From first glance, O’Dellshae Wiles was polite, carried herself well and spoke with a smile. She had a colorful personality and a positive way to look at life; you just get that kind of vibe when speaking with her from the beginning and it stayed that way throughout the interview. Also known as Shae, she was born in Durham, North Carolina at Duke University Hospital on April 23, 1989. Whether she is or is not a Duke fan she keeps a mystery. Raised all her life in Ringgold, Virginia she described herself as a “little country bumpkin.” How she was drawn to Maryland and the Frostburg State University campus was confusing at first, but after finding out she is a country girl it made sense. The pictures on the school site attracted her to come up and take a look for herself. When she saw the mountains she automatically fell in love. Majoring in English literature, she plans to become an English teacher or professor right out of college and someday attend law school to pursue a position as a lawyer. She has strong ambitions to be successful, travel the world (her favorite place being Brazil), and publish her first poetry book.
Back in high school she was quite the athlete, playing basketball and running track, competing in shot put, discus, and the 100 meters. Her taste in music is broad, listening to anything that sounds good at the time and any genre. Her favorite color, green, signifies growth, rebirth, and fertility. She loves working with colors as she experiments with designs and doing nails. She also loves writing poetry and short stories, which hint to her major in English literature. Miss Wiles is also an older sister to two siblings, a brother and sister, mentioning that being the oldest has its perks but she “Wouldn’t trade ‘em for the world.”
When a question came up about cars, they were not her biggest interest, but if she could have one, a 1957 Bel Air would be the first on her list. She explained that the car resembles the original batmobile (Batman being her favorite superhero) and is a classic. So she may not have a love for cars but she most certainly has got taste. She did indicate that she likes big rigs and wanted to eventually drive one for fun in the future.
Towards the end of the interview, Shae was asked if she could describe herself in 3 words what would they be and she responded with colorful, creative, and indecisive, which after twenty minutes of interviewing became noticeable as her sweet and optimistic qualities began to show. She then proceeded to add about herself that “If I were alone seventy-five percent of my life, I would be happy,” explaining that she likes to spend time alone and quickly added that “Everybody knows me as a loner.”
It was interesting to get to know Miss Wiles and how truly intriguing a personality can be. I hope that future individuals who get to know O’Dellshae TruVarsha Wiles sees what I saw, a kind and intelligent person who enjoys the beautiful things in life.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
The Devin Salley
Laidback, Passionate and Heart-ful were the words Devin Lawrence Salley used when asked in his interview on September 3 to describe himself in three words. He added “Deep down inside I got heart, although I am a hard person to understand – a hard case to crack.” This could possibly be foreshadowed by his preference of dark and basic colors such as white and black. When it comes to colors Devin says his motto is “Keep it simple.” Devin is a very quiet person. He stated that his friends nicknamed him Kenny from the cartoon South Park, solely because of Kenny’s quietness in the show. “I don’t talk unless spoken to or I have something to say,” said Devin.
When ask about his birthplace and home Devin replied, "DC born, Maryland raised." Devin was born on March 13, 1989 at the Sibley Hospital in the District of Columbia. He currently resides in Montgomery County in Germantown, Maryland. Devin is also an only child which could also explain his quiet nature. He graduated from Seneca Valley High in 2007, where he ran track and played his favorite sport football. Devin’s tall, slim athletic build possibly hints toward his interest in sports. Devin is the son of former Shepherd University player Larry Salley. His father played for the university 1975-1978, where he and his team became the first team WVIAC All-Stars from ’76-’78. Larry Salley led the team in sacks in ’77 with five and eight in ’78 and was voted All-American the same year. Salley later played two years for the Houston Oilers. Devin’s father’s years playing football shed more light on why Devin has a love for the game of football.
“I like to live a carefree life that school doesn’t allow” Devin followed this statement later in his interview saying, “I think childhood, elementary school, was the best time of my life, because there was nothing to worry about.” He is currently a junior at Frostburg State University and an Exercise and Sports Science major. He would like to obtain a certification in strength and conditioning and also become a collegiate or professional football coach after graduating college. To date Devin feels his greatest accomplishment came in the spring of 2009 when he ended the semester with a 3.0 GPA. “I was in a hole mid-semester, but I pulled it off.” Although Devin is like so many students who are not excited by school, he expressed that he enjoys history. He is especially fond of learning about wars and the history of the United States.
Despite his quiet nature, Devin possesses a subtle humor. When asked if he liked animals he quickly responded, “Me and animals have an understanding” he added that he has a dog, a Doberman, named Titan. The one item that Devin could not live without is his iPod, which goes in hand with his enjoyment of music. One of Devin’s favorite pastimes is listening to R&B Soul, Motown and Old Skool. Other times he can be found lifting weights, working out to stay in shape and hanging out with his “people.” From the fourth to the ninth grade Devin was dead set on joining the Air Force and becoming a fighter pilot, suggesting that he has an adventurous side. Devin has a love for cars, especially American muscle cars. He would like to restore at least two muscle cars. Along with his love for music and cars Devin has a desire to travel. The Vatican in Italy, because of its beauty and magnificent structures, is one place Devin would love to visit. He also would like to visit Puerto Rico in the future as well as re-visiting Jamaica.
Devin Salley at first glance appears to be just the average, quiet college student with a nice smile; however, like Marvel’s Transformers “there is more than meets the eye.” Devin’s goals and determination set apart from many. His direct and thoughtful speaking is a sign of greatness in the making. His interests showcase versatility ranging from his love of history, to music and eye for vintage muscle cars, leading anyone to believe that Devin is possibly a jack of all trades. Although Devin would prefer to keep it simple when choosing colors he is far from simple when examined more closely.
When ask about his birthplace and home Devin replied, "DC born, Maryland raised." Devin was born on March 13, 1989 at the Sibley Hospital in the District of Columbia. He currently resides in Montgomery County in Germantown, Maryland. Devin is also an only child which could also explain his quiet nature. He graduated from Seneca Valley High in 2007, where he ran track and played his favorite sport football. Devin’s tall, slim athletic build possibly hints toward his interest in sports. Devin is the son of former Shepherd University player Larry Salley. His father played for the university 1975-1978, where he and his team became the first team WVIAC All-Stars from ’76-’78. Larry Salley led the team in sacks in ’77 with five and eight in ’78 and was voted All-American the same year. Salley later played two years for the Houston Oilers. Devin’s father’s years playing football shed more light on why Devin has a love for the game of football.
“I like to live a carefree life that school doesn’t allow” Devin followed this statement later in his interview saying, “I think childhood, elementary school, was the best time of my life, because there was nothing to worry about.” He is currently a junior at Frostburg State University and an Exercise and Sports Science major. He would like to obtain a certification in strength and conditioning and also become a collegiate or professional football coach after graduating college. To date Devin feels his greatest accomplishment came in the spring of 2009 when he ended the semester with a 3.0 GPA. “I was in a hole mid-semester, but I pulled it off.” Although Devin is like so many students who are not excited by school, he expressed that he enjoys history. He is especially fond of learning about wars and the history of the United States.
Despite his quiet nature, Devin possesses a subtle humor. When asked if he liked animals he quickly responded, “Me and animals have an understanding” he added that he has a dog, a Doberman, named Titan. The one item that Devin could not live without is his iPod, which goes in hand with his enjoyment of music. One of Devin’s favorite pastimes is listening to R&B Soul, Motown and Old Skool. Other times he can be found lifting weights, working out to stay in shape and hanging out with his “people.” From the fourth to the ninth grade Devin was dead set on joining the Air Force and becoming a fighter pilot, suggesting that he has an adventurous side. Devin has a love for cars, especially American muscle cars. He would like to restore at least two muscle cars. Along with his love for music and cars Devin has a desire to travel. The Vatican in Italy, because of its beauty and magnificent structures, is one place Devin would love to visit. He also would like to visit Puerto Rico in the future as well as re-visiting Jamaica.
Devin Salley at first glance appears to be just the average, quiet college student with a nice smile; however, like Marvel’s Transformers “there is more than meets the eye.” Devin’s goals and determination set apart from many. His direct and thoughtful speaking is a sign of greatness in the making. His interests showcase versatility ranging from his love of history, to music and eye for vintage muscle cars, leading anyone to believe that Devin is possibly a jack of all trades. Although Devin would prefer to keep it simple when choosing colors he is far from simple when examined more closely.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Charles Benjamin Gearhart III
Charles Benjamin Gearhart III is a 21 year old student at Frostburg State University. He is a very open and friendly person. He was born on July 15, 1985 at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland. His friends often refer to him as Chucky, Mr. Gearhart is an English major with a minor in literature: “I get to read books all day.” When deciding on which university to attend, he had many different reasons why he chose Frostburg State: “I had a friend there, the English department definitely impressed me, I figured why not? It was cheap, it was in state, it was just close enough to drive to.” Speaking of transportation, Charles currently drives a Honda CRV, “All I know is that I can fit a keg in the back and I can get to Baltimore and Frostburg in one tank and back.”
His extended family resides along the east coast, with his mother’s side from New England and his father’s family is from Pennsylvania: “My grandmother makes great squirrel stew.” Although he was born in Maryland, Chucky has lived many different places throughout his life. At the age of three he moved to Minnesota and then moved to California at age ten: “It was nice at first but I need seasons.” He has a little brother who is a freshman at Virginia Tech this year.
Charles has a variety of hobbies including playing guitar, drums, and bass. As for his taste in music, he claims to listen to everything but his favorite genres are modern indie, experimental alternative, early American punk, prewar blues, and funk. His favorite artists include the Beatles, the Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zepplin, Minuteman, New York Dolls, Pink Floyd, the Raconteurs, the Ramones, Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Replacements, the Rolling Stones, Sonic Youth, the Stooges, Vampire Weekend, Velvet Underground, the White Stripes, and Yes. His other interests consist of reading and playing old school video games such as Super Mario and Donkey Kong; “I beat Donkey Kong for the fifth time this past summer.” His favorite movies are Be Kind Rewind, Blazing Saddles, Spinal Tap, Pulp Fiction, and Citizen Kane. He is a fan of Stanely Kubrick whose famous works include Clockwork Orange and 2001: A Space Odyssey. Mr. Gearhart is also highly fascinated with the American independent filmmaker, Jim Jarmusch, creator of The Way of the Samurai.
Charles does not consider himself an ambitious person: “I’m not really goal oriented; I’m just blowing in the wind. I want to graduate and see where I land.” Considering his father is the vice president of a winery, it does not come as a surprise that Charles is interested in prohibition era cocktails as well as attending bartending or mixology school: “I want to keep my options open.”
His extended family resides along the east coast, with his mother’s side from New England and his father’s family is from Pennsylvania: “My grandmother makes great squirrel stew.” Although he was born in Maryland, Chucky has lived many different places throughout his life. At the age of three he moved to Minnesota and then moved to California at age ten: “It was nice at first but I need seasons.” He has a little brother who is a freshman at Virginia Tech this year.
Charles has a variety of hobbies including playing guitar, drums, and bass. As for his taste in music, he claims to listen to everything but his favorite genres are modern indie, experimental alternative, early American punk, prewar blues, and funk. His favorite artists include the Beatles, the Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zepplin, Minuteman, New York Dolls, Pink Floyd, the Raconteurs, the Ramones, Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Replacements, the Rolling Stones, Sonic Youth, the Stooges, Vampire Weekend, Velvet Underground, the White Stripes, and Yes. His other interests consist of reading and playing old school video games such as Super Mario and Donkey Kong; “I beat Donkey Kong for the fifth time this past summer.” His favorite movies are Be Kind Rewind, Blazing Saddles, Spinal Tap, Pulp Fiction, and Citizen Kane. He is a fan of Stanely Kubrick whose famous works include Clockwork Orange and 2001: A Space Odyssey. Mr. Gearhart is also highly fascinated with the American independent filmmaker, Jim Jarmusch, creator of The Way of the Samurai.
Charles does not consider himself an ambitious person: “I’m not really goal oriented; I’m just blowing in the wind. I want to graduate and see where I land.” Considering his father is the vice president of a winery, it does not come as a surprise that Charles is interested in prohibition era cocktails as well as attending bartending or mixology school: “I want to keep my options open.”
Appalachian Film Festivities
This weekend the Appalachian Festival hit Frostburg by storm, bringing fourth crowds of bystanders to see what the fuss was about. Friday night held no exceptions for Appalachian Festival attendants as they flocked to the Palace Theater. The film, Harlan County, USA by Barbara Kopple started at 8 p.m and was just shy of two hours long. I waited outside the Palace's antique doors patiently as the movie played inside. I wanted to see people's reactions and hear their feedback firsthand with no biased opinion of my own. As the doors opened suggesting the end of the film, the majority of the audience made its way outside, where many stood about to talk of the film. I approached a group of gentleman that seemed to be discussing the film by the curb side bench that lay directly in front of the Palace. I asked the man closest to me what the film was about and if he enjoyed it. He said the film was about the 1974 strike that mine workers in Kentucky formed after being neglected by the union. Conditions and pay were not meeting the workers needs, therefore they formed a strike. The gentleman continued to exclaim his praise of the movie saying, "The documentary was phenomenal. I had already known about the strike, however the movie went so in depth that I felt like I was actually there!" before I could even ask about the quality of the film compared to its prestigious reputation, he said "This movie without a doubt met and exceeded all expectations I had. I would recommend it to anybody interested in the history of the Appalachians."
I wanted additional feedback so I decided to continue walking through the crowds of people searching for opinions and views on the film. I eventually came across a familiar face standing with a group of friends just beyond the Palace ticket booth. An old friend from high school, Jason Pohl was very open to discuss his thoughts on the film. I asked if the documentary put a spotlight on the lives of the miners rather than just the strike that occurred. He was quick to confirm my assumption as he began to talk about the foundation the film created around the events during the strike. "It focused a great deal on the lives of the miners before, during, and after the strike." stated Pohl. "I honestly did not have any interest in seeing the film until my girlfriend convinced me to tag along. But I'm glad I did." After a little more probing through the feelings of the audience members, I decided that the film had been a success. If there would be a festival next year, I would definatly seek out this documentary for myself based solely on the positive feedback that accumulated that night amidst the doors of the historic Frostburg Palace theatre.
I wanted additional feedback so I decided to continue walking through the crowds of people searching for opinions and views on the film. I eventually came across a familiar face standing with a group of friends just beyond the Palace ticket booth. An old friend from high school, Jason Pohl was very open to discuss his thoughts on the film. I asked if the documentary put a spotlight on the lives of the miners rather than just the strike that occurred. He was quick to confirm my assumption as he began to talk about the foundation the film created around the events during the strike. "It focused a great deal on the lives of the miners before, during, and after the strike." stated Pohl. "I honestly did not have any interest in seeing the film until my girlfriend convinced me to tag along. But I'm glad I did." After a little more probing through the feelings of the audience members, I decided that the film had been a success. If there would be a festival next year, I would definatly seek out this documentary for myself based solely on the positive feedback that accumulated that night amidst the doors of the historic Frostburg Palace theatre.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Coal at a Cost
On friday September 18th professor Kara Rogers Thomas presented a power point about a practice called mountain top removal. Assisted by students Ben, Patrick and, Michelle, Dr. Thomas presented a power point presentation on the common mining practice. The group began by asking the audience if they knew what mountain top removal is. A student tried to be humorous by mumbling, “Um, the act of removing mountain tops?” The presenters explained that mountain top removal is a coal mining practice that devastates forests in Appalachia. During this process a mountain top is flattened in order to access coal seams.
The presenters defined mountain top removal as, “Mountaintop coal mining is a surface mining practice involving the removal of mountaintops to expose coal seams, and disposing of the associated mining overburden in adjacent valleys.” Not only does removing the mountain tops destroy delicate wild life, the waste produced is poured into the valleys which causes more destruction to the environment down below.
Advocates of this type of mining offer that there is a new effort to produce what is referred to as clean coal. Contrary to what the name implies clean coal isn’t so clean. The mining companies wash the raw coal to produce clean coal. The by product of washing coal is a concoction of toxic chemicals which is then dumped into dams. These dams are trusted to contain this mess however they sometimes fail. Dr. Thomas’s group told the story of a dam in Buffalo Creek, West Virginia which did just that. In 1972 the dam buckled under the pressure and sent all 132 million gallons of toxic wasting through the city killing 125 people.
The group explained laws and efforts that attempt to restore the destroyed landscape to its original state. Federal requires mining companies to repair the broken territory however it is impossible to restore it to how mother nature intended. The struggle lies between the need for coal as a main energy source and ruining one of the most diverse habits in America.
As the presentation concluded the group let the audience know how everyone can take part in restoring Appalachia from Mountain top removal. Patrick added that anyone that is interested can get information at www.ilovemountains.org.
Music at the Appalachian Festival
Well fall is definitely here, the colors are starting to turn on the trees, there's a cool breeze in the air and the Appalachian Festival was just held this past weekend. Food, music, and fun was what one could find as the festivities kicked off on the upper part of campus. One particular area was of interest as a not so common sound came from the white tent in front of the Compton Science Center. Although it doesn't get more country then playing the banjo (no offense to anybody who's a fan), but her name was Rachel Eddy from Morgantown, West Virginia and she was an old-time folk singer who's skilled ranged from playing the banjo, fiddle, or guitar. As she played under the tent, her voice was very unique and the sound was comforting, a sound most people are not used to with rap, pop, R & B, or modern day country music flowing from their iPod to their ears. As she played, the audience took into appreciation her music as all eyes were concentrated on stage. I too was attentive towards the stage, and at one point found myself tapping my foot to the melody.
As Rachel left the stage, The Barnstormers with the RockCandy Cloggers were up next. They performed traditional American folk music using a range of instruments such as banjo, a jaw harp, bass, fiddlesticks and spoons. They played with a fast and upbeat sound that truly captured the sound of American folk music. Included in their performance were the cloggers who entertained the crowd with their fun and outgoing personalities as they danced on the wooden stage. Clogging, like tap dancing, is done by the dancer who hits either their heel or toe against the floor to create a musical rhythm. This group was able to really draw the crowd in as I herd one audience member shout, "Waahhoooooo," as well as another scream, "Yeeehaaaaaaawww," in unison.
There was definitely a diverse range of music held at the Appalachian festival, even at one point a faint sound of bagpipes was heard but all in all, for anybody who wanted to experience the day there, would not have been disappointed. The music certainly was a plus if you have an interest in enjoying new things, and at the same time learn a little history about a type of American music that necessarily isn't that mainstream. But if the music is just not your thing, the Appalachian Festival has more to offer, so if you missed it you'll just have to wait until next year to find out.
As Rachel left the stage, The Barnstormers with the RockCandy Cloggers were up next. They performed traditional American folk music using a range of instruments such as banjo, a jaw harp, bass, fiddlesticks and spoons. They played with a fast and upbeat sound that truly captured the sound of American folk music. Included in their performance were the cloggers who entertained the crowd with their fun and outgoing personalities as they danced on the wooden stage. Clogging, like tap dancing, is done by the dancer who hits either their heel or toe against the floor to create a musical rhythm. This group was able to really draw the crowd in as I herd one audience member shout, "Waahhoooooo," as well as another scream, "Yeeehaaaaaaawww," in unison.
There was definitely a diverse range of music held at the Appalachian festival, even at one point a faint sound of bagpipes was heard but all in all, for anybody who wanted to experience the day there, would not have been disappointed. The music certainly was a plus if you have an interest in enjoying new things, and at the same time learn a little history about a type of American music that necessarily isn't that mainstream. But if the music is just not your thing, the Appalachian Festival has more to offer, so if you missed it you'll just have to wait until next year to find out.
Playing at the Appalachian Festival
The actors from the short play, "Witches, Britches, Rings ‘n Things" were wonderful to watch, their enthusiasm and knowledge of their roles kept an audience of all ages captivated through its entirety. They should, however keep to acting. The program of this play read that "Witches, Britches, Rings ‘n Things" was written by Dale Barton, when Dave Barton is the correct author.
"Witches, Britches, Rings ‘n Things" is a uniquely gathered collection of Folk and Fairy Tales which was featured in Cook Chapel during the Appalachian Festival at Frostburg State University. The play featured several stories, the first called "Billy Goats Gruff" was about a small family of goats trying to cross a bridge. As the family began to head across they were each confronted by a troll who wanted to eat them. The goats each told him that there was a party 50 feet below the water's surface. He became confused by animals being underwater and was distracted enough to let the goats pass. When the last goat was passing she said there would be a cave with an air bubble and all of the animals would be inside having a party. The troll wanted to eat them so he put rocks on himself and jumped in the river. The actors did not have a river or a large area for the troll to jump into but they had a bridge painted on a board so that when the troll jumped from behind the it he sat down and looked as though he fell in.
The play was presented by Front and Centre Stage and included eight actors in interchangeable roles. The company has only been in existence for four years but all of the actors have previous experience in performing in plays. The director, Kimberly Rowley was found in the back of the Chapel sitting calmly in a chair twirling her blonde hair. She graduated from Frostburg State University with a degree in Theater.
Rowley said she was asked by the company to select a theatrical play. She looked around to her peers and proudly responded, "I looked on Google for plays about Appalachian Folk Tales and this one came up." The play was relatively easy for the group to perform because the costumes were mostly home made or already owned and with each person having several roles, the group was left small so they could change minor costume details for a great effect.
http://www.mdmountainside.com/attraction.php?attraction=953
http://www.pioneerdrama.com/searchdetail.asp?pc=WITCHESBRI&id=
"Witches, Britches, Rings ‘n Things" is a uniquely gathered collection of Folk and Fairy Tales which was featured in Cook Chapel during the Appalachian Festival at Frostburg State University. The play featured several stories, the first called "Billy Goats Gruff" was about a small family of goats trying to cross a bridge. As the family began to head across they were each confronted by a troll who wanted to eat them. The goats each told him that there was a party 50 feet below the water's surface. He became confused by animals being underwater and was distracted enough to let the goats pass. When the last goat was passing she said there would be a cave with an air bubble and all of the animals would be inside having a party. The troll wanted to eat them so he put rocks on himself and jumped in the river. The actors did not have a river or a large area for the troll to jump into but they had a bridge painted on a board so that when the troll jumped from behind the it he sat down and looked as though he fell in.
The play was presented by Front and Centre Stage and included eight actors in interchangeable roles. The company has only been in existence for four years but all of the actors have previous experience in performing in plays. The director, Kimberly Rowley was found in the back of the Chapel sitting calmly in a chair twirling her blonde hair. She graduated from Frostburg State University with a degree in Theater.
Rowley said she was asked by the company to select a theatrical play. She looked around to her peers and proudly responded, "I looked on Google for plays about Appalachian Folk Tales and this one came up." The play was relatively easy for the group to perform because the costumes were mostly home made or already owned and with each person having several roles, the group was left small so they could change minor costume details for a great effect.
http://www.mdmountainside.com/attraction.php?attraction=953
http://www.pioneerdrama.com/searchdetail.asp?pc=WITCHESBRI&id=
Taking the Festival by Storm
"Taking the Festival by Storm"
Meghan Purdy
Meghan Purdy
A beautiful sunny day graced visitors of the Appalachian Festival this Saturday. Visitors meandered around enjoying the many vendors and entertainment. The festival boasted chicken barbeque sandwiches as well as wagon selling many varieties of old-fashioned soda. Another booth sold apple butter while the Lay family sold herbal supplements and tea.
Many performers graced the stage but at one-thirty I wandered upon a very different type of performing group that hit the stage offering a myriad of entertainment. The Barnstormers were a jovial group offering folk style music and clog dancing. The Barnstormers group was a four group including two musicians and two dancers who also played instruments, including the banjo, fiddle, violin, xylphone, and cello. Each member of the group had their own stage presence but did not hog the spotlight; they made sure their unique personalities would leave a lasting impression on any audience member's memory.
Maggie Sansone and Rock Howdell, a flat-footing duo, started out the performance and said despite they're age they still love to dance. In fact, Howdell is seventy-three years old but continues to dance because as he joked, "I dance fast because I know I don't have much time left." Howdell claims to have taken up clogging when his doctor told him running, an old hobby, was bad for his legs. While Howdell wowed the audience with his dancing skills he was also musically talented, boasting talent on the fiddle in many of the bands other numbers.
Howdell's dancing partner Sansone was also equally personable and comedic. As well as being an exceptional clogger Sansone also exhibited musical talent on the cello. Other band members included Slim Harrison, sporting a cowboy hat and playing the banjo. Slim joked around with his musical talents, playing "Do Your Ears Hang Low?" by slapping out the beat on his cheeks. "Hey, am I in tune?" he joked when he started the song. Tom Jolin, our last member, was multi-talented exhibiting skills on both the xylphone and the banjo; Jolin was a more subdued member of the group but was an amazing musical talent.
Something that really stood out about the group was their unusual attire. As mentioned earlier Harrison sported a cowboy hat and a western style shirt while Howdell donned a plaid shirt and clogging shoes; while Jolin wore a plaid shirt and cowboy hat. Sansone had her own unique style with a Western style denim skirt and flowered top while also wearing clogging shoes. Sansone laughs about the groups attire, "I feel a little funny hanging out with you guys off stage, in these outfits. We look kind of like a cult."
The group was charismatic and entertaining while they joked with many of the veteran audience members and happily bantered with each other, audience members enjoyed the outgoing and easy attitude the group had with everybody, "This is a different experience. The jokes really keep your attention in between the songs." said audience member Michael Smith. The group has really built up a strong following because of their wonderful stage presence. Before the performance Howdell joked with returning audience members, "I see some of our old friends out their so I know I don't need to give any introductions."
Many performers graced the stage but at one-thirty I wandered upon a very different type of performing group that hit the stage offering a myriad of entertainment. The Barnstormers were a jovial group offering folk style music and clog dancing. The Barnstormers group was a four group including two musicians and two dancers who also played instruments, including the banjo, fiddle, violin, xylphone, and cello. Each member of the group had their own stage presence but did not hog the spotlight; they made sure their unique personalities would leave a lasting impression on any audience member's memory.
Maggie Sansone and Rock Howdell, a flat-footing duo, started out the performance and said despite they're age they still love to dance. In fact, Howdell is seventy-three years old but continues to dance because as he joked, "I dance fast because I know I don't have much time left." Howdell claims to have taken up clogging when his doctor told him running, an old hobby, was bad for his legs. While Howdell wowed the audience with his dancing skills he was also musically talented, boasting talent on the fiddle in many of the bands other numbers.
Howdell's dancing partner Sansone was also equally personable and comedic. As well as being an exceptional clogger Sansone also exhibited musical talent on the cello. Other band members included Slim Harrison, sporting a cowboy hat and playing the banjo. Slim joked around with his musical talents, playing "Do Your Ears Hang Low?" by slapping out the beat on his cheeks. "Hey, am I in tune?" he joked when he started the song. Tom Jolin, our last member, was multi-talented exhibiting skills on both the xylphone and the banjo; Jolin was a more subdued member of the group but was an amazing musical talent.
Something that really stood out about the group was their unusual attire. As mentioned earlier Harrison sported a cowboy hat and a western style shirt while Howdell donned a plaid shirt and clogging shoes; while Jolin wore a plaid shirt and cowboy hat. Sansone had her own unique style with a Western style denim skirt and flowered top while also wearing clogging shoes. Sansone laughs about the groups attire, "I feel a little funny hanging out with you guys off stage, in these outfits. We look kind of like a cult."
The group was charismatic and entertaining while they joked with many of the veteran audience members and happily bantered with each other, audience members enjoyed the outgoing and easy attitude the group had with everybody, "This is a different experience. The jokes really keep your attention in between the songs." said audience member Michael Smith. The group has really built up a strong following because of their wonderful stage presence. Before the performance Howdell joked with returning audience members, "I see some of our old friends out their so I know I don't need to give any introductions."
Sarsaparilla Surprises at the FSU Appalachian Festival
Cola has com
e a long way. A long, long way from sarsaparilla and orange cream, today’s soft drinks can’t really compare to the beverages of yore. But Sheila Mayfield, the proprietor of the “Old Fashioned Soda” booth that recently made its tasty entrance into the Frostburg State University Appalachian Festival seeks to change that.
Soft drinks have been in the mainstream for quite some time now: the first commercial soda fountain was opened in 1806, and bottled soda has been produced for nearly that long as well. However, as the tastes of the nation have changed dramatically, so have the flavors of soft beverages.
“You can’t find a sarsaparilla anymore really” said Mayfield. “I don’t know why that is, because it’s really quite good. It’s the cowboy drink, and people have heard of it. You’d hear John Wayne in the movies going ‘Give that boy a sarsaparilla!’”
Mayfield offers a look at the past with the different drink flavors: sarsaparilla, cream, root beer, birch beer and black cherry. She has taken up the role of soda purveyor after purchasing her soda apparatus from a fellow at the Cumberland Heritage Festival. She doesn’t make the syrup herself.
The apparatus itself stands out, even at a event such as the Appalachian Festival. It is a standing replica of a Conestoga wagon, a concept some might remember from playing “the Oregon Trail” or recalling history courses on the settlers heading out west.
“It’s actually modeled off one of their chuck wagons” said Mayfield, showing the varied intricacies of the wagon. “They would have stoves and cook up their food here and pull out the tables and eat it”.
One might ask what you really get out of selling old-style drinks at large festivals, but Mayfield describes her experiences as generally positive. She does have a Monday-Friday job, but quite enjoys the sales.
“I meet all kinds, and all types” said Mayfield. “But, people are generally nice. I don’t know who I get more kind words and smiles from though, the adults or the kids.
The adults and kids kept coming as well. Judging just from the amount of people hanging around the booth, Mayfield was a big hit, even though there was a bit of a ice malfunction.
“We don’t have any ice right now, but we are getting some real soon,” said Mayfield to some students who were gawking at the wagon. Some were a bit disappointed for it, but promised to return when their beverage would be offered cold.
Really, all in all, the story about Old Fashioned Soda wagon boils down to one thing. How did it taste? Was it worth the wait for ice, and was Mayfield’s blast from the past to stay?
“I think it’s great. It’s refreshing and extremely tasty” said Zachary Valley, a visitor. “It’s sad they don’t bottle it up and sell it, because I’d like another on to take with me.”
e a long way. A long, long way from sarsaparilla and orange cream, today’s soft drinks can’t really compare to the beverages of yore. But Sheila Mayfield, the proprietor of the “Old Fashioned Soda” booth that recently made its tasty entrance into the Frostburg State University Appalachian Festival seeks to change that.Soft drinks have been in the mainstream for quite some time now: the first commercial soda fountain was opened in 1806, and bottled soda has been produced for nearly that long as well. However, as the tastes of the nation have changed dramatically, so have the flavors of soft beverages.
“You can’t find a sarsaparilla anymore really” said Mayfield. “I don’t know why that is, because it’s really quite good. It’s the cowboy drink, and people have heard of it. You’d hear John Wayne in the movies going ‘Give that boy a sarsaparilla!’”
Mayfield offers a look at the past with the different drink flavors: sarsaparilla, cream, root beer, birch beer and black cherry. She has taken up the role of soda purveyor after purchasing her soda apparatus from a fellow at the Cumberland Heritage Festival. She doesn’t make the syrup herself.
The apparatus itself stands out, even at a event such as the Appalachian Festival. It is a standing replica of a Conestoga wagon, a concept some might remember from playing “the Oregon Trail” or recalling history courses on the settlers heading out west.
“It’s actually modeled off one of their chuck wagons” said Mayfield, showing the varied intricacies of the wagon. “They would have stoves and cook up their food here and pull out the tables and eat it”.
One might ask what you really get out of selling old-style drinks at large festivals, but Mayfield describes her experiences as generally positive. She does have a Monday-Friday job, but quite enjoys the sales.
“I meet all kinds, and all types” said Mayfield. “But, people are generally nice. I don’t know who I get more kind words and smiles from though, the adults or the kids.
The adults and kids kept coming as well. Judging just from the amount of people hanging around the booth, Mayfield was a big hit, even though there was a bit of a ice malfunction.
“We don’t have any ice right now, but we are getting some real soon,” said Mayfield to some students who were gawking at the wagon. Some were a bit disappointed for it, but promised to return when their beverage would be offered cold.
Really, all in all, the story about Old Fashioned Soda wagon boils down to one thing. How did it taste? Was it worth the wait for ice, and was Mayfield’s blast from the past to stay?
“I think it’s great. It’s refreshing and extremely tasty” said Zachary Valley, a visitor. “It’s sad they don’t bottle it up and sell it, because I’d like another on to take with me.”
Coal is Careless
The presentation “Voices Against Mountain Top Removal” occurred Friday afternoon in the Lane Center. Patrick, Ben, and Michelle, students of Dr. Kara Rogers Thomas (assistant professor of the sociology department at Frostburg State University), assembled a PowerPoint presentation to raise awareness of the mining practice that is destroying Appalachia. Before the students began the presentation, Patrick inquired if any audience members had any knowledge of mountain top removal, “The name says it all.” replied a young female student in the audience. Drawing from previous experiences of witnessing mountain top removal first hand, Patrick expresses that “This is pretty pertinent to all our lives” as the presentation begins. Mountain top removal involves the removal of mountain tops to expose coal seams and then dumping mountain top waste into neighboring valleys, ultimately destroying one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, the Appalachia.
The students first became aware of this horrific practice in the spring of 2009 on a week long field trip with Dr. Kara Rogers Thomas. They traveled across the country exploring the Great Smoky Mountains, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian in Cherokee, North Carolina, and Kayford Mountain. Kayford Mountain is located near Cabin Creek, approximately 35 miles south east of Charleston, West Virginia. That is where they met Larry Gibson, an environmental activist who specializes in speaking out against mountain top removal. Larry’s family has lived on Kayford Mountain since the 1700’s and has over 300 relatives buried in the cemetery on the mountain: “Mountain top removal is practically raising the dead while burying the living.” He regularly gives tours to citizens who have not witnessed a mountain top removal project in person. The students show a picture of the “Gate to Hell”, the gate located in Mr. Gibson’s backyard that separates his property from that owned by coal companies. Larry and his family lived on the lowest part of the mountain prior to the mountain top removal project. Since the destruction of the Kayford Mountain he now occupies the highest point of land, looking down on what was previously a mountain range. There is a constant movement of huge trucks filled with rubble and coal and continuously dumping, Ben explains, “A normal Ford F-350 would go about half way up the tire compared to these trucks.”
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“Clean coal” is a widely advertised concept coal companies use to market their product. Coal washing creates thousands of gallons of contaminated sludge filled with toxic chemicals that is stored behind earthen dams. Coal companies are known for disregarding the environment as well as the local community. An extreme instance of coal company negligence happened in Buffalo Creek, West Virginia in 1972. A dam collapsed and approximately 132 million gallons of black waste sludge rushed through Buffalo Creek killing 125, injuring 1,000, and leaving 4,000 homeless. Pittson coal company, owner of the dam, referred to the flood as “an act of God.” Ben refutes the statement, “this is not a natural disaster, this was human doing.”
Countless streams have been buried and destroyed making it impossible for indigenous plants and animals to survive. Although federal law requires mine sites to restore the property to the original contour, many fail to come even close, thus making MTR illegal. The progress of the nation depends on energy and coal corporations are putting pressure on politicians to make sure they get their way. Our state and federal agencies in charge of protecting our environment are liquidating out mountains. Al Gore has stated that MTR is illegal under the Clean Water Act. The Bush administration supported the illegal valley fills partly because of the funding received by the coal companies during his 2000 election. Coal companies continue to buy political support, Larry Gibson agrees, “West Virginia has the best politicians money can buy.”
If you would like to actively participate in the anti-mountain top removal campaign and for further information, visit www.ilovemountains.org or www.moutainjusticesummer.org. Patrick states that getting involved is important in order to unify and strengthen the effort, “Larry isn’t an elected official, he’s just someone who cares.” You can donate to Larry's Keeper of the Mountain Foundation to support his ongoing effort to stop the destruction of Kayford Mountain and the surrounding community as a result of mountain top removal.
Jean Ritchie Performance
The Palace Theater was packed Saturday night as people drank root beer and ate popcorn in anticipation for blue grass legend Jean Ritchie and her sons. Ms Ritchie, age 86, performed traditional bluegrass and folk songs dating back to the 1920’s on her dulcimer, while her son, Jonathan Pickow, played banjo and dulcimer, and her other son, Peter Pickow, played guitar.
Although Ms. Ritchie admitted to having bronchitis for the past three years, this did not stop her from entrancing the audience with her knowledge of traditional church songs and classic folk.
Having written down the songs of her family since age 12, Ms. Ritchie explained and performed songs with only her voice that seemed to mimic the power of the Kentucky mountains she was raised on.
When she did sing along with her dulcimer, the mood of the theater would go from a quiet somber to a slightly more upbeat tempo. Many of the song she played had been the same ones she grew up playing on the front porch of her house, many years back, with her family. Several of the songs where in the style of stories, with heros and heroines and “everyone getting their heads chopped off at the end,” Ms. Ritchie jokes. “My mother never liked those songs,” she explains, “she only liked the ones with happy endings.”
During the performance, along with Ms. Ritchie’s singing, you could hear quiet verses sung under the breaths of audience members around you. Some close to Ms. Ritchis’s age, but ,surprisingly, many younger audience members. Ranging from late 40’s to early 20’s, the soft whispers of folk songs seemed to surround you on all sides. People reciting what they knew from songs that had been passed down from generation to generation, coming together as a hushed praise for tradition.
Before performing a church hymn, she explained that while entering church, people where given single slips of paper that had the line of a song on it and during the song, when it got to your line, you would sing only your part and wait for someone to sing the line after yours. While you waited, you would hum, which kept the pitch and the pace of the song going. She asked the audience to follow this tradition for her as she sang the song and within seconds, the tiny theater began to hum like a beehive vibrating the air around it’s queen.
Soul of The Appalachia - Music
Four year old Noah could not contain his excitement; he jumped on stage and began dancing along with the Clear Creek String Band as they preformed “Anything.” The crowd and by-standers were awed by the band’s quick strumming fingers, steady wrist and old-timey voices. Armed with microphones, a bass, a fiddle, a guitar, a mandolin and a bantar Adam Crayne, Luci Lynn, Justin Lecuyer, Lucian Burns and Joe Degenaro entertained the crowd with an array of Old-Time songs from the Compton Stage. “It couldn't have been a nicer day for this” stated Amanda Barger as she and Amy Fabbri prepared to perform at the 4th Annual Appalachian Festival, hosted at Frostburg State University. The festival featured artist and performers from Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and other Appalachian states. Highland Grass, “That’s It!,” Frostburg State University’s own Chorale and Dr. Greg Latta along with many others each graced the musical stages with unique performances. Various vocal, instrumental and dancing performances could be seen throughout the eventful day. The Compton and Sowers tents were packed with listeners and viewers excited to see the festival’s veterans as well as this year’s newcomers. From Old-time and country music to Irish clogging and traditional Folk music the Appalachian Festival had something for everyone to pat their feet to or hum along with.
“I never thought I’d enjoy Appalachian music, but I did,” said Crystal, a junior at Frostburg State University on Saturday during the performance of Amy Fabbri and Amanda Barger. Fabbri and Barger’s performance was all but dull, consisting of singing, dulcimer and guitar playing by Fabbri and dancing, singing and fiddle playing by Barger. Amy Fabbri, a graduate of Frostburg State University and Amanda Barger, a Frostburg native have been playing together for a year and a half and say they always enjoy every moment of performing. The seats in front of the Sowers Stage were filled with people taking pictures, singing along and patting their feet to the music of the duo. Many people were drawn to the few empty seats throughout the performance by the beautiful music filling every inch of the tent. Others people stood under the tent or around it just to catch a quick glimpse or listen to the sounds flowing effervescently from the tent.
“There’s something about dancing it puts a little spirit into the music,” Barger said smiling as sat down her fiddle and stood to begin Appalachian flatfooting. Her quick flatfooting steps and fluid turns captivated the audience. Barger danced smiling whole heartedly as a Fabbri sang and played. The enjoyment on duo’s faces as they smiled at each other was priceless; likewise, was the audience’s enjoyment. Caleb, 7, joined his mother, Fabbri, and Barger on stage as they performed their own rendition of the timeless 18th century folk song “Shady Grove.” Caleb surprised his mother with his willingness to sing and further intrigued the audience with his budding talent and confidence.
“It was wonderful!,” exclaimed Matt Radcliffe after the performance of Amy Fabbri and Amanda Barger. “It was fun,” Amy Fabbri said of her experience as she was packing up her instrument, “I like this festival, it’s really relaxed.”
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Fishers and Bobcats and Bears, Oh My!
Frostburg’s annual Appalachian Festival started off with a bang on Friday afternoon as graduate students Zoe Hanley and Julia Smith of Frostburg State University’s Department of Biology led an in-depth presentation entitled “A Closer Look at Habitat Use and Detectability of Carnivores in Western Maryland.” Hanley and Smith conducted this research project with Dr. Thomas Serfass, who is also a part of FSU’s Department of Biology, but was not present for the presentation.Due to human-related factors that led to a change in the distribution and density of carnivores in Maryland, Hanley, Smith and Serfass developed and put into action a project to observe sites in a 120-km2 region of Savage River State Forest in Garrett County. The goal of the project was to ultimately determine the occurrence of carnivores in the area, particularly bobcats and fishers, and to identify seasonal patterns of detection success.
Though there was a thirteen minute delay due to computer difficulties, fifty-three people waited patiently for the presentation to begin as the presenters apologized for the set-back. Soon enough, the computer was up and running and the lights were shut off, signaling that Smith and Hanley were ready to begin. Projecting a power point presentation onto a large screen in the front of the room, Smith spoke first, describing what the bobcat and fisher are in attempt to give the audience a better understanding of exactly what they were looking for. Though the power point presentation listed correct definitions of the animals, Smith drew a laugh from the audience by adding her own portrayal of a fisher. “I usually describe it as a mink on steroids,” she declared.
Hanley soon took over to discuss the study design. She first spoke about the motivating factors of the study. “Very few studies have been done on these species in this area,” she reveals. “Also, there has been limited research on seasonal detectability.” This surprising information makes their study unique and refreshing for those who take the time to study it.
In order to attract the fishers and bobcats to the regions where cameras were set up, the researchers placed certain items in the area. Deer meat, skunk tincture and beaver castor were used to draw the fishers in, while bobcats were pulled in with feathers, bobcat urine and one more interesting item. Smith explains, “As you know, cats are really prone to liking catnip, so we thought we would use catnip oil to try to attract these animals.”
While they were only targeting detection of bobcats and fishers, the researchers detected a total of thirty-five different species in the area tested, including a numerous amount of bird species, turkeys, white tail deer and black bears. Hanley revealed to the audience that there was no significant difference in seasonal detection of carnivores such as the fisher and bobcat; however, they found that there was a severe drop-off in black bear sightings during the winter months due to hibernation. In addition, many more fishers total were detected than bobcats, but Hanley made sure to note that this interesting piece of information does not necessarily reflect total bobcat numbers in the area. “That doesn’t mean there are more fishers living,” she informs. “Bobcats are just shy, so they don’t come out a lot.” Finally, they found that the carnivores mainly occupy deciduous forests, and that fishers are occupying twice as much evergreen forest as bobcats.
After the results of the one year project were revealed, Smith and Hanley allowed question and answer time with the audience. One curious audience member wondered if Smith and Hanley were cautious of leaving their own scent in the area when initially setting up the camera. Hanley stated that they were “probably not as cautious as they should have been,” but they did wear gloves and avoided touching the camera too much.
Though the year long observation period has come and gone, and a sufficient amount of results have been determined, Hanley stated that the project is not quite finished. “We’re going to continue analyzing the data and try to find more patterns in occurrence.” Saying they are dedicated to this study is a definite understatement.
"They ate my shirt!"
“Those kids are really good at bike riding!” says Mike Tabb. “Earlier he was riding down
While observing the festival, Kadeem Reynolds, a member of the local fraternity, noticed the Apple Butter Station, which was run by people of what he assumed of Amish culture. “And it’s right next to the wagon from the Oregon Trail Days!” Reynolds laughed. This station was set up with lots of treats one would find at a bakery called the Apple Butter Station.
All along the upper quad, stations were set up. What was assumed as an 
Continuing the walk through the festival, Andrew Wilk and Sorley Bouton were spotted trying to walk on stilts. “I am trying to work on my skills, I am getting a little better,” says Wilk. “There is someone around here making bullets,” says Bouton as he got very excited at the thought. One station over was almost a flash back in history. A man by the name of David Zaladonis was portraying a ranger from the 1750’s during the French and Indian War. His outfit involved a large tan shirt with a low v-neck that had a knife hanging from it. Zaladonis had long darker pants that were also very baggy. Many of the supplies in front of him he said, “These would all be put right here in my satchel.” He has a partner, who was not there, named Jackie Miller. They have been doing this since the 1980’s, close to thirty years, and they call themselves the Raestown Rangers. Looking throughout his stand, there is animal skin from many different animals and a section of where he is cooking meat. When asked exactly what is he doing, he answered “I’m just cookin’ some beef. They ate a lot of deer back then, but they really preferred beef. So that’s what I’m doin’.”
Bees of Appalachia on Display at FSU
Frostburg State University's Fourth annual Appalachian Festival began on Friday, September 18th with a few scattered presentations. Saturday proved to be a better day with many tents assembled and more merchants available than last year. Anything from homemade root beer to handcrafted furniture can be purchased from these Appalachian merchants who were arranged on the lawn of the upper quad. A particular display drew the attention from each passerby who marveled at the sight of honeybees, thanks to Steven and Ruth Martin, of Church View Farm (http://churchviewfarm.blogspot.com/).
Mr. and Mrs. Martin live on their working farm in Romney, WV which is situated in Hampshire County. They brought with them a small transparent box with a colony of bees inside so everyone can observe their habits. Ruth often works with the bees and admits "It's not smart beekeeping practices to handle them without proper protection. Although I have done so," she snickers, "I know it is important to remain very calm while I handle the bees to prevent the release of a fear pheromone that causes them to sting."
Mrs. Martin discusses the life of a bee and how it spends the first three weeks of life working in the hive. "During the larva stage, the bee must work to clean the cell that it occupies." she explains. A week later, the bee will transform and have the duty of repairing the "comb" and packing nectar (handed off by worker bees) into various cells and "capping" those cells with wax when they become full. The third week a young bee guards the hive and protects it from intruders while becoming familiar with it's surroundings. Finally, the fourth week of life consists of gathering nectar. They gather a load of nectar and drop it off to the young bee who is waiting to fulfil his obligations to the hive.
Male bees are called drones and their only duty is to gather nectar and mate with the queen. Some drones will live their entire life without ever mating. If they are lucky enough to mate, the drone will quickly fall to the ground and die minutes afterward. Worker bees are female bees and they carry a stinger unlike the male bee. Mrs. Martin wrings her hands while deep in thought "I believe there are six different jobs in the hive, if I can remember correctly, and the bees work together to get those jobs done"
Realistically there are only a few types of bees to be afraid of. Stay away from the queen bee in any circumstance. Although they rarely travel away from home, the queen bee is protected by the entire hive. She is groomed, fed and made comfortable by the other bees in order to lay eggs. This behavior has taken place for millions of years.
Other dangerous bees include the yellow jacket. "Yellow jackets can sting multiple times unlike honey bees" Mrs. Martin explains. She also tells us that bumble bees are "harmless and do not have stingers or bite at all."
Bees must be protected because they produce many usable products. Honey is used to sweeten foods or make candies while beeswax is used for lotions, wood polish, and candles among other things. More importantly bees pollinate plants and crops. Think twice before killing that bee in the house because apples, cherries, cucumbers, blackberries and watermelon are only a few examples of fruits that are possible because of our friend, the bee.
Detectability of Carnivores in Western Maryland
The symposium of A Closer Look at Habitat Use and Detectability of Carnivores in Western Maryland was held in the Lane Center in room 211 at Frostburg State University on Friday September 18, 2009 at 1:00pm. Zoe Hanley, Julia Smith, and Thomas Smith showed a PowerPoint, while they discussed the natural history and their findings of these carnivores. They focused in on two main animals—the fisher and the bobcat. The family of the fisher is mustelidae and they mainly live in the forest. Whereas, the bobcat family is known as felidae and it is known to be more adaptable living in fields and forests. Both the fisher and the bobcat have similar diets with both of them eating squirrels and mice. However, the bobcat also eats white-tail deer, while fishers eat porcupines. Julia said, "Fishers circle around the porcupines a few times and then attack their faces to consume them."In December of 1977, the first fisher was trapped in Maryland, while 45 fishers were trapped in Maryland between 2006 and 2007. On the other hand, bobcats are labeled as species of special concern. “Whatever technology you use to find these animals, think about what season you are finding them in most often” said Zoe. Before the department of biology went out on a quest to find these two animals, they set a main objective: to access whether habitat related factors predict the occurrence of bobcats and fishers, and to identify seasonal and circadian patterns of detection success. The members of the department of biology used the Savage River State Forest as their study area where they did a sample every month for one year. They put one remote sensory camera at each of the 40 sites to try to capture an image of these animals. To attract the bobcats they used feathers, catnip oil, and bobcat urine because they are visual hunters. In contrast, they used skunk tincture, beaver caster, and deer meat to attract the fishers. At the end of their experiment, they got 35 species total after one year with their camera. The species they got pictures of included coyotes, birds, a grey fox, white-tail deer, bears, and their main priority—bobcats and fishers.
By looking at the chart in image above that was on the PowerPoint, it’s easy to see that bears were detected the most overall, and especially in July through October. This results from bears hibernating in the winter, and coming around more in the summer, spring, and fall months. The chart also showed that bobcats were detected more than fishers in every month. “I want to point out that just because our data shows more bobcats, does not mean there are more bobcats than fishers. Bobcats are just more inquisitive animals, while fishers are more skittish” clarified Zoe. Lastly, the members of the biology department used mapping programs by using buffers to determine where they were finding these carnivores the most. Their results showed 97% were found in the deciduous forest. “Fishers were found in evergreen forests twice as many times as bobcats were because fishers use traverse logs were their skin can blend in and they can catch their prey. Bobcats skin is a lighter shade, where they would stand out” explained Zoe. At the end of the presentation, Zoe and Julia said that they were going to continue looking for more prints and further their search in 2010.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Watch Your Step
If you ask Meghan Purdy, 20, how many times she’s seriously hurt herself, you may have to wait a minute for an answer. Purdy has gone to the emergency room 6 times in her life: once each for hitting her chin on the sink, cutting her eyebrow, hitting the back of her head, cutting her hip, dropping a hair crimper on her toes, and bruising her chest and hurting her shoulder in a car crash. She also carries six scars on each knee. Purdy considers herself clumsy. Luckily, these accidents and injuries haven’t stopped her from performing ballet.
A Keyser, West Virginia, native, Purdy has been dancing all her life. Having performed in over 15 plays and recitals, she also teaches and helps run her mother’s dance studio, East Pointe Ballet, which is in Keyser as well. “I don’t have to talk to people when I’m on stage,” Purdy said when asked why she enjoys dancing so much, “I’m shy.”
Having gone to Potomac State College for two years, Purdy transferred to Frostburg this year, her junior year. Eventually she would like to attend the graduate program here in Frostburg and earn a graduate degree in teaching.
Purdy would also like to travel to Europe and visit Italy and England. Currently, she has been to Florida, Wyoming, Massachusetts and Kansas.
She has also been to Disney World three times. However, if you ask her where her favorite place has been, she would tell you Kansas, the setting of “The Wizard of Oz.” “I love the “Wizard of Oz””, Purdy says. “When I was little, every day I would make my family dress up like the characters and we would act it out.” Recently, she has performed in Potomac State College’s rendition of L. Frank Baum’s “Wizard of Oz” as a dancer. The play was hailed by The Cumberland Times News as “nothing short of grand.” Purdy agrees that the play was a lot of fun to take part in, with one exception: Dorothy. “When I was little, I was always Dorothy,” Purdy says, smiling at her shoes.
A Keyser, West Virginia, native, Purdy has been dancing all her life. Having performed in over 15 plays and recitals, she also teaches and helps run her mother’s dance studio, East Pointe Ballet, which is in Keyser as well. “I don’t have to talk to people when I’m on stage,” Purdy said when asked why she enjoys dancing so much, “I’m shy.”
Having gone to Potomac State College for two years, Purdy transferred to Frostburg this year, her junior year. Eventually she would like to attend the graduate program here in Frostburg and earn a graduate degree in teaching.
Purdy would also like to travel to Europe and visit Italy and England. Currently, she has been to Florida, Wyoming, Massachusetts and Kansas.
She has also been to Disney World three times. However, if you ask her where her favorite place has been, she would tell you Kansas, the setting of “The Wizard of Oz.” “I love the “Wizard of Oz””, Purdy says. “When I was little, every day I would make my family dress up like the characters and we would act it out.” Recently, she has performed in Potomac State College’s rendition of L. Frank Baum’s “Wizard of Oz” as a dancer. The play was hailed by The Cumberland Times News as “nothing short of grand.” Purdy agrees that the play was a lot of fun to take part in, with one exception: Dorothy. “When I was little, I was always Dorothy,” Purdy says, smiling at her shoes.
Who's Wearing What
When asked about her favorite outfit, Assistant Professor Amy Branam of the English department answers as if she’d been asked this question before. When not running around on campus, Dr. Branam likes to sport a black, scoop-neck Arizona tee-shirt, a black mini-skirt with black lacing and metal eyelets, and black and white, horizontal stripped, knee high socks under black vinyl boots. “It’s kind of like an industrial Goth look,” Dr. Branam points out, as she goes on to talk about putting her hair into two braids and wrapping them in what she considers “mini black leather corsets.”
Dr. Barbra Hurd, Full Professor of the English Department, has a more laid back style, preferring corduroy jeans, a long drappy sweater and Birkenstocks. “It’s what all us hippies wore back in the 60’s,” Dr. Hurd says after mentioning her Birkenstocks. Although they are a little pricey, Dr. Hurd says they’re worth it because of great arch support and how long they last. But don’t expect to find them in Frostburg. “I’ve given up looking for them around here. I usually get them up in Maine,” Dr. Hurd says.
Relaxing in his office, Dr. Frank Parks, full professor of the English department, takes a minute to think about his off-campus clothes. “A t-shirt, cargo shorts, hiking socks, and athletic shoes,” Dr. Parks lists off before thinking of one last crucial piece of clothing; “and because I’m not European, underwear.”
Favorite Childhood Memories!
“I punched him and he went home crying,” said Clifton Gray, a junior from the District of Columbia and an Exercise and Sports Science major at Frostburg State University. Gray was on his way back to his room in Edgewood Commons when he was asked the question What is your favorite childhood memory?. Gray replied saying “I fought my best friend and knocked him down the steps.” Gray admits that he does not remember what sparked the argument; however, he remembers it was something “stupid.” When asked why this was one of his favorite childhood memory he responded quickly, “It was funny as hell!”
Shaheed Ziyout is a junior and a Psychology major at Frostburg State University from Baltimore Maryland. “Family parties and get-togethers,” he answered when asked for one of his favorite childhood memories. Ziyout added that it was hard to pick just one, because his childhood was great and he had many favorite memories. When asked why this was one of his favorite childhood memories he replied, “Seeing all my family, my cousins – you could tell our parents were having fun and the kids could do whatever.”
While sitting in the library, Mallori Mazyck a sophomore from Germantown, Maryland was asked What is one of your favorite childhood memories?. The current Resident Assistant and Psychology major at Frostburg State University pondered over the question for a minute before saying “Trick or Treating.” When asked why this was her favorite childhood memory Mazyck responded, “The candy! And it was fun dressing up.”
Shaheed Ziyout is a junior and a Psychology major at Frostburg State University from Baltimore Maryland. “Family parties and get-togethers,” he answered when asked for one of his favorite childhood memories. Ziyout added that it was hard to pick just one, because his childhood was great and he had many favorite memories. When asked why this was one of his favorite childhood memories he replied, “Seeing all my family, my cousins – you could tell our parents were having fun and the kids could do whatever.”
While sitting in the library, Mallori Mazyck a sophomore from Germantown, Maryland was asked What is one of your favorite childhood memories?. The current Resident Assistant and Psychology major at Frostburg State University pondered over the question for a minute before saying “Trick or Treating.” When asked why this was her favorite childhood memory Mazyck responded, “The candy! And it was fun dressing up.”
Everyday Superstars
She can sing, he can dance, they can throw a ball really, really far! They're celebrities and they're just plain better than everyone else. At least, that's where some sociologists would place the average American mindset. At Frostburg State University, however, the opposite may very well be the case.
A selection of FSU students, faculty and staff were asked the question "Who is your favorite celebrity and why?" on a rainy Thursday afternoon, and like the weather, their answers were difficult to predict.
Out of the pool interviewed, a few flat-out refused to answer the question citing moral or societal issues with the concept of a celebrity. Although most of those interviewed did eventually cite a person that should be held in esteem, many were reluctant to label anyone as a celebrity.
"I do not believe in celebrities," said Jean-Marie Makang, the chair of the Philosophy department. "I believe in great leaders, but not in celebrities."
Makang's view was echoed by James Jernigan, a Junior from Bowie, MD. He said that he didn't "really care about celebrities" and responded to the 'Why is that' question with a simple "why should I?"
However, some viewpoints expressed by students and staff have illustrated that they did indeed have favorites, but tempered their decisions by adding extraordinary values and characterizations that made those people worthy of the title "celebrity".
"I like Jimmy Johnson because I like NASCAR," said Judy Abbott, the Information Desk Manager. She described a celebrity as someone "out of the norm, and who makes a lot of money".
Matthew Schleicher, a sophomore from Hartford County, MD, named Lance Armstrong as his favorite. "He's an amazing role model for anyone," said Schliechler. He believes that the traits of "perseverance, dedication, teamwork, and a strong sense of being humble" exemplify what a celebrity should be.
It's nothing new that Frostburg State University would be a cauldron of different views and opinions. America has a need for celebrities, a need as strong as the need for "food, water and shelter," as James Houran, a clinical psychologist, told USA Today in 2003. What is new is that perhaps FSU is turning away from the silver screen to focus on the superstars in our daily lives.
"My students are my celebrities," said Makang.
A selection of FSU students, faculty and staff were asked the question "Who is your favorite celebrity and why?" on a rainy Thursday afternoon, and like the weather, their answers were difficult to predict.
Out of the pool interviewed, a few flat-out refused to answer the question citing moral or societal issues with the concept of a celebrity. Although most of those interviewed did eventually cite a person that should be held in esteem, many were reluctant to label anyone as a celebrity.
"I do not believe in celebrities," said Jean-Marie Makang, the chair of the Philosophy department. "I believe in great leaders, but not in celebrities."
Makang's view was echoed by James Jernigan, a Junior from Bowie, MD. He said that he didn't "really care about celebrities" and responded to the 'Why is that' question with a simple "why should I?"
However, some viewpoints expressed by students and staff have illustrated that they did indeed have favorites, but tempered their decisions by adding extraordinary values and characterizations that made those people worthy of the title "celebrity".
"I like Jimmy Johnson because I like NASCAR," said Judy Abbott, the Information Desk Manager. She described a celebrity as someone "out of the norm, and who makes a lot of money".
Matthew Schleicher, a sophomore from Hartford County, MD, named Lance Armstrong as his favorite. "He's an amazing role model for anyone," said Schliechler. He believes that the traits of "perseverance, dedication, teamwork, and a strong sense of being humble" exemplify what a celebrity should be.
It's nothing new that Frostburg State University would be a cauldron of different views and opinions. America has a need for celebrities, a need as strong as the need for "food, water and shelter," as James Houran, a clinical psychologist, told USA Today in 2003. What is new is that perhaps FSU is turning away from the silver screen to focus on the superstars in our daily lives.
"My students are my celebrities," said Makang.
Students at Frostburg
Robert Murtha, a student at Frostburg State University is happy to call Frostburg his home. Living in his home on Extended Bowery he finds a comfort most of us take for granted, a home. Due to his father being in the United States Army, he was born in Germany and traveled through all of his childhood to places such as Oklahoma, Colorado, and more recently Pittsburg. Staying in Frostburg may however be temporary as Murtha is a senior. He is studying Computer Science. “It comes naturally to me because I think logically and that’s what you have to do. It’s easy.” What also comes naturally to Murtha is being a gentleman. As another girl approached where we were sitting it was clear there were not enough seats. Before a word was even spoken, Murtha quickly stood up and sat on the ground, leaving his seat open for her.
First semester student, Kayla Robinson is majoring in Athletic Training Exercise and Sports Science. She always wanted to be a doctor and she really likes sports. After her studies in athletic training are complete she plans to be an orthopedic. Looking out the window at the missing rain she noted the random weather patterns of Frostburg. “My mom came up and it was cold so I was wearing boots. Then I wore them when I came home and she was like ‘Girl, why you wearing those boots, you know it’s eighty degrees here?”
Non-traditional student, Elisabeth Eckley is one of the few adults attending Frostburg decades after graduating high school. She states, “I want to finish my degree to become a teacher.” Eckley’s main focus is in Social Studies with plan of going through the MAT program for her teaching degree. She is currently 40 years old and the mother to one boy at age 14 and one girl age 12, whom she homeschooled for five years. Prior to then she worked at Merkle in data entry, processing money orders.
First semester student, Kayla Robinson is majoring in Athletic Training Exercise and Sports Science. She always wanted to be a doctor and she really likes sports. After her studies in athletic training are complete she plans to be an orthopedic. Looking out the window at the missing rain she noted the random weather patterns of Frostburg. “My mom came up and it was cold so I was wearing boots. Then I wore them when I came home and she was like ‘Girl, why you wearing those boots, you know it’s eighty degrees here?”
Non-traditional student, Elisabeth Eckley is one of the few adults attending Frostburg decades after graduating high school. She states, “I want to finish my degree to become a teacher.” Eckley’s main focus is in Social Studies with plan of going through the MAT program for her teaching degree. She is currently 40 years old and the mother to one boy at age 14 and one girl age 12, whom she homeschooled for five years. Prior to then she worked at Merkle in data entry, processing money orders.
How Embarrassing
Meghan Purdy
How Embarrassing…
Well first off asking someone, at random, a personal question about them is somewhat embarrassing, but it could be worse. The question I drew was “discuss your most embarrassing moment.” Not many people would want to fess up to their most embarrassing moment but I found three who did.
My first interviewee was Colleen Towes in the Lanes Center. Towes was doing some work on her very purple laptop when I approached her. Towes is a freshman here and has yet to decide her major but has a minor in writing. However, Towes should probably consider a major in drama since she was a bigger hit at her high school play at Severna Park High. On Decade night, one of the many theme nights, Towes chose a sixties outfit with a mini-skirt and heels, making more of an appearance however, were her Elmo undies when she feel from the ladder. In her tumble from the ladder Towes flashed about fifteen parents her cartoon-themed undies. I’ll have to check but was Seasame Street on in the sixties?
I stayed in the Lanes Center, imposing upon the many people enjoying their lunches. Jaleesa Gregg, a Mass Communication major in her junior year, was dining with a friend when I bombarded her. Ironically enough Gregg’s most embarrassing moment happened during another meal. A starving Gregg bought a sub sandwich on her way to class and while chowing down on her meal looked up to see everyone watching her. Needless, to say Gregg was a little more subdued during today’s meal.
Gregg’s friend, Kenneth Johnston, also had a regaling tale of embarrassment. Johnston is also a Mass Communication major but he is in his senior year. Johnston chose well in his major because he is no stranger to talking in front of an audience. At an Upward Bound award ceremony Johnston was chosen as Master of Ceremonies. However, upon being asked to speak in front of over one hundred people, Johnston was feeling a bit nervous. Announcing the many speakers Johnston was messing up on names and making mistakes making him more and more nervous. Hopefully, Johnston’s public speaking will improve considering his major.
I have to say interviewing people while embarrassing was interesting. I’m glad to say none of my embarrassing moments have to make it to this blog though. I would like to thank my three very brave interviewee’s who willingly gave up their most embarrassing moment not knowing what I could do with it.
How Embarrassing…
Well first off asking someone, at random, a personal question about them is somewhat embarrassing, but it could be worse. The question I drew was “discuss your most embarrassing moment.” Not many people would want to fess up to their most embarrassing moment but I found three who did.
My first interviewee was Colleen Towes in the Lanes Center. Towes was doing some work on her very purple laptop when I approached her. Towes is a freshman here and has yet to decide her major but has a minor in writing. However, Towes should probably consider a major in drama since she was a bigger hit at her high school play at Severna Park High. On Decade night, one of the many theme nights, Towes chose a sixties outfit with a mini-skirt and heels, making more of an appearance however, were her Elmo undies when she feel from the ladder. In her tumble from the ladder Towes flashed about fifteen parents her cartoon-themed undies. I’ll have to check but was Seasame Street on in the sixties?
I stayed in the Lanes Center, imposing upon the many people enjoying their lunches. Jaleesa Gregg, a Mass Communication major in her junior year, was dining with a friend when I bombarded her. Ironically enough Gregg’s most embarrassing moment happened during another meal. A starving Gregg bought a sub sandwich on her way to class and while chowing down on her meal looked up to see everyone watching her. Needless, to say Gregg was a little more subdued during today’s meal.
Gregg’s friend, Kenneth Johnston, also had a regaling tale of embarrassment. Johnston is also a Mass Communication major but he is in his senior year. Johnston chose well in his major because he is no stranger to talking in front of an audience. At an Upward Bound award ceremony Johnston was chosen as Master of Ceremonies. However, upon being asked to speak in front of over one hundred people, Johnston was feeling a bit nervous. Announcing the many speakers Johnston was messing up on names and making mistakes making him more and more nervous. Hopefully, Johnston’s public speaking will improve considering his major.
I have to say interviewing people while embarrassing was interesting. I’m glad to say none of my embarrassing moments have to make it to this blog though. I would like to thank my three very brave interviewee’s who willingly gave up their most embarrassing moment not knowing what I could do with it.
Wet Strangers
The bashful sun was hiding behind the clouds as the rain fell on the heads of wandering strangers. Some in between classes and some working away in their offices it was an overall average day. Average however was not the word to describe the Frostburg campuses inhabitants.
Walking starry eyed through a dimly lit hallway Ha Pham, a senior here at Frostburg State, searched for the one door that had behind it all she had ever dreamed of…….a toilet. “It’s freezing out there and I really have to pee” she said to the nosey journalism student as he approached armed with questions. Ha is a liberal arts student at the university and is in her last year of studies. Growing up in Silver Spring Maryland Ha had many experiences with the local parks and recreation department which led her to becoming a recreation major. Leaving the house for school every day there is one thing she must remember, her cell phone. Speaking enthusiastically as she almost skipped down the hall she uttered these profound words “You don’t know me, my life is in there.”
] Patti Graham the Administrative Assistant for the visual arts department sat at her computer in a world all her own. Patti is a soft spoken woman who almost invites conversation with her smile. She is the kind of woman who makes you miss your mom without ever speaking a word. Patti is a local for all intensive purposes. She grew up and currently lives in Grantsville Maryland just a few miles from the fine arts building she works in everyday of her life. She frequently checks her cell phone for updates on life “I have two daughters; you never know when they might need something.” It is for this reason that she never leaves home without it.
The smoke from his cigarette almost seemed like a scene from a movie as Dane Strickland inhaled each puff and let it billow from his lungs and mouth. Dane is a people of the people, meaning he can and will talk to anyone who crosses his path. A permanent resident of Hagerstown Dane spends his time away from home with his fellow students at Frostburg State University. He is a senior and a business major who will not leave home without his phone. As he tossed his waterlogged cigarette his phone rings “you always need to talk to people.”
The bashful sun was hiding behind the clouds as the rain fell on the heads of wandering strangers. Some in between classes and some working away in their offices it was an overall average day. Average however was not the word to describe the Frostburg campuses inhabitants.
Walking starry eyed through a dimly lit hallway Ha Pham, a senior here at Frostburg State, searched for the one door that had behind it all she had ever dreamed of…….a toilet. “It’s freezing out there and I really have to pee” she said to the nosey journalism student as he approached armed with questions. Ha is a liberal arts student at the university and is in her last year of studies. Growing up in Silver Spring Maryland Ha had many experiences with the local parks and recreation department which led her to becoming a recreation major. Leaving the house for school every day there is one thing she must remember, her cell phone. Speaking enthusiastically as she almost skipped down the hall she uttered these profound words “You don’t know me, my life is in there.”
] Patti Graham the Administrative Assistant for the visual arts department sat at her computer in a world all her own. Patti is a soft spoken woman who almost invites conversation with her smile. She is the kind of woman who makes you miss your mom without ever speaking a word. Patti is a local for all intensive purposes. She grew up and currently lives in Grantsville Maryland just a few miles from the fine arts building she works in everyday of her life. She frequently checks her cell phone for updates on life “I have two daughters; you never know when they might need something.” It is for this reason that she never leaves home without it.
The smoke from his cigarette almost seemed like a scene from a movie as Dane Strickland inhaled each puff and let it billow from his lungs and mouth. Dane is a people of the people, meaning he can and will talk to anyone who crosses his path. A permanent resident of Hagerstown Dane spends his time away from home with his fellow students at Frostburg State University. He is a senior and a business major who will not leave home without his phone. As he tossed his waterlogged cigarette his phone rings “you always need to talk to people.”
Meeting fellow Frostburg-ians
Joey Harris is attending his first year at Frostburg State University. He is currently declared as an Education Major with great interest in teaching at his local high school of Mountain Ridge. Joey's hometown is Frostburg Maryland. When asked what his biggest fear was, Joey replied "My biggest fear is heights, or really anything that could involve falling a great distance."
Danny Hutchins is attending Frostburg State University for his third consecutive year. Danny is a Mass Communications major with much interest in running his own radio station. His hometown is Parkville Maryland. Danny was asked what would be his biggest fear, and he simply replied "Being burnt alive, that would suck."
Jackie Brown is a Professor of Arts and Ceramics at Frostburg State University. She works in the Visual Arts department. When asked what her biggest fear is, Ms. Brown hesitated and replied "My biggest fear would be sleeping through the alarm clock, because nothing would get done!"
Danny Hutchins is attending Frostburg State University for his third consecutive year. Danny is a Mass Communications major with much interest in running his own radio station. His hometown is Parkville Maryland. Danny was asked what would be his biggest fear, and he simply replied "Being burnt alive, that would suck."
Jackie Brown is a Professor of Arts and Ceramics at Frostburg State University. She works in the Visual Arts department. When asked what her biggest fear is, Ms. Brown hesitated and replied "My biggest fear would be sleeping through the alarm clock, because nothing would get done!"
Alpha Sigma Tau and Pre-professional Medicine Society Hold Fundraisers.
On September 17, 2009 the Pre-professional medical society was stationed on the second floor of the Compton Science Center selling delicious looking baked goods in order to raise money for the Relay for Life. Amongst the group were Micayla Bowman and Brandon Arnold. Micayla is a chemistry major from Eldersburg in Carroll County, MD and Brandon a Professional Medicine major from Croften in Ann Arundel County, MD. They both aspire to be, as Micayla puts it, "the future Scrubs of America." Then Brandon went on to say that the Pre-professional medicine society does "pretty much everything and anything that is related to medicine."
Down in the Lane Center at the same time, the girls of Alpha Sigma Tau were holding a fundraiser for their sorority. The group was selling jewelery as a means of bringing in some extra funds. Amanda Clever, a psychology major from Chestertown, MD, was kind enough to take time to explain the meaning of their motto: "Anchors, Pearls and Alpha Tau Girls!" She explained that the anchor is the official mascot for the sorority, the pearl is the official symbol, and the girls are...well the girls obviously.
Both of these groups seemed to be having success with their fundraisers, as there was plenty of noise coming from their general direction and plenty of people gathered around their respective tables.
Down in the Lane Center at the same time, the girls of Alpha Sigma Tau were holding a fundraiser for their sorority. The group was selling jewelery as a means of bringing in some extra funds. Amanda Clever, a psychology major from Chestertown, MD, was kind enough to take time to explain the meaning of their motto: "Anchors, Pearls and Alpha Tau Girls!" She explained that the anchor is the official mascot for the sorority, the pearl is the official symbol, and the girls are...well the girls obviously.
Both of these groups seemed to be having success with their fundraisers, as there was plenty of noise coming from their general direction and plenty of people gathered around their respective tables.
What is your worst fear?
Dane Christopher’s absolute worst fear is heights. He is a junior in college and is majoring in Business. When traveling on vacation, Dane would rather take the longer route and drive, instead of flying because he is petrified of falling. When asked why height s are so terrifying to him Dane replied, “Anytime I even think about being at any high elevation in the air, I get sick to my stomach!”
On the other Hand, Aimee Slider’s worst fear is tidal waves and quick sand. She feels that they are circumstances that you do not have control in. So in that situation, her own fate wouldn’t be in her hands. When asked why those two particular things are at the top of her fear list, Aimee quickly responded, “Not being able to be in control of my fate makes me uncomfortable.”
Finally, Andrew Behringer’s worst fear would be something happening to anyone in his family. Andrew is very family-oriented and he enjoys spending as much time with his family as possible. Andrew is a junior at Frostburg State University, where he is studying Mass Communications. He is originally from Arnold, Maryland. “If any tragedy ever happened to anyone in my immediate family, I would feel like I was losing a big part of myself as well!”
On the other Hand, Aimee Slider’s worst fear is tidal waves and quick sand. She feels that they are circumstances that you do not have control in. So in that situation, her own fate wouldn’t be in her hands. When asked why those two particular things are at the top of her fear list, Aimee quickly responded, “Not being able to be in control of my fate makes me uncomfortable.”
Finally, Andrew Behringer’s worst fear would be something happening to anyone in his family. Andrew is very family-oriented and he enjoys spending as much time with his family as possible. Andrew is a junior at Frostburg State University, where he is studying Mass Communications. He is originally from Arnold, Maryland. “If any tragedy ever happened to anyone in my immediate family, I would feel like I was losing a big part of myself as well!”
Best friends, how many of us have them?
Vince DiCarlo, didn’t hesitate to declare that his first best friend was, Luke Willis. DiCarlo who wants to make sure his last names is spelled correctly with the capital C, remembers his bestfriend Luke. Their parents grew up together and that’s how they met. DiCarlo recalls them, “being friends since they were in diapers. Wow that’s a long time.” Vince DiCarlo is a junior at Frostburg and is an Accounting major from Eldersburg, MD.
Senior Tia Henley from Randallstown, MD and Business Management major loves her first best friend Celeste. Celeste and Henley who are now grown have been friends since they were little. Henley says their friendship was able to withstand any obstacle thrown their way. “She is dependable and she will be there when ever I need her, and I will be there for her.” Henley says with a smile on her face.
“He’s a good kid the best friend I always needed, and we’re family” stated TJ Johnson. Johnson and his cousin Camden Johnson both live in Huntington, MD where they were raised together a few blocks from each other. After being almost inseparable their whole lives Johnson and Camden are now apart. Camden still in their home town, while Johnson is in Frostburg where he is a freshman Law and Society major. They still have frequent conversation like today, after the interview walking away his phone rang and it was none other then Camden.
Senior Tia Henley from Randallstown, MD and Business Management major loves her first best friend Celeste. Celeste and Henley who are now grown have been friends since they were little. Henley says their friendship was able to withstand any obstacle thrown their way. “She is dependable and she will be there when ever I need her, and I will be there for her.” Henley says with a smile on her face.
“He’s a good kid the best friend I always needed, and we’re family” stated TJ Johnson. Johnson and his cousin Camden Johnson both live in Huntington, MD where they were raised together a few blocks from each other. After being almost inseparable their whole lives Johnson and Camden are now apart. Camden still in their home town, while Johnson is in Frostburg where he is a freshman Law and Society major. They still have frequent conversation like today, after the interview walking away his phone rang and it was none other then Camden.
Children, How Many Could YOU See Yourself With?
Its seems everywhere I went I got the same answer, two. When I asked three people the question, how many kids would you like to have they all responded with two. Two does seem to be a popular answer, kids are considered a handful so who would want more.
When I asked my roommate Justin Zimerman from Lavale, Maryland, he took a pause and replied," I'd go with a solid two." Justin and I are both Juniors and he majors in Geography. I then went next door and asked our quadmate Eric Stinchcomb from Glen Burnie and a sophmore majoring in Accounting, hoping to get a different answer but was reluctant to find out he was in the same boat as Justin, "Uhh two," he replied. So as I walked back to class finding my next victim, I ran into my buddy Dan Capri who I went to high school with back in Germantown. A junior and majoring in education, Dan was the last on my list and without hesitation responded, "Two."
So there it is, three people, three of the same answers. I dont know if all of them being guys had anything to do with it but I guess having two children is the best way to go. If I were asked the question, two would be my answer as well. A son and a daughter at the most would be all I need. Had I asked more people, im sure answers would have been different but for now, "two" is the ideal number.
When I asked my roommate Justin Zimerman from Lavale, Maryland, he took a pause and replied," I'd go with a solid two." Justin and I are both Juniors and he majors in Geography. I then went next door and asked our quadmate Eric Stinchcomb from Glen Burnie and a sophmore majoring in Accounting, hoping to get a different answer but was reluctant to find out he was in the same boat as Justin, "Uhh two," he replied. So as I walked back to class finding my next victim, I ran into my buddy Dan Capri who I went to high school with back in Germantown. A junior and majoring in education, Dan was the last on my list and without hesitation responded, "Two."
So there it is, three people, three of the same answers. I dont know if all of them being guys had anything to do with it but I guess having two children is the best way to go. If I were asked the question, two would be my answer as well. A son and a daughter at the most would be all I need. Had I asked more people, im sure answers would have been different but for now, "two" is the ideal number.
Where Are You From?
A college campus offers a wide variety of diversity, bringing people together from every nook of the world. At Frostburg State Univeristy, many students are from surrounding counties in Maryland. People consider the question of "where are you from?" differently. To some this may mean where they were born, to others this may mean where they came from to attend Frostburg Sate University.Rachel Wiseman from Fallston, Maryland and a junior at Frostburg State University who is still undeclared in means of a major, had a logical outlook on this question. She nervously replied, "I am from Fallston, Maryland, Baltimore County. I consider this to be where I am from because it is where I belong, it would be wierd to live anywhere else."Senior Julie Stewart from Cationsville, Maryland who is double majoring in law and society and political science, seemed confident in her answer. "I am from Cationsville, Maryland, Baltimore County. I consider this to be where I am from because my family has always been there." For Julie Stewart, family has a strong value.Criszonia Brown from Essex, Maryland who is in her freshman year at Frostburg State Univeristy studying education replied with an in depth reasoning as to why Essex, Maryland is where she is from. "I am from Essex, Maryland, Baltimore County. I consider this to be where I am from because I moved there before I could even remember much, grew up there, got to know it and the people and have gained a connection."Each and every one of these answers holds value that is close to these students hearts. For various reasons each hometown holds such deep meaning. If it were not for these connections with these towns, the question as to "where are you from?" would be a complete mystery.
Abandoned on an Island
Although it does not happen often, many people ponder on the thought of what they would bring if they were ever trapped on a deserted island. On a rainy day in September, three different personalities responded with their own unique responses. Some answers were the persons favorite items that they would like to have with them while others thought about things they could bring that would help get them off the island.
Aubrey Horton of Frederick, Maryland replied immediately with a stereotypical response that most young girls would list as their life necessities, "My cell phone, iPod, and dog... duh." She answered very quickly because she seemed to be rushing from lunch and headed back to her dorm room in Westminster Hall. Aubrey is currently a sophomore at Frostburg State University majoring in education.
Melanie Rowe of Germantown, Maryland was sitting alone in the Lane Center reading for her next class. Ms. Rowe is a junior majoring in psychology. She was very generous to donate a short amount of time away from her studies to answer the question of which three items she would bring with her to a deserted island. In an attempt to be original she answered, “A Sudoku book and pen, suntan lotion with good SPF, and water, water is good.”
In Dunkle Hall room 124 Andrew Duncan, assistant professor of Frostburg State University’s English department, replied in a matter-of-fact kind of way, “a working cell phone, a United States Navy issued flare gun, and a long range directional beacon.” He obviously would not be stranded for very long.
Aubrey Horton of Frederick, Maryland replied immediately with a stereotypical response that most young girls would list as their life necessities, "My cell phone, iPod, and dog... duh." She answered very quickly because she seemed to be rushing from lunch and headed back to her dorm room in Westminster Hall. Aubrey is currently a sophomore at Frostburg State University majoring in education.
Melanie Rowe of Germantown, Maryland was sitting alone in the Lane Center reading for her next class. Ms. Rowe is a junior majoring in psychology. She was very generous to donate a short amount of time away from her studies to answer the question of which three items she would bring with her to a deserted island. In an attempt to be original she answered, “A Sudoku book and pen, suntan lotion with good SPF, and water, water is good.”
In Dunkle Hall room 124 Andrew Duncan, assistant professor of Frostburg State University’s English department, replied in a matter-of-fact kind of way, “a working cell phone, a United States Navy issued flare gun, and a long range directional beacon.” He obviously would not be stranded for very long.
Scariest Moments of FSU Students and Faculty
It's common for a person to have at least one scary moment in his or her life, but are they willing to comfortably share this moment? A few Frostburg State University students, and a faculty member as well, were asked this question: What was your scariest moment?
Quietly sitting at a computer desk in her office, the English Department's Administrative Assistant Joanna Skelley had to take a moment to process the question before answering. "There's been so many," she offers before her eyebrows raise, showing she has an answer. "When I found a snake in my basement." One could see the chills run down her spine as she remebered the frightening encounter.
Sixth year Biology major Tyler Lancaster, who is from Rawlings, Maryland, and third year Engineering major Josiah Rawlings, who is from Westernport, Maryland, had similar answers to the rather personal question. "There's been quite a few, but the scariest was when I wrecked my car," Tyler reveals. "One moment I was driving to class and the next my car was in the back of some lady's van." Josiah, whose scariest moment was also a car accident, states, "I've had a lot, but my head-on collision with another car was the scariest." He then adds with relief, "I only came out of it with a few bruised ribs, but it could have been way worse."
As expected, this personal question was not easily answered. From their comments and actions, it was clear that each of the three people asked have had more than one scary moment in his or her life, but the scariest moment had the most effect on them, and still does to this day.
Quietly sitting at a computer desk in her office, the English Department's Administrative Assistant Joanna Skelley had to take a moment to process the question before answering. "There's been so many," she offers before her eyebrows raise, showing she has an answer. "When I found a snake in my basement." One could see the chills run down her spine as she remebered the frightening encounter.
Sixth year Biology major Tyler Lancaster, who is from Rawlings, Maryland, and third year Engineering major Josiah Rawlings, who is from Westernport, Maryland, had similar answers to the rather personal question. "There's been quite a few, but the scariest was when I wrecked my car," Tyler reveals. "One moment I was driving to class and the next my car was in the back of some lady's van." Josiah, whose scariest moment was also a car accident, states, "I've had a lot, but my head-on collision with another car was the scariest." He then adds with relief, "I only came out of it with a few bruised ribs, but it could have been way worse."
As expected, this personal question was not easily answered. From their comments and actions, it was clear that each of the three people asked have had more than one scary moment in his or her life, but the scariest moment had the most effect on them, and still does to this day.
Frosburg State speaks up about Kanye West
Students walk slowly through campus on this rainy day with their hoods up and hands in their pockets. It has been four days since Kanye West took the microphone from graceful Taylor Swift and voiced his opinion on Beyonce's video while Taylor tried to give her acceptance speech for her MTV award. Although the weather could easily change, Frostburg students and faculty do not think Kanye West can. When asked "do you think Kanye should be forgiven, even after he apologized," Frostburg State students and faculty give their opinion.
Dana Kesner, who works in FSU's multitrades department, sits on a bench outside Tawes Hall smoking a cigarrette while giving his point-of-view. "Kanye shouldn't be forgiven after his apology because he already has his spotlight, he should let someone else have it."
Matt Briskey sits alongside Mr. Kesner nodding his head in approval, "Dana is right, he shouldn't have done that."
Kiera Douglas, a junior majoring in Business Management, has a much stronger opinion. "Kanye should not have done that. He has consistently been arrogant and rude to anyone and everyone he comes in contact with. His time is now to be punished," she says while carrying her umbrella close.
Everyone may make mistakes but Kanye West is proof that sometimes an apology is not always enough.
Dana Kesner, who works in FSU's multitrades department, sits on a bench outside Tawes Hall smoking a cigarrette while giving his point-of-view. "Kanye shouldn't be forgiven after his apology because he already has his spotlight, he should let someone else have it."
Matt Briskey sits alongside Mr. Kesner nodding his head in approval, "Dana is right, he shouldn't have done that."
Kiera Douglas, a junior majoring in Business Management, has a much stronger opinion. "Kanye should not have done that. He has consistently been arrogant and rude to anyone and everyone he comes in contact with. His time is now to be punished," she says while carrying her umbrella close.
Everyone may make mistakes but Kanye West is proof that sometimes an apology is not always enough.
Who do you idolize?
Walking through campus on this rainy day, three people were stopped and bothered; Aubrey, Chris, and Garrett. One question was asked to each person, “Who do you idolize?” Aubrey, who is a sophomore here at Frostburg State University, answered with idolizing her mother without hesitation. Her mother has always been there for her when she was growing up. Not only has she always been there, but all of Aubrey’s decisions have been supported from her mother 100%.
The library was a quite and dark place today; two boys sitting next to each other seemed like the perfect target for this question. Chris, who is now finally a senior at FSU, answered the question with idolizing and singer or musician. He explained his answer without having been asked. He said “It takes great talent to become a singer or a musician, talent I wish I had.”
The last person questioned was Garrett, a junior at FSU. It took him a while to answer the question and came up with the answer of any type of parent. He believes that any parent is very giving and selfless. For any person to be that willing depending on the age who is understandably giving some of their dreams to help someone else’s come true is truly on of the greatest persons on the earth.
The library was a quite and dark place today; two boys sitting next to each other seemed like the perfect target for this question. Chris, who is now finally a senior at FSU, answered the question with idolizing and singer or musician. He explained his answer without having been asked. He said “It takes great talent to become a singer or a musician, talent I wish I had.”
The last person questioned was Garrett, a junior at FSU. It took him a while to answer the question and came up with the answer of any type of parent. He believes that any parent is very giving and selfless. For any person to be that willing depending on the age who is understandably giving some of their dreams to help someone else’s come true is truly on of the greatest persons on the earth.
The Real Perez Hilton
Richard “Ricky” Sours is a 24 year old junior at Frostburg State University. He is sadly only one credit away from being a senior. He is a member of Phi Mu Delta; he began his new member education program in fall 2008. He is proud to hold the position of the National Undergrad Representative, which entitles him to go to all the national meetings and make all legal decisions. He referred himself as “kind of like a senator for Phi Mu Delta.” He works full time for the school in the Americor Program and is a full time student as well.
“Friends call me Perez.” Perez Hilton is a celebrity gossip know-it-all. Ricky’s friends refer to him as this because he knows all about many people in this small town. He has been known to have Red Carpet Parties for the MTV award show, The Video Music Awards aka VMA’s.
Many people go through hard times in their life; Ricky made the tough decision to finally come out to his family and friends. Unfortunately for parents, their child coming out to them causes them to make drastic decisions. Ricky’s parents threw him out of the house. He moved to Ocean City, Md. for a few years and developed a rough drug habit. “That’s why I am a 24 year old junior,” he said as he explained his life at that time. Along with being kicked out of his house, he had to literally rely on himself and the clothes on his back. He pays for everything himself now and he did then as well. After this tragic falling out with his family, he became very negative and was not a very pleasant person to be around. Over this past summer he realized it used too much energy to be negative. He talks to his parents now and is trying to form new relationships with them. Ricky has two sisters, Rebecca, who is 23, and Sarah, who is 22. “They are exactly nine months and two days apart.” Sarah loves the fact that Ricky has come out and is completely and utterly okay with it. Rebecca on the other hand was very stand offish, and still is not really 100% okay with it.
“One of the happiest things in my life was that my friends were cool with it.” He is still friends with his best friend since first grade. When he came out to her, she replied, “Oh thank God because I am a lesbian and I did not know how to tell you.” His other best friend who is a guy replied, “Rick if you said you did not want to party with me or blow shit up with me we would not be friends, but I do not care who you have sex with.”
“Friends call me Perez.” Perez Hilton is a celebrity gossip know-it-all. Ricky’s friends refer to him as this because he knows all about many people in this small town. He has been known to have Red Carpet Parties for the MTV award show, The Video Music Awards aka VMA’s.
Many people go through hard times in their life; Ricky made the tough decision to finally come out to his family and friends. Unfortunately for parents, their child coming out to them causes them to make drastic decisions. Ricky’s parents threw him out of the house. He moved to Ocean City, Md. for a few years and developed a rough drug habit. “That’s why I am a 24 year old junior,” he said as he explained his life at that time. Along with being kicked out of his house, he had to literally rely on himself and the clothes on his back. He pays for everything himself now and he did then as well. After this tragic falling out with his family, he became very negative and was not a very pleasant person to be around. Over this past summer he realized it used too much energy to be negative. He talks to his parents now and is trying to form new relationships with them. Ricky has two sisters, Rebecca, who is 23, and Sarah, who is 22. “They are exactly nine months and two days apart.” Sarah loves the fact that Ricky has come out and is completely and utterly okay with it. Rebecca on the other hand was very stand offish, and still is not really 100% okay with it.
“One of the happiest things in my life was that my friends were cool with it.” He is still friends with his best friend since first grade. When he came out to her, she replied, “Oh thank God because I am a lesbian and I did not know how to tell you.” His other best friend who is a guy replied, “Rick if you said you did not want to party with me or blow shit up with me we would not be friends, but I do not care who you have sex with.”
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