University students who attended Saturday’s defeat of Louisiana-Lafayette can check-off one more milestone: tradition No. 16 Watch a Game Between the Hedges.

The “G Book” is the official traditions handbook of the University, produced and distributed by the Student Alumni Association, and will be available today at Brumby Beach.

In fact, just by reading this paper students have completed tradition No. 5: The Red & Black.

Established in 1915, the “G Book” was a mandatory handbook students were required to carry in their front pockets. Back then, it included the code of conduct, names of administration officials and school cheers.

“[We want students] to walk in their first semester and understand the history and traditions of the University,” said Alan Goodno, president of the SAA. “Students should gain an appreciation of where you are.”

Absorbing the alumni advice book, “If I Only Knew Then,” the SAA sought to encourage students to develop their own memories while still aware of the history and traditions of the University and its alumni.

The “G Book” is the foundation of a scrapbook with space allotted for students’ photos to personalize their copy.

“It’s a living testament,” said Goodno. “[When I arrived here] I had no prior loyalty … I was never really a Georgia fan until I got here.”

The SAA has ordered 5,000 copies of the “G Book” for distribution, with a goal of delivering 1,000 at today’s event.

To encourage participation, the SAA, in conjunction with the UGA Alumni Association, is beginning the Tradition Keeper Program.

After students have completed 20 traditions and brought their book to one of the monthly alumni meetings for verification, they’ll be given a lapel pin.

After 40 traditions have been completed, a student will be awarded a plaque with their name.

The SAA did not work alone in developing the list of traditions.

“The University Union, Resident Association, Arch Society and all the Greek counsels contributed,” said Goodno. “We also worked with Georgia Tech and Kentucky who already had similar books. Now Ohio State is working on developing their own.”

New traditions added to the 2010-11 edition of the “G Book” include “Traditions of All Time” and the “Traditions of Our Time,” including attending a Greek event, sustainability, study abroad, senior signature and 100 days to graduation.

While the “G Book” is targeted at freshmen, all students are encouraged to pick up a copy.

“My favorite tradition is the arch. Its been around for so long – since 1910,” Goodno said. “[But] no matter where you were, what class you’re in, this is your book.”

Each book is free of cost, no donation or SAA/UGAAA membership is needed.

For students unable to attend today’s event, books will be available at all SAA functions.

G Book Kickoff
When: 5 p.m. today
Where: Brumby Beach
Price: Free

MORE G BOOK?
Late night Snelling,
Homecoming Parade,
Literary societies,
The Chapel Bell,
Dawgs After Dark,
Georgia – Florida game
Jittery Joes
Street Painting (on Sanford)