Behind her curly, auburn hair, her contagious smile, and her slight southern drawl, Cathy Waggoner is an enigma.
A small town southern girl, originally from NC., spending the majority of her childhood in Miss., Waggoner is a forty-seven year old firecracker, to say the least.
“I have sort of a bittersweet attitude towards growing up in the South,” Waggoner said. She explained that things were very segregated, and rather different from the North. She went to a small public school, where the population was 78 percent African-American students.
“It wasn’t always easy being the minority, but it’s really shaped me into who I am, it was a great experience.”
Waggoner explained that summers in Mississippi were exceptionally different than the rest of the year. “I lived in the house that all the kids came to. Mama would say ‘leave and come back at dinner time,’” she said. Growing up on a lake, she explained that her and her friends would water ski everyday they could. “Our toenails would turn yellow from the mud,” she said chuckling. “We kept toothbrushes in the shower to clean our muddy feet. I never realized that everyone didn’t have toothbrushes in their showers.”
Waggoner began dancing in third grade, was involved with Girl Scouts, church group, and (not on her list of favorites), softball. “I’ll never forget, Sissy (last name) was the coach and she was so mean!” Needless to say, the softball fad did not last long.
Even when discussing a more serious topic, education, Waggoner’s smile never left her face. “I had a great childhood, but I had to get away,” she said. Receiving her undergrad at the University of Southern Mississippi, her masters at Bowling Green, and finally her PhD at Ohio State, education is not a department Waggoner is lacking in. She began with English, and migrated to Communications after several public speaking opportunities.
“Daddy told me I needed my teaching degree. He said it was good for the mother and wife,” she said. “Mark the mortician had just dumped me, and I wasn’t really looking for a husband.” Waggoner decided that regardless of what daddy said, she wanted to teach college students.
“Higher education was the place, and I love college aged kids,” she said. “I have the best job in the world.”
Aside from her love for teaching, Waggoner has a few other things on her list of things to do. “I want to go to clown school,” she said. “I have this fascination with the circus, I guess.” Waggoner also expressed her love for books, leading her to desire to be a librarian.
Today, Waggoner resides in Springfield, Oh and is married with two sons, Graham (six), and Ian (eleven). She explained that she wanted a girl at one time, but believes that things happen for the best reason, and she feels as though she is a good mother for boys.
Her parents relocated in North Carolina and she visits them with the kids once a year, and sometimes with her sister during the fall. Her father-in-law recently passed away and her traditional, opinionated mother-in-law is still living. “I think she (her mother-in-law) wants me to be the daughter she never had, go out to lunch and things. I want to go to clown school, not have tea!”
Waggoner is currently living her life believing that she needs to do more with less. “I need to not take more on, but do more with what I have,” she said. Underneath her charismatic smile, capturing personality, and southern accent, Cathy Waggoner is an enjoyable, humorous, and very accomplished woman.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Feature Rough Draft
Barbie: long, shiny, blonde hair, fashionable, able to accomplish every career known to man, and most importantly, sporting an impossible figure.
Influencing the lives of young women today is what they see on television, in the magazines they read, and even the toys on the store shelves.
“Body image is really important to me,” said Bailee Mayne, a fourteen-year-old eighth grader. “I don’t have a lot of self confidence to begin with, I’m really conscious about how I dress, how my makeup looks, and how I look in my clothes.” Mayne explained that she is a cheerleader, runs track, and is an award winning pageant contestant.
“Sure, my activities make it seem as though I should feel confident in my own skin. Unfortunately, I don’t.”
The covers of the magazines you see when you are checking out at the grocery store typically display topics such as: Best and Worst Beach Bodies, and Best and Worst Dressed of the Week. Pictures include women in sleek, form-fitting clothing, showing off their bodies.
According to research done by the American Research Group: Anorexia Nervosa & Related Eating Disorders, Inc., exposure to images of thin, young, air-brushed women is linked to depression, loss of self-esteem and the development of not only, unhealthy eating habits, but eating disorders as well, in women and girls.
The research group also says that one out of every four college-aged women have turned to some sort of unhealthy eating habit. Examples include: fasting, skipping meals, excessively exercising, abusing laxatives, and self induced vomiting.
“I know I could be thinner,” said Brittany Thissen, another eighth grader lacking in self-confidence. “I asked my mom to start packing me only healthy food in my lunch. I don’t really think it’s a diet, I’m just trying to eat healthier, especially in front of my friends.”
Teen magazine reported that 35 percent of girls six to twelve years old have been on at least one diet. The magazine also reported that 50 to 70 percent of normal weight girls felt that they were overweight, or would be more confident if they lost weight.
Striving for that perfect beach body, or longing to make it onto that best dressed list can cause self-esteem issues, confidence problems, and even lead to eating disorders.
How necessary is that impossible figure? After all, we all know that if Barbie could talk the first things she would ask for is bigger feet, a hot fudge sundae, and a breast reduction.
Influencing the lives of young women today is what they see on television, in the magazines they read, and even the toys on the store shelves.
“Body image is really important to me,” said Bailee Mayne, a fourteen-year-old eighth grader. “I don’t have a lot of self confidence to begin with, I’m really conscious about how I dress, how my makeup looks, and how I look in my clothes.” Mayne explained that she is a cheerleader, runs track, and is an award winning pageant contestant.
“Sure, my activities make it seem as though I should feel confident in my own skin. Unfortunately, I don’t.”
The covers of the magazines you see when you are checking out at the grocery store typically display topics such as: Best and Worst Beach Bodies, and Best and Worst Dressed of the Week. Pictures include women in sleek, form-fitting clothing, showing off their bodies.
According to research done by the American Research Group: Anorexia Nervosa & Related Eating Disorders, Inc., exposure to images of thin, young, air-brushed women is linked to depression, loss of self-esteem and the development of not only, unhealthy eating habits, but eating disorders as well, in women and girls.
The research group also says that one out of every four college-aged women have turned to some sort of unhealthy eating habit. Examples include: fasting, skipping meals, excessively exercising, abusing laxatives, and self induced vomiting.
“I know I could be thinner,” said Brittany Thissen, another eighth grader lacking in self-confidence. “I asked my mom to start packing me only healthy food in my lunch. I don’t really think it’s a diet, I’m just trying to eat healthier, especially in front of my friends.”
Teen magazine reported that 35 percent of girls six to twelve years old have been on at least one diet. The magazine also reported that 50 to 70 percent of normal weight girls felt that they were overweight, or would be more confident if they lost weight.
Striving for that perfect beach body, or longing to make it onto that best dressed list can cause self-esteem issues, confidence problems, and even lead to eating disorders.
How necessary is that impossible figure? After all, we all know that if Barbie could talk the first things she would ask for is bigger feet, a hot fudge sundae, and a breast reduction.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Tomorrow's Dreams Trapped in Shackles
The average beginning college student: excited to move away from home and gain a little bit of that longed for freedom, nervous to meet the new roommate, all packed up with new dorm accessories, sporting the latest trends yearning to make a great impression. The thing that doesn’t hit us until about mid way through freshman year: “what am I going to do with the rest of my life?”
By spending several thousand dollars a year, and ending up almost a quarter of a million dollars in debt, I will receive a degree in the field of my choice to follow my dreams with. But, what will I be able to do with that degree, will it really make my dreams come true? Will that degree even be able to get me a job? Will it make me the money I need to support myself?
“I have a degree in fashion merchandising” said Lynette Salazar, a forty-five year old waitress. “I always loved clothes and fashion. I loved keeping up with the latest styles and sharing them with the rest of the world” said Salazar. Now waiting tables in her home town at her family’s restaurant, Salazar is a perfect example of what a college degree can do for us: not a whole lot.
“It’s not exactly ideal and it definitely doesn’t bring in the big bucks, but I try to keep my head up and think about the positives, like the fact that I get to spend a lot of time with my kids because of this job” Salazar said.
Today, when deciding what to do when we “grow up” is a little more difficult than it used to be. Acting as a graduating college senior, I researched some job opportunities. Come to find out, staying close to home is hardly an option. About 70 percent of the jobs I found were on the west coast, Calif. specifically. Most of the jobs being offered had lists of criteria a mile long. The $44,000 a year I’m paying to go to school is not paying for me to meet that list of criteria.
That brings me to the questions: Is a bachelor’s degree enough, or do we have to go to graduate school? Is graduate school even sufficient? The status of the job market could determine the way we choose our future career. We could be stuck doing something for the rest of our lives that we absolutely hate. We are forced to make a decision based on offered income, and whether or not we will actually meet the criteria on that mile long list.
Should we possess attitudes such as Salazar’s, or should we focus on bringing home the bacon? Anymore we have to wonder if it is actually is possible to spend time with your family and loved ones, and have a decent job at the same time.
Come to find out, answering the question, “what do you want to do with the rest of your life?” has a lot more to it than simply following your dreams and listening to your heart.
When your child comes to you and says “I want to be a fireman” do you tell the small child that that is probably not a good idea because firemen do not make very much money, and they do not get to see their families very often, or do you bite your tongue and tell them to follow their dreams?
By spending several thousand dollars a year, and ending up almost a quarter of a million dollars in debt, I will receive a degree in the field of my choice to follow my dreams with. But, what will I be able to do with that degree, will it really make my dreams come true? Will that degree even be able to get me a job? Will it make me the money I need to support myself?
“I have a degree in fashion merchandising” said Lynette Salazar, a forty-five year old waitress. “I always loved clothes and fashion. I loved keeping up with the latest styles and sharing them with the rest of the world” said Salazar. Now waiting tables in her home town at her family’s restaurant, Salazar is a perfect example of what a college degree can do for us: not a whole lot.
“It’s not exactly ideal and it definitely doesn’t bring in the big bucks, but I try to keep my head up and think about the positives, like the fact that I get to spend a lot of time with my kids because of this job” Salazar said.
Today, when deciding what to do when we “grow up” is a little more difficult than it used to be. Acting as a graduating college senior, I researched some job opportunities. Come to find out, staying close to home is hardly an option. About 70 percent of the jobs I found were on the west coast, Calif. specifically. Most of the jobs being offered had lists of criteria a mile long. The $44,000 a year I’m paying to go to school is not paying for me to meet that list of criteria.
That brings me to the questions: Is a bachelor’s degree enough, or do we have to go to graduate school? Is graduate school even sufficient? The status of the job market could determine the way we choose our future career. We could be stuck doing something for the rest of our lives that we absolutely hate. We are forced to make a decision based on offered income, and whether or not we will actually meet the criteria on that mile long list.
Should we possess attitudes such as Salazar’s, or should we focus on bringing home the bacon? Anymore we have to wonder if it is actually is possible to spend time with your family and loved ones, and have a decent job at the same time.
Come to find out, answering the question, “what do you want to do with the rest of your life?” has a lot more to it than simply following your dreams and listening to your heart.
When your child comes to you and says “I want to be a fireman” do you tell the small child that that is probably not a good idea because firemen do not make very much money, and they do not get to see their families very often, or do you bite your tongue and tell them to follow their dreams?
Monday, April 5, 2010
Ruby Slippers and All, We're off to See the Wizard!
Success in “Footloose,” “Seussical the Musical,” and “The Sound of Music,” director Stephanie Stephens has done it, yet again. Despite the fact that London High School missed nearly two weeks of rehearsal, they have managed to pull off one of their best performances to date, showcasing a treasure chest of “gems,” or extremely talented performers. March 4th through the 7th London’s Theater Department will perform the classic musical, “The Wizard of Oz.”
Three of the largest gems include sophomores Matt Colvin, Jared Chastain, and Jordan Farrell, who are obvious veterans to the stage.
Colvin, playing the scarecrow, shows great improvement in vocals from previous shows. The combination of his acting ability, poise, voice, and presentation, make him one of the best overall performers in the production.
Chastain, who is playing the cowardly lion, keeps the auditorium filled with laughter. Whether it is the way he runs at the sight of a tiny, harmless dog, or the way he uses his tail to wipe his tears, Chastain does a great job with the role.
Farrell, playing the tin man, took on a huge challenge by accepting his role. Due to some difficulties, he was thrown into the cast at the last minute. Despite the fact that he rehearsed significantly less than the rest of the cast members, Farrell’s ability to act outshines any small mistakes he might make.
Three smaller, but very shiny gems include Jordan Penix, playing the wicked witch of the West, Jayne Reusch, playing Glinda the good witch of the North, and Sam Spahn, playing Oz. From Reusch’s outstanding voice, to Penix’s and Spahn’s hilarious acting lines, the three of them all show promising, and memorable performances.
Finally, is the largest, shiniest gem of all. Gracing the stage for the first time in a high school production, is freshman Rachel Richardson, taking on the role of Dorothy Gale. Richardson’s phenomenal voice steals the show. Richardson was cast perfectly; she fits her character so well with her meek, yet determined personality. London should look forward to three more years with such a talented young performer.
There are several small, yet bold gems that help to fill the treasure chest. Forty munchkins from London Elementary School parade around the stage in bright, multi-colored, multi-patterned costumes. Whether it is the way they glow when they sing about the death of the wicked witch, the smiles that were always on their faces, or the way they put such purpose in each step they take, it is the small ones that leave quite a lasting impression.
Something new taking place on stage this year was the use of special effects. From fog machines, to fire, to a melting effect, to projector screens, to live crystal balls, the effects undeniably add to the show. Also adding to the performance was the stupendous set, built by Bruce Thompson, and elaborate costumes done by Deb Cochran.
With the simple click of heels three times, London has brought a performance home yet again. From the talented, notable performances, to the eye catching set, costumes, and special effects, London’s Theater Department has produced another unforgettable show.
Three of the largest gems include sophomores Matt Colvin, Jared Chastain, and Jordan Farrell, who are obvious veterans to the stage.
Colvin, playing the scarecrow, shows great improvement in vocals from previous shows. The combination of his acting ability, poise, voice, and presentation, make him one of the best overall performers in the production.
Chastain, who is playing the cowardly lion, keeps the auditorium filled with laughter. Whether it is the way he runs at the sight of a tiny, harmless dog, or the way he uses his tail to wipe his tears, Chastain does a great job with the role.
Farrell, playing the tin man, took on a huge challenge by accepting his role. Due to some difficulties, he was thrown into the cast at the last minute. Despite the fact that he rehearsed significantly less than the rest of the cast members, Farrell’s ability to act outshines any small mistakes he might make.
Three smaller, but very shiny gems include Jordan Penix, playing the wicked witch of the West, Jayne Reusch, playing Glinda the good witch of the North, and Sam Spahn, playing Oz. From Reusch’s outstanding voice, to Penix’s and Spahn’s hilarious acting lines, the three of them all show promising, and memorable performances.
Finally, is the largest, shiniest gem of all. Gracing the stage for the first time in a high school production, is freshman Rachel Richardson, taking on the role of Dorothy Gale. Richardson’s phenomenal voice steals the show. Richardson was cast perfectly; she fits her character so well with her meek, yet determined personality. London should look forward to three more years with such a talented young performer.
There are several small, yet bold gems that help to fill the treasure chest. Forty munchkins from London Elementary School parade around the stage in bright, multi-colored, multi-patterned costumes. Whether it is the way they glow when they sing about the death of the wicked witch, the smiles that were always on their faces, or the way they put such purpose in each step they take, it is the small ones that leave quite a lasting impression.
Something new taking place on stage this year was the use of special effects. From fog machines, to fire, to a melting effect, to projector screens, to live crystal balls, the effects undeniably add to the show. Also adding to the performance was the stupendous set, built by Bruce Thompson, and elaborate costumes done by Deb Cochran.
With the simple click of heels three times, London has brought a performance home yet again. From the talented, notable performances, to the eye catching set, costumes, and special effects, London’s Theater Department has produced another unforgettable show.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Review Rough Draft
Ruby Slippers and All, We’re Off to See the Wizard!
Brynne Mayne
Stephanie Stephens has done it, yet again. Despite the fact that London High School missed nearly two weeks of rehearsal, they have managed to pull off one of their best performances to date. “We’re off to see the Wizard” on March 4th through the 7th when London Theater Department will perform the classic musical, “The Wizard of Oz.”
Gracing the stage for the first time in a high school production, is freshman Rachel Richardson, taking on the role of Dorothy Gale. From Richardson’s phenomenal vocals, to the way she perfectly fits her character with her meek, yet determined personality, she shows a very promising performance.
Back for his third high school performance, is sophomore Matt Colvin, playing the Scarecrow. An obvious veteran to the stage, Colvin shows great improvement in his voice as well as his acting skills. With the combination of his stage presence, vocals, acting ability, and poise, Colvin will leave the audience longing for more.
From the varsity football field, to the wrestling mat, to the stage, is sophomore Jared Chastain, playing the cowardly Lion. Drawing attention with his remarkable dance ability, Chastain’s performance is very impressive. Producing a number of laughs throughout the show, Chastain is quite an exciting performer to watch.
Due to some difficulties, sophomore Jordan Farrell was thrown into the cast at the last minute. Taking on the role of the Tin Man, it was completely unnoticeable that Farrell had rehearsed significantly less than the rest of the cast. Shining with his strong acting abilities, Farrell was just another member of an extremely talented cast.
Also showing very promising performances were Jordan Penix, playing the Wicked Witch of the West, Jayne Reusch, playing Glinda the Good Witch of the North, and Sam Spahn, playing Oz. From Reusch’s outstanding voice, to Penix’s and Spahn’s hilarious acting lines, the three of them all generated considerably memorable performances.
Something new taking place on stage this year was the use of special effects. From fog machines, to fire, to a melting effect, to projector screens, to live crystal balls, the effects undeniably added to the show. Also adding to the performance was the stupendous set, built by Bruce Thompson, and elaborate costumes done by Deb Chochran.
Nearly stealing the show, were the small, yet bold additions. Forty munchkins from London Elementary School paraded around the stage in bright, multi-colored, multi-patterned costumes. Whether it was the way they glowed when they sang about the death of the wicked witch, the smiles that were always on their faces, or the way they put such purpose in each step they took, it was the small ones that left quite a lasting impression.
With the simple click of heels three times, London has brought a performance home yet again. From the talented, notable performances, to the eye catching set, costumes, and special effects, London’s Theater Department has produced another unforgettable show.
Brynne Mayne
Stephanie Stephens has done it, yet again. Despite the fact that London High School missed nearly two weeks of rehearsal, they have managed to pull off one of their best performances to date. “We’re off to see the Wizard” on March 4th through the 7th when London Theater Department will perform the classic musical, “The Wizard of Oz.”
Gracing the stage for the first time in a high school production, is freshman Rachel Richardson, taking on the role of Dorothy Gale. From Richardson’s phenomenal vocals, to the way she perfectly fits her character with her meek, yet determined personality, she shows a very promising performance.
Back for his third high school performance, is sophomore Matt Colvin, playing the Scarecrow. An obvious veteran to the stage, Colvin shows great improvement in his voice as well as his acting skills. With the combination of his stage presence, vocals, acting ability, and poise, Colvin will leave the audience longing for more.
From the varsity football field, to the wrestling mat, to the stage, is sophomore Jared Chastain, playing the cowardly Lion. Drawing attention with his remarkable dance ability, Chastain’s performance is very impressive. Producing a number of laughs throughout the show, Chastain is quite an exciting performer to watch.
Due to some difficulties, sophomore Jordan Farrell was thrown into the cast at the last minute. Taking on the role of the Tin Man, it was completely unnoticeable that Farrell had rehearsed significantly less than the rest of the cast. Shining with his strong acting abilities, Farrell was just another member of an extremely talented cast.
Also showing very promising performances were Jordan Penix, playing the Wicked Witch of the West, Jayne Reusch, playing Glinda the Good Witch of the North, and Sam Spahn, playing Oz. From Reusch’s outstanding voice, to Penix’s and Spahn’s hilarious acting lines, the three of them all generated considerably memorable performances.
Something new taking place on stage this year was the use of special effects. From fog machines, to fire, to a melting effect, to projector screens, to live crystal balls, the effects undeniably added to the show. Also adding to the performance was the stupendous set, built by Bruce Thompson, and elaborate costumes done by Deb Chochran.
Nearly stealing the show, were the small, yet bold additions. Forty munchkins from London Elementary School paraded around the stage in bright, multi-colored, multi-patterned costumes. Whether it was the way they glowed when they sang about the death of the wicked witch, the smiles that were always on their faces, or the way they put such purpose in each step they took, it was the small ones that left quite a lasting impression.
With the simple click of heels three times, London has brought a performance home yet again. From the talented, notable performances, to the eye catching set, costumes, and special effects, London’s Theater Department has produced another unforgettable show.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Rough Draft: feature story
Girls across the globe are pleasing crowds with one of the world’s most dangerous sports: cheerleading. Behind the glitz of the uniform and the neatly tied bow in their pony tails, cheerleaders are at risk for serious injuries.
Although many would say that cheerleading is simply jumping up and down, yelling, or pointlessly throwing people into the air, many disagree. After doing online research, I found that seven randomly pulled websites about the most dangerous sports ranked cheerleading in the top ten among street luging, motorcycle racing, cave diving, rugby, bull riding, rock climbing, horseback riding, big wave surfing, and base jumping.
Livescience.com lists cheerleading at the most dangerous female sport. With the number of injuries due to cheerleading increasing, the question of how dangerous cheerleading truly is, continues to rise. From injuries as small as a sprained knee, to injuries as serious as a broken neck resulting in paralysis, cheerleading is not something that participants take lightly.
Cheerleading has recently been reviewed in order to determine whether or not it’s a contact sport. According to Lindsy DeFilippo, a former cheerleader, “when you have cheerleaders who stunt and tumble, that takes a lot of strength, practice, and endurance like other sports.” According to an article on MSNBC.MSN.com, cheerleading has reported more injuries in the past year than football, basketball, and soccer, making cheerleading one of the most injury prone sports in the world.
After talking to Hannah Popelka, a freshman cheerleader at Wittenberg, she explained the campus’s outlook on cheerleaders. “Well I haven’t been on campus that long but no one really cares or gives us much respect (like during crowd cheers and stuff). But as people, they’re like ‘Oh you’re a cheerleader? Cool!’ and move on. It doesn’t seem to matter very much in a good way or a bad way.”
On a college campus, the priorities of a student don’t typically include paying attention to what their cheerleaders are like or what they do at games. More concerned with homework, classes, their own sports teams, Greek life, or other extra-curricular activities, college students seem to be less likely to notice what the girls in the uniforms on the sidelines are doing.
According to DeFilippo, cheerleaders are viewed as “preps”. Popelka believes that the girls are viewed as “ditzy or slutty. We’re definitely not seen as strong or athletic at all. In movies cheerleaders are the popular ones but I don’t know how that holds up in real life.” Stereotyping of cheerleaders has been going on since day one and I think that can be attributed to the media.
When movies and television shows portray cheerleaders as the blonde air-head who gets all of the guys, that’s how our world is going to perceive them as well. When asked about why she thought cheerleading was a sport, DeFilippo said, “we memorize cheers like other sports memorize plays, we practice several times a week and condition just like other sports.”
In terms of respect, the girls feel like it is lacking. “No one ever responds to our crowd cheers. When we turn directly to the crowd and ask them to join in and they just look at us like we’re crazy, it’s a little disappointing” said Popelka. “Cheerleaders definitely don’t get the respect that they deserve” DeFilippo explained “the stereotyping and teasing really gets old.”
Noticeably, it is believed that there is more to cheering than jumping up and down yelling. Behind the fancy uniform and the grosgrain ribbon, lies a girl longing for respect.
Although many would say that cheerleading is simply jumping up and down, yelling, or pointlessly throwing people into the air, many disagree. After doing online research, I found that seven randomly pulled websites about the most dangerous sports ranked cheerleading in the top ten among street luging, motorcycle racing, cave diving, rugby, bull riding, rock climbing, horseback riding, big wave surfing, and base jumping.
Livescience.com lists cheerleading at the most dangerous female sport. With the number of injuries due to cheerleading increasing, the question of how dangerous cheerleading truly is, continues to rise. From injuries as small as a sprained knee, to injuries as serious as a broken neck resulting in paralysis, cheerleading is not something that participants take lightly.
Cheerleading has recently been reviewed in order to determine whether or not it’s a contact sport. According to Lindsy DeFilippo, a former cheerleader, “when you have cheerleaders who stunt and tumble, that takes a lot of strength, practice, and endurance like other sports.” According to an article on MSNBC.MSN.com, cheerleading has reported more injuries in the past year than football, basketball, and soccer, making cheerleading one of the most injury prone sports in the world.
After talking to Hannah Popelka, a freshman cheerleader at Wittenberg, she explained the campus’s outlook on cheerleaders. “Well I haven’t been on campus that long but no one really cares or gives us much respect (like during crowd cheers and stuff). But as people, they’re like ‘Oh you’re a cheerleader? Cool!’ and move on. It doesn’t seem to matter very much in a good way or a bad way.”
On a college campus, the priorities of a student don’t typically include paying attention to what their cheerleaders are like or what they do at games. More concerned with homework, classes, their own sports teams, Greek life, or other extra-curricular activities, college students seem to be less likely to notice what the girls in the uniforms on the sidelines are doing.
According to DeFilippo, cheerleaders are viewed as “preps”. Popelka believes that the girls are viewed as “ditzy or slutty. We’re definitely not seen as strong or athletic at all. In movies cheerleaders are the popular ones but I don’t know how that holds up in real life.” Stereotyping of cheerleaders has been going on since day one and I think that can be attributed to the media.
When movies and television shows portray cheerleaders as the blonde air-head who gets all of the guys, that’s how our world is going to perceive them as well. When asked about why she thought cheerleading was a sport, DeFilippo said, “we memorize cheers like other sports memorize plays, we practice several times a week and condition just like other sports.”
In terms of respect, the girls feel like it is lacking. “No one ever responds to our crowd cheers. When we turn directly to the crowd and ask them to join in and they just look at us like we’re crazy, it’s a little disappointing” said Popelka. “Cheerleaders definitely don’t get the respect that they deserve” DeFilippo explained “the stereotyping and teasing really gets old.”
Noticeably, it is believed that there is more to cheering than jumping up and down yelling. Behind the fancy uniform and the grosgrain ribbon, lies a girl longing for respect.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Chief Loney: rough draft
Aside from can collectors coming in students' houses, making sandwiches, and using cell phones, Chief Carl Loney has few complaints. In just one hour, Chief of Police and Security at Wittenberg University, Carl Loney, opened my eyes to a world of unknown.
Loney has spent 30 years with the Sheriff's department, beginning at age 18. He has been with Wittenberg for the past eight years and claims he would not trade it for anything. "Being a police officer is just me" said Loney. Contrary to popular belief, the Wittenberg police are not out to get students, they are truly more concerned about students' safety.
"Streaking the Hollow has been going on since day one!" said Loney. "It ain't like robbin' a bank in my book!" Loney said that streaking is not destructive, and he's trying to explain to his younger officers that it is a situation that they can (and maybe should) be a little more lenient on.
Loney talked about his tolerance level in comparison to the Springfield police department's. "I think that we are very much a part of the campus life now" Loney explained. He said that being on a college campus, they know what is going on. "We want you to have a good experience here" Loney said. It's not the students versus the police department, in actuality, they're "looking for the element that doesn't belong".
One of those key elements being liquor law violations. The crime log (accessible on Wittenberg's website) shows a significant decrease in liquor referrals since 2006. Although Loney said that alcohol infractions are the biggest crime problem on campus, he also believes that students seem to be taking more responsibility for their actions.
On a comedic note, Loney spoke of one his craziest encounters here at Wittenberg. He was called to Myers hall when a young man discovered he was not alone while using the men's restroom. Straight out of a small hole in the bathroom wall came a snake, looked the student right in the eyes and slithered back in. He chuckled as he told this old story.
The thirteen Wittenberg Police officers (plus Chief Loney) are out for students' safety. The officers are there for students through thick and thin. Loney said, "Just don't vomit in out cars!"
Loney has spent 30 years with the Sheriff's department, beginning at age 18. He has been with Wittenberg for the past eight years and claims he would not trade it for anything. "Being a police officer is just me" said Loney. Contrary to popular belief, the Wittenberg police are not out to get students, they are truly more concerned about students' safety.
"Streaking the Hollow has been going on since day one!" said Loney. "It ain't like robbin' a bank in my book!" Loney said that streaking is not destructive, and he's trying to explain to his younger officers that it is a situation that they can (and maybe should) be a little more lenient on.
Loney talked about his tolerance level in comparison to the Springfield police department's. "I think that we are very much a part of the campus life now" Loney explained. He said that being on a college campus, they know what is going on. "We want you to have a good experience here" Loney said. It's not the students versus the police department, in actuality, they're "looking for the element that doesn't belong".
One of those key elements being liquor law violations. The crime log (accessible on Wittenberg's website) shows a significant decrease in liquor referrals since 2006. Although Loney said that alcohol infractions are the biggest crime problem on campus, he also believes that students seem to be taking more responsibility for their actions.
On a comedic note, Loney spoke of one his craziest encounters here at Wittenberg. He was called to Myers hall when a young man discovered he was not alone while using the men's restroom. Straight out of a small hole in the bathroom wall came a snake, looked the student right in the eyes and slithered back in. He chuckled as he told this old story.
The thirteen Wittenberg Police officers (plus Chief Loney) are out for students' safety. The officers are there for students through thick and thin. Loney said, "Just don't vomit in out cars!"
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Final: Elizabeth Alexander: Where is the love?
Where is the love? By: Brynne Mayne
Like one of the most influential people in Elizabeth Alexander’s life (Martin Luther King Jr.), she too has a dream. Alexander has a dream the King’s legacy will live on for years to come, and it is through love that this is possible. “I’m talking about the kind of love that takes work, but leads us to where we’re trying to get today” Alexander says.
On Monday, Elizabeth Alexander, inauguration poet, and chair of African American studies at Yale University, gave a moving speech at the Martin Luther King Convocation at Wittenberg University.
Alexander spoke to a diverse audience with personal stories as well as relatable events. “I was at the march on Washington” Alexander explains. “I was also in a baby carriage!” She explained that her parents described the infamous “I Have a Dream” speech an event that they “had to go to.”
Alexander told the audience of a candy dish that sat in her house while she was growing up. The dish was full of political buttons. She said that she vividly remembered King’s button. “It was a black hand shaking a white hand” she describes. Her father wore that same button to Obama’s inauguration.
It was that button and the memories of her past that reminded her of the importance of equality. “Once people had that [equality] so much more would take care of itself.”
“It is love that says we will do better” Alexander says. She explained that love is not only a deep emotion, but a component in the pieces that make the world go round.
While quoting June Jordan, Alexander was tugged in the direction of her specialty: poetry. Poetry is something that Alexander and Jordan have in common. “Poetry is sacred speech that makes the sacred in our lives” Alexander states.
“What if the mightiest word is love?” Alexander asks in her poem “Praise Song for the Day.” Alexander concluded reading this poem, receiving a standing ovation.
Like one of the most influential people in Elizabeth Alexander’s life (Martin Luther King Jr.), she too has a dream. Alexander has a dream the King’s legacy will live on for years to come, and it is through love that this is possible. “I’m talking about the kind of love that takes work, but leads us to where we’re trying to get today” Alexander says.
On Monday, Elizabeth Alexander, inauguration poet, and chair of African American studies at Yale University, gave a moving speech at the Martin Luther King Convocation at Wittenberg University.
Alexander spoke to a diverse audience with personal stories as well as relatable events. “I was at the march on Washington” Alexander explains. “I was also in a baby carriage!” She explained that her parents described the infamous “I Have a Dream” speech an event that they “had to go to.”
Alexander told the audience of a candy dish that sat in her house while she was growing up. The dish was full of political buttons. She said that she vividly remembered King’s button. “It was a black hand shaking a white hand” she describes. Her father wore that same button to Obama’s inauguration.
It was that button and the memories of her past that reminded her of the importance of equality. “Once people had that [equality] so much more would take care of itself.”
“It is love that says we will do better” Alexander says. She explained that love is not only a deep emotion, but a component in the pieces that make the world go round.
While quoting June Jordan, Alexander was tugged in the direction of her specialty: poetry. Poetry is something that Alexander and Jordan have in common. “Poetry is sacred speech that makes the sacred in our lives” Alexander states.
“What if the mightiest word is love?” Alexander asks in her poem “Praise Song for the Day.” Alexander concluded reading this poem, receiving a standing ovation.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Where is the love?
Where is the love? By: Brynne Mayne
“I’m talking about the kind of love that takes work, but leads us to where we’re trying to get today.” Like one of the most influential people in Elizabeth Alexander’s life (Martin Luther King Jr.), she too has a dream. Alexander has a dream the King’s legacy will live on for years to come, and it is through love that this is possible.
On January 18, 2010 Elizabeth Alexander, inauguration poet, and chair of African American studies at Yale, gave a moving speech at the Martin Luther King Convocation at Wittenberg University.
Alexander captivated her diverse audience with personal stories as well as relatable events. “I was at the march in Washington” Alexander explains. “I was also in a baby carriage!” Alexander proceeded with memories of that point in time. She explained that her parents described the infamous “I Have a Dream” speech an event that they “had to go to.”
Also reflecting on the past, Alexander told the audience of a candy dish that sat in her house while she was growing up. The dish was full of political buttons. She said that she vividly remembered King’s button. “It was a black hand shaking a white hand” she describes. Her father wore that same button to Obama’s inauguration.
It was that button and the memories of her past that reminded her of the importance of equality. “Once people had that [equality] so much more would take care of itself.” As Alexander continued reflecting on the past, her theme of love became more and more apparent.
“It is love that says we will do better” Alexander says. She explained that love is not only a deep emotion, but a component in the pieces that make the world go round. Alexander passionately explained the importance of love in today’s society through several quotes of one of her favorite writers, June Jordan.
The importance of this topic was incredibly obvious judging by the look of passion on Alexander’s face. While quoting June Jordan, Alexander was tugged in the direction of her specialty: poetry. Poetry is something that Alexander and Jordan have in common. “Poetry is sacred speech that makes the sacred in our lives” Alexander states.
Alexander concluded with a poem of her own, “Praise Song for the Day.” “What if the mightiest word is love?” Alexander spoke these words with great zeal. Receiving a warm, standing ovation, Alexander made a grave impact on her audience. I know she left me thinking… “What if the mightiest word is love?”
“I’m talking about the kind of love that takes work, but leads us to where we’re trying to get today.” Like one of the most influential people in Elizabeth Alexander’s life (Martin Luther King Jr.), she too has a dream. Alexander has a dream the King’s legacy will live on for years to come, and it is through love that this is possible.
On January 18, 2010 Elizabeth Alexander, inauguration poet, and chair of African American studies at Yale, gave a moving speech at the Martin Luther King Convocation at Wittenberg University.
Alexander captivated her diverse audience with personal stories as well as relatable events. “I was at the march in Washington” Alexander explains. “I was also in a baby carriage!” Alexander proceeded with memories of that point in time. She explained that her parents described the infamous “I Have a Dream” speech an event that they “had to go to.”
Also reflecting on the past, Alexander told the audience of a candy dish that sat in her house while she was growing up. The dish was full of political buttons. She said that she vividly remembered King’s button. “It was a black hand shaking a white hand” she describes. Her father wore that same button to Obama’s inauguration.
It was that button and the memories of her past that reminded her of the importance of equality. “Once people had that [equality] so much more would take care of itself.” As Alexander continued reflecting on the past, her theme of love became more and more apparent.
“It is love that says we will do better” Alexander says. She explained that love is not only a deep emotion, but a component in the pieces that make the world go round. Alexander passionately explained the importance of love in today’s society through several quotes of one of her favorite writers, June Jordan.
The importance of this topic was incredibly obvious judging by the look of passion on Alexander’s face. While quoting June Jordan, Alexander was tugged in the direction of her specialty: poetry. Poetry is something that Alexander and Jordan have in common. “Poetry is sacred speech that makes the sacred in our lives” Alexander states.
Alexander concluded with a poem of her own, “Praise Song for the Day.” “What if the mightiest word is love?” Alexander spoke these words with great zeal. Receiving a warm, standing ovation, Alexander made a grave impact on her audience. I know she left me thinking… “What if the mightiest word is love?”
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
"I'd be Kate Hudson because her husband is hot."
After receiving an answer to the first question I asked Courtney Ransdell, I knew the interview would only get more interesting. When I asked Miss Ransdell how old she was, she replied with “Well, I’m going to be nineteen on Friday so can’t you just put that?” I chuckled and scratched onto my note pad that Courtney would be nineteen on Friday. Courtney is a soft spoken, blonde hair, blue eyed sweet heart born in Texas.
Living in Ohio since Kindergarten, Courtney has developed some life-sized dreams. She’s not exactly sure what she wants to do in the future, but she has come up with a few options. “When I was little, I wanted to be a lawyer, but now it’s a little more complicated. Some days I want to be an artist, I’d love to write reviews on food and travel the world. Other days I have my heart set on being a motivational speaker or therapist”.
Courtney’s witty personality was quick to catch my attention. Before I knew it we were laughing and carrying on a great conversation. When I asked if she could be any character in a movie, who would she be? She answered: “I’d be Kate Hudson in Bride Wars because her husband was hot. And you better write that down.” Once again I snickered and wrote down exactly what she said while she leaned forward to check that I was truly writing her quote down.
Courtney lives by some important values she has developed throughout her eighteen, almost nineteen, years of life. I asked if she had any regrets, she said “I have no regrets, I’ve only learned from experiences”. Courtney wants to be remembered as someone who was helpful and “the girl that was always able to cheer me up”. She believes her biggest accomplishment is that she made it to where she is today.
The more Courtney and I talked, the more intriguing of a person she became. When asked if she could meet one dead person who would it be? When she replied with “Hitler”, I was a little taken back. I looked at her for a second and waited for some sort of explanation. After cracking a smile, she said “He wouldn’t kill me, I have blonde hair and blue eyes”.
Courtney Ransdell: The almost nineteen year-old who loves fall, being on the beach, chicken alfredo, and banana splits. It was great getting an insight on such a great girl.
Living in Ohio since Kindergarten, Courtney has developed some life-sized dreams. She’s not exactly sure what she wants to do in the future, but she has come up with a few options. “When I was little, I wanted to be a lawyer, but now it’s a little more complicated. Some days I want to be an artist, I’d love to write reviews on food and travel the world. Other days I have my heart set on being a motivational speaker or therapist”.
Courtney’s witty personality was quick to catch my attention. Before I knew it we were laughing and carrying on a great conversation. When I asked if she could be any character in a movie, who would she be? She answered: “I’d be Kate Hudson in Bride Wars because her husband was hot. And you better write that down.” Once again I snickered and wrote down exactly what she said while she leaned forward to check that I was truly writing her quote down.
Courtney lives by some important values she has developed throughout her eighteen, almost nineteen, years of life. I asked if she had any regrets, she said “I have no regrets, I’ve only learned from experiences”. Courtney wants to be remembered as someone who was helpful and “the girl that was always able to cheer me up”. She believes her biggest accomplishment is that she made it to where she is today.
The more Courtney and I talked, the more intriguing of a person she became. When asked if she could meet one dead person who would it be? When she replied with “Hitler”, I was a little taken back. I looked at her for a second and waited for some sort of explanation. After cracking a smile, she said “He wouldn’t kill me, I have blonde hair and blue eyes”.
Courtney Ransdell: The almost nineteen year-old who loves fall, being on the beach, chicken alfredo, and banana splits. It was great getting an insight on such a great girl.
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