The Front Street Journal - Reading Area Community College

The Front Street Journal
FRONT
R e a d i n g A r e a C o m m u n i t y C o l l e ge
Reading, PA
STREET
News in and around RACC n http://www.racc.edu/stu_activities/FSJ.html n MARCH/APRIL 2006 n Vol. X n No. 5 n Free
Retired war flag rests in Berks
lobby
By Elizabeth Shepley
Associate Editor
Often times, a group will hold
a drive to gather items for an
event or organization, receive a
thank you card from the
beneficiary and the general
population, responsible for the
donations, never hear anything
beyond the initial call for
participation.
However,
occasionally a drive proves to be
grand enough for more than a
piece of paper.
In appreciation of the efforts
RACC Ravens
take state
The RACC Ravens basketball
team won the PCAA state
of Operation RACC Cares, an championship on Sunday,
undertaking sanctioned by the February 19, 2006.
Student Government Association,
the school received an American
Flag from the United States
Armed Forces.
The flag was accompanied by
a
certificate
stating
its
significance.
"This flag presented to RACC
for their excellent and generous
support of American soldiers and
aircrew during Operation Iraqi
Freedom," the certificate begins.
It continues to explain that
the flag was flown over Iraq on
November
30,
2005
and
"represents our dedication and
steadfast devotion to duty in the
fight against Global Terrorism."
Operation RACC Cares was a
drive for donations to provide to
continued on page 3 ä
photo by Peter Shepley
photo by John Secoges
New kids on the block
While you are rushing to
class, stop and give a warm
welcome to the new students on
campus who have now moved
into Schuykill Hall, formerly the
Penske building. Previously,
these students attended classes in
the Madison building located at
400 Washington Street. These
new students are currently
enrolled in PILOT.
According
to
PILOT
Coordinator, Lavinia Garcia, the
acronym stands for "Program for
Integrated
Learning
and
Occupational Training". It is a
division of the Continuing
Education Department intended
to prepare students for full-time
employment
by
providing
specific training to increase their
employability.
Who are the RACC Ravens?
Originally, in 1991 this
program was funded by a grant
from
the
Job
Training
Partnership Act and served only
displaced workers. Due to its
success, the program has been
expanded to include welfare
recipients and those who
privately pay to obtain the latest
training.
PILOT offers certificate
programs in Nurse Aide, Dental
Office Assistant, Medical Office
Assistant, Medical Receptionist,
Medical
Secretary,
Medical
Insurance and Billing, Veterinary
Assistant
and
Phlebotomy.
Business
offerings
include
Administrative
Assistant,
Computer Applications and
Junior Accountant. Most courses
are offered on a full-time basis
during the day and range from
three weeks to 24 weeks,
depending on the program.
Students who are enrolled in the
program receive two career
seminar classes to enhance their
job search skills.
According to Placement
Coordinator, Suzanne Christie,
students who enroll in the
certificate program are also
required to participate in a 100200 hour internship. Currently,
the program has established over
75
internship
sites.
The
internship is an opportunity for
students to apply knowledge they
gained during PILOT. Every six
weeks new classes are offered to
meet individual needs.
PILOT students are happy to
become part of the RACC family
on
campus.
For
more
information about the exciting
programs offered at RACC call
610-375-5974.
v
Name
Number
Position
Ashley Allgyer
14
Forward
50
Ryan Becker
Forward
Charles Branch
22
Guard/Forward
Carnell Brown
20
Guard/Forward
Airmus Dillard
4
Forward
Corey Evans
32
Guard
Aaron Gilbert, II
3
Guard/Forward
Bryan Scroggins
13
Guard/Forward
Cortland Thomas
11
Guard
Ronald Thomas
40
Forward
David Washington, III
15
Guard
Brandon Watson
21
Forward
Look inside . . .
NEWS
pp. 1-3
SPORTS
p. 4
OPINIONS
p. 5
Alpha Sigma Rho
page 3
RACC Ravens
page 4
Rant and Rave
page 5
ARTS &
ENTERTAINMENT
pp. 6-8
A writer shares
page 6
FEATURES
pp. 9-11
RiverPlace
page 9
2 n FRONT STREET JOURNAL
The Front
Street Journal
News
A letter from the editor
By Betty Reyes
Editor-in-Chief
The Student Newspaper of
Reading Area
Community College
The Student Union Building
10 South Second Street
Reading, PA 19603
610-372-4721, Ext. 5262
2005-2006
EDITORIAL BOARD:
Editor-in-chief
Betty Reyes
Associate Editor
Elizabeth Shepley
Staff Writers
Megan Domanski
Janel Spiegel
Business Manager
Peter Shepley
Adviser
Danelle Bower
Layout & Design
Elizabeth Shepley
Advised by
Reading Area Community
College Graphics Department
Printed by
The Windsor Press
The opinions expressed in this
newspaper are the opinions of
the writers and do not reflect
the views of the college
administration, faculty, or
staff.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Front Street
Journal is to provide a forum of
the free exchange of ideas and
information
among
all
members of the college
community.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
All letters must be signed.
Keep it short, simple and to the
point. Character assassination
will not be allowed. Letters
should be typed or neatly
printed with the writer’s name,
address and phone number
clearly visible. The Front Street
Journal reserves the right to
reject
any
letter
for
publication. No reason must
be given.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR THE
NEXT ISSUE IS MONDAY, MAY 1.
MARCH/APRIL 2006
On behalf of The Front Street Journal I would
like to share with you our mission statement which
is "to provide a forum for the free exchange of
ideas and information among all members of the
college community". In other words, we are here to
offer you (our fellow students, faculty, loyal reader
and staff) the ability to open any issue of The Front
Street Journal with the peace of mind that not only
are you reading student-run free press but also
about issues that directly affect you.
However, our primary intent is to offer a
learning-lab for future journalists and writers; a
writing club that offers the opportunity to meet
great people as well as to grow and challenge
oneself by serving our college community. Also, a
major goal of ours is to keep being our campus’
primary source of news and communication while
connecting with the student body.
This is where we need your help. With each
issue we would like to expand our relationship with
you, our reader. We would like to learn more about
your opinion, issues, concerns and any other ideals
that affect our very diversified college community.
Therefore, we have opened our phone line (ext.
5262) and e-mail ([email protected]) to all of you. Do
you have a certain parking issue you would like to
bring up? Or have you seen something really good
happen on our campus lately? Maybe your
books/bag/ipod got stolen and you would like to
steam off to somebody? We are your voice and we
want your permission to be just that.
On the other hand, maybe you do not like
having people speak for you, and that is exactly
what we are looking for. We would like to invite you
to be part of our team. We are looking for
motivated individuals interested in writing news,
art and entertainment, sports, features, opinions
and editorial pieces. Are you interested in taking
pictures, knowing the latest gossip or designing
layouts? Then you are the one who we have been
looking for.
Our office is located in the Student Union
Building, and we would love for you to stop by with
any feedback, questions, comments or concerns.
v
Editor’s Note:
In the January/February 2006 issue of the Front Street
Journal, Coach Greg Clarke’s name was misspelled (Greg
Clark leads RACC’s Basketball Team for another victory, page
8). We erroneously attributed that same article to Janel
Spiegel; it should have read Betty Reyes.
Get your voice heard!
Front Street Journal is actively seeking writers and
photographers for sports, news, features, arts and
entertainment as well as our new sections Business
Query and Practically Parenting.
For information email [email protected] or call 610-607-6284 ext. 5262.
Business meetings are on the first Wednesday of the month at
4:00 p.m. Writer training is offered on the third Wednesday.
The soul of RACC
By Elizabeth Shepley
Associate Editor
been a success. It began with caricature drawings
during welcome week, but the bottom line really
peaked from the Mardi Gras celebration last
month. Over the term break, SGA officers
committed their time to selling pizza and meatball
subs to hungry faculty and staff.
Spring term profits from the copier machine in
the Student Union Building will go directly towards
A.L.M.A. Also, buttons that read "I support
A.L.M.A." are available for sale in the SGA office
SUB 112. In addition, students can drop off their
donations in the buckets located in the cafeteria
and the bookstore.
A.L.M.A. is a product of a good SGA
brainstorming session. The organization was
convinced that RACC could help relieve the
devastation.
"These people still don’t have; they are having
to rebuild their lives...We can relate to the
disparity," explained Debra Rodriguez, SGA
president.
To track A.L.M.A’s progress, keep an eye on the
thermometer posted in the cafeteria. For more
information on how you can help, visit the SGA
office or call 610-607-6250.
Victims of Hurricane Katrina are still suffering.
Although it seems like assistance efforts are at rest,
RACC is working hard to help three displaced souls
get back on their feet.
A.L.M.A., which stands for Assistance to
Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, is an effort put
forth by the Student Government Association to
raise at least $1500 for students displaced by
Hurricane Katrina. Alma also means soul in
Spanish.
The funds raised will create three one time
$500 scholarships. Each of the scholarships will
benefit one community college student affected by
the hurricane. The community colleges receiving
this assistance are the Jefferson Davis Campus of
Gulf Coast Community College in Gulfport,
Mississippi, the Southwest Campus of Bishop State
Community College in Mobile, Alabama and the
West Bank Campus of Delgado Community
College in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Already, A.L.M.A is over halfway towards its
goal. The fundraising will continue until June 9th
the last day of the spring term. Efforts so far have v
News
MARCH/APRIL 2006
FRONT STREET JOURNAL n 3
Alpha Sigma Rho achieves five star status
Alpha Sigma Rho at Middle States Region Convention and Convention
On February 16, membrs of Alpha Sigma Rho, RACC’s chapter
of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society, traveled to
Long Branch, New Jersey for the 12th Annual Phi Theta Kappa
Middle States Region Mini-Honors and 19th Annual Phi Theta
Kappa Middle States Region Convention. And once again, the
chapter proved that teamwork pays off.
Alpha Sigma Rho’s officer team members Christine Davis
(president), Sandra Dietrich (vice-president), Corrie Kochel
(recording secretary) and Lou Zmroczek (public relations officer),
Judie Senay and Dr. Donna Singleton (chapter advisor) were on
hand to receive both the Five Star and Service Hallmark awards.
Christine Davis was received into the Chapter President Hall of
Honor and Corrie Kochel was received into the Chapter Officer
Hall of Honor.
Phi Theta Kappa’s Annual Middle States Convention is a high
point for chapters who have worked hard to fulfill the four
hallmarks of the society – scholarship, leadership, fellowship and
service. Chapter members from the middle states region of
Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania submit written
explanations of what the chapter has done to achieve these four
hallmarks. Judges rate the submissions and the winners are
announced at a gala event on Saturday evening.
Retired
war flag
continued from page 1
U.S. Troops involved with
Operation Iraqi Freedom. On
November
22,
2005,
the
donations were shipped to Ross
Uhler, Captain U.S. Air Force,
who shared the shipment with his
unit stationed at the Ali Base,
Iraq.
The items gathered included
various powdered drink mixes,
body powders, travel wipes, chap
sticks, batteries and several types
of soups. Holiday items such as
tissue paper, gift bags and other
decorative things were also
included in the shipment to the
troops. To add a little RACC
character, the Student Activities
Board put in several items
bearing the RACC logo including
beach balls, Frisbees, water
bottles and mugs.
"…the crew started throwing
the
Frisbees
around
the
squadron that day after I opened
the packages," shared Captain
Uhler.
The drive began in March
2005 and continued for about
seven months. Uhler’s unit had
about 300 men, and Operation
RACC Cares was able to provide a
little something for everyone.
Operation
RACC
Cares
sought to support American
Troops in Iraq despite whether
students support the war or not.
The effort was recognized and
rewarded in a way that the entire
RACC
community
can
appreciate. The presentation of
an American Flag from the
Armed Forces is an honor.
This flag, witness to the
terrors American soldiers have
faced, now rests in the display
case in Berks Hall Lobby.
v
Additionally, the chapters are rated from one to five star status,
with five star being the highest rating. To achieve five star, a chapter
must complete each item on a checklist provided by Phi Theta
Kappa. Because submissions to Phi Theta Kappa are based on the
calendar year (January to December) and each officer team is
elected June to the following May, it takes coordination, teamwork
and effort by both past and present officer teams to achieve five star
status.
Brookdale Community College hosted both fabulous events,
held at Ocean Place Resort and Spa in Long Branch, New Jersey.
Mini-honors, an opportunity for the host college to present an
educational event leading up to convention, was a great event.
For more information on Alpha Sigma Rho, log on to
www.racc.edu/Student Activities/PTK. Information on Phi Theta
Kappa can be found on www.ptkms.org and www.ptk.org.
v
And, oh, what fun it was…
By Lou Zmroczek
Guest Writer
Alpha Sigma Rho members achieved five star status and had a great time
doing it!
On Thursday evening the group had supper at Memphis Pig Out
Restaurant. A short walk from the restaurant brought the group to 1st Avenue
Playhouse where they enjoyed dessert, coffee and a rendition of the play
California Suite.
On Friday morning, Dr. Stanton Green of Monmouth University spoke to
the group about baseball and its interconnection with the American
experience. His presentation, titled "Whoever Wants to Know the Heart and
Mind of America Had Better Learn Baseball: An Anthropological Journey From
the Lower East Side to Cooperstown," was a fascinating account of how
baseball’s history is intertwined with America’s culture and history.
On Friday afternoon, the group took a bus trip "Behind the Garden State"
to visit several places of historic or pop culture significance, including Sandy
Hook - once home to a military base and currently a public park. The more
adventurous members of the group climbed to the top of one of the lighthouse
towers at the Twin Lights Historic Site in Highlands, New Jersey and were
rewarded with a breathtaking view of the coastal waters of northern New Jersey.
According to the park ranger who introduced the group to the historic
significance of the lighthouse, Twin Lights (once called Navesink Light Station)
was the first lighthouse to use a Fresnel lens.
Everyone had a great time at mini-honors but the convention, which began
on Friday afternoon, was the true star. Friday zoomed by as attendees poured
into Ocean Place, and everyone busily greeted old friends. Saturday was a flurry
of activity that included an entertaining speech by Dr. Michael Rockland of
Rutgers University, whose topic was "Pop Culture: Why Study Trash." Dr.
Rockland argued that what was once considered trash has become classic. He
noted that William Shakespeare wrote his plays for the commoners of his day,
not royalty or the elite. Yet Shakespeare’s work is now considered classic.
Jay Scott, father of Alexandra Scott who founded "Alex’s Lemonade Stand"
to aid pediatric cancer research, spoke to a hushed audience about Alex and
her goal to find a cure for pediatric cancers. Convention attendees scheduled
their day by selecting from a menu of educational forums on personal and
chapter development topics interspersed throughout the day.
Finally, Saturday evening arrived and it was time for dinner. And, oh, what
a night it was! First an awed audience listened to speaker Bill Yoast, coach of
one of Virginia’s first racially integrated football teams and author of
"Remember This Titan." Coach Yoast explained that at the time he was working
at integrating the Titans football team, he didn’t realize that he was doing
anything monumental. He was simply attempting to do what he believed was
the right thing. He offered a few tips to the audience that work both on and off
the football field. "Get prepared – physically, mentally, emotionally and
spiritually. Be flexible. Play by the rules. Don’t confuse being soft with being
kind." He also offered, "You are judged on your actions, not your feelings." At
the end of his speech, the audience honored him with a standing ovation.
Ocean Place served up a delicious
gourmet dinner to an appreciative
audience and soon it was time move into
the ballroom where the annual Middle
States Regional Awards and the 2006-07
Middle States officer team would be
announced.
On Sunday morning it was time to
leave Ocean Place and return to Berks
County. And while chapter members
didn’t have time to sample any of the spa
amenities during their stay, several
members did manage to brave the
blustery weather on the beach and dip
their toes into the freezing waters of the
Atlantic.
v
Corrie Kochel and Chris Davis pick up shells
photo by Lou Zmroczek
4 n FRONT STREET JOURNAL
Sports
MARCH/APRIL 2006
The RACC Ravens capture the title
By Janel Spiegel
Staff Writer
"United we stand, divided we fall." Aesop
quote which Airmus Dillard espouses as the
motto for his team and himself.
The latest chatter amid students and
faculty involves the basketball team. Not just
any basketball team, but RACC’s very own
Ravens. They captured the Pennsylvania
Collegiate Athletic Association’s (PCAA)
state title defeating the Community College
of Beaver County 110-108 in double
overtime.
This season’s 27-2 record speaks for itself.
Who then are the players, coaches and fans
behind the RACC Ravens and what are their
thoughts on this achievement?
In their own words: second-year players
comment on the Raven’s success.
Themes of team synergy and hard work
emerged as contributors to the team’s
success. Commenting on his team and
winning, Guard/Forward Charles Branch
explained, "I was in total shock because it
came down to the wire. My heart was racing,
but I knew we deserved it because of how
hard we worked, on and off the court. I feel
that the team has very good chemistry. If it
wasn't for everyone working together, we
would not have had the type of season we
RACC Ravens: PCAA State Champs
photo by John Secoges
did." Carnell Brown, a second-year player,
echoed this sentiment "All of the hard work
finally paid off! I feel I made lifetime friends
and my team worked hard to get here."
Bryan Scroggins explained, "I wish I could do
it all over again, just for that feeling of being
a champ…I love my team; everybody works
hard and gets the job done. I love to win,
hate to lose." Cortland Thomas said "I felt
good! All those 5 am practices paid off. It is
good for the college." Airmus Dillard or A
Jay, Forward, commented, "I feel the team is
one of the best I've ever been part of because
we have a sense of unity. Everyone is a part of
it and we are treated like a family. Everyone
achieved more." David Washington III adds,
"I have a bond with my team mates and we
are exactly that, a TEAM. We stick together
and I love my team."
Who are the coaches?
The RACC Ravens are led by Head Coach
Gregory Clarke and Assistant Coaches Shawn
Flynn and Tiffany Walker.
Walker commented on her experience
with the Ravens, "These last two years of
being a part of the men's basketball team has
been one of the highlights of my RACC
experience. I am extremely proud of the
commitment of the players and the coaches.
I did more than coach these gentlemen; they
are a part of my family. Winning both
championships was a great accomplishment,
but what stands out for me is being able to
witness these gentlemen obtain their
associate degrees. That is one of the main
reasons I got involved."
Cortland Thomas said, "They [coaches]
are down-to-earth, funny. They have a great
sense of humor. I can relate to them. They
have respect for players. They would preach
academics to us. No Academics, No
Basketball!"
What about the college support?
About the support shown from the RACC
community, Branch said, "I want the students
(from left to right) Bryan Scroggins,13,
Guard/Rorward; Charles Branch, 22,
Guard/Forward; Carnell Brown, 20, Guard/Forward
photo by Janel Spiegel
and faculty to know that their support for us
played a role in all our games…Even though
our team was good, we needed that little
extra cheer for a burst of energy on the
floor." Thomas echoed this sentiment, "I felt
more support, a lot more people came to the
games!"
Mathematics instructor, Rosemarie
Lauterback attended the championship
game to support the RAVENS. She said, "Stan
[my husband] and I thought the game was
amazing. The guys played with a lot of
heart…It was so exciting to watch the game
go into two overtimes, almost a third and win
with a second left. They played with intensity
all the way, to win. That is one of the best
basketball games we have ever seen on any
level!"
Tyrone Boston did, however, feel that they
should have a lot more support. "The team
did a great job even though they had a lack of
support."
Our very own RACC Ravens have
accomplished great things this season;
finishing with a 27-2 season and capturing
the PCAA state title. These are students at
RACC who work hard and look forward to
continuing their lives. They had a good run,
won the championship along with positive
coaches who encouraged them. So may they
go on and continue their path to success.
v
Basketball academics: changing the entire culture of things
By Betty Reyes
Editor-in-Chief
The RACC Ravens did an outstanding job
both on and off the court. Because they
represent RACC and because they are seen
as role models, not only did these athletes
have to be on top of their game during
practices and meets but also inside the
classroom. This is because, above all, they are
students first. This belief is clearly shared by
the basketball team’s coaching staff who
started a new system this past season.
Because RACC does not have an actual
athletics department, many details and issues
had to be worked out in order to implement
this new academic system. The main point of
this new system is to implement rules and
study-hall assistance to every player on the
team. Jan-Michael Johnson, the studentathlete counselor, says that there is a false
reality to basketball because out of 300 spots
in the MBA only about two of them open
every year. He doesn’t believe in squashing
dreams but he is very serious about having
and realizing achievable ones, and he thinks
that basketball is a way to accomplish this by
using it as leverage. "Use basketball, don’t let
it use you" is one of his favorite motives.
Because of this, a greater emphasis was
placed on academic success.
One of the features of this new academic
system required each player to attend a
minimum of one hour study-hall sessions in
the tutoring lab daily, requests of every
athlete’s student progress reports from their
professors, singing a contract, and of course,
accountability. If an athlete failed to fulfill his
end of the contract, he was first warned. The
second time he would miss a game. They also
had to come to all practices, which often
started at six in the morning. Therefore, if
you saw any one of these athletes playing in
any game it was because they were following
the contract and deserved the opportunity to
participate in the game.
The coaching staff hopes that the state
championship will help take RACC athletes
more seriously and even help bring some
incentives for those who worked the hardest
for the team. They are trying to install the
Raven Fund, a scholarship to reward
outstanding athletes. However, this reward
will not be given to the player who scored the
most points but to those who showed up on
time and did what they had to do.
The coaching staff is also trying to install
other programs such as community service
and the Townsend Press Reading Program
which they hope can be tailored for student
athletes. Johnson was very enthusiastic about
this past season and even more enthusiastic
for future seasons. "This is just the
beginning", he stated. His primary goal was
not to get the athletes to make the most
points, or win the most games, but to instill
discipline in these students so that they use
basketball as a stepping stone to their
careers. "Get them to look past basketball.
Academics come first", he said.
v
Opinions
MARCH/APRIL 2006
FRONT STREET JOURNAL n 5
Get up, get out and take the initiative
By Janel Spiegel
Staff Writer
The world is going through a great deal of devastation.
Humanity is plagued by war, hunger and homelessness, and yet still
we forget about what is important. The environmental issues still
loom. People are often too busy to recycle or pick up trash. My own
neighborhood could use a good clean up.
We often continue building, breaking down ecosystems and then
wonder why bears show up in our backyards. The animals are losing
land, and the planet needs a little more TLC. We continue building
and adding more to the planet. The animals suffer, people suffer.
Global warming is also a big problem. We had a very mild winter,
and while most thought it was great one must consider how this is
affecting the earth. It is not only human health but also animals and
many of our ecosystems that are affected by this growing problem.
While people challenge major corporations, such as oil
companies, the companies that test products on animals always seem
to win with reasons that make very little sense. I wrote to a company
to ask why they test their products on animals. They replied by
saying, "We have to."
We are not the only ones here. We share the world with animals.
Should we not fight for them as well?
According to the American Lung Association, half of all
Americans live in counties with unsafe smog levels and pollution.
This is said to lead to many lung and respiratory illnesses. Air
pollution alone contributes to lung disease, including respiratory
tract infections, asthma and lung cancer. Perhaps we would not have
to worry about so much if we just got out there, cleaned up a little
and made the air more breathable.
Think about it? If people stopped ignoring things and saying
"Well that doesn't affect us here" or "That can't happen to us," we
could possibly makes things safer for ourselves, animals and the
planet. Take the initiative and write to Congress or do some research
and find out information. Do what you can. Just be good to the
planet and animals.
v
Rant and Rave
Rave
"The new IT specialist, Bernard
Sorg, is doing a wonderful job with
keeping the labs up and running."
Rant
“It would benefit me, as a student,
to see more flyers and news about
what is going on around campus.
The discrete locations where flyers
are posted are hardly enough
communication, and who has time
to wait for the monitor to cycle?”
Rant
"Usually the bathrooms at RACC,
such as Berks and the Student
Union Building, are pretty clean.
But during finals week the
bathroom in Penn Hall was
disgustingly dingy. I know it is an
old building, and that many
students were probably running in
and out trying to finish their
papers, but a little cleaning and
remodeling wouldn’t hurt.”
If you have a rant or rave, email us at
[email protected] or call 610-372-4721 ext. 5262.
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photo by Janel Spiegel
Here are a few sites to check out ways you can help. Mother Nature
appreciates it.
www.globalwarming.org
www.lungusa.org
www.actionfornature.org
www.polarbearsinternational.org
yosemite.epa.gov
Embellished
memories
by Megan Domanski
Staff Writer
Sometimes it amazes me what people believe they can get away
with. Take, for example, James Frey’s book, A Million Little Pieces.
The book is a "memoir" about the author’s recovery from drug and
alcohol addiction. Selection to Oprah’s Book Club last September
turned it into a bestseller. The problem that people now have with
the book is that the author altered and embellished many details; a
fact that was revealed when a website called The Smoking Gun
published a report January 8th, 2006.
Since the truth has been revealed, Frey has received a public
chiding on Oprah’s show, and some people are even demanding
refunds for the books they bought. My opinion is that all of this
mess could have been avoided if Frey would have included a note in
his book to begin with, explaining that not everything was truthful.
Of course, his book may not have sold as well.
Still, the publisher and author are trying to make amends. An
author’s note from Frey on the Random House website states "I
sincerely apologize to those readers who have been disappointed by
my actions." Of course there are those who believe this is not
enough, I am inclined to agree with them. It was Frey’s
responsibility to reveal to his readers that some things had been
embellished. I do, however, feel that his agent also held some
responsibility though because it was he that suggested presenting
the book as a memoir after being rejected by publishers as a novel.
Someone should have checked that the proper alterations were
made to distinguish the book as fiction or non-fiction.
Despite the controversy, or maybe because of it, Frey’s book is
still number three on USA Today’s Best-Selling Books list, according
to a February 2nd article for the newspaper by Carol Memmott. If
the author continued to make money from this book, I wonder if he
will ever reach the point where he wishes he could hit that undo
button.
v
6 n FRONT STREET JOURNAL
Arts & Entertainment
MARCH/APRIL 2006
A writer shares wisdom
By Janel Spiegel
Staff Writer
Lee Goldberg made his way through
UCLA as a freelance writer and journalist.
He wrote for several publications including
American Film, Newsweek, The Los
Angeles Times Syndicate and The
Washington Post. He published his first
book “.357 Vigilante” under the name Ian
Ludlow. His work is classic with intricate
mystery and humor. He was still a student
when the book was published. The book
was well received. He started out in
television by selling a freelance script to
Spencer: For Hire. His talent has landed
him several fascinating jobs.
He has been a creative consultant for
several television shows. He also has several
producing credits. Goldberg does a little of
it all. Here are a few of the programs he has
written for, produced or served as a creative
consultant on, they include: Martial Law,
Monk, Diagnosis Murder, Murphy's Law
and Spencer: For Hire. He also wrote for
the television series Diagnosis Murder. He
turned it into a series of books. The latest
one, “Diagnosis Murder Series: The Dead
Letter,” is currently in stores. He has written
several non-fiction books including
“Successful Television Writing,” which gives
writers some insight into the world of
television. Lee Goldberg is currently living
in Los Angeles with his family.
v
Writer Lee Goldberg
photo provided by Lee Goldberg
“Mr. Monk Goes to the Firehouse” is the
first in a series of Monk books in which Lee
Goldberg will write. He also completed the
second in the series, “Mr. Monk Goes to
Hawaii.” He has written several Monk
episodes, including: "Mr. Monk Meets The
Godfather." Here's the Q&A with Goldberg.
No, I did not interrogate him in Monk
manner, but he was kind to answer the
questions so thank you Lee Goldberg.
How does writing a book based on a television
show differ from writing script for the show?
Television is very much a group effort.
And when you write a script, it's never done.
It's always changing. It's going to change
because the show-runner will rewrite it to
closer reflect his or her voice. It's going to
change for budget and production concerns.
It's going to change because of actors and
directors. It's in fluid motion all the time.
When you write a script, it's a blueprint for
something that has to be made in the real
world. Reality often imposes changes on your
fictional creation.
A book is entirely my own and unaffected
by production concerns or actors. On my
Monk
books,
I'm
working
with
creator/executive producer Andy Breckman,
but I plot it myself and I write it by myself and
it's entirely in my head and I live it for
months. Whereas a script you plot it in a
week and you write it in two. It's a three-week
experience when you're a freelancer. A TV
show is sort of ephemeral you write it and it's
broadcast and then it's gone, as if its
evaporated (yeah, I know there are DVD
boxed sets and reruns, but still...) Whereas a
book, it lasts. You can hold it in your hand
and it's in bookstores and it lasts a lot longer.
There's a tactile thing that comes from
writing a book. It's all mine. I mean, with
Monk it's Andy's character and Andy's world,
but the book is mine. It's a different
experience.
It's different writing prose and writing
scripts. In scripts everything in the story and
everything the characters do has to be shown
through action and dialogue. In a book, you
can go into a character's head, or as
omniscient narrator, simply tell the reader
what's going on, what people are thinking,
and how it relates to events in the past and
present. You can't do that on TV. You have to
use action and dialogue to reveal character,
intent, emotion, thought, and subtext. A
script is much more of a working document
for a bunch of other professionals to do their
work from: the wardrobe people, the set
decorators, the location managers, the
lighting people. It's not prose. A book is an
experience. You're seducing the reader and
bringing them into your imagination and
holding them there for as long as they're
reading the book. You construct everything.
You construct the sets, the wardrobe, the
world. You're God.
The challenge is making the book feel
like an episode of the show without it feeling
like an episode of the show. Sounds like a
contradiction, doesn't it? It is. It's a
precarious balancing act. If the reader thinks
he's just reading an episode, he won't bother
reading the next book. He can save his
money and just watch the TV show. So the
book has to deliver what the show does-and
more. You want to give the reader the same
satisfaction he gets from watching the show
but take him places emotionally and
creatively that the TV show can't. You want
the reader to recognize the characters...but
at the same time flesh them out in ways that
haven't been done before. You want the
reader to recognize the story as something in
line with the TV show but offer possibilities
for adventure or revelation that a typical
episode won't provide.
Will the Monk book series continue?
I've already written the second book in
the series, MR. MONK GOES TO HAWAII
and I'm now in the midst of writing the third.
Whether the series of books goes beyond that
really depends on the success of these first
three titles.
What has been your favorite plot on the Monk
series or from one of the other shows you have
written for?
I really can't answer that question -- I love
ALL the MONK episodes. I think my favorite
of the two I've written is MR.MONK GOES
TO MEXICO. I've just written a third script,
MR. MONK CAN'T SEE A THING which
should be a lot of fun. My favorite
DIAGNOSIS MURDER episodes were some
of our two parters...and our TV spoofs.
Diagnosis Murder is another television series that
you have turned into a book series. Could you
give us a few details about it?
I've written seven DIAGNOSIS MURDER
novels. The sixth, THE DEAD LETTER, [was
recently released]. The seventh, THE
DOUBLE LIFE, has a twist that I'm sure will
stun a lot of DIAGNOSIS MURDER
fans...there's a teaser chapter for the book at
the end of THE DEAD LETTER. I'm about to
start writing the eighth one pretty soon...and
whether there will be more after that is
anyone's guess...
Can you share some advice for future writers?
If you want to write books, READ books.
See how the author creates a voice, a point of
view, a sense of place and fleshes out his
characters. Study the language...the
structure...the pacing. Analyze how he
manages to make you feel what the
characters do.
If you want to write for TV, watch
TV...analyze the structure, the conflict, the
way the stories reiterate the franchise of the
TV show. Yeah, I know, what I just said sounds
like a foreign language. For my advice on
breaking into TV, you should read my book,
SUCCESSFUL TELEVISION WRITING.
But my best advice for writers is to
WRITE. WRITE and REWRITE. Then start
writing something else.
Who are a few of your favorite authors?
Larry McMurtry, Elmore Leonard, Elmer
Kelton, John Irving, Robert B. Parker, T.
Jefferson Parker, Ed McBain,Thomas Perry,
A.B. Guthrie, Frederick Manfred, Sue
Grafton, SJ Rozan, Paul Quarrington,
Suzanne Clarke, JK Rowling, Roald Dahl,
Vicki Hendricks, Jeremiah Healy... I could go
on and on.
What other projects are you currently working on?
I'm out there pitching every day!
MR. MONK GOES TO HAWAII will be in
stores June 30th, so don't forget to pick that
one up! You can access his exclusive web site
for additional information, including his
blog, at www.leegoldberg.com.
v
FRONT STREET JOURNAL n 7
Arts & Entertainment
MARCH/APRIL 2006
Ne-Yo, IN MY OWN WORDS
Author John Saul: Full of Mystery
By Janel Spiegel
Staff Writer
By Janel Spiegel
Staff Writer
than the last, and there is a touch
of humor in the songs. "It Just
Ain't Right" tells the break-up
memories. Moving on, getting
over the person etc.
"Mirror" and "Get Down Like
That" are the tell tale signs that
Ne-Yo is a Stevie Wonder fan
through blending beautiful
sounds together and keeping his
voice soulful and smooth. "Sign
Me Up" takes him to the club but
is not over powering. "Get Down
Like That" contains a sample
from "I Swear I Love No One But
You" (B. Sigler). It is one of the
best songs on the CD because it is
beautifully written and his voice
flows well with the music. He
gives it an old school feel with
something new.
The relationship story he is
telling is taking a step up and one
back at the same time. "Sexy
Love" and "Let Go" are given no
less consideration for this
talented artist. The track "Time"
is also such a great song. It has a
classic feel like much of the rest
of the album. He brings a
nostalgic feel to music. He
finishes this story with this
incredibly written track; a
heartfelt song of love and all that
one endures for it. The CD
finishes with an "Untitled Track."
I
would
definitely
recommend this CD. Only
"Time" will tell, but we think he
will "Stay" around for a long
time.
Check
out
more
information about Ne-Yo at
WWW.DEFJAM.COM
Shaffer C. Smith a.k.a. Ne-Yo,
is a new artist to music scene.
Born into a musical family from
Arkansas, he was raised by a
single mother. With hope for a
better life, Ne-Yo’s mother took
the family to Las Vegas where he
had the opportunity to showcase
his talent. Ne-Yo began writing at
a very young age. He has written
songs for Mary J. Blige, B2K,
Faith Evans and Musiq.
Ne-Yo is filled with lyrical and
musical talent. Crafted by a gifted
storyteller, this CD follows the
path of a love story going great
complete with the ups and
downs. His first single "Stay"
(Featuring Peedi Peedi) contains
an interpolation of "Stay With
Me" (Mark DeBarge, Etterlene
Jordan). The vocal styling runs
smoothly, and he turns it into an
R&B track with a dance effect to
it.
He runs through several
tracks including "Let Me Get This
Right" where the relationship
seems to be taking a better turn.
Ne-Yo sings smoothly and eases
through the song. "So Sick" is
much more smooth, and Ne-Yo
sings
"Gotta
change
my
answering machine now that I'm
alone cause right now it says that
we can't come to the phone"
taking it to a different place. It
becomes a song where he is
alone.
"When You're Mad" is just
beautifully sung and written. He
eases through each song better v
the best shape possible submit it
to agents." This is worthy advice
since all thirty-two of his books
have topped the best-sellers list.
He continued his advice by
providing a few secrets on what
writers can do. "You can find a list
of agents in various writers
resources books or find yourself a
bona fide writers conference.
They often have visiting agents
and editors as guests!"
I asked Saul out of curiosity
what continues to inspire him
even after several years of
constant
production
of
entertaining books. He offered,
"Believe me, that’s motivation
enough."
He spends part of his time
living in the Pacific Northwest
Seattle and the San Juan Islands.
For more information on John
Saul and his work visit
http://www.johnsaul.com.
I emailed John Saul after
reading much about his work. I
felt that he might be able to
provide aspiring writers with
direction. I asked him about his
current project, and he simply
said, "I never talk about my
current projects!" I was, however,
able to obtain some insight into
Saul’s life and career.
His books are mainly
psychological thrillers. One of
his books, "Cry for Strangers,"
was made into a film for CBS
television. His current book
"Perfect Nightmare" is now in
stores.
I asked him for some advice
writers may need. He said, "Here
is my best advice for unpublished
authors: WRITE and WRITE
some more." He continued, “It is
okay to throw away practice v
books. When your project is in
Spring Transfer Days
May 16th 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
May
5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
17th 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.
Berks Hall Lobby
Representatives will be present from colleges and
universities from throughout Pennsylvania.
SPRING TERM 2005-2006
(March 27 - June 10, 2006)
APRIL
3
7
13
14-16
17
21-22
24
June
Last day to Add Courses (Check with the Records Office)
Last day to Withdraw without a Grade
(Check with the Records Office)
Faculty Office Day (No Classes)
Spring Recess (COLLEGE CLOSED)
YEWANDE @ 5 pm, Berks Hall Conference Rooms
(No charge; $2 general public)
2ND ANNUAL RELAY FOR LIFE OF READING
Interim Grades Due
22
26
27-29
8
9
10
12
Spring Fling - 12 noon-5 pm on the Quad
3RD ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS
SUB, 11 am to 2 pm
MAKING A DIFFERENCE Ceremony
3RD ANNUAL RACC IDOL @ 5 pm,
Berks Hall Conference Rooms (No Charge)
TERM ENDS
Graduation Rehearsal - Sovereign Center @ 10 am
Health Professions Reception – Sovereign Center @ 2 pm
Graduation Ceremony – Sovereign Center @ 7 pm
Bringing the World to Berks County
MAY
9
9
10
8-19
2
2
ACADEMIC AWARDS CEREMONY (8 AM)
Faculty/Staff Development Day (No Classes)
Last Day to Withdraw with a "W"
Registration for Summer/Fall Terms
(for currently enrolled students)
New & Re-admitted Students Registration Begins
No Classes
Memorial Day Recess (COLLEGE CLOSED)
READING AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE ILLUSTRATED LECTURE SERIES
“Vietnam:
A Land of Surprises”
by Buddy Hatton
Friday, April 21, 2006
12:30 p.m. - Brenner Building, Wernersville State Hospital
7:30 p.m. - Reading Senior High School
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (610) 372-4721, EXT. 5181.
8 n FRONT STREET JOURNAL
Arts & Entertainment
MARCH/APRIL 2006
Creative Corner
Letting Go
a short story
Living in the middle
By Donna Von-Den- Bosch
By Megan Domanski
Life is hard and I try to make it pretty,
I try my best but it’s getting gritty
It was nearing midnight, but neither could sleep. Anne was plagued by another of her
headaches and James was doing everything in his power to lessen the pain, to no avail.
He gets tired, and works all day long.
My smile is all I give to keep him strong.
Finally, he lay beside his wife in the bed, taking her in his arms and holding her close against
him. She could no longer feel his touch, limp body dead to any sensation below her neck.
We do what is right, and think of others.
Still, the action brought comfort to the both of them. James kissed Anne’s beautiful auburn
I’ve got the best, but give me a break
curls gently, breathing in the scent of her. For a long while they were silent, words often
brother.
unnecessary at this stage in their marriage, their life. Finally Anne spoke the thought that
was tormenting both of them. Her voice sounded weak, reflecting for the first time the state
I see others grab what they can and not
her wasted body had come to. From the first breath he knew this was important, even before
care,
he heard those awful words. "James, I don’t know how much longer I can hang on." There
I
wouldn’t
think
of
doing that I wouldn’t
was silence, then a reply that shocked him to this day.
dare.
"Then don’t." Hazel eyes met brown immediately, confusion in hers. James elaborated,
his voice filled with pain and tears. "Anne, you know I love you, I need you. I can’t imagine
I’d like to give him comforts galore.
living...without you. But if you think I want you to continue like this, to hang on with
He’d do the same for me I’m sure.
everything you are, to suffer every day just for me, then you’ve never been more wrong." He
swallowed, hard. "It’s not giving up Anne, it’s choosing something better."
I tell him we are rich in what we feel,
"And you…you wouldn’t think…I…I was…aban…don…ning you?" The weak whisper I see him drop his head and stomp his heel.
came, reflecting the weariness that overtook her so easily these days.
"Never." James said firmly, not wanting to leave a question in his wife’s mind. "Anne, I’ve
You deserve better is his reply,
asked the hard questions. I’ve cried, screamed, railed at God for doing this to you, for taking
I got it I say.
you from me. But never have I considered this being anything you have any control over.
He turns, in this I wish he could buy.
And I never will. If you’re ready to go, then don’t hesitate. Think of yourself for once, not
Don’t think me this way.
me." With the issue settled, Anne had fallen silent, eventually drifting off to sleep in her
husband’s protective arms.
Life in the middle is what we’ve got.
He watched her lovingly in the dim light; sure he was going to lose her that night, It’s not a the comfort but the journey, is it
determined to take advantage of every last moment he had with her. Yet Anne woke up the
not?
next morning, and the morning after that. It was nearly a week later when James woke to
the sun on his face, feeling the still body beside him. She remained a bit warm, from the
covers, but it was obvious she was gone. James still had his arms around Anne and he held
her lifeless form to him, weeping. He buried his face in her hair, wanting to forever
remember the lingering scent of her. But when the initial wave of grief had passed, James
found a bit of peace, even as his shaking hand picked up the phone to call Nate. He heard
his son’s voice answer and the first words out of his mouth were "she’s not in pain anymore."
v
For Your Darkness
By Janel Spiegel
Your dark eyes rage
Your life is full.
The tender heart extends to all who come within.
The distant pale day has come to an end.
Your eyes still dark, but slightly dim.
I still see the rage within.
Iron staircase at Twin Lights
Photo by Lou Zmroczek
FRONT STREET JOURNAL n 9
Features
MARCH/APRIL 2006
RACC, a meaningful community along the
riverfront
By Elizabeth Shepley
Associate Editor
A community can be defined as a group
of people who share a common location.
Along the Schuylkill River, there are many
communities both large and small on both
sides of the river. These communities have
recognized the need to unite to provide
means for residents to work, live and play
together all along the river.
The RiverPlace initiative was born from
this need for unity. The mission of RiverPlace
Development Corporation is "to use the
power of the River as a catalyst to unite
communities
and
foster
economic
development."
A key community in this initiative is
Reading Area Community College. RACC’s
campus is located at the heart of Central
Riverfront, and RACC students hold an
important position in bringing the river to its
prime.
"RACC activates and livens the Riverfront
in ways that no other institution or user can
possibly do. We couldn’t think of a better
partner, that includes the students as well,"
said Robert Behling, executive vice president
of RiverPlace Development Corporation.
Some of the highest priority projects in
RiverPlace’s Master Plan revolve around the
college campus including the completion of
the Schuylkill River trail and greater
exhibition of public art along the Riverfront.
One suggested project to magnify public art
along the Riverfront is a canal mural on the
railroad bridge. Also, the GoggleWorks
Center for the Arts will be a platform for a
range of artists including dance, music and
visual.
"Art and culture are seen as very
important elements in the RiverPlace
initiative," said Behling.
The proposed amphitheater will provide
a "gathering place for parents and their
children, a teaching venue for RACC, a
performance venue for downtown and
maybe some ticketed name performances"
according to Behling.
Photo by Megan Domanski
The Port of Reading Heritage trail will
identify specific features of the college on
the sign system as it passes through RACC.
Proposed streetscaping will convert Front
Street into a pedestrian street, and the
wireless Internet "hot zone" will provide
students, residents, workers and visitors free
access to the Internet along the river.
Each project within the initiative requires
planning and a team to carryout the plan.
These teams are made of volunteers and
interns or "people who may not otherwise
get involved" explained Behling. RACC
students convey qualities of leaders and
achievers, and Behling adds that there many
opportunities "to do meaningful work in this
initiative."
RiverPlace has already seen the potential
of the RACC community through the many
volunteers during RiverFest 2005. The first
intern
welcomed
into
RiverPlace
Development Corporation was a RACC
student who served a vital role in preparing
the office for business.
"We see that relationship as vital to the
future of RiverPlace and projects along the
central Riverfront," said Behling.
RACC students will benefit academically
and professionally by being involved with the
initiative. RiverPlace offers internships for
college students ranging from IT Network
Coordinator to Photographer to Spanish
6Final Call6
Legacy submissions deadline is
extended until midnight on April
12th. Grab a submissions envelope or
submit online.
For more information visit
www.racc.edu/studentactivities/legacy
or
contact Dr. Joanne Gabel at 610/372-4721
ext. 5093 or email [email protected]
translation and outreach. They strongly
encourage students to apply.
"[It’s about] Being able to take a student
and their skills, and find a job that will
compliment their skills. Here’s a portal for
success with projects they could put in their
resumes and important job titles," said
Behling.
RACC faculty and other community
professionals are encouraged to get
involved. Expertise is needed from all areas
to complete the many projects proposed in
the Master Plan from birding to history.
Furthermore, RiverPlace maintains close
relations with the RACC Board of Trustees to
keep them informed and provide them with
the opportunity to offer input. It is the
intentions of the organization to work with
RACC to coordinate their Master Plan with
that of the college.
By strengthening ties between RACC and
RiverPlace Development Corporation, the
initiative is one step closer to fulfillment. In
order to take advantage of the opportunities
available, students need to step forward and
speak out.
"The RiverPlace initiative was really
founded as a project for the people of the
county. Our hopes are that we can capture
the hopes and dreams of the residents in the
Master Plan. It takes all types of leadership,
many to do with volunteers.
We see the RiverPlace initiative as one
that can transform this community…one
that builds upon the great positive energy
within the community," said Behling.
v
Did you know?
You can order your books online. Just go
to the bookstore through the RACC
website, www.racc.edu, and register. You
can order your books and have them
shipped to you or you can pick them up.
10 n FRONT STREET JOURNAL
Feature
Business
Query
Introducing the business query
By Peter Shepley
Business Manager
Business Query is a new
section of the Front Street
Journal, and this article is here to
explain what it will contain. The
purpose of this section is for all
students to write about business
related topics, which can include
information on businesses in the
Reading Area, business topics at
our school and business aspects of
different
organizations
on
campus.
There are many businesses
within our community that like to
advertise at this school as well as
try to keep informed about our
students. However, the students at
RACC may not know about these
businesses. We would like to
spotlight businesses that interest
our student body. Perhaps you
are a business owner yourself,
and you would like to share this
information with RACC students.
Here at RACC, there is an
entire division devoted to
business. What changes are going
to occur within that division in
the future? What does the
business division offer students
and school as a whole? What are
students doing in the business
division? These are questions that
we hope to answer in future
issues of the Front Street Journal.
On campus there are many
organizations that offer RACC
students practical experiences
out of the classroom. What kinds
of opportunities are there for
business oriented students who
want to contribute? How many
clubs are failing because of the
lack of organization? These
questions must be answered by
the
source
for
student
information and is the impetus
for why this paper has decided to
include this business section.
Any students that are willing
to help answer these questions
should contact the Front Street
Journal as soon as possible. We
hope that this new section will
help bridge the communication
gap between our students and
community.
v
MARCH/APRIL 2006
FRONT STREET JOURNAL n 11
Arts & Entertainment
MARCH/APRIL 2006
a practical
source for
parents in
college
Practically
Parenting
Le petit dinner mystery
By Elizabeth Shepley
Assistant Editor
One of the great challenges of
parenthood is convincing your toddler to
slow down for mealtimes. You worry that they
are not eating enough nutritious food or
eating too much junk food. Perhaps you have
noticed a sudden loss in interest of food or
stunt in growth. There is no need for worry as
long as you follow these steps to ensure that
your growing toddler is making the most of
mealtimes.
Don’t stress. The worst thing you can do
for your child at mealtime is get frustrated if
she will not eat. It will only distract her if she
knows she has pushed your buttons. Be calm
with her, but be firm. Explain to her that you
know she wants to play, but she has to eat to
have the energy to keep going.
Don’t skip meals. It is important for you
to be consistent, although your child may not
be. They need to know what to expect, but
feel free to mix it up. If your kid wants
chicken soup for breakfast, go for it and
serve her oatmeal for dinner.
Allow the table to be a "fun food zone."
Playing with food is natural, so embrace it.
The formality of mealtime can be
overwhelming, and making fun of food can
lighten the burden. Keep distractions to
minimum, but allow the food and
surroundings to take on new identities. For
instance, tell your child that he has to leave
Buzz Lightyear in the playroom, but Super
Fork and Wonder Spoon are waiting at the
table.
the
Be creative. Imagination takes your child
to places we can only read about. It may also
be the way to bring her to the table with
enthusiasm. Make a menu of your child’s
dinner choices with pictures so that he can
pick like you do at a restaurant. Let them help
cook. Let the meal preparation be a time for
arts and crafts and produce an edible
masterpiece.
Success is in the presentation. Using your
toddler’s favorite plate or even a muffin pan is
one way to make your kid excited about her
food. Cut it up using cookie cutters and fun
shapes. Wrap it up and put a ribbon on it, and
the kid will eagerly tear into his prize. Let her
have a dipping sauce or spread, or blend the
meal up for a smoothie. The success of your
meal depends on its appeal to your child.
Serve small helpings. Kids have tiny
tummies. Pediatricians agree that a good rule
of thumb is to offer about one teaspoon for
each year of her age. Take mealtime one bite
at a time. One bite, two bites, three…It is not
forceful and allows her to be in charge.
Offer a variety. The best way to know that
your child is making the most of the food
pyramid is to offer some choices. If your child
wants mostly fruits for a couple of days,
continue to offer them with other choices.
Pull in some protein by offering peanut
butter for dipping. It will not be long before
he will switch to breads and veggies.
Don’t overwhelm the kid. Although it is
important to offer choices, limit them to two
or three. Offering too much can do more
harm than good. Several small meals a day are
more effective than three adult size meals.
right fit
She only wants tomatoes!
photo by Peter Shepley
Listen. Your child will give you cues, and
she should be in control during meals. If she
shows a preference for something, continue
to offer it. If you find a niche that convinces
him to slow down for dinner, use it. There will
be inconsistency, but your kid knows her belly
best, so relax and listen.
Mealtime can be scary, but a parent can
not escape it, several times a day. To ease your
mind, keep a journal of your child’s intake. It
will make you feel better to see that she is
actually getting plenty of nutrition, and if it
looks sparse, then consult your pediatrician.
Consider keeping a colored food pyramid
on your refrigerator at your kid’s eye level
and explain how each meal plays in the
pyramid. Bring your child to her meal after
playing outside; make sure she has an
appetite. As long as you offer a variety of
healthy food in an imaginative way, mealtimes
will only show "happy plates" and happy kids.
v
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12 n FRONT STREET JOURNAL
Special
MARCH/APRIL 2006
Everyday extraordinary
By Elizabeth Shepley
Associate Editor
"What I learned is that, and this is a cliché but, you can lead a
horse to water, but you can’t make the horse drink. Despite an
instructor’s or professor’s best efforts, students will take from a
Reading Area Community College is a sea of extraordinary
course what they want to take from the course. You can’t
people going about their everyday lives. Students sometimes take
necessarily change attitudes…
for granted the personalities of the instructors who impress their
It was important for me to know that because I am always very
lives on a day to day basis.
idealistic when I walk into a class, particularly a literature class. You
Dr. Joanne Gabel, Associate Professor Humanities Division, is
know, I think that I can save the world…one short story at a time,"
just an everyday person with extraordinary passion and enthusiasm. she explained.
She advises Legacy, the student produced scholarly journal, which
Dr. Gabel puts forth her best efforts in the classroom. She
she helped begin as a tool to foster the improvement of academic
believes that through active discussion students will gain an
writing. She teaches various writing courses as well as World
understanding and appreciation of various forms of literature. She
Literature II and introductory Shakespeare and Mass Media.
clearly feels a passion for wanting to help her students connect with
"They are all my favorites. Every time I walk into a classroom on the material.
the very first day I always tell people, ‘This is my very favorite class,’
"Interestingly, I had taught "In Cold Blood" [by Truman
because it is, at the moment," said Dr. Gabel.
Capote] the very first year I was teaching. I was teaching
For Dr. Gabel, the classroom is for open exchange of
predominately vocational tech students who I was having a hard
knowledge. She counts on her students as much as they count on
time motivating to read. Finally, I said to them, ‘if you had your
her for learning. Her doctorate studies were driven by this idea.
choice, what would you read?’ I brought the best seller list in for
Through a practitioner inquiry, Dr. Gabel was able to analyze her
some reason, and "In Cold Blood" was on that list…that’s the one
own teaching to understand critical literacy.
they chose to read…They were mesmerized by that story," said Dr.
Gabel.
Although she never understood the class’s
attraction to that novel, Dr. Gabel valued
their opinion and motivation. She believes
that everyone has a lesson to offer.
"…I have taken the stance that I can learn
from just about anybody, and I try to see the
good in other people and what they do well
and then emulate those qualities. I am not
always successful, but there are lots of things
that I admire in other people—both men,
women and children," she said.
Dr. Gabel views teaching as her
opportunity to "give back to the society that
nurtured me." By watching her parents
return to the community, she understood the
family motto to be "live to serve others," and
it has profoundly affected her character.
"It is amazing that when you live outside
of yourself, and don’t concentrate on
yourself, how much is given to you,"
explained Dr. Gabel, who will donate time
with her church this summer to improving
the hurricane devastated area.
Between classes, committees, church
service and a family of her own, Dr. Gabel has
learned to "live one day at a time." As she
goes about her everyday life, she makes her
mark on the world.
"One time I ran into this woman at a
session to learn about a columbarium that
was going to be constructed in our church,
which is a place that has these little drawers
for people’s ashes, and I said to her,
‘Wouldn’t you rather just have your ashes
spread over your favorite place?’ She said,
‘Well people can do that, but I want there to
be a permanent marker with my name on it
so people know I was here’…
When I read the memoirs that my family
wrote about my dad, I just think, he was just
an everyday person. He was just Dad, but he
had some really fascinating experiences in
life, and I want my grandchildren and greatgrandchildren to know that about him, but I
want them to know that about me too," she
shared.
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