Issue 7 | Volume 103

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SPRING BREAK

Delaney Derry Opinion Editor

It is the week before Spring Break. We college students are making final arrangements for beach plans with our college friends, spending time with family or working to save money because we spent it all on late-night runs to Cook Out the first half of the spring semester.

Whatever the case, this week is a time to simply take a “break” from the stressors of classes, work and all responsibility.

The new year has well begun, and we sprang right into action after

the holidays. Life has been go, go, go since January. We students are eager for a break, so we can regather and catch our breath after the chaos of the beginning of the semester.

“Many full-grown adults do not even know how to easily navigate so many obligations and activities at once, so students certainly need to be given substantial breaks once in a while to allow them to de-stress and have the ability to catch up with anything pressing,” said Dr. Michael Messina, a clinical psychologist.

See BREAK | Page 10

SHE SPEAKS

Hear the women of GC.

Rebecca Ocampo Staff Writer

The GC Women’s Center and Cultural Center hosted its third annual She Speaks event in the Art & Sciences auditorium on March 6th. The event highlighted a variety of female GC fac-

ulty and staff who spoke about a variety of topics they were interested in.

The event is held in March, in honor of Women’s History Month. This month is dedicated to acknowledging women’s contributions to history. It is also a time for celebrating and rec-

ognizing their achievements that have helped shape this country.

“Women still don’t have a voice that’s proportionate to what they represent, so having an evening of women speaking about basically whatever drives them is really important,” said Amanda Respess, the director of public affairs for GC.

The hosts for the event were Briana Lambert and

Kendra Key. They were in charge of presenting each speaker and keeping the event organized.

The first to speak was Jehan El-Jourbagy, an associate professor of business law. Her segment was on climate change and the way humanity can shift their perspective on the matter in order to better the world.

See SPEAKS | Page 6

Senator Rick Williams seeks re-election

Emily Kirkwood Staff Writer

District 25’s senator, Rick Williams, is running for re-election. The 25th district is made up of Butts, Jones, Jasper, Baldwin, Morgan, Greene, Warren, Taliaferro and Putnam Counties, including portions of Bibb and Henry Counties.

In 2016, Rick Williams was elected to the House of Representatives to represent House District 145, and in 2022, he was elected to the Georgia Senate. He has worked to keep his district’s conservative beliefs in place. He champions issues such as defending the right to life, eliminating state income tax and the Second Amendment.

“I like the thought of income tax, and if he would process and grow our community, that would be great,” said Cayla Williams, a sophomore marketing major.

During his career, he has passed Georgia Life Alliance’s “heartbeat bill,” proudly carried Gracie’s Law and received Georgia Life Alliance’s Advocate for Life award in 2021.

He has also served on the Baldwin County Commission and was Baldwin County’s chief registrar for 16 years before be-

MARCH MADNESS PREVIEW

Christian Castillo Staff Writer

Fans have made it to March, and surprisingly, the madness is still on the way. In just over a week, 68 selected teams will begin their journey for college hoops immortality.

Last year’s tournament brought a significant amount of madness, as not only a 16-seed won round one, but 15-seed Princeton

University advanced to the Sweet 16, and not a single one-seeded team survived to see the Elite Eight.

“My favorite part of March Madness is being on Spring Break and watching it at the beach with the fellas,” said Sean Davis, a senior exercise science major.

March Madness will take over the country, with games happening in 13 states. First and

The importance of the camp, which offers relief to children who have experienced abuse.

second-round games will take place in Brooklyn, Charlotte, Indianapolis, Omaha, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City,

ing elected to the House of Representatives.

According to Senator Rick Williams website, Williams has expressed that he fought to keep Georgia’s economy open and thriving during the pandemic and has fought to eliminate the state income tax entirely. Williams has also expressed how he wants to defend our constitutional right to bear arms against the radical left and will never waver in fighting against Biden’s anti-gun agenda.

“I believe I would be open to voting for him, and I believe in most of his beliefs,” Cayla Williams said. “I believe the right to bear arms is acceptable, but I don’t see why that is his main topic to fight for when there are many more topics that need help.”

See WILLIAMS | Page 3

Spokane and Memphis.

Sweet 16 and Elite Eight games will take place in Boston, Dallas, Detroit and Los Angeles.

This year’s Final Four and national champi-

onship will take place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The stadium is traditionally the home of the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals but will be transformed into a basketball arena for the event.

The tournament will kick off with Selection Sunday, in which the bracket will be locked. Play-in games for 16-seeds will be played on Tuesday, March 19, with first-round games commencing on

Thursday, March 21.

Following tradition, this year’s field will be made up of every single Division One conference champion. The other teams will be placed in the tournament with selection by a committee based on their cumulative season performance.

Conference tournaments have a large say in what teams will get into the tournament. These tournaments will finish between March 9 and 16.

See NCAA| Page 5

Kylie Rowe | Asst. A&L Editor

Kylie Rowe | Asst. A&L Editor

Julia Jensen | Art Director

Georgia House of Representatives considers reparations bill

Jack McKinney

Contributing Writer

A recently proposed bill in the Georgia House of Representatives aims to tackle the persistent effects of systemic racism statewide. The bill, titled “House Bill 955,” creates the Georgia Equity and Fairness Commission and assigns them to examine the economic, educational and health impacts of slavery on the descendants of enslaved people.

From their findings, the commission will propose a variety of legislative and educative reforms that address systemic inequalities; it is likely that financial restitution programs, also known as “race-based reparations,” are to be

the primary subject for the proposed reforms.

ReparationsPush, a Georgia-based organization with a goal to politically organize for the passing of racebased reparations, has assisted in the development of this bill.

“This is the civil rights capital; Georgia is,” said Anqous Cosby, a faculty member of ReparationsPush. “We have Dr. King’s legacy, Malcolm X’s family legacy. We have Elijah Muhammad’s legacy.”

However, systematic racism targeting Georgian African Americans goes much further than the impacts of slavery alone. Historically racist legislation, such as Jim Crow laws and segregationist judicial orders, can amount to

immense inequalities and intensify the effects of slavery in Georgia.

“When we look at the unequal distribution of wealth by race, it is both a consequence of very early U.S. history [slavery, colonization, overt racial exclusion], more recent history [redlining, blockbusting, racial steering] and very, very recent history [targeted subprime mortgage loans in racially segregated communities],” said Dr. Stephanie McClure, a sociology professor at GC.

These complexities often make it difficult to predict the effectiveness of certain reforms, and in relation, complications further arise when assuming the impact of institutional racism through an uneducat-

ed lens. This underlines the importance of the commission’s effort to procure racial research and leads many to believe that inclusive education a necessity to form effective solutions.

Dr. Michael Snowden, the chief diversity officer at GC, shares similar beliefs: that miseducation and wrongful understandings of systemic racism are probable drawbacks in the fight for systemic change.

“Dismantling a system is challenging, especially when there’s disbelief in the problem’s existence, hindering efforts to find solutions,” Snowden said.

Coincidingly, the expected recommendation from the commission, race-based reparations, builds upon this edu-

cational focus. Some scholars indicate that reparations have the potential to address these multifaceted issues and can be an effective tool for past and modern instances of institutional inequalities among African Americans.

“The overall case for reparations indicates, at minimum, a twopronged approach which addresses not only the vestiges of inequality which persist from the past but the impact of ongoing current forms of institutionalized racial discrimination which further exacerbate existing inequalities,” McClure said.

Regardless of the commission’s probable reparation-focused recommendations, some critics of this bill are keen to argue that the research and recommendations have minimal inherent power; that in essence, well-educated scholars have already provided abundant research for the purposes of being used to enact change, not go ignored.

“They [the commission] can simply drive two hours to UGA or GC and find the most incredible, in-depth research

into Black history in the South that has ever been done,” said Emerson Hamm, a senior political science major. “This bill, to me, just seems like a waste of time when the information is already there, and the representatives can just look at the information.”

Diana Cazacu, a sophomore art and philosophy major, critiques the bill for a different reason: Political institutions are complex and often reliant on bipartisanship to enact change, making it an unreliable source for statewide results.

“Even with the best intentions, even if the bill did pass, it will inevitably hit roadblocks due to the requirement of many other additional pieces of legislation to make this bill worthwhile,” Cazacu said.

Be that as it may, the bill does mark a firm step toward addressing systemic and historic inequalities for African Americans in Georgia. While the effectiveness of this bill is questionable, the bill provides an empirical amplification of these problems that are essential to reaching landmark solutions.

Inside the Georgia State Capitol

GC supports Camp HOPE in Central Georgia

Alexis Maddox Staff Writer

Camp HOPE of Central Georgia is a weeklong overnight summer camp for children who have been impacted or exposed to domestic violence, child abuse or sexual abuse. The camp is affiliated with Crisis Line and Safe House and partnered with the One Safe Place Macon Family Justice Center.

GC is encouraging agencies, organizations and students to sponsor children and backpacks. A $400 donation covers the entire cost of a child, including the cost of room and board and other summer camp supplies. A $100 donation covers the cost of a backpack for a child, which will provide items such as a towel, goggles, sunscreen and bug spray.

“We are trying to raise money to help support the kids so that they

can have more kids involved with no cost to the families,” said Carrie Cook, a criminal justice professor at GC. “The agencies the students are targeting are primarily law enforcement agencies in the counties that serve Camp HOPE.”

Summer camp is a place for kids to socialize and make new friends. It not only benefits kids’ independence but also builds their self-confidence. It can be a fun place to learn new skills and experience new environments, many calling it a home away from home.

“I went to camp for five years as a kid, and I worked there for three years,” said Jordan Spigner, a junior psychology major. “The main thing that I got out of it was the relationships I built, not only with my friends but with the counselors too.

I’m looking into volunteering because I think

WILLIAMS

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The local community seems to have differing views on whether they support him or not. Senator Rick Williams’s age, 71, can also be a factor people are considering before voting for him. A large pool of local eligible voters are college students, which could also impact his chances during the election.

“I think it’s better to have younger people in office because they are going to create a future our age group is wanting,” said Chloe Butts, a sophomore theatre major. “I don’t think I would vote for him, just because I think he has some beliefs that don’t align with mine.”

Rick Williams has lived in Milledgeville his entire life and graduated from Baldwin County High School in 1970. He joined his father’s funeral home business when he was younger and now owns Williams Funeral Homes of Milledgeville, Gordan and Eatonton, Williams Crematory of Milledgeville, Heritage Memorial Park Cemetery and Washington Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Rick Williams is the husband to Donna Williams. They have three children together: Spencer, Cameron and Amber. He is also the grandfather of seven grandchildren.

“I like most of the things Rick Williams is supporting, so I would vote for him for re-election,” said Grace Wallace, a sophomore nursing major. “Working to get rid of income taxes is also really important to me because I’ve been working since I was fifteen, and it’s frustrating seeing what is taken out of my paychecks. I also feel that state income taxes overall aren’t necessary.”

Rick Williams is a very active member of the local community. He is a member of First Methodist Church of Milledgeville, the Kiwanis Club of Milledgeville, Benevolent Lodge #3 F&AM, Al Shrine and multiple mortuary organizations.

The general election will take place Nov. 5, 2024. The primary is May 21, 2024 and the primary runoff, if needed, will be June 18, 2024.

it’s a really good cause.”

Camp HOPE is a nationwide movement. It is an opportunity for the kids to just be kids. Last year, 28 kids attended the camp in Georgia, and there are 56 spots for 2024. Kids can enjoy the many benefits of summer camp and participate in activities such as kayaking and arts and crafts, along with many others.

“When you think back to your childhood memories, you think about the little things that excited you, or you remember really fun weeks,” said Adriana Duque, a junior criminal justice major. “I feel like the people working at Camp HOPE are great people, and I think those children experiencing this will think back and cherish those memories and remember the people that changed their lives.”

Camp HOPE’s mission is to create a nur-

turing and safe environment that will provide the kids with everything they need to enjoy a week of fun. It is an opportunity for growth and positivity and to help kids remember that their future is bright.

“I think that Camp HOPE has a great cause because it strives to make children feel more validated in their feelings, more validated in what happened to them and remind those kids that

it’s OK to feel the way you feel,” said Rory Albrecht, a senior criminal justice major, “Just because you were forced to grow up in this situation doesn’t mean that you can’t still be a child here. If I had a million dollars right now, I would definitely throw every last cent that I could at Camp HOPE, and I believe that this cause can go way beyond just helping kids escape for a week.”

A bake sale tabling

event will be held on the GC campus on April 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to raise money for Camp HOPE. There will also be tabling in front of the Milledgeville Walmart, but the date has not been announced. Camp HOPE strives to be in every state, as many kids are exposed to domestic violence and will benefit from this experience. GC students have the opportunity to support this cause.

THOUSANDS OF NATIVE AMERICAN AND ALASKAN WOMEN ARE MISSING

Samantha Birmingham News Editor

Brian Steven Smith was found to be guilty in Anchorage, Alaska by a jury of his peers on Feb. 22. This was for the murders of 30-year-old Kathleen Jo Henry and 52-yearold Veronica Abouchuk. These were two Native Alaskan women who died in September 2019 and August 2018.

Police suspected he murdered Henry after video footage was revealed by a woman who claimed to have found an SD card that was labeled “Homicide at Midtown Marriott” that was lying on the ground near his truck on Sept. 30, 2019, according to court documents. Valerie Casler, the woman who claims to have found this footage, confessed that she stole Smith’s phone from his truck after not being paid for their “date” and transferred the contents to an SD card, which she then gave the police. It later came into question whether she was a reliable source or not because she has previously lied about the SD card.

Later, two prosecutors, Brittany Dunlop and Heather Nobrega, reportedly found that Smith killed Henry in a Marriott hotel room after Casler turned in the SD card, which was shown in the cell phone footage and happened in Anchorage, Alaska. The prosecution also claimed that

Smith killed Abouchuk in his own living room with a green gun. This was confessed by Smith himself in Oct. 2019 through interrogations.

The prosecutors were also able to prove that Smith preferred to attack vulnerable women. Both of the women who were victims of Smith were also women of Native Alaskan descent. Smith is now facing a 99 year sentence for the murder of Henry and 30-99 years for the murder of Abouchuk.

“As we saw in the Brian Steven Smith case, many women who are targeted are vulnerable in some way,” said Jessica Wallace, a history professor at GC. “They are homeless, economically disadvantaged, suffer from addiction, for instance, and these are all far more prominent social problems in Native American communities than in the larger American population.”

Many indigenous women go missing throughout the year. In 2020 alone, there were almost 6,000 reports of missing American Indian and Alaska Native women and girls reported missing, according to Katie Couric Media.

American and Alaska Native women who are living on tribal lands are murdered at rates more than 10 times the national average according to the United States Department of Justice. These rates keep increasing, and there has yet to be a solution to this problem.

This also leads to a lack of awareness around the idea that many indigenous women and girls face a large amount of gender violence.

“We also have a long history of violence against Native American women and a complicated relationship between Native American communities and state/federal governments more broadly,” Wallace said.“-

So, I think that Native American women have been more vulnerable to being victims of violence because of systemic and structural issues and to their assaults, murders or missing person cases being overlooked by the government and wider American society.”

“I think many of the women go missing for many reasons, especially including domestic violence and human trafficking,” said Laney Foust, a sophomore exercise science major. “I feel that communities can raise awareness or even support local organizations and fight for law enforcement. As a government, I think they can create resources for better infrastructure and victim support programs.”

As a result of the 1956 Indian Relocation Act, many Native Americans do not live on tribal lands or reservations. When Native Americans reside in urban areas, they have very few resources linked to their culture and tribal community. For those who wish to engage with their culture and retain this connectedness, living comfortably in the city can be a challenge.

“I think that there is a lack of adequate resources for many indigenous communities, which is a main reason,” said Molly McCamphill, a junior marketing major. “These women are continuing to go missing. I think that the first thing people in the government can do in order to help this issue is to start raising a greater awareness of the public eye about what is going on with these women in these communities.”

The alarming rate of indigenous women going missing needs more attention. The strengthening of community support systems and enhancing law enforcement are steps that can be taken in greater depth to increase the safety of these women.

Children at summer camp

Children at summer camp

The record-breaking 2024 NFL Combine wraps up

Brennan Schmitz Sports Editor

The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine featured some freak performances from prospects, broken records and unique approaches to the draft process from some players.

Most notably, players like Caleb Williams, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Jayden Daniels declined to take part in the physical testing portion of the combine but still made themselves available to the media for interviews.

The choice to sit out likely stems from a fear of injury or negatively impacting draft stock. The players who chose to sit out are all highly touted and projected to go early in the first round, so participating in these events would likely only show potential flaws, and they would rather have the film speak for itself.

As far as prospects who chose to take part in physical testing, they did events such as bench press, 40-yard dash, ver-

tical jump, broad jump and other football-specific drills. Day one of the combine was dedicated to defensive linemen and linebackers.

Perhaps one of the most eye-opening performances came from Florida State University defensive tackle Braden Fiske. When showcasing their physical talent in the combine, prospects will inevitably be compared to successful NFL players, and Fiske received comparisons to three-time Defensive Player of the Year and Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald.

In the linebacker group, prospects like the University of Alabama’s Dallas Turner and North Carolina State University’s Payton Wilson both lived up to the hype. Turner measured in at a massive 6’2” and 246 lbs. while running an unbelievable 4.46 second 40-yard dash.

Wilson was being eyed mostly for his speed coming into the com-

bine and draft, and he did not disappoint, running a 4.43 second 40, which led all linebackers.

Day two of the combine featured the quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers.

Although the QB group was missing Williams, who is in a great position to be the No. 1 overall pick, and Daniels, the reigning Heisman winner, fans and scouts still got to see some very talented signal callers work out and throw the ball around.

QBs like Bo Nix from the University of Oregon, J.J. McCarthy from the University of Michigan, Sam Hartman from the University of Notre Dame and Michael Penix Jr. from the University of Washington all got to show off their deep balls.

University of Tennessee QB Joe Milton boasted his abnormally strong arm, which he is starting to become known for. He threw the rock the hardest of all the QBs that worked

out, as his ball clocked a speed of 62 mph.

The RB group lacked some of the flash that the other position groups provided in this year’s combine, but many were able to show off their speed.

The University of Louisville’s Isaac Guerendo led all RBs in the 40 with a time of 4.33 seconds. He was followed by Tennessee’s Jaylen Wright and Florida State’s Trey Benson with times of 4.38 seconds and 4.39 seconds, respectively.

Even without what many believe to be a generational prospect in Harrison Jr., the WR group still found a way to shine.

Most notably, University of Texas WR Xavier Worthy broke the combine’s 40 record with a time of 4.21 seconds. He beat John Ross’s record of 4.22 seconds that was set at the 2017 combine.

The offensive linemen capped off the combine on day three, and there were some impressive performers in a

very talented OL class.

The University of Georgia’s Amarius Mims measured in at a menacing 6’8” and 340 lbs, and he ran a 5.07 40 with a 9’3” broad jump, both of which are eye-opening numbers for somebody of that size.

Arguably the two best left tackles in the draft in Pennsylvania State University’s Olumuyiwa Fashanu and Notre Dame’s Joe Alt showed off their freakish size and athletic ability.

Fashanu measured in at 6’6” and 312 lbs., running a 5.11 second 40. Unfortunately, his time was cut short, as

he sustained an injury to his right thigh.

Alt measured in at 6’8.5” and 321 lbs. He posted a 28” vertical, a 9’4” broad jump and a 40 time of 5.05 seconds. Already thought of as a top-10 pick, Alt only helped his chances with his measurements and workout performance.

Many of the prospects at the combine still have a chance to showcase their skills to NFL scouts at their schools’ pro days, and they will continue to train in preparation for the NFL Draft, which starts on Thursday, April 25.

Baseball and softball near the end of the season

Christian Castillo Staff Writer

The GC baseball team currently has a 9-10 overall record. GC has a 7-4 record at home in John Kurtz and a tough 1-6 record on the road.

Their Peach Belt Conference hopes remain alive with a 1-2 record in conference play and the end-of-season tournament looming.

GC has been streaky on the diamond, alternating between two-

to-three-game winning and losing streaks.

In the team’s first PBC series, GC lost, going 1-2 against Augusta University. The Bobcats won the first game and came out on the losing end of both games in a doubleheader the next day.

The team will continue their PBC season by traveling to Hardeeville, South Carolina to play the University of South Carolina Beaufort in a three-game series next.

Freshman first baseman Braeden Smith has had the bats cracking in conference play against Augusta with a .545 average and a pair of home runs and has tallied a team-high 22 RBIs considering all games this season.

Junior infielder Mathew Mebane, averaging .317, sits just behind him with 18 RBIs and leads the team with seven home runs this year.

Sophomore right-handed pitcher John Raines leads the team with a strikeout tally of 28 and a 2-1 pitching record.

GC Softball currently has a record of 11-10. The Bobcats have a 7-3 record at home and a 3-5 record on the road. Their PBC record is currently 1-5, meaning now is the time to turn things around.

In PBC play, GC has gone up against Flagler College at home and traveled to take on Columbus State University.

Against Flagler, the Bobcats split a doubleheader, winning the first game 6-5 and losing the second 3-5. They would ultimately lose the series 1-2 after a 7-5 game three defeat.

Their road trip to Columbus State brought disappointing results, as they lost all three games by scores of 13-5, 11-9 and 8-7.

Junior infielder Kam

Caldwell leads the team in batting average, sporting a strong .444 and has tallied 14 RBIs.

Sophomore infielder Emily Hobbs leads the team in home runs, going yard six times so far this season and sporting a .351 average, not far behind Caldwell.

Senior right-handed pitcher Jana Shellhorse has been essential to the Bobcat defense, leading the team with 32 strikeouts so far this season.

Luckily for GC, the team has a stretch of non-conference games

upcoming against Converse University, Francis Marion University and Southern Wesleyan University. These games will be crucial in preparation for their important upcoming meetings with PBC opponents.

Hopefully, the Bobcats can tune their game up for conference opponent the University of South Carolina Aiken, who visit Milledgeville March 16-17, and their March 23-24 road trip to Greenwood, South Carolina, to take on Lander University.

Courtesy of GC Athletic Senior outfielder Brandon Bellflower gets ready to swing

Courtesy of GC Athletics

Junior infielder Kam Caldwell lines up to bat

NFL Scouting Combine logo

MLB reveals new jerseys in Spring Training

Ty Karraker Staff Writer

Major League Baseball’s spring training is half way through, and Nike and the MLB are already under a ton of scrutiny due to the jersey change for this upcoming season. The new lightweight jersey concepts of the Nike Vapor Premier jerseys have received backlash from fans and players due to their cheap look and strange feel.

Sources near the MLB say that the changes were made to get players to play to their highest level. However, multiple players in the league say the new polyester jerseys are just flat-out uncomfortable.

Some players are saying how the texture of these jerseys is not as comfortable as the old ones, with some players describing them as feeling papery and not fitting well. Others, including Mike Trout, enjoy the recent changes.

There are players and fans that do love

NCAA

Continued from page 1

The popular predictions are that Purdue University, the University of Houston, the University of Connecticut and the University of Tennessee will be this year’s one-seeds.

“The rankings should mean something, but the tournament always brings chaos,” said Tucker Sutton, a senior accounting major.

“Bracketology is similar to being a weather-

these new moves despite them looking strange. They are lightweight and breathable, which may help players to play at a higher level.

Gabe Wuerth, a sophomore infielder for GC, stated the importance of comfortability while on the field and how the changes to the jerseys will be helpful. He stated that when a player has a jersey or pants that are too tight, it can restrict body movement. Baseball is a sport that requires players to move their bodies in many ways, from swinging the bat to diving for a ball.

“I’ve experienced it firsthand, having pants that are too big or small, and it is not fun,” Wuerth said. “You feel like you can’t play at full speed because your pants are either restricting your movements, or you’re worried about tripping up over them if they are too big.”

Wuerth also explained that since college baseball is a spring sport, it

gets warm toward the middle of the season. He stated that having a jersey that is not too heavy and is more breathable is very important to play in the heat.

“I think what they’re doing in the MLB is great,” Wuerth said.

“Having a lighter, more breathable jersey is huge for those guys, especially at such a high level they play at. They need every advantage they can get.”

The 90% polyester jerseys, however, may offer a very big advantage if these players are comfortable and are more breathable than the previous jerseys.

Another complaint about these new jerseys is that the MLB decided to move the logo from the upper neckline to below the neckline to make the logo more visible than before. This has caused the lettering to not fit where it used to be, shifting it further down. This shift now makes the names curved across the back

instead of straight and near the shoulder blades.

The MLB has also decided to make the lettering on the back of the jerseys to make sure that all last names can now fit in the new location.

Not all teams in the MLB are thrilled by these changes. While 29 of the teams have accepted the changes that Nike and the MLB have poised, the Kansas City Royals have

to keep the lettering the same as the previous seasons. While the lettering is a little different on the Royals’ jerseys, they are the only team that has big lettering, even with the moving of the MLB logo.

“If all a team had to do to keep the old lettering was ask, then a) why didn’t any other MLB teams bother trying and b) what’s stopping them from doing

senior early education major, stated that she is not too pleased with the look of the new jerseys.

“The Fanatics did a terrible job rebranding the jerseys,” Turnbull said. “They appear cheap, and it seems Fanatics cut a lot of corners while creating them.”

As the new season starts, there are many feelings and opinions about the new jerseys.

refused to change their jerseys due to their disapproval of the tiny, new lettering on the jerseys.

According to the Kansas City Star, once the new jerseys were proposed in 2023, the Royals went to their CEO and chair and pushed

man; the professionals can only be so right or completely wrong.”

Houston will be a team to watch, as they are currently the No. 1-ranked team in the country. The Cougars have a record of 26-3 this

season and a cumulative record of 119-17 over the last four seasons.

No. 4-ranked Tennessee is entering the Southeastern Conference, or SEC, tournament as perhaps the hottest team in college basketball. Last

week, the Volunteers got a 92-84 win against No. 11 Auburn and an 81-74 road win in Tuscaloosa against No. 14 Alabama.

Gonzaga, the usual suspects in the tournament, are at risk of missing the tournament for

so now,” said Jack Baer, a sportswriter for Yahoo.

While some players may really enjoy the new concept of jerseys, fans around the world seem to be a little less willing to accept the changes circulating in baseball.

Addison Turnbull, a

the first time since 1998. Their performance in the West Coast Conference tournament will be watched by the masses, as the common favorites sit on the bubble.

The University of Florida Gators are likely to make a return in this year’s tournament after missing out last year. With an 11-6 conference record and an outside chance to win the SEC tournament, they will hope to do so or earn selection

While fans may not like the new look, it all comes down to what is best for the players. Nothing is set in stone, however, and if these jerseys continue to get backlash and hate from players in the league, the MLB can make additional changes.

from the committee.

The Gators famously won back-to-back tournaments in 20062007, becoming only the fourth team to successfully defend their crown and the first to do so since the 1960s.

“I’m excited to watch the tournament, and I’m hoping my Buckeyes make it,” said John Nagy, a senior mass communication major. “It will suck to have those choke artists at Purdue as the Big Ten’s top representative.”

March Madness logo

Julia Jensen | Art Director

SPEAKS

Continued from page 1

The title of her talk was “Always Looking Up.” She began by saying that she has always enjoyed looking up at the night sky and the clouds because she would imagine that she was a bird in the sky looking down. As her segment went on, she shifted into talking about climate change and humans’ role in the matter.

She made the point that if humans made all these big climatic mistakes without thinking, imagine what they could do with intent. She talked about the ways in which brands today are making an effort to be more environmentally aware and safe.

Jourbagy concluded her talk by saying that humans could choose to see life as dark and dreary, but she encouraged them to choose to have hope and keep looking up.

“I really loved the fact that the Women’s Center gave a place for these women to talk about anything and everything they’re passionate about,” said Georgia Campbell, a sophomore market-

ing major. “There were women talking about mathematics, sleep, art or just anything they were interested in.”

Dr. Taylor Elsey, an associate professor of psychology, spoke about sleep patterns and the ways in which they affect women’s lives. Throughout her segment, she touched on mental health disorders, sleep stages in the different phases of life and the ways women can be more aware of their sleep health patterns.

She closed out her segment by saying it is important to trust your body and listen to what it is telling you. Following Elsey was Dr. Rachel Epstein, an associate profes-

sor of mathematics. The title of her talk was “Paradox and the Unknown in Mathematics.” In it, she discussed the mathematical concept of a set.

Epstein gave insight into different mathematical and philosophical theories revolving around the idea of a set. In the end, she came to the conclusion that there is not a consensus about what is a set versus what it is not and that it all really just comes down to philosophy.

The final speaker before intermission was Valerie Aranda, who has a background in art, drawing and painting. She displayed various different artworks

she has created, ranging from murals to paintings.

One of her favorite collections of pieces was her “Communities on My Mind” collection, which she created to challenge the stereotypes of the underrepresented communities she was showcasing.

Aranda stated that the most rewarding art she has done was her mural projects because there has always been a strong sense of support from the communities she was painting the murals in.

“I really liked hearing about and seeing the differences these women were making in the world through their different professions,” said Baylee Browning, a junior biology major.

After the intermission, Mia Eaton spoke about the journey and struggles she has faced being a woman in the music industry. Her talk was titled “Don’t Give Up,” and she told the story of how she became a musician despite facing adversity and how she never gave up on her dreams. At GC, Eaton is the percussion instructor for the school orches-

tra and has played with many different groups, including the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

The following speaker was Melissa Gerrior, Program Coordinator of the Women’s Center and LGBTQ+ Programs, who spoke about the importance of fostering good connections and relationships with people. The basis of her segment was that rather than living life trying to reach a multitude of people, individuals should instead choose to focus on the small things in life. One of the ideas she most emphasized was ways to treat your relationships as being an inch wide and a mile deep rather than a mile wide and an inch deep. Gerrior essentially said that the quality of relationships are more important than the quantity people have.

Closing out the event was Amanda Respess with her talk on the importance of “taking the ‘W’” in life rather than dwelling on the failures. She said that women often go through different phases when something positive happens in their life: They go from being

NOTES FROM PAIGE’S PLAYBILL: “WE WILL ROCK YOU” AND ITS ROCKING CAST

Paige Blakemore A&L Editor

The legacy of the infamous rock band Queen lives on through the recent production of “We Will Rock You” put on by the Georgia College Theatre Department. From Feb. 28 to March 3, audiences enjoyed a crowd stomping singalong in Russell Auditorium.

The jukebox musical is set in a distant future, post-apocalyptic society and follows the story of Galileo, played by Bella Eclavea, a senior theatre major, who hears voices and visions of rock music, and Scaramouche, played by Emily Harrell, a sophomore theatre major. In this world, musical expression is prohibited and resides only in the Killer Queen, played by senior theatre major Lexi Gordy, of the iPlanet and her followers, the Ga Ga Kids.

“For anybody, the message is people need to wake up and see the world for what it is right now instead of finding out everything about the world through their phones,” Gordy said.

Throughout the musical, Galileo and Scaramouche join the rebel-

lious, outcast Bohemians in an attempt to revive rock music and embrace individualism. With a battle of good versus evil and a love story subplot, the musical offers something for everyone.

According to Queen Online, the concept for a Queen musical came to life after a meeting with band members Brian May, Roger Taylor and actor Robert De Niro. It was De Niro who asked if a musical had ever been considered. Playwright Ben Elton helped bring the idea to life.

Since opening in the West End in May 2002, the show has reached over 15 million people and 17 different countries. “We Will Rock You” closed on the West End after a 12-year run.

Featuring more than 20 songs from “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” to “We Are The Champions,” the musical is full of Queen’s biggest hits and a plethora of classic and contemporary rock references for all ages to enjoy.

This year’s theme for the GC Theatre Department is “Ordinary Heroes.” Across the theatre’s current season, all shows have encompassed the

idea of everyday people making a change despite adversity. From “These Shining Lives” to “Leveling Up,” the theme has been exemplified and showcased to audiences.

“You never know what kind of power you have inside of you,” said Jonathan Doss, a sophomore mass communication major who played Brit. “It’s up to you to realize that potential. Anybody can be a hero. You have to have the drive to do it.”

One of the most memorable moments of the night was an unscripted, final performance of “Bohemian Rhapsody” led by Eclavea then followed by the rest of the cast and ensemble.

“It definitely tied the whole piece together,” said Tanner Harris, a junior English major who served as an usher for the show. “Getting to watch that in person by peers that I love was incredibly moving.”

With a universal message of fighting for what one believes in and using your voice, “We Will Rock You” is the show the GC Theatre Department felt college audiences needed to see in this day and age.

happy and feeling flattered to feeling like they are not worthy of success.

An example she gave was of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who said that until there are nine women on the Supreme Court, it would not be enough for her.

“When I’m sometimes asked, ‘When will there be enough women on the Supreme Court?’ and I say, ‘When there are nine,’ people are shocked. But there’d been nine men, and nobody’s ever raised a question about that,” Ginsburg said.

Respess said that instead of taking the ‘L’ in situations where it seemed Ginsburg lost, she converted it into a win by making sure minority opinions were being heard.

Respess left the audience with two points, which were that their emotions were valid and to give themselves grace and take the ‘W’ whenever they can.

All seven speakers spoke about a different concept they were passionate about, which contributed to their celebration of Women’s History Month.

Courtesy of Brian Wallenberg

Lexi Gordy and Ga Ga Kids

Courtesy of Brian Wallenberg

Emily Harrell and Bella Eclavea

Courtesy of Kylie Rowe | Asst. A&L Editor Amanda Respess | Director of Public Affairs

Where is Kate Middleton?

And why does everyone care so much?

Ellie Smith Staff Writer

With sudden medical issues and the curious lack of public appearance of Catherine “Kate” Middleton, Princess of Wales, the royal family has made its way back to American media once again.

Social media in particular has speculated about the princess’s recovery and has requested answers from the palace. Supporters are concerned for Middleton’s health since it was reported by the palace that she will not be returning to the public eye until Easter.

This news was followed by Buckingham Palace announcing her husband, William, Prince of Wales, would be stepping back from his duties to take care of his wife and their children. This included a last-minute decision not to attend

the memorial service of his godfather, King Constantine of Greece.

With the family being a large feature in the public eye, one has to wonder if while they are seen as political figures in England, they could be seen more as popular cultural icons in America.

“I think the royal family doesn’t have much political power and is more of a figurehead,” said Annabel Hirst, a sophomore world languages and cultures major. “I have family from England. When the queen died, my dad was personally upset. Especially since Princess Diana, their popularity has increased and people have become more interested. All of that attention makes them more celebrity-like. Compared to American politics, they have a more personable aspect about them.”

On March 10, after

much conjecture from the public, Middleton took to social media for the first time since her abdominal surgery in Janu-

Within 24 hours, major news outlets removed the image from their platforms after noticing irregularities indicating the photograph had been purposefully edited, causing many

ary to post a photo with her three children in celebration of Mother’s Day in the United Kingdom.

“Thank you for your kind wishes and continued support over the last two months,” Middleton said in the caption.

to surmise more about Middleton’s condition.

“Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing,” Middleton said on social media. “I wanted to express my apologies

TAYLOR SWIFT vs. KANYE WEST

Yes, they still have issues.

Isabelle Gonzales Staff Writer

Musicians Taylor Swift and Kanye West have been in a social battle since the 2009 Video Music Awards, or VMAs. West decided to storm the stage during her award acceptance and claim that Swift did not deserve the award for Best Female Music Video, but Beyonce Knowles-Carter did instead.

The 2009 incident was allegedly put behind the pair in 2015, when at that year’s VMAs, Swift called West out. In her acceptance speech for the Video of the Year Award for her “Bad Blood” music video, Swift referenced the event, saying, “So, I guess I have to say to all the other winners tonight, I’m really happy for you, and I’ma let you finish, but Kanye West had one of the greatest careers of all time.”

The peace lasted until 2016, when a phone call took place between Swift and West. This phone call was recorded by West’s then wife, Kim Kardashian, unbeknownst to Swift. In the

video of the phone call, it shows West asking Swift if he could use her name in a song. What was not shown was West asking to refer to Swift in the manner that he did.

“I feel like me and Taylor might still have sex. Why? I made that b***h famous,” said West in his song “Famous.”

song “This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things.”

In the lyrics of her song, Swift never mentions West by name, instead she said, “Friends don’t try to trick you, get you on the phone and mind twist you.”

Swift also referenced the phone call in her song “Look What You

He [West] just needs his diaper changed so badly.

- Jack Antonoff

According to Swift and her fanbase, the way West referred to Swift was not agreed upon. In fact, the lyrics reportedly made Swift quite uncomfortable. The real tipping point, however, was the “Famous” music video where West showed himself in bed with a seemingly naked mannequin that was meant to represent Swift. In Swift’s next album “reputation,” she references West in the

Made Me Do” when she says, “I’m sorry the old Taylor can’t come to the phone right now. Why?

Oh … ‘Cause she’s dead!”

After this release, Swift seemingly let go of the feud, not publicly referencing it again. West, on the other hand, has repeatedly mentioned Swift in a range of contexts. In a feud that West had with comedian Pete Davidson, West photoshopped Swift’s head

for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused.”

Throughout the generations, the British royal family has left a lasting impression on watchful eyes. Most people over 30 could state exactly where they were when news hit that Diana, Princess of Wales, died. Similarly, most college-aged individuals can recount the moment Queen Elizabeth II’s death was announced.

The royal family is a staple of generational wealth and power, but with wealth and power comes the world observing you and your family’s movement at all times, starting from a very young age. Even now, the royal family’s moves are not just being discussed through news outlets and social media sites; over the years, nearly 27 movies and TV shows have been set and based around generations of the royal family.

One show that cata-

pulted the Royal Family back into the limelight was Netflix’s “The Crown.” Throughout its six seasons, “The Crown” was nominated for 69 Emmys, 27 BAFTAs, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts’ awards, and 23 Golden Globe Awards.

“I was never super interested in the royal family,” said Jais Hightower, a junior nursing major. “My mom was, though, so when the crown came out, she asked me to watch it with her, and it was so interesting. We ended up bringing the whole series together, and even now that the show is over, I follow all of them on Instagram and keep up with updates on social media and the news. You can not help but be fascinated by them and their lives.”

Despite theories and scrutiny, the royal family continues to draw attention and admirers across generations.

on a superhero from the “Captain America: Civil War” poster on Davidson’s side. This event confused the public, as neither Davidson or Swift had mentioned West recently.

Swift has not since publicly responded but has grown in her own career to become Spo-

her name in order to step into some of her spotlight. West is no exception to wanting a piece of what some have dubbed “The Swift Effect.” In a recent song release titled “CARNIVAL,” West name-dropped Swift yet again, sharing increasingly sexualized references regarding her.

tify’s No. 1 artist globally, broken all sales and Billboard Top 100 records and is currently on the biggest tour in all of music history.

“I think it is incredibly impressive, the work that Taylor has done,” said Asees Goraya, a freshman business major. “I honestly just think that Ye is jealous of her success.”

Due to the success that Swift has gained, many of her rivals have used

“He [West] just needs his diaper changed so badly,” said Jack Antonoff, a close friend and producer of Swift.

Fans of both artists can agree that the feud between the pair has become tired and ridiculous.

“How he speaks about her is disrespectful but definitely just trolling for publicity,” said Mary Tortorete, a senior education major.

Regardless of West’s verbal attacks, Swift has yet to respond. Some students have speculated that Swift is more mature than West, and that is the reason for her lack of response.

“I think her not responding just proves how mature Taylor Swift is compared to Kanye and that she will truly put everything behind her, unlike Kanye West,” said Emily Heffron, a sophomore mass communication major.

With the highly anticipated, albeit unconfirmed rerelease of Reputation (Taylor’s Version) of her album “reputation,” expected soon, Swift’s fans are anticipating how her added songs will respond to the bad blood she has with West. With each rerelease, Swift includes these additional “vault tracks,” which are songs written for the original album but never released. Of course, no one knows what goes on behind closed doors, but the rerelease will be a spectacle in the media for music lovers across all genres to talk about.

Catherine, Princess of Wales

Julia

Fake “college moms”

Addison White Contributing Writer

Moms tend to worry about their babies, especially when those babies are leaving the nest for college. Some moms worry so much that they have turned to hiring a fake “college mom.”

According to an article by USA Today, Mindy Horwitz created a service in 2019 called “mindyKNOWS,” where college parents can pay a local to be there for their students when they cannot.

The “concierge moms” are women hired to watch over young adults as they transition to living on their own. These moms will not cook or clean, but they will be around for students as needed.

“There are a lot of different feelings going on with having a kid in college,” said Ellen Vinson, mother of Hagan Vinson, a freshman biology major. “I am so proud. I worry and wonder if I did enough to prepare my

brate their “kids” getting internships, just like a real mom would if she could be there in person.

“I would not consider hiring a college mom,” said Ellen Vinson. “When my kids go off to college, that is a time for them to find their way. By the time they’re in college, I should have taught them as much as I could so they can survive, and if they need advice, Mama is always a phone call away.”

Horwitz founded the service after noticing a lack of parental assistance whose students go far off for college. On the mindyKNOWS website, parents have the option to choose between a monthly, semester, year-long and four-yearlong subscription plan.

While the service sounds promising in theory, there is the concern that it could further enable overbearing parents during a critical learning point for young adults.

In research conduct-

more criminal justice major. “I’d feel like I’d have less freedom. I moved two hours away for college so I could get that freedom since I grew up with strict parents, and college is all about getting your education and finding yourself on your own.”

“College moms” are hoping to be recognized as an “extended family.” They want to build relationships with the students and the students’ families so that the students have support on standby at all times.

Crowder does not think she would hire a service like mindyKNOWS for her future kids.

“I’d just really share my experiences with them and have a complete, open line of communication,” Crowder said. “They can get advice from me and not feel alone, stressed, overwhelmed or lost. I’d really make sure

kids for life. I want them to grow and spread their wings, but I also want to keep them as my baby.”

This service is becoming more and more popular. It is now offered at Pennsylvania State University, Northwestern University, Washington University in St. Louis and more.

These “college moms” often come bearing gifts. They will bring the student a surprise for Valentine’s Day, their birthday and even cele-

ed by the University of Virginia, studies found domineering parents can have long-term effects on students’ relationships and educational success.

“Experts have decried helicopter parents, and without the opportunity to fend for themselves, some worry students may never develop critical life skills,” said Callie Carmichael and David Oliver at USA Today.

“I would probably feel annoyed,” said Sarah Crowder, a sopho-

No more S.A.D.

The end of GC’s seasonal depression

Winter showers bring May Flowers.

With the sun coming out and the days stretching longer, GC students are enjoying the warmer weather. More people are hanging out on Front Campus, and “hot girl walks” are in full swing. Students seem to flourish in the warmer weather, as compared to the cold,

ally cold weather or just the fact that the holidays can be stressful. But whatever it is, I have it.”

The specific cause of SAD is unknown. However, there are factors that can contribute to the increased number of people feeling depressed during the winter months. Reduced sunlight causes a decrease in serotonin as well as disrupts the body’s biological clock. Lower

you feel like you have less time to do things. And it’s right around the first midterms and exams of the semester.”

For most college students in the state of Georgia, the fall semester starts in the hottest month of the year and ends in the coldest.

Right when things are getting difficult with midterm season, the sun is gone and the days are shorter. For college

gray winter months.

they can feel that they can talk to me about anything and ask for help. Some kids naturally need guidance, and some need less to figure out who they are, so it really depends on the person.”

Considered experts in the students’ new cities, parents can find peace of mind that a fake mom is looking after their student, but maybe students are better off in the long run without the service.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, abbreviated as the fitting acronym SAD, is a form of depression that starts and ends around the same time every year. Symptoms usually start in the fall as the cloudy, frigid days move in, making some people feel moody and less energized. Symptoms usually disappear in the warmer months of spring and summer. Seemingly, it is a cycle of depression that revolves around the weather.

“I think I totally have seasonal depression,” said Riley Roberts, a senior history major. “I think it also gets way worse around, like, Christmas and the holidays. I don’t know if it’s because of the re-

serotonin levels affect the neurotransmitter that affects one’s mood, which can be an explanation for the sadness one feels when they are stuck inside during the colder months of the year.

Melatonin, the sleep-related hormone, has also been thought to be linked to seasonal depression. Due to the shorter days and reduced sunlight, sleep patterns can be heavily affected by the change in seasons.

“It’s cold and dreary, and everything’s dead,” said Mackenzie Murad, a senior early education major. “It can be not the most fun time to be in if you don’t like winter, especially in Georgia, where we don’t really get all the fun winter things, like snow. It gets dark out earlier in the day, and so

students, this can be a stressful time already.

There is no known way to prevent SAD, as scientists are not even sure of the exact cause.

However, there are steps that one can take to help prevent the side effects.

Eating healthy, exercising, doing activities outside when possible and even just hanging out with friends and family is recommended to help improve moods during the colder months.

Fortunately, the sun is beginning to shine harder in Milledgeville, and with the Daylight Savings time change last weekend, days are longer, the air is getting warmer, and students can begin to shake this round of seasonal depression and get some much needed vitamin D.

Olivia DeRosa Staff Writer

Julia Jensen | Art Director

Julia Jensen | Art Director

CALE’S CINEMA CORNER: “DUNE: PART TWO” REVIEW

Cale Strickland Managing Editor

At long last, “Dune: Part Two,” the second half of director Denis Villeneuve’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s legendary sci-fi novel, is here.

To say that I was excited for this movie would be an understatement; in all honesty, the first film is one of my favorite movies of all time.

We had to wait a long time for “Part Two,” though, thanks to studio executives’ refusal to fairly compensate writers and actors for their work.

But it lived up to every last expectation I had. From beginning to end, I was blown away by Villeneuve’s direction, Greig Fraser’s cinematography, the entire cast’s performances and Hans Zimmer’s score.

If you are not familiar with “Dune,” it centers on Paul Atreides, played by Timothee Chalamet, a young boy who is the heir of the Atreides bloodline. The Atreides rule over Caladan, a water-covered planet, and are chosen by the Emperor — the ruler of the universe — to govern over Arrakis, a desert planet home to the most valuable resource in the world of “Dune”: “spice,” a powerful psychedelic drug. However, after the Atreides arrive on Arrakis, the planet is raided by the Harkonnens, the family’s sworn, centuries-long enemy.

That is, essentially, the plot of the first movie.

“Part Two” picks up after Atreides and his mother, Lady Jessica, join a group of Fremen, the native people of Arrakis. The film follows

the Atreides as they learn the ways of the Fremen and, by extension, the ways of the desert. Paul Atreides forms a relationship with Chani, played by Zendaya, a Fremen girl who briefly appears at the end of the first movie. Their relationship becomes more and more complicated — and strained — as Atreides begins to resemble the Lisan al-Gaib, a prophet from the outer world referenced by the Fremen religion, more and more. Meanwhile, Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, the family’s poster child, seeks to end the Atreides bloodline once and for all.

And that is just the beginning. The film is two hours and 40 minutes long; a lot happens. And its plot only gets harder and harder to explain the further and fur-

ther you go into detail.

I will say, if you do not like “Star Wars,” if you do not like hard scifi, you probably will not like either of the “Dune” movies. The first film is definitely accessible, but the second gets a little bit “weirder.” And while I have not read any of the books, if Warner Bros. decides to adapt “Dune Messiah” or any of the later books, things are only going to get stranger and less accessible.

But if you are up for it, I would highly recommend both movies. And if you like the first film, I think you will love the second. If you do decide to seek it out, please go to a theater. I have had the chance to see it twice, once in IMAX and once in standard digital. Both were wonderful, but seeing it for the first time,

in IMAX, was one of the best moviegoing experiences I have ever had.

I would not be surprised if I end up seeing this movie in theaters five-plus times.

In my opinion, it is a

“Dune: Part Two” movie poster

masterpiece. As far as I can tell, it looks like Villeneuve is going to direct a third film, an adaptation of “Dune Messiah.” If he does, I will be there Day One.

HOMECOMING CONCERT QUAVO

OPINION

BREAK

Continued from page 1

For students, college is, for the most part, the first time that we have been given major responsibilities and our first time navigating the real world. After hustling for half a semester, our daily cup of coffee and protein bar are just not cutting it to cope with the utter exhaustion we have accumulated over the span of three months. We are in desperate need of some downtime after spending weeks staying up until 2 a.m. to finish assignments. Then, we get up and jump from class to class all day, navigate having a job somewhere in between, and participate in our organizations, clubs or Greek Life, all while still trying to have a social life

and time for ourselves.

It is all just too much.

“I think Spring Break is important because it’s a nice time in between all of the craziness of school to step back and reset,” said Rachel Myers, a sophomore marketing major. “Most people have just taken midterms and need a short period of rest to be able to finish the semester strong.”

Spring Break falls in the middle of the semester, and with that comes midterms. The midterm slump is a real thing, and students are feeling its hardcore impact right now. However, in the midst of the midterm mania is the hope that we could be lying on a beach soaking in the sun somewhere after having suffered a lack of vitamin D for far too long. To be honest, sitting

under the fluorescent lights of a dingy classroom is just not cutting it. I need some sunshine and time away from the hustle and bustle of life.

“When you can get away from work, your mind has time to refocus,” said Mary Jo Rapini at Fox 26. “Often, in that refocusing, you’re able to see a different perspective of issues at work and home. Not being stressed with work helps you process ideas more calmly and rationally.”

Being away from school or work for a week is not going to break you; if anything, it will put you back together. It is a great time for us to recenter our mind and put our well-being back on track to get ready for the grind that is the second half of the semester. It actually is a good

break for our minds so that we can work better when we get back from break. We begin to get very irritable, or maybe that is just me, when we have been working hard for too long. Having a break is a good thing so that we are able to be less stressed and actually be able to be productive.

“I’m the kind of student who gets burned out really fast, so for me, Spring Break is at the perfect time in the semester for me to relax, get a break from school and see my friends and family,” said Erin Young, a sophomore exercise science major. “Even though many students don’t get to take a vacation and have other commitments, it is still a great time to take care of our mental well-being.”

As college students,

Atlanta’s kick-off to soccer season

Delaney Derry Opinion Editor

Soccer season is underway! The season began in February. Our home team, Atlanta United, kicked off their season in the heart of Atlanta with the home opener on Saturday, March 9th.

It is officially time for yet another season of turf burns, screaming fans and stands filled with an ocean of red and gold.

This game was the first of 17 home games right here in Atlanta at the one and only Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Atlanta United has been prepping for this season and began their series of home games last weekend against New England.

I do not watch or keep track of a lot of sports, but soccer is different for

me. I will argue that it is the best sport, but that is only my opinion. It is the only sport that I will watch and genuinely enjoy watching. To be completely honest, though, I do not always follow soccer very closely. I know, maybe that makes me a fake fan, but of all the teams in Major League Soccer, Atlanta United is my favorite, and I follow along as best I can. How could it not be? I am from Atlanta, after all. I have to support my home team! I have been going to games since I was a kid and hope that United fans are as hyped as I am for this new season. They did pretty well last season, and I am eager to see them do well this season.

“Last season Atlan-

ta finished sixth in the Eastern Conference with an overall record of 13-12-9,” said Donnell Suggs at The Atlanta Voice. “United scored the second most goals

our weekdays, as well as weekends, are filled with nonstop homework, projects and crying … I mean studying. Anyway, Spring Break is a time for us to stop for a moment and just relax. It is a time for us to get to see our friends and family and get that socialization and downtime that is much needed for our well-being. Even if we do not go on some crazy Spring Break trip to some exotic location and simply go home and hang with

our parents or siblings, visit hometown friends and snuggle our dogs, it can still be a nice break from all of our responsibilities. Instead of worrying about due dates and coordinating dreaded group assignments, the only thing we have to worry about is catching up on some much-needed sleep and resting up to finish out the semester strong in anticipation of summer break!

my opinion. This season they have many new players, and I am hopeful that it makes a positive impact on the team.

ebrate the beginning of the new season, as they do every year to get fans excited for the game and the rest of the season.

in the conference (66) behind Columbus (67).”

United got the second most goals in the whole conference? That is a lot of shots on goal and very impressive, in

According to Atlanta United’s website, the club hosted an annual Block Party at SweetWater Brewing Company before the game.

This event was big! Atlanta United had a whole block party to cel-

“I am very excited for this season because we have a lot of new and young players, so I’m curious to see how they can represent us,” said Taylor Justice, a freshman on the GC women’s club soccer team. “I love watching Atlanta United because I’ve played and watched soccer since I was little, and since getting on the team, I am able to represent my home as well as seeing other people love the sport that I have always loved.”

GC students are so ready for the new season.

I have also played soccer since I was little, just like

Justice, and I love seeing others join in the love for the sport I loved so much as a kid and enjoy even into adulthood. Watching United play is very nostalgic for me because I grew up with soccer. I have played since I was three and spent a lot of time watching and going to games with my dad, so I am so ready for another season of cheering on the sport that raised me.

The hype is real too because United won an excellent match of 4-1 against New England in Saturday’s game. A much-deserved victory for Georgia’s home team.

With that, let us get our noisemakers and all our United gear ready for the rest of this goal-orious season.

Julia Jensen | Art Director

Julia Jensen | Art Director