bulk and use leftovers creatively to prolong their freshness.
While the cooking and shopping aspect may be daunting to some, these students reveal that there are plenty of outlets to shop smart and create simple, healthy and delicious meals at GCSU.
Mary Ciucevich | Editor-in-Chief
Sydney Williams | Asst. A&L Editor
Courtesy of Camille Tobey, Gardening Club president
The Caterwaul
CATERWAUL: a shrill howling or wailing noise like that of a cat; commonly associated with a bobcat
“Penny”
By: Emma Jow
Flip a penny
Watch it drop
The ocean isn’t blue
Little circle
Falling slowly
Hit the surface
Slice through
Clear water
Less dense
Watch it sink
As coins do
Dragged down
By the current Dirt settles
Coin too
Lost forever
You pray
Bring me wealth
Bring me truth
Go home
Lights off
Empty bed
No food
Phone rings
Feel hope
It’s the bank
Coins are due
