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Students
A Note From the Editor: Embracing Connections
By Katie Lauriello, Managing Editor & Lead Copy Editor
I began my journey with The Gettysburgian not quite knowing what role I wanted to play. After hearing about copy editing at the fall activities fair in 2021, I decided to try editing for the news section. I can only thank my past self for taking that leap and deciding that The Gettysburgian would stay a part of my life. I did not attend many events or meet new friends throughout my first year, but copy editing news articles every day helped me feel less isolated and gave me a sense of purpose. Each article kept me more engaged with the community than the next.
When the then-editor-in-chief and lead copy editor nominated me for the position of lead copy editor in spring ’24 after I had returned from a semester abroad, I applied for the role immediately. I missed copy editing articles when I went abroad in fall ’23 and checked the website daily to stay updated and linked to the college.
Now I serve as both managing editor and lead copy editor, and I will always be grateful to The Gettysburgian for giving me this opportunity to connect with others. The Editorial Board is filled with talented journalists who share the same passion for storytelling and journalism, and I am happy to work alongside such a great group of people.
We take you in this magazine through conversations around police impersonators and address anxieties surrounding the current government and law enforcement, show student perspectives on the new campus bar in the Plank basement and take a closer look at the Waldo’s café staff. We also highlight the release of Professor Ian Isherwood’s book and preview the sports teams active in the spring semester.
This magazine is a testament to the work of talented and driven student journalists who wish to see the campus informed and connected, and I hope you find a place within it and a story that resonates with you.
Wishing you the best,
Katie Lauriello
Police Impersonator Incident
By Vincent DiFonzo, Editor in Chief,
and Katie Lauriello,
Managing Editor
Professor Ian Isherwood
Politics in Media
By Kenzie Smith, Arts & Entertainment Editor
Managing Editor & Lead Copy Editor, The Gettysburgian Table
Super Bowl LIX
By John Towey and Hailey Clark, Staff Writers
By Nathaniel Swindell, Staff Writer
By Brandon Fey, News Editor
By Owen Kutlu, Sports Editor
Empowerment Through Photography
By Sophie Lange, Features Editor & Social Media Manager
Wendy Halperin is very involved in the Adams County community. In addition to having over 30 years of experience in social work and being the Executive Director of Waldo’s & Company in downtown Gettysburg, Halperin’s latest initiative involves using her passion for natural portrait photography to empower youth and young adults of Adams County who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Titled “Embrace & Empower: LGBTQ+ Youth in Adams County,” the project provides those who choose to participate with individual and group photoshoots and digital portraits in a safe and inclusive space.
Halperin’s interest in natural portrait photography began in her senior year of college when a professor introduced her to Garry Winogrand, a street photographer who worked primarily in black-and-white. When asked what drew her to street photography specifically, Halperin explained, “It’s kind of like photojournalism in a way, but you’re not capturing a specific news story or something like that. You’re capturing a moment in time.”
“Women are Beautiful,” Winogrand’s series published in 1975, acted as an inspiration for Haperin’s future work. She explained that these photos captured women
while they were going about their everyday lives, oftentimes not noticing the camera, which allowed Winogrand to truly capture their emotions in those moments. This is something she has taken with herself throughout her work as a photographer.
tells her they feel that her photos have captured who they are in the way that they would like to be represented. This led her away from street photography, though she still enjoys capturing photos at outdoor festivals such as Pride or Civil War reenactments.
“I went to graduate school in social work, and I got a master's degree in social work. That's 32 years that I've been a social worker. I have kind of taken this being able to understand people and to understand people's emotions in my work as a social worker and a therapist, and I’ve been able to sort of combine that with my photography, sort of being able to understand people's emotions without really talking to them and capturing their stories,” Halperin said.
Throughout the years, she decided to move toward natural portrait photography in an effort to capture images where the subject feels beautiful and seen. For Halperin, the best feeling is when someone
giving high school students pictures of themselves, for the seniors to come back to when they grow up,” Halperin said of the project. “They can get the digital images and keep them for themselves, and keep them private, and be able to look back later on and when they're brought up and say, ‘Wow, this is who I really was back then,’ and feel proud of it.”
The idea of providing a way for individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ with a safe space for self-expression came to Halperin several years ago in the aftermath of several teen suicides in Adams County, some of whom were facing isolation on account of being members of the queer community. The project initially began as a way to provide local high school students who identify as LGBTQ+ with senior portraits at no cost. Originally, it was not meant to be for a grant-funded exhibit but rather just a way to give participants the opportunity to feel beautiful and recognized without having to ask a parent or guardian to pay for it.
“The most important piece is
As the project evolved into its current state thanks to funding from the Adams County Arts Council Nan Hatzes Memorial Grant, Halperin hopes to aid in the efforts to make Adams County more inclusive with a greater focus on belonging. For the most part, she has been focusing on natural light portraits with scheduled appointment times for participants. Additionally, Halperin has already collaborated with organizations such as the Gender and Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC) at the college, Gettysburg Pride and Waldo’s & Company, and all proceeds from the project benefit local nonprofits dedicated to supporting and empowering LGBTQ+ youth, such as the Gettysburg Community Theater.
Those who decide to participate in the project can choose the level of involvement they are most comfortable with, including the possibility of having their portrait featured in a series of three exhibits. The first exhibit is on May 30 at Waldo’s & Company, taking place directly before
their annual Pride Dance Party, and it will serve as the art opening and fundraiser. The second exhibit takes place during June for Pride Month at Waldo’s & Company and Gettysburg Community Theater as part of Gettysburg Pride Festival Weekend. The final exhibit will be in October at the Adams County Arts Council. During this time, the portrait auction will take place. However, participation in these exhibits is optional. Regardless of their decision, all participants will receive free digital images.
Halperin expressed that the most rewarding part of this project has been the way the pictures have been turning out: “It's really just taking pictures of these kiddos that are just out of high school or just about to graduate, having photoshoots, how amazing these pictures have been coming out and how happy they are to have them. I'm doing multiple photo shoots with some of these kids so that they can have pictures. I took some in the spring and some in the fall, and then I'm planning on doing more in the spring of the same people. So they can have multiple pictures of themselves to show how they've evolved over the years, kind of like historical pictures.”
That being said, Halperin also hopes for more young adult participants, particularly students from Gettysburg College. She explained that several students, both individually and in groups, have participated in the project so far, and she has enjoyed the end product of those photoshoots as well.
Interested students can view her portfolio and contact her about the “Embrace & Empower” project via her website (www. wendyhalperinphotography.com).
Photography by Wendy Halperin
Photography by Wendy Halperin
College Responds to Police Impersonation Incident and Campus Anxieties
By Vincent DiFonzo, Editor-in-Chief, and Katie Lauriello, Managing Editor
Shortly after 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, a student was walking near West Stevens and Mummansburg Streets, close to the center of campus, when a dark SUV pulled up alongside them. The driver, described as a white male wearing dark-colored clothes, reportedly demanded the student’s “papers.”
When the student handed over their driver’s license, the man questioned the validity of the document before asking for additional documentation. After telling the student that it is unsafe to walk alone at night, the man reportedly drove off.
The student reported the incident, and after investigating, Campus Safety and the Gettysburg Police Department concluded that the man was not a law enforcement officer in any capacity.
The incident is under investigation by Gettysburg police who opened an investigation on Feb. 5, according to Chief of Police Robert W. Glenny. On Feb. 11, Glenny stated that police are having trouble investigating the incident because the involved student was not cooperating with them.
This was not an isolated incident. Also on the night of Feb. 1, two people impersonated Immigrations and Customs Enforcement officers at Temple University in Philadelphia and attempted to enter a residential hall, leading to the arrest of a Temple student. The other suspects remain at large as of mid-February.
During the first week of classes this semester, rumors of ICE agents being spotted in the town of Gettysburg circled social media. While it is unclear whether or not ICE has operated in Gettysburg
this past month, the rumors have added to anxieties as the amount of deportations nationwide rises.
At a borough meeting held on Tuesday, Feb. 11, Gettysburg Borough Council member Patricia Lawson questioned Chief Glenny about the role of GPD in assisting ICE agents and reporting undocumented immigrants to federal authorities.
Glenny explained that while GPD would not serve ICE warrants, they are legally obligated to provide a supporting role to any federal agency that may operate in Gettysburg.
“It’s not within my purview to allow someone to break the law,” Glenny said.
Gettysburg Police Department Policy 414 was brought up by Lawson. This policy, found in the GPD policy manual, outlines how local police are meant to interact with undocumented immigrants.
“To encourage crime reporting and cooperation in the investigation of criminal activity, all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, must feel secure that contacting or being addressed by members of law enforcement will not automatically lead to immigration inquiry and/or deportation,” reads the policy.
“While it may be necessary to determine the identity of a victim or witness, members shall treat all individuals equally and not in any way that would violate the United States or Pennsylvania constitutions.”
GPD policy states they do not automatically notify federal immigration officials while booking arrestees.
“Any required notification [of federal immigration officials] will be handled according to jail operation procedures. A booked individual will be subject to the release procedures of the jail,” states the policy.
Requests by federal immigration officials for assistance from GPD are required to go through a supervisor, and GPD “may provide available support services, such as traffic control or peacekeeping efforts” to assist federal agencies such as ICE operating in Gettysburg.
Regarding police impersonation, Chief Glenny recommended that anyone stopped by someone claiming to be a police officer should ask for a name and badge number, look for emergency lights and a police laptop inside their vehicle, and if still in doubt, call 911 to verify that the officer is legitimate.
Dean of Students and Vice President for College Life Anne Ehrlich sat down for an interview with The Gettysburgian discussing College Life’s response to anxieties on campus and how changing policies in Washington could affect Gettysburg College students.
“It's natural that people are going to assume that if you're stalked by someone acting like law enforcement, that they are actually law enforcement. But this example, and other examples that I read about around other colleges around the country, indicate that that's not necessarily the case. And unfortunately, this wasn't an isolated incident nationally,” said Ehrlich.
Amid growing anxieties on campus, several campus departments have been handing out informational
pamphlets that inform students of their rights if stopped by police. Campus Safety has been giving students a “know your rights” pamphlet adopted from the American Civil Liberties Union regarding an individual’s rights when they are stopped by police. The pamphlet also includes a guide to filing a complaint with the Gettysburg Police Department.
The public policy department, in conjunction with the public policy student council, recently began collecting student experiences with local police.
“It is so important to us that our students' voices are heard. This semester we will be launching a new initiative to make sure all students on campus know their rights. As this begins, please share any feedback, good/bad you have had with GDP,” wrote the department in an Instagram post.
According to Ehrlich, College Life has also been quietly reaching out to undocumented students to make sure they feel supported and are aware of their rights. For students
who are related to an undocumented person or are concerned about someone’s safety, College Life will assist them as much as they can if they reach out.
“I think sometimes we assume that vulnerable populations know they're supported on campus, and silence can be interpreted in a variety of ways. If you support the rights of immigrants to be in our country, be loud about it,” said Ehrlich. “This is a time where I know at least part of the population of our campus feels demoralized and like there's just so much happening at once. So it's hard sometimes to not lose hope. But there's lots of resources out there on campus and actions that individuals can take in order to stand up for what they believe in.”
College Life and Campus Safety continually communicate with GPD to determine their reach on campus. However, she clarified that because the campus is considered private property, law enforcement officers are not permitted to enter and question people without a judicial or criminal warrant. In the event of such a warrant being presented, the College
is legally obligated to assist law enforcement.
The Gettysburgian has also reached out to Director of International Student Services Brad Lancaster and Assistant Director Rebekah Hurwitz to discuss how their department is addressing student anxieties. For the time being, their focus has been to inform international students of what is happening with the current administration and how it directly affects them.
“Responding to what's going on, getting information out to students quickly and having them understand what changes may be happening that affect them, is the most important thing we could do,” said Lancaster.
Currently, there are no policy directives by the current administration that affect the F1 visa, which grants international students authorization to study at an accredited institution in the United States without immigrating. International Student Services have hosted private informational sessions for international students to answer questions regarding the rights of students in these situations.
“We try and strike a good balance of giving them a safe space that they can come to to talk about these fears, but also being realistic with them in terms of the kind of fear that's being struck in the community versus the facts that we have in terms of what's being implemented and when,” said Hurwitz.
Hurwitz described their goals as “channeling our worry into a more productive action.” This ranges from doing research on executiveorders and making contingency plans to getting students to let off stress through entertaining events. ∎
(Photo William Oehler/The Gettysburgian)
Prof. Ian Isherwood: A Retrospective of His Life at Gettysburg College
By Nathaniel Swindell, Staff Writer
Professor Ian Isherwood ’00 is a professor of war and memory studies at Gettysburg College, where he works in the interdisciplinary studies department as well as the history department as an affiliate. His primary academic focus is the memory of the First and Second World Wars, specifically how those wars are remembered afterward and in the present day, though he has also taught courses on the American Civil War and several other conflicts through the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
Isherwood recently released a new novel, “The Battalion,” which tells the story of Lieutenant Colonel Jack Piers and the service of the British Queen’s 8th Battalion during the First World War. He gave a presentation on the book in the Musselman Library, on Jan. 31, during which he spoke about his experience writing the novel and displayed photos and primary source documents he used in its research.
Isherwood began his work on this novel when he first received a number of documents related to the First World War from a former student of his. He and a team of students and employees at the Musselman Library converted the collection into the Jack Peirs digital history project. Having completed this project, Isherwood realized that the scope of the documents was substantial enough for a larger project, which became “The Battalion.”
Isherwood and his team spent several years researching the 8th Battalion, taking study trips to Europe to consult British archives. The primary focus of the novel was to represent
the stories of individual soldiers that would have otherwise been lost to time.
“I want readers to understand that the First World War was a conflict in which real human beings, real flesh and blood human beings, had to adapt to a horrific environment. They were civilians before they were soldiers,” said Isherwood.
Isherwood’s academic career began as an undergraduate at Gettysburg College where he initially struggled as a student, eventually finding support from the College and his professors. He later earned his master’s degree at Dartmouth College in 2006. His professional career began with WQED Pittsburgh, a PBS radio station for which he worked as a researcher for the documentary “Something about Oakland” about the history of the eponymous Pittsburgh neighborhood. During this time he also worked as a legislative assistant for a state representative and did some local work for a local U.S. Congressman.
“It was official staff work, so I was working on things like transportation, local relations with fire departments, police departments, that kind of thing,” Isherwood recalled.
Isherwood began teaching at Gettysburg College in 2007 as an adjunct professor, originally hired to teach English composition for three semesters. At the time, he remained uncertain of his career goals and did not know whether he ought to consider pursuing a Ph.D. After a short time back at Gettysburg, he quickly became enamored with teaching and developed a passion for working with students. This inspired Isherwood to attend the University of Glasgow, where, in 2012, he earned
his Ph.D in History at the Scottish Center for War Studies.
After writing his dissertation, Isherwood realized that he wanted to expand his reach by turning it into a book. After three years of writing and revising, this resulted in “Remembering the Great War,” which focused on the experiences of WWI and how the conflict was portrayed in memory.
“Of the books that I’ve written, I think that one certainly was the weirdest,” said Isherwood in reference to “Remembering the Great War.” “To try to take what was a Ph.D thesis, that I think was a little bit too sprawling, and to try and narrow it and look at specific themes that emerged out of war literature during the interwar period.”
After earning his Ph.D, Isherwood returned to Gettysburg College as an adjunct professor, and after another year of teaching, he was hired as the assistant director of the Civil War Institute. Four years after accepting this new position, a job opened up in War and Memory Studies under Interdisciplinary Studies, and Isherwood applied and was accepted into the position, where he has remained, working out of his office in Weidensall Hall.
The encouragement Isherwood experienced during his time as an undergraduate has developed into a passionate desire to help his own students both in and outside of the classroom. This passion has kept him motivated throughout his teaching career, as he has frequently participated in several student projects and activities.
“What I realized from the first week I taught was that I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else,” said Isherwood, reflecting on his first
employment as an adjunct professor. Isherwood maintains several longlasting relationships with students he has taught over the years. This is attested to by his office that is full of various historical objects and memorabilia given to him by former students, many of which he uses while teaching classes.
“What I enjoy most about teaching is what we do best at a liberal arts college, which is directly engaging with and learning about and focusing on advising and mentoring people in a very specific time in their lives,” said Isherwood.
More recently, Isherwood went on sabbatical, which began in 2022 when he was selected as the Harold Johnson Chair of Military History at Army War College in Carlisle, where he stayed for a year educating officers in the U.S. Army. While there, he took the opportunity to work on his various literary projects, finishing “The Battalion,” and beginning work
on a new novel called “Remembering America’s Wars.”
“I had some additional time to do research,” said Isherwood. “So I was finishing one edited book project, and then finishing a longer book that eventually became ‘The Battalion.’”
The novel Isherwood is working on at the moment, “Remembering America’s Wars”, is focused on war memory and commemoration in the United States. The book will begin with the memory of the American Civil War, and will then go into the First and Second World Wars, Vietnam and finally the War on Terror. The novel will take some time to complete, possibly a few years, but Isherwood is confident that it will be comprehensive.
“What I’m focused on is the way in which a society memorializes and frames conflicts and violence in a particular way from a long historical perspective,” said Isherwood. “I’m seeing if we can tease out a way in which the themes that come from
Civil War commemoration are then passed onward in American Society, enduring well beyond that conflict, possibly to the present day.”
Isherwood has expressed a great deal of gratitude toward the friends and colleagues he had met at Gettysburg College and has come to greatly appreciate the “uniqueness” of such an environment. He finds the College community, the interaction with students and fellow staff and the opportunity to teach to be incredibly valuable. He believes these are some of the greatest rewards of being an academic.
“I’ve really grown to appreciate the sense of community that comes with a place like this,” said Isherwood.
“One of the things I think you don’t realize when you’re training to be an academic, and then cutting your teeth as a new teacher, is that you’re forming bonds with people at a liberal arts college that will last for your whole career.” ∎
(Photo Sofia Gutierrez The Gettysburgia n)
Postcard from Abroad: On Learning About Myself
By Ella Prieto, Staff Writer
BERLIN, GERMANY —
As soon as I walked into my CIEE Berlin dormroom on my first day of study abroad, I burst into tears. Truthfully, it was far from the first time that day — I cried on the plane when the flight attendant informed me there were no more vegetarian breakfast sandwiches, and then again on the floor of the Berlin airport while waiting for the bus, desperate for a chance to fill up my water bottle. Clearly, the dehydration had gotten to me. But also, I’m a bit of a crybaby. Anyone who really knows me can attest to my inability to hold tears in, something that has travelled with me my whole life.
So on that first day of study abroad, I really wished I wasn’t crying. And as the days went on, the list of my ‘really wishes’ increased. I
really wish the sun would come out. I really wish I was better at pronouncing German words. I really wish I didn’t feel so lonely. I really wish that club didn’t reject me. I really wish I had some Annie’s Mac and Cheese.
Obviously, some are sillier than others, and thus easier to brush off. But the ones that spoke to a deeper side of me peppered with insecurities, made me feel like I had regressed to the first-year version of myself. The one that hated her emotions and would rather assume everyone disliked her than actually try to make friends.
Luckily, I am not my first-year self, and I happened to be in a city full of people who felt they did not belong, yet made a home here. And Berlin itself truly welcomes you through all its eccentricities.
During an orientation day, one of the wonderful CIEE staff members shared a quote from a former mayor of the city. “Berlin ist arm, aber sexy,” translating to: “Berlin is poor, but sexy.” That quote really spoke to me, and I started to see how it could apply to myself. Sure, I was a little emotionally all over the place and hadn’t eaten a vegetable in four days, but I could still have fun and feel great about myself (especially once I finally found a vegetable to eat).
As I filled my days with vintage shopping, learning to cook a few German staples and taking yoga and Zumba classes, I slowly began to not just experience Berlin, but immerse myself in it. And that's the core of what studying abroad is. Sure, it makes for some amazing stories and
cute pictures, but it also provides the opportunity to discover who you are in a completely different setting, allowing you to know yourself better. Though I am only roughly a month and a half in, I am so much gentler with myself than I was before. I’m embracing all the “embarrassing” parts of myself, the crybabyness and more.
So my biggest advice to those studying abroad in their future is: be prepared to learn about not just another culture but yourself as well. While that can be scary, it’s freeing, especially in a place you’ve never been before. Don’t push down your emotions, marinate in them. It will make your experience so much richer, and even at times when you may feel down (or poor), just remember, you’re sexy. :) ∎
Postcard from "Abroad": A Semester in the Nation’s Capital
By Ella Dawson, Contributing Writer
WASHINGTON, D.C., USA —
I never thought I would live somewhere as relevant as Washington, D.C., is today. It is no secret that D.C. is on our country’s and the world’s minds. Following the inauguration of President Donald Trump, D.C. has been abuzz with questions about security, safety, and next steps. When I chose to spend a semester studying in D.C., I did not factor in the aftermath of the Presidential election, and
I certainly did not plan to be in the middle of some of the most heightened moments in political history.
I initially chose to spend my semester in D.C. because I wanted to explore my career and studies off campus, but I wasn’t particularly drawn to studying overseas. Thanks to Gettysburg’s Global Studies office, I was able to find out about Lutheran College Washington Semester, which gave me the
opportunity to broaden my horizons without leaving the country.
My choice to stay in the US and not go abroad was one that many people questioned, but I could not have been happier with my decision. Studying with LCWS has given me the chance not only to study new and interesting content, but also to gain full-time internship experience that ties directly with the career I wish to pursue. My dream has been to work for a non-
focus on in my career. My internship has allowed me to branch out into different career interests and explore new connections. I have learned the ins and outs of development in the non-profit sector, which will leave me well-prepared for graduation in 2026.
profit, furthering goals that align with my values and contribute to the greater good.
I was so fortunate to find and be hired by Campaign Legal Center in my dream role as their Development Intern. With the new administration, our work is crucial in ensuring that democracy remains protected and able to function properly. I get to work proactively on donor research and event planning, skills I hope to
I have also had the opportunity to work with an entirely female team which has made the work I do and the work we do as a team feel all the more important. Every day, I am reminded of how incredible these women are and how lucky I am to learn from them. I did not expect to have an internship as relevant and important as the one I am in, much like I did not expect to be living in such a whirlwind of a city, but both opportunities have given me incredible life skills and experiences that I never could have acquired anywhere else. ∎
(Photos Ella Dawson/The Gettysburgian)
(Photos Ella Prieto/The Gettysburgian)
Progress or Preservation? Gettysburg Station Project Divides the Community
By Brandon Fey, News Editor
Gettysburg maintains a distinct national identity as a town defined by its history. The town’s Victorian architecture has been a consistent representation of a place set in time. However, this historical aesthetic has entered an inevitable clash with efforts at modernization per the town’s future ambitions. This debate has resurfaced with great zeal with the revelation of the “Gettysburg Station Project” which aims to build a modern residential and commercial center on a vacant 2.4-acre lot between Carlisle and Stratton Streets.
The “Gettysburg Station Project” would involve the construction of a high-rise apartment complex with 185 residential units, 15,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space and a parking lot with 95 spaces with a subterranean parking garage. The buildings on the property would range between six to seven stories tall with architectural elements that should aesthetically correspond with surrounding structures. Tim Harrison, the developer behind the project, has also claimed that the design will respect Gettysburg's historic character.
The proposal was designed to correspond with the Central Adams Joint
Comprehensive Plan, which intends to foster economic growth and modern amenities in the region. The plan was developed by officials in Straban, Gettysburg Borough, Cumberland Township and the Adams County Office of Planning and Development over a few years and was officially approved by each municipality in April 2019.
The Dallas-based development firm TCH Development Co., LLC. is tasked with the construction of the complex should the Station Plan be approved.
The new complex would be built adjacent to the Gettysburg Lincoln Train Station, where President Lincoln arrived in 1863 before delivering the Gettysburg Address. The building also served as a field hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg and a point of departure for wounded soldiers. There are concerns among certain community members that the project would obscure this historic site with the unparalleled height of the buildings.
In addition, the project would involve the relocation of the Rabbit Transit station on Stratton Street, which currently provides public restroom
facilities in addition to bus transportation services. Some have argued that moving the station would be a waste of taxpayer money and an inconvenience to residents and visitors alike.
The public revelation of the project in July 2023 has galvanized considerable opposition from the community over the impact the project may have on the historic character of Gettysburg and the implications of that image for supporting heritage tourism.
Several opponents of the project argue that the design of the proposed highrise buildings is too modern and wholly uncharacteristic of the town and will overshadow nearby landmarks, such as the historic train station.
“I don’t know a single person who visits here who wants to see this type of development,” said Peggy Rock, manager of Gallery 30, to abc27. “Everyone loves the small-town charm; that’s why they come here.”
Critics have also raised practical concerns related to infrastructure and community impact. Some expect the influx of new residents and businesses brought by the project to strain local resources including water supply, traffic management and emergency services.
“There’s also, you know, concerns with meeting the infrastructure demands of that amount of people into that area, our water supply, our ability to handle fires because we have a volunteer fire department,” Shelly Knouse, owner of the Fresh Boutique, commented to abc27.
“It’s going to be so crowded on that lot, 2.4 acres, these three large buildings,” Rock continued. “Traffic is going to be an absolute nightmare getting in and out of it. The thing that is most disturbing is that our historical architecture review board has not done their job.”
Opposition to the proposal has been led by the “Save Historic Gettysburg”
campaign, which has organized a public petition with over 3,000 signatures. The organization emphasizes that the proposed project will be detrimental to the town’s crucial heritage tourism industry, as its negative visual impact would extend to iconic views from the National Military Park.
Despite the opposition, some residents have expressed support for the “Gettysburg Station Project.” Proponents of the proposal argue that the development will bring muchneeded housing and economic benefits to the borough. Both former Borough Council President Susan Naugle and Jill Sellers from Main Street Gettysburg have spoken in favor of the project, emphasizing its potential to generate property tax revenue and support local businesses while taking advantage of an empty lot that has been mostly unused for the past 20 years.
Borough Manager Charles Gable has also defended the project, arguing that it will bring economic growth while remaining respectful of Gettysburg’s historic character.
The Gettysburg Historical Area Review Board unanimously approved the project’s design plan in November, and the Borough Council issued a certificate of appropriateness for the building designs the following month per the board’s recommendation. Board President Gary Schaffer made a point of stating that the board had worked closely with the developer to ensure that the project met aesthetic and
other necessary permits. The council is expected to proceed with this approval, as it has already issued the certificate of appropriateness for the project.
However, the project continues to face considerable opposition from both the local community and visitors, which could potentially influence the final decisions of the Zoning Board and Borough Council at least into certain compromises and concessions.
historical architectural standards.
As the debate continues, the future of the Gettysburg Station Project is not guaranteed. The Gettysburg Planning Commission has already given its initial approval to the project, though further steps are still required for definitive approval.
The proposal must next be reviewed by the Gettysburg Zoning Board, which will consider any special exceptions or variances required for the project including the height of its buildings.
Once the recommendations of the Zoning Board revisions have been addressed, the Borough Council will need to give its final approval for the project’s land development plan and any
While the Station Project claims to bring modern housing and economic amenities to the town, several residents have made it apparent that the historic character of Gettysburg and its connection to the town’s tourism industry are of equal importance, and projects like this threaten to permanently augment the town’s image.
As Gettysburg navigates this complex issue, the outcome may serve as a precedent for how the community will balance its demographic needs while honoring its commitment to its historic legacy for the future. Ultimately, it will be the people of Gettysburg who decide what battles are worth fighting, and how history is to confront the future. ∎
Map created by ABC 27 News, Harrisburg
Simulation photo provided by savehistoricgettysburg.com
“Gettysburg Railroad Station (current)” by Smallbones, licensed
Commons.
Opinion: Migrant Workers Are the Perfect Fix to the Immigration 'Problem'
By Joe Zimbler, Guest Columnist
With ICE scouring the streets, politicians of both parties pledging to reduce “illegal” (or irregular) crossings into the country and fear mounting by both American citizens and immigrants, the current situation regarding irregular immigrants must change. However, the solution is far from simple. While the majority of Americans do not support irregular crossings, immigrants are a staple to the economy.
Among other things, they pay over $579 billion in local, state and federal taxes; address America’s rapidly aging population (which, if not addressed, could destroy social security and diminish the workforce) and prop up the American economy with their spending.
On the other hand, an increase in immigrants can result in draining resources (cities spending money to help immigrants can deplete its capital/using up living space) and stretch social and health services (if a town had 100 people with one doctor and 30 immigrants move in, the towns health services may be in trouble). On the topic of increased crime rates, “numerous studies show that undocumented immigration does not increase violent crime.” Nevertheless, immigration has both positive and negative results for the United States.
So, how do we make a system that helps immigrants, decreases irregular crossings and aids American citizens? Improving the already-existing migrant worker
system is a good first step.
Migrant workers, who work in fields ranging from agriculture to housekeepers, restaurant workers and construction laborers, are brought into the U.S. to fill temporary roles before eventually returning to their country of origin. Currently, only four percent of all immigrants in the country are temporary workers. If we use the migrant work system correctly, it can improve our economy, decrease irregular crossings and reduce strain on the country’s resources. How? Let me explain.
The approach taken should be both top down and bottom up or led by both the federal and local governments. For the federal government, they should look to hire migrant workers in fields that are struggling to find employees. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, many industries, such as food service and hospitality businesses, are unable to maintain workers. If Americans won’t work there, why not hire migrant workers to do so? Specifically, the government should determine which jobs need workers and then employ migrants at those locations. This practice would both avoid the fear of stealing jobs from Americans, as they would already be available, and add more taxpayers and economic galvanizers to the economy.
On a more local approach, towns and cities should be able to “apply” for migrant workers in their community. Remember the small town I mentioned whose resources became stranded because of the influx of immigrants? Well, that
town would be able to apply for a migrant worker to work as an additional doctor for the town. That way, the town’s medical services won’t be stretched. Instead of overextending resources, this plan can be used to tackle already existing fund conundrums.
One small town in Florida is so desperate for a doctor its inhabitants have taken to a “nationwide recruitment campaign” to find one. Plenty of well-qualified doctors exist outside the country, so why not recruit one of them? And since towns and cities would be able to apply for migrants, areas already facing a housing crisis can simply not. That is, until their neighbors prosper, and they want to get in on the action.
This plan can also help immigrants, as they will have a guaranteed job when entering the country and can assuage fears by some Americans of desperate and homeless immigrants turning to crime. Additionally, with around 70% of immigrants reported feelings of homesickness during their first year in the United States, the migrant work program would allow them to spend time in the U.S. working before returning to their country of origin. Essentially, they would get the best of both worlds.
Clearly, this extension of the migrant worker program would not solve all the problems surrounding immigration in the United States today. Nevertheless, it is a good starting point, and the government would be wise to give this proposal a chance. ∎
Politics in Media: A Strained Intersection
By Kenzie Smith, Arts & Entertainment Editor & Video Producer
Politics have always been represented in media, from newspapers to online news articles to TV news stations, but as many expanses have changed due to the digital age, so has the way many Americans receive news about politics. Politicians took to campaigning and trying to reach more audiences on social media sites. Some news stations transitioned more into talk shows about current events rather than simply reporting the facts, and other shows, like Saturday Night Live, took to satirizing politics.
There are many voices and forms one can receive their information from, and sometimes people find themselves in an echo chamber of their own and the algorithms’ making. Although it can sometimes be hard to search through and analyze the information being presented, social media also has positive aspects to presenting political information. Many of the younger generations do not watch the news or read newspapers, so information being presented on larger social media platforms reaches important demographics.
Some of the forms also allow for a comedic relief that can help alleviate the sometimes overwhelming political landscape. SNL constantly has skits that satirize the political state of the nation, taking on caricatures of political officials or focusing on specific political issues. One such skit appeared to be a focus on the founding fathers, even featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda, before “Trump” interrupted and took over the show in a recap of his first week in office. The Daily Show also does segments featuring
some of the latest political news while making jokes directly related to the topic. SNL and the Daily Show both post clips on social media platforms, such as TikTok, allowing them to reach wider audiences. In a similar vein, people post political memes to platforms such as Twitter and TikTok. These more comical takes allow for a breath of air from the seriousness of politics while also sometimes sharing important updates and news.
Beyond satirical political discourse and more traditional outlets, political podcasts and YouTube channels have started to become popular, such as Jubilee’s series where one liberal individual had conversations with twenty Trump supporters or its counterpart where one conservative had discussions with twenty-five liberal college students. Many different forms of political dialogue have emerged, some more productive than others, but there is almost a type of media for everyone.
With this more widespread political discourse in media, concerns over bias and credibility are brought into question. Social media and more diverse outlets have allowed for more voices, especially those previously hidden, to have a place to speak, but allowing so many voices also causes misinformation to be easily brewed and spread. Bias is not only limited to social media, as many news sources are also politically aligned one way or the other. This facet brings forth the need for the public to reflect on the source of their information and critically analyze the information. News sources have expanded with the rise of the digital age and have even turned into more satirical and comical representations. With this growth, more generations are able to be engaged with, but the concern with bias and media literacy arise. The role of media will continue to change and mold as the ways information is received and the political landscape change. ∎
Saturday Night Live's Maya Rudolph and Vice President Kamala Harris, who guest starred on the show just before the 2024 Presidential Election.
Opinion: Student Senate is Working For You
By the Student Senate Executive Board and Committee Chairs
For the first time in four years, the Student Senate has truly been working for you. Although prior semesters have been plagued by internal drama, political division and committee dysfunction, the Senate is now poised to carry out its most impactful campus improvement projects in years! Much of the improved functioning can be attributed to our outstanding members and necessary changes to our body’s guiding rules and procedures. With the overwhelming support of more than twenty-five voting members, the Senate crafted a new policy that assigns members to attend a specific committee each week.
This policy has been very successful so far. Committees have had consistent attendance, allowing a greater number of campus improvement projects to be implemented. In addition to our committees’ impressive productivity, the Senate has been able to assist more students and organizations than ever before. We have solved 109 unique student concerns and funded more than 300 club activities and events. In addition, the Senate recently voted to work with Campus Recreation to acquire new gym equipment in order to enhance every student’s experience here at the College. We hope that by partnering with Campus Recreation we can work towards funding the purchase of new machines and/or equipment not currently available in the Jaeger Center.
Now that our seven committees have consistent attendance and membership, we are having one of the most productive semesters since the pandemic.
Firstly, the Outreach Committee made an outstanding return after being out of operation for a few years. They have started new social media initiatives and have been hard at work planning and preparing for our collaborative Senate Open with Listeners and Performers, OSAGL, and the College Houses. The Inclusion Committee has tackled several issues this year, including ensuring that the 33 free menstrual product dispensers installed by the Student Senate in 2019 are stocked and properly labeled. The committee successfully completed an initiative to remove gendered language in the library.
The Inclusion Committee also works to spread awareness of the bias reporting process and educational events on campus. The Opinions Committee has been working on multiple opinions advocating for various campus improvements, such as safer crosswalks on North Washington Street and Carlisle Street. By popular demand, they have also begun advocating for higher-quality toilet paper across campus. More recently, they successfully passed an opinion recommending that campus laundry services be improved.
The College Life Advisory Committee has been working with multiple departments to advocate for higher student employee wages and new gym equipment. The Wellness and Safety Committee had two successful events last semester. Their chalking Peace and Love event and “flipping tables” activity were wellattended and popular. The Wellness and Safety Chair also met with the Gettysburg Police Department and Campus Safety to resolve student concerns regarding weekend policing.
Our Academic and Career Affairs Committee has been collaborating with Dean Theresa Hoover to address accessibility challenges in and outside of the classrooms, advocating for heightened Peer Learning Associate wages, hosting information sessions for student research experiences and assisting with Honor Code changes.
This has been a highly productive year for the Student Senate, and we are looking forward to doing even more! We are devoted to the betterment of our campus community. With responsible financial decisions, the Student Senate has been able to fund more clubs than ever before and take on new initiatives.
From laundry to student worker wages and free menstrual products to improving Campus Recreation, our committees and members are truly starting some great work. All of this is made possible by our members’ dedication to advocating for the needs, wants and opinions of the student body. We look forward to working on new projects this semester! If you have any new ideas or issues that the Student Senate should work to address, feel free to email woodmi02@gettysburg.edu.
Sincerely,
The Student Senate Executive Board and Committee Chairs ∎
Opinion: Senate Does Not Work For You
By Joey Labrie, Guest Columnist
“Senate Works For You,” an innocuous phrase strewn across campus. In recent memory, that has been true, as Senate worked for the student body. Students enjoy the lights over Stine lake installed by former College Life Advisory Committee chair Miranda Zamora ’23 every night. Every day we see the measurable impact of the bike share program installed by chair Drew Lemon ’24. Today, the new chairs discuss soft serve ice cream dispensers in Servo, or even spending thousands of dollars of tuition money for standup desks as the college struggles through a financial crisis.
of apathy has taken hold over the institution and its highest leadership.
Considering all that has happened in the past five years, who could blame a pandemic mindset for setting in? The inability of Senate leaders to adapt has become increasingly concerning.
so fraudulently, the Executive Board effectively created a system to remove all opposition within the institution in under 30 minutes, creating pure dictatorial power for an organization that manages over $90,000.
Editor’s Note: The opinions published in this section are those of the individual writers and are in no way representative of the views of The Gettysburgian staff, The Gettysburgian or Gettysburg College. The Gettysburgian is committed to being a marketplace of ideas for the campus community. We invite community members who want to write an opinion to contact editors@gettysburgian.edu.
A chairmanship once viewed as a stepping stone to student body president—with the above chairs being elected to that office — has experienced a sharp decline mirroring the degradation of the institution as a whole. Even more recently, Senate debated installing a swing set using funds earmarked for campus improvements from an inaccessible lockbox. What was once a prestigious and powerful institution meaningfully contributing to student life has devolved into a body marked by out-of-touch priorities and a culture of apathy. The Executive Board meant to lead it has shown itself to be blunderous, factionalized, and ruled by personal animus instead of the steady hand it must be. Senate may have once worked for you, but it simply doesn’t anymore.
Having served in Senate from all levels, from voting-member to the executive board and class officer, I’ve seen challenges from many perspectives. While there are many students in Senate who faithfully serve their community, a culture
I tried myself to legislate change, hoping to build accountability for a system that increasingly bucked responsibility. Unfortunately, successive administrations would fail to take up this mantle or simply ignore it. The issue with legislating culture is that it cannot be achieved through policy alone; it requires consistent leadership, active engagement and a collective commitment to change. Actions, attitudes and priorities shape culture, and without leaders who are willing to address apathy head-on, even the most well-crafted policies will fall short. Increasingly, these policies are outright ignored in favor of expediency to the detriment of students.
For years, there’s been growing issues within Senate, but this year it became abundantly clear that the priorities of the Executive Board were less about governance and more about personal aggrandizement. While examples within the past five months are too numerous to name, in my opinion, the most egregious event recently occurred.
In the process of passing policy, the Executive Board violated four different portions of the Constitution, and when I attempted to use my expertise to correct the deficiencies, I was ignored and threatened. In daring to speak up, I was threatened with censure by apparent personal friends of the board.
Invoking a lack of impartiality and personal bias, I was never recognized again during my term, including giving reports from my constituents or making motions to modify policy or budgets. Further, in passing policy
I resigned my seat as a senator for the class of 2025 for two reasons: in protest of what this board has become and to ensure that my class had proper representation despite the personal bias that was exhibited. At the time of writing, my former voting seat remains vacant and unfilled by the Executive Board, ensuring that the class of 2025 is underrepresented.
Fundamentally, the solution is not found by looking backward but rather moving forward. Senate needs a new direction guided by the next generation of Gettysburgian leaders. To the firstyears, sophomores and juniors who feel disconnected from what Senate has become, it is your time to pick up the mantle. In the last campus-wide election — which had record student voter turnout — only 23% of students voted. In most elections, it can take less than a few dozen votes to gain a voting seat or simply win by default. This is not representative of the student body or its priorities. If you truly want Senate to work for you, it starts with you working for Senate — whether by running for a position or voting out those who let apathy fester. Change begins when you step up, take action and lead the way. ∎
Editor’s Note: The opinions published in this section are those of the individual writers and are in no way representative of the views of The Gettysburgian staff, The Gettysburgian or Gettysburg College. The Gettysburgian is committed to being a marketplace of ideas for the campus community. We invite community members who want to write an opinion to contact editors@gettysburgian.edu.
Plank Gym, Basement to Bar: Student Perspectives
Compiled by Gettysburgian Editorial Board Staff
By Annie Weaver '26
I have mixed opinions on the bar in Plank Gym. I think a lot of the renovations made to the basement make it a fun place to hang out with my friends now and then. It’s a nice alternative to getting alcohol, as a lot of people go to fraternity parties to drink. That being said, I think that it’s an interesting use of the college’s money to install a place to get alcohol, as underage drinking definitely happens at this school, and frats create a space for that to happen. Sure, the new bar is probably a safer alternative compared to drinking frat “juice”, but for students not legally able to drink—which is most first years, sophomores and even a fair amount of juniors—the Plank Gym bar obviously cannot be an alternate drinking option. It kind of defeats the purpose of having a
new campus bar, especially when we have one already at the Attic. I think it is convenient that it’s much closer to the rest of campus than the Attic, but the Attic is also a better space for school-sponsored parties, dances and live music than Plank Gym is. I do think that if the school’s goal is to draw more people to the Plank Gym bar over other social events such as fraternity parties, they should also appeal more to the non-drinking crowd by supplying better snacks than popcorn and hot pretzels. I don’t really think that the bar is a bad thing, but I still feel a bit confused by it. ∎
By Paul Zaim '28
I believe that the new Plank Bar is a great addition to the campus atmosphere, providing a new casual gathering place right in the
heart of campus on Friday and Saturday nights. I’m excited about the opening of the outdoor beer garden after Spring Break, and I think it will become a very popular place as time goes on and the weather warms up. ∎
By Elise Dailey '26
I appreciate the concept of the Campus Bar, and the drink options actually aren’t that bad. However, I don’t understand the reasoning for putting in the money to build the area and to supply the bar with alcohol instead of investing in other areas of campus. ∎
By Jeffrey Torrieri '27
The social space in Plank Basement offers a new dimension to the opportunities that Gettysburg College students have
to interact with on campus. The casual environment makes it easy and fun to relax there after a long week. Having the movie theater, game room, and LP room included in and around the space makes it easy for people with varying interests and weekend plans to enjoy its offerings. Personally, I have been at the social space each week since its opening at the beginning of the semester, and each time l've had a great experience socializing with my friends and brothers while also feeling like I was an active part of campus and its culture. ∎
of campus that could have used the money spent on the bar, not to mention the cost of alcohol that will be burning a hole in the College’s pocket. Despite my skepticism, I appreciate the bar for offering a new social space to meet with friends and relax over the weekend, and I wonder how the space will develop. With some time and care, I can see it becoming a central hub on campus. ∎
By Ewan Cross '26
By Katie Lauriello '25
The new bar in Plank basement offers a cozy hangout spot where you can get drinks without going to a fraternity. They have a nice selection of free drinks and cheap food along with non-alcoholic drinks for underclassmen. However, I question the use of campus funds on a bar, specifically. Though it makes sense in terms of building social connections, there are other parts
By Emma Blackman '25
I had no idea what to expect when I first heard about the new basement bar. At first, my criticism was that it displaced offices in Plank used for student and faculty purposes and other rooms allocated for extracurriculars, but I think it has great potential to bring the student body together. The space does a good job of focusing more on social presence in the middle of campus, which is nice. Like most, I wish funds were focused on the ongoing challenges and complaints coming from the student body. ∎
The new basement bar in Plank is one of the best things that Gettysburg college has done for student life in the past 3 years that I've been here, and it honestly surpassed my expectations. When I heard there was a new social area opening in Plank I was initially confused and then laughed it off as a rumor, but when it actually opened I was excited to show up and it was better than I expected. The drinks are free and they have a decent selection, particularly in regards to ciders and seltzers. I was concerned that the food would be expensive, but the popcorn is free and the pretzels are only a dollar per, definitely worth it for the cinnamon pretzels they have there. The environment feels pretty academic and there are classrooms all around, and it is a much better executed idea than I thought it would be. ∎
The Gettysburgian
Students can enjoy the new social space on campus with host provider beverages and low-priced snacks.
The Plank Basement Bar & Eatery is stocked with plenty of cold drinks and salty snacks.
Super Bowl LIX Recap: End of the Dynasty?
By John Towey and Hailey Clark, Staff Writers
Who had a worse night: Drake or Patrick Mahomes? Super Bowl Sunday is a coveted American holiday. Two teams face off in what is supposed to be the most highly anticipated game of the year. However, the matchup this year was unsurprising and unexciting, but maybe we’re biased as Giants and Commanders fans. Regardless, the Chiefs were looking to dominate the NFL with their third consecutive Super Bowl, a feat that has never been accomplished. And so, most of America was looking to Jalen Hurts and the Eagles to save them from seeing the Chiefs succeed again.
Hosting a record 11 Super Bowls, New Orleans opened the doors of the Caesars Superdome to thousands of attendees and a record 127.7 million viewers at home. America was tuned in to witness one of Patrick Mahomes’ worst games in his seven-year career and the rise of the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Kansas City Chiefs were a tale of two teams this season. On one hand, their 15-2 record showed total domination. However, when you looked closely at the team, some things didn’t add up. A few different bounces of the ball and the Chiefs could have easily had an 8-9 record or worse. Some notable instances are a blocked field goal against Denver, a late Raiders fumble and a double-doink field goal against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Their strategy for their success was their fantastic defense, which compensated for their inconsistent offense. DC Steve Spagnuolo is one of the greatest defensive minds in the league, having won a Super Bowl with the New York Giants and three with Kansas City.
Something was missing from Kansas City’s offense this season. It was
probably the left tackle. Patrick Mahomes put up average numbers, which is a disappointment, considering the additions of wide receivers Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown and DeAndre Hopkins. Going into the game, Kansas City was favored by 1.5 points.
Things were not looking good for the Philadelphia Eagles at their bye week. They were sitting at a 2-2 record and coming off a blowout loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It was a less-thanideal start for the team, considering they lost five of their last six games last season before a wild card blowout loss.
The pressure was on Nick Sirianni, who was working with new coordinators for the second season in a row. Could he salvage the team? Luckily for him, he made the right hires. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio subbed out Avonte Maddox as slot cornerback and started secondround pick Cooper DeJean. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore shifted his offense to be more run-focused to
utilize Saquon Barkley.
The Eagles’ turnaround would not have been possible without several strong off-season additions. The biggest signing was Giants running back Barkley, but they also elevated their secondary by signing safety CJ Garnder-Johnson and drafting Quinyon Mitchell in the first round and Cooper DeJean in the second. The most surprising success has been inside linebacker Zack Baun, who was a backup outside linebacker through most of his career but switched to the inside this season to great success. Similarly, the Eagles signed Jets offensive tackle Mekhi Becton to guard, where he has seen even more success than his previous role.
It was clear that the Eagles were going to dominate the Chiefs immediately. The second unanswered touchdown had many questioning Mahomes’ ability to achieve his signature comeback. The first quarter was uneventful, with punt after punt until the end when Hurts ran up the middle and scored the first points of the game.
The second quarter went just like the first, with Elliott kicking for the Eagles to give them a 10-0 lead. Then Mahomes started to slip up, and the Eagles were unofficially cemented as Super Bowl LIX champions. DeJean’s pick six gave the Eagles a 17-0 lead and Mahomes threw another interception that allowed AJ Brown to score yet another touchdown for the Eagles. Philadelphia ended the first half up 24 points, leaving Kansas City in the dust.
The halftime show is always looked forward to, as some of the greatest artists take the biggest stage, and this year was no exception. Kendrick Lamar’s performance was rife with symbolism from Samuel L. Jackson’s appearance as Uncle Sam to his notso-subtle referencing of Drake.
The show started with Jackson popping up as Uncle Sam and introducing Lamar’s set as “The Great American Game.” Then Lamar took the stage, but Uncle Sam declared many of his songs to be “too loud, too reckless, too ghetto,” leading Lamar to perform some of his more well-known songs.
But that didn’t stop Lamar from making bold statements throughout his show. The largest was through the symbolism of the American flag.
During his performance of “Humble.”, dancers dressed in red, white and blue were positioned to create a divide, symbolizing the current divide in American politics.
Perhaps the most newsworthy part of the Super Bowl Halftime Show was Kendrick Lamar’s dissing of Drake.
The two rappers have an ongoing feud, but after the release of Lamar’s track
“Not Like Us,” things between the two had died down. Until Lamar was up to perform on the nation's biggest stage, and America wanted him to play his five-time Grammy-winning diss track.
He even teased the audience with its infamous beat and reference to Drake’s lawsuit against it before he played the song toward the end of his set. Lamar even brought out SZA and Serena Williams, two of Drake’s exes to rub in his victory. Lamar’s performance at the Super Bowl was not what many expected, but it was a poetic reflection on American history and politics as well as the final blow to Drake.
The second half started slow with a Kansas City punt and a Philadelphia field goal. At this point, a Chiefs' comeback truly felt beyond possibility.
It looked like Matt Nagy and Andy Reid could not adjust their offense.
It is hard to say whether it was the departure of OC Eric Bieniemy or
WR Tyreek Hill a few seasons ago that started Kansas City’s decline in offensive production, but this game certainly felt like an exposure of gaps that had previously gone unnoticed.
Jalen Hurts hit DeVonta Smith for a precise 46-yard touchdown that effectively iced the game toward the end of the third quarter, putting the Eagles up 34-0.
Kansas City began to fight back with a touchdown to Worthy but failed the two-point conversion. Philadelphia ended the third quarter with a field goal and started the fourth by recovering a Kansas City fumble.
The fourth quarter saw another Eagles field goal with a score of 40-6. Kansas City was able to score two more touchdowns and complete the twopoint conversions, leaving them down 40-22. The second touchdown was a remarkable 50-yard dot by Mahomes for Worthy again.
Several groups on campus held watch parties for this year’s big game. Dining services served Kansas City loaded fries and Philly poppers, allowing students to pick their desired team. The Newman Association held a wing dinner and a watch party as well as RISE House. The rest of campus were watching privately, but the energy was electric when the Eagles won their second Super Bowl. Chants and cries could be heard from the dorms all throughout campus and a group of students gathered on Stine Lake in celebration.
All in all, while it might not have been the most competitive Super Bowl, it had memorable highlights and a strong halftime performance. It remains to be seen if the Philadelphia Eagles can continue to capitalize on their strong roster and if Kansas City will be able to bounce back in the future. ∎
Residents and friends of Humor House enjoy the Super Bowl showdown.
(Photos Grace Jurchak/The Gettysburgian)
An Overview of Gettysburg Spring Sports
By Owen Kutlu, Sports Editor
As the spring semester unfolds, Gettysburg College’s athletic teams gear up for another exciting season. With a mix of returning stars, fresh talent, and championship ambitions, the Bullets are poised to make waves in the Centennial Conference and beyond. Here’s a look at each spring sport and what to expect this season.
Men’s Lacrosse
Among Gettysburg’s most storied programs, men’s lacrosse enters the season with high expectations. After a strong finish last year, the Bullets are determined to reclaim their spot among the national elite. Jack Dunleavy ’25 and Charlie Johnson ’27 lead the scoring for a young, balanced roster that has the tools to make a deep postseason run. Games against conference powerhouses like Dickinson and Swarthmore will be key. Gettysburg begins the season ranked nineteenth in the country.
Women’s Lacrosse
Yearly contenders, the women’s lacrosse team is eyeing another Centennial Conference championship and a deep NCAA Tournament run. Lily Macatee ’25, Julia Daly ’26, and Julie Breedveld ’26 highlight the impressive group that has a solid blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent. A showdown with Franklin & Marshall could decide the regular-season title. The women hold the ninth spot in the national rankings to start the year.
Baseball
The Bullets baseball team looks to build on last season’s competitive run. With a strong returning lineup, including standout hitters like Jack Pitsner ’25 and Jack Burke ’25, and a deep pitching rotation, Gettysburg will aim to climb the conference standings. Key games against rivals including Johns Hopkins and Franklin
& Marshall will reveal what the team is made of. Consistency at the plate and solid defense will be critical for their postseason hopes.
Softball
Coming off a Centennial Conference championship, the softball team is set to challenge for the title once again. With experienced players leading the charge and a few new faces looking to make an impact, the team’s depth will be a strength. If the pitching staff, led by Paige Forry ’25, can continue to keep opposing hitters in check, expect Gettysburg to be a contender down the stretch.
Men’s Tennis
The men’s tennis team looks to build momentum after a steady climb in the standings last season. With returning talent bolstering the roster, Gettysburg hopes to challenge top conference opponents. Captain Mikey Fellman ’25 heads a lineup that is looking for answers in many spots. If the team can find stability in the unproven youngsters, they will be a dangerous squad to see down the stretch. Doubles play will be a crucial factor in their success, and an early stretch of tough matches will test the team’s ability to deal with adversity.
Women’s Tennis
The women’s tennis team is coming off another solid season and enters the spring with confidence. Sarah Guistwite ’25 and Avery Palandjian ’26 anchor the top of the singles lineup, but the key to their success will come down to the depth of the roster against top-tier competition. If they can stay consistent, they have the potential to be a surprise contender in the conference.
Men’s Golf
After a third place finish at last year's conference championship, the men’s
golf team is prepared to improve upon their performance. Daniel Suter ’25 and Patrick Kilcoyne ’26 posted promising scores in the fall, and the team will turn to them to lead the charge. Early season tournaments will be crucial for fine-tuning their game. Consistency on the greens will be a large factor in determining their long-term success.
Women’s Golf
The women’s golf team enters the spring season with momentum after a solid fall showing. With aspirations of finishing atop the Centennial Conference, the group will need the sister duo of Chloe Barton ’27 and Lucy Barton ’27 to continue to step up. Behind them, if the depth can deliver under pressure, Gettysburg could find itself in the title conversation.
Men’s Track & Field
Speed, strength and endurance define the men’s track & field team as they prepare for another season. Key returners in sprint and distance events will set the pace, while the field event specialists aim to rack up points. Conference meets will be a true test as they look to improve on last year’s results.
Women’s Track & Field
The women’s track & field team is ready to showcase its depth. With standout runners, jumpers, and throwers coming back, Gettysburg has a balanced roster capable of competing at a high level. If they can stay healthy and peak at the right time, they have the potential for a strong postseason push. With talent and determination, Gettysburg College’s spring sports teams are primed for success. Whether on the field, court, or track, the Bullets are ready to make their mark this season. Keep an eye on these teams as they chase conference titles and beyond! ∎
The Crossword
By Cassidy Haines, Magazine Editor
Across
1. In EA’s The Sims, the Create-A-Sim tool is referred to as ___ to shorten it. (abbr.)
4. Being “in the ___” is another way to say being focused on doing something.
6. A shore is also called a ___, since it lines the boundary between land and sea.
8. This kind of cheese can also be a name!
10. To be fair (abbr.)
12. Search engine optimization (abbr.)
13. It’s important to teach children to __ their toys with others.
15. In math, the X-__ and Y-__ are used to plot coordinates.
17. __ to do your homework, don’t forget!
19. The parking __ closest to Glatfelter is Constitution __.
20. Quarry __ is unfortunately closed at the time of publication — avian influenza!
23. To scorch or burn something.
24. The tallest mountain in the world.
25. The basic unit of a chemical element.
28. A standing string instrument that you play by plucking.
29. The central part of something, such as inside a fruit or inside the Earth.
30. In a will, the __ is all the money and possessions owned by a person.
32. Before you turn 20, you’re considered one of these.
34. A small, corkscrew-shaped pasta with a name meaning “small wheels” in Italian.
37. Can be another word for 4 Across, or something you’d measure alongside perimeter.
39. ___ of food such as soups, beans, and vegetables are often non-perishable.
41. This kind of food is baked using a covered dish; popular examples are baked ziti, green bean ___ and even lasagna.
42. A “___ or cranny” is a secluded corner or crevice offering solitude and security, and they’re often good places to read books.
43. Past tense of a verb that relates to going too quickly.
Down1. Video game consoles come with a __ or two to play on.
2. To “play ___” is to pretend to be asleep or unconscious when threatened.
3. The opposite of minus; another way to say also.
4. A striped animal that looks a lot like a horse.
5. The day before a holiday can be called its ___.
7. In a ___, you’ll want an umbrella and coat.
9. The Tyrannosaurus __ was known for its menacing teeth and tiny arms.
11. A stronghold, or a strongly fortified town.
14. He/him, she/__, they/them and I/me are examples of pronouns.
16. Plural; this word refers to matter that settles at the bottom of a liquid, especially the ocean or bodies of water.
18. A short piece of a written work is also called an ___.
20. As long as the team ___ enough, they’ll be able to win the game.
21. The parent company of Facebook and Instagram.
22. This term refers to an additional or different thing than one already mentioned; “Give me the __ one, not that one.”
26. To tip-___ is to step very lightly and quietly.
27. In mining, ___ is a deposit where material can be extracted profitably; for example, iron or copper.
31. ___ and field requires a lot of running.
33. A ___ houses farm animals like pigs and cows.
35. If something is ___, then it isn’t closed.
36. A restaurant chain known for its pancakes (abbr.)
38. American Sign Language (abbr.)
40. This term is French (when it has an accent over its second letter) and indicates the maiden or family name of a married woman.
Grace
Brandon
David
Kenzie
Sophie
Owen
Sarah