“Any Other Word,” Penn State York’s literary E-zine, is continuing to accept submissions of fiction and poetry from the Penn State York community (students, faculty, and staff) for its seventh edition.  Please submit essays, poetry, fiction, short stories or general prose by Saturday, June 1 for consideration in the upcoming publication.  All submissions, along with any questions, should be addressed to Noel Sloboda, Ph.D., assistant professor in English and publication adviser, at njs16@psu.edu .

“Any Other Word” is a creative outlet for members of the Penn State York community and was created to showcase campus talents and unite artistic minds.  Work on the first issue began in the fall of 2006. To see the publication, visit http://www2.yk.psu.edu/anyotherword .

Submissions published in the “Any Other Word” are selected by a board of directors who read all entries submitted and make selections.  The student adviser has the final say on what is published.  The publication takes its name from the quote by William Shakespeare, “What’s in a name?  That which we call a rose by any other word would smell as sweet.”

There’s still time to take a summer course at Penn State York with summer session II beginning the week of June 26.   The six-week session offers students, undergraduate or graduate, the opportunity to take day, evening, or online classes. 

Penn State York's small class size offers students the opportunity to get to know faculty members and work in research areas using state-of-the-art lab facilities. Take a class and still have time to enjoy the summer.

High school students can put the summer to good use by taking a college course through dual enrollment.  Dual enrollment (http://www.yk.psu.edu/Admissions/highschool.htm) allows eligible high school students to take college courses at a 50 percent tuition reduction.  This enables students to get a jump on their college careers by earning college credits while still in high school.

With the variety of science and math courses offered in the summer, high school students can also get started on the Chancellor’s Honor Certificate in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) (http://yk.psu.edu/Academics/stem.htm), designed to provide them with the skills they need for jobs in the 21st century.  For more information on dual enrollment and the chancellor’s certificate, please contact the Penn State York Admissions Office at (717) 771-4040.

For a more information on summer course offerings at Penn State York, email PennStateYorkRegistrar@psu.edu, call (717) 771-4050, or visit the website (http://yk.psu.edu/Academics/summer1.htm)

Penn State York began a chapter in 1991 to recognize the accomplishments of its growing adult student population.  The adult student population at the campus is about 30 percent.  Penn State considers an adult learner someone who is 24-years-old or older; a veteran of the armed services; returning to school after four or more years of employment, homemaking, or other activity; or a person who assumes multiple adult roles as a parent, spouse/partner, employee, and student.

Those students inducted into Alpha Sigma Lambda are:  Kevin Doyle, East Petersburg, Pa.; Norbert Rodriguez, York, Pa.; Joyce L. Rohrbaugh, Stewartstown, Pa.; Lisa Showvaker, Hanover, Pa.; and Anna Velez, York, Pa.

Ask Marilyn (or not), Gadgets, Gizmos, and Gigabytes: Classrooms of the 21st Century, the Science of Color in Cosmetics, When you Can’t Breathe Nothing Else Matters, and From TV to Eggs:  the Wide World of Weather are just a few of the 20 workshops being offered this year during the 17th annual program to encourage young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) on Friday, May 10 at Penn State York.   Pathways to Your Future:   Exploring STEM Careers begins at 8:45 a.m. in the Conference Center of the Main Classroom Building. Registration begins at 8 a.m.

Seventh grade girls, their teachers, and some parents representing 29 schools (public, private, charter, and cyber) will take part in this career awareness program.   More than 240 people (students, parents, and teachers) will be participating in the free program.

Pathways to Your Future offers girls the opportunity to explore a variety of job related fields in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.  The program brings together young women and professional women and men from academia, medicine, government agencies, business, and industry for a day of workshops and discussion.  Participants can attend three workshops from a list of 20 covering a wide range of topics.  The program also provides teachers with information to guide young women toward career opportunities in these fields.

Pathways to Your Future:  Exploring STEM Careers is sponsored by Penn State York, Rutter’s, Exelon Generation, York Traditions Bank, a Pullo Family Grant, and Haas Printing Co. Inc.

Schools participating in the program are:  Agora Cyber Charter School, Central York Middle School, Christian School of York, Dallastown Middle School, Dover Intermediate School, E.H. Markle Intermediate (Southwestern), George A Smith Middle School  (Solanco School District), Hanover Middle School, Harrisburg Academy, Helen Thackston Charter School, Lancaster Mennonite, Northeastern Middle School, Northern York County Middle School, Peaceful Valley Home School, Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School, PA Virtual Charter School, Red Lion Christian, Red Lion Junior High, Shrewsbury Christian Academy, South Eastern Middle School East, Southern Middle School, Spring Grove Middle School, St. Theresa School, STEM Academy, Swift Middle School  (Solanco School District), West York Middle School, York Catholic, York Home School Association, Inc., and York Suburban Middle School

It’s that time of year again! Penn State York faculty and staff will gather to serve-up bacon, eggs, sausage, potatoes, toast, donuts, and coffee for the free late-night breakfast on Monday, April 29 from 8-10 p.m., in the Lion’s Den of the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center. The event is free to members of the Penn State York community.

Faculty and staff, along with employees from the campus dining service, will dish up food to hungry students needing a break from studying for finals. The late-night breakfast has become a popular event on campus and provides a way for faculty and staff to connect with students and help them relieve stress as they prepare for finals.  In addition to enjoying refreshments, students can listen to local band, Mark DeRose and the Dreadnought Brigade, and participate in board games set-up for a little competitive play.

Penn State York’s new chancellor, David Chown, will take part in the event and be available to meet and chat with student.  Don’t miss this opportunity to meet the chancellor.

Students are reminded to bring in their lion banks and drop off spare change to help fund book scholarships at the Penn State York Bookstore that will be awarded to campus students.  Through this Phil-LION-thropy effort, student Phil-LION-thropists can help other students and spotlight the idea that small gifts from many can have a large impact.  Spare change in any amount will be accepted.  Iona Conlon from the Penn State York Development Office will be collecting the change and entering those who participate in a contest to win a gift card.

Late-night breakfast is sponsored by the Penn State York Student Activity Fee (SAF).

OLLI at Penn State York is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization established to enrich the lives of mature adults living in York County by providing a variety of educational and social activities that accentuate the joy of learning and personal fulfillment.  OLLI at Penn State York is one of more than 100 lifelong learning institutes across the nation supported by a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation.

To learn more about OLLI at Penn State York, visit their website at http://olli.yk.psu.edu/

Penn State York will celebrate its 43rd annual spring commencement at 6 p.m. Friday, May 3, in the Pullo Family Performing Arts Center at the campus. Frank E. Dittenhafer II, ’78 FAIA, LEED AP and president of Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects, is the commencement speaker.

Dittenhafer is the president of Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects, an architectural firm established in 1985 that provides architectural services for clients throughout the mid-Atlantic region.  His impact at the York campus goes beyond serving on the advisory board.   His company’s creative work is evident in the amazing designs of the Pullo Family Performing Arts Center, the Lee R. Glatfelter Library, the Lair student lounge and, most recently, the Ralph G. and Madeline B. Swenson Engineering Center. 

Dittenhafer holds a bachelor of science degree in architecture, with honors, from Penn State as well as a master of architecture from the University of Pennsylvania where he received the E. Lewis Dales Traveling Fellowship and bronze medal for design.

He has been an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maryland, College Park; design critic for the Pennsylvania School of Art and Design, Art Institute of York, and Harrisburg Area Community College;  and has chaired numerous Architects International Association (AIA) Design Award juries.  He is a member of the Penn State Architecture Alumni Group Board of Directors, Morgan State University’s Architecture Advisory Board, and the City of Baltimore Public Art Commission. For Dittenhafer’s full bio, visit our website.

For those who cannot attend the event, Penn State York's commencement can be viewed on Comcast cable channel 18 and streaming on the website at www2.yk.psu.edu/commencement.

In addition to hearing from Dittenhafer, Penn State York will continue its open microphone tradition when graduates can speak to the audience for a moment.  The top associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degree graduates will also say a few words.  A number of former Penn State York students who completed their degree work at another campus of Penn State will return to the campus to receive their degrees during the ceremony.

The campus will award associate, baccalaureate, and master's degrees during the program.  The ceremony is free and open to the public. 

Hoops for Hope will be held from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., with registration beginning at 9:30 a.m.  Teams can register the day of the event or in advance.  The cost is $25 for a five-person team with proceeds going to the college tour.  This is a single elimination tournament.  Participants must be at least 18-years old. The registration form can be downloaded here.

Moye, 22, has been working for Youth Build throughout the semester as part of her internship in HD FS is program at the campus under the guidance of faculty member JeanMarie St. Clair-Christman, Ph.D., assistant professor of HD FS. 

As part of that internship, she is to identify a need in the program and then meet that need.  Moye believes the transition from high school to the real world is a tough one and she wants to invite these students to explore higher education as a pathway to better career opportunities.

“A college tour would be an opportunity to open students’ eyes to new experiences and possible goals, in hopes that these students will stay away from the street after high school,” said Moye.  “I grew up in foster care in a variety of homes in Pennsylvania and I had little or no support.  I want to be sure these students have the tools to make good decisions.”

A graduate of Central York High School, Moye began her education at Penn State York when she was 18 and will receive her degree at commencement at 6 p.m. on May 3.  A single mom, Moye knows what it is like to struggle, but also realizes what it is like to have a goal and stick with it.

Moye hopes to see a good turnout at the event.  For more information, please call Moye at (717) 814-1652 or email her at arm5326@psu.edu.  Donations to help fund the college tour are also being accepted.  Cecks should be made payable to Youth Build.

This HD FS major at Penn State York is a multidisciplinary program that examines the development of individuals and families across the life span. It enables students to prepare for professional, managerial, or scientific roles in health and human services professions, in public and nonprofit agencies, and in business and industry, as well as for advanced professional or graduate study. Students obtain a broad background in individual and family development across the life span.  For more information on this major, visit www.yk.psu.edu and click on academics or call the Penn State York Admissions office at (717) 771-4040.

Following a precautionary search of the building, police and security found no evidence of any explosive device.  The building will reopen for regular business on Tuesday April, 16.

Penn State York will celebrate its 15th annual Unity Day on Friday, April 12, and a variety of programs are planned from April 8-12, when students, faculty, staff, and members of the York community are invited to celebrate diversity.  Events will take place in and around the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center from noon–1:00 p.m. each day with Unity Day festivities (April 12) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Some additional events are also planned in the early evening.  All events are free and open to the public and are sponsored by the Penn State York Diversity Committee, the Multicultural Club, and the Student Activity Fee.

Friday is Unity Day and the two-hour event features music and dance performances, an international fashion show, ethnic foods to sample, cultural displays from around the world, and even chocolate covered insects for sale.  Performances will begin at noon.  Displays that reflect the origin or ancestry of faculty, staff, and students will also be set-up in and around the student center and some campus clubs and organizations will have displays.

Those participating in Unity Day on April 12 will wear specially designed T-shirts. Visitors to Unity Day event can also receive a shirt, while supplies last, if they complete the Unity Day passport.

Students in Fred Haag’s introduction to visual studies (Art 10) class created 13 designs for Unity Week and the campus community voted to select one to appear on the shirt.  Haag, an associate professor of visual arts at Penn State York, has involved his class in creating designs for a number of years.

A design by Travis J. Fauth, Red Lion, Pa., was selected as the winner.  Fauth actually submitted two designs.  Eleven other students submitted designs for the contest including Katie E. Crum, York, Pa.; Zachary R. Cullum, Delta, Pa.; Vincent M. Ferraiuolo, Stewartstown, Pa.; Samantha H. Hittie, Shrewsbury, Pa.; Wenxuan Li, Amoy, China; Alexis M. Querci, York, Pa.; Aileen M. Skennonto, York, Pa.; Drew M. Smith, Dover, Pa.; Wareesha Tariq, Karachi, Pakistan; Michael H. Tirkey, York, Pa.; and Joselyne A. Vivar, York, Pa.

Monday through Thursday, a variety of events are scheduled to take place, providing an opportunity to learn something new each day.  Monday’s program features Bollywood dance lessons in the gym; Tuesday features performances by students in the First Music Association in the Community Room of the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center (Ruhl); and Wednesday features Hispanic Dancing Lessons in the Community Room.  A basketball tournament (3 on 3 play) from 5-6 p.m. in the gym on Tuesday and a mini soccer tournament from 5-6 p.m. on Wednesday round out the earlier part of the week.

Thursday features Holi, an Indian spring festival of colors.  Get drenched in colors, throw water balloons, dance to Indian music, and celebrate spring.  The celebration is from 12-1 p.m. and those participating, or who want to watch, will meet in the Community Room and then head outdoors to the soccer fields for fun.

Goals for Unity Week include creating teachable moments to learn about diversity and to provide opportunities for the campus and community to suggest ways Penn State can create a multicultural environment.

Unity Week is the culmination of the work of Penn State York’s Diversity Committee, which includes students, faculty, and staff, and is sponsored by the group. A variety of multicultural events are planned throughout the year to provide a forum for the campus and community to learn about diversity.

Flags fly at Penn State York representing the homelands of students, faculty, and staff year-round, and symbolize campus pride in the ethnic heritage of campus members and their commitment to providing an environment where all opinions are valued and respected.  Unity Week is an opportunity to educate, understand, and appreciate the differences among us and embrace the many similarities.        

Jennifer Nesbitt, associate professor of English at Penn State York, will offer a look at the PBS hit drama “Downton Abbey” on Monday, April 22 at 7:00 p.m. in the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center at the campus. The event, sponsored by Penn State York’s Lee R. Glatfelter Library, is free and open to the public.

“Entails, Coattails, and Cocktails:  The World of ‘Downton Abbey,’” addresses the reality behind Downton’s characters, plots and sets.  Nesbitt’s presentation covers changes in women’s roles, a typical day in a servant’s life, and the historical events shaping life in the early 20th century in England.  The talk also features historical photographs and video clips from the series.

A specialist in 20th century British literature, Nesbitt wrote a book, “Narrative Settlements,” about women writers responding to cultural change after World War I. 

“One of the chapters is about country house novels,” she notes, “and Downton’s inheritance troubles are right in line with these stories. People were really questioning what the role of large estates, and the lavish lifestyles that went with them, would be in the modern world.” 

The lecture was first developed for “Dine like the Duchess,” a dinner sponsored by witf for the premier of season three of “Downton Abbey.”  Response to her lecture was so positive that Kathleen Pavelko, witf’s president and CEO, asked her to expand the lecture for “MindMatters,” a project that witf has undertaken  to deliver intellectually stimulating lectures, given by skillful presenters, to residents living in Continuing Care Retirement Communities’ (CCRCs).

“MindMatters was fortunate that our first lecturer was Dr. Jennifer Nesbitt from Penn State York, “said Pavelko.  “As a scholar of 20th century British literature, but especially as a captivating speaker, Jennifer was an excellent model for future presenters.  She engaged the audience by making literary and historical information come alive in the minds of curious older citizens.”

“Working with witf was rewarding, and I am excited that “Downton Abbey” has generated so much interest in this period of history,” said Nesbitt.  “In these troubled times, we like to look back to what seems to be a more orderly, beautiful world.”

A fan of the show, Nesbitt calls “Downton Abbey,” “Pride and Prejudice” meets “Dallas.”  She explains that “Downton” combines the soapy sexiness of “Dallas” with period drama, and further notes that people want to know what’s going to happen next to the characters wearing those gorgeous clothes.

Nesbitt plans to revise the lecture in preparation for season four for a talk to Penn State York’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) group.  OLLI is a nonprofit, volunteer driven organization established to enrich the lives of mature adults living in York County by providing a variety of educational and social enrichment activities.  OLLI at Penn State York is one of more than 100 lifelong learning institutes across the nation that is supported by a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation.

“There are already ‘spoilers’ out on the web, and so I’ll use what’s been leaked to shape the lecture,” said Nesbitt. 
Race will be a plot element in the new season, scheduled to premiere in the United States on Jan. 5, 2014.

“Paul Robeson, an African American actor and singer, was very popular during his visits to London, and I’d like to talk about his impact.”

Nesbitt has been teaching at Penn State since 2003.  In addition to her work on women writers, she is writing about rum as a symbol in Caribbean literature and James Cameron’s 2009 film “Avatar.”  In 2010-11, Nesbitt served as an Institute of Arts and Humanities (IAH) Resident Scholar at University Park. This was the first time a faculty member from York has been named an IAH Resident Scholar since the program began in 2003-04.

She earned an undergraduate degree in history and literature in 1987 from Harvard University, Cambridge, Ma., and a doctorate in English with a certificate in women’s studies in 1999 from Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. She is originally from Winchester, Ma.

Discover all that Penn State York has to offer during the spring open house set for Saturday, April 6 from 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the campus. Registration begins at 8:45 a.m.  Meet faculty, staff, and students; tour the campus; and discover more about Penn State right here in York.  The open house is free and open to the public.

Learn about Penn State York’s programs, from the first two years of more than 160 baccalaureate majors (2 + 2 program) to the eight baccalaureate degrees, six associate degrees, a master of education in Teaching and Curriculum, and a variety of credit certificates that can be completed without leaving York.  The 2 + 2 program gives students the opportunity to begin their college education in York and finish at another Penn State campus.  Hear about Penn State’s Video Learning Network (VLN) and other blended courses that allow students to complete credit courses in a seven-week accelerated format combining face-to-face sessions with video conferences and online teaching by Penn State instructors.

The open house provides an opportunity to talk with a faculty member and learn more about specific Penn State majors as well as learn more about student financial aid and what it is like to be a Penn State student.  Information is also available on the variety of credit and noncredit programs and services offered to business and industry through continuing education.

Come and explore the variety of educational opportunities for people of all ages.

Part of the open house includes an activity/information fair where visitors can gather materials about programs and learn about a variety of activities at the campus including five varsity sports: baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, and women’s volleyball.  The campus also has more than 20 student clubs and organizations that provide a variety of activities and events throughout the year.

In addition, Penn State York offers an honors program for students with outstanding academic ability and undergraduate research opportunities for students with an interest in hands-on experience in research.  There’s a lot happening at Penn State York.

For more information on the open house, please call (717) 771-4040 or (800) PSU-6227.  Check out our website at www.yk.psu.edu/openhouse to register and see the schedule for the day. Registration is strongly encouraged but not required.

Following the open house, an offer reception begins at 2 p.m. for students and their families who have received an offer of admission from Penn State York for summer 2013 or fall 2013.  For more information on this event, visit http://yk.psu.edu/Admissions/additional-events.htm

Spring Open House Schedule
 

8:45-9 a.m.
Check-in and light breakfast,
Conference Center, Main Classroom Building

9:00 a.m.
Welcome and Introduction
Conference Center, Main Classroom Building

9:10 a.m.
Admissions Presentation
Conference Center, Main Classroom Building

9:50 a.m.
Panel Discussion with Staff and Students

10:45 a.m.
Campus Tours Given by Penn State Lion Ambassadors
Campuswide

11:30 a.m.
Student Activity/Information Fair
Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center

11:30 a.m.
Lunch
Lion’s Den, Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center

12:30 p.m.
How to Pay for College – Financial aid presentation.
Conference Center, Main Classroom Building

1:15 p.m.
The Transformative Power of a Penn State Education
Conference Center, Main Classroom Building

1:30 p.m.
Academic Resource Fair
Conference Center, Main Classroom Building

Penn State York honors the academic achievements and service of its outstanding students, faculty, and staff for the 2012-13 year Sunday, April 21, at 2 p.m. during the 42nd Annual Academic Awards Ceremony.  The event will take place at Heritage Hills Golf Resort & Conference Center, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave., York, Pa. More than 80 academic and service awards will be presented during the program.

Awards will be presented by a variety of campus groups and several community organizations including the Rotary Club and the Manufacturers’ Association.   Highlights of the program include the presentation of the Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award, the James H. Burness Awards for Excellence in Teaching, and the Penn State York Advising Award.

Please RSVP your attendance at the event to Cynthia Jones at csj11@psu.edu. For information, call the Student Affairs office at (717) 771-4045.

Penn State York will honor its student athletes at the 42nd Annual Athletic Awards Banquet on Thursday, April 4 at 6 p.m.  The banquet will take place at Heritage Hills Golf Resort & Conference Center, 2700 Mt. Rose Ave., York, Pa.

Scholar athletes, outstanding players, and a variety of other awards will be presented following a 6:00 p.m. dinner.  Award recipients and coaches attend the banquet at no charge.

Tickets for the event for guests can be purchased for $10 in the Penn State York Student Affairs Office.  For more information please call Chris Beaverson, athletic director, at (717) 505-8949 or e-mail him at cab187@psu.edu.

To learn more about Penn State York's athletic programs, visit the website.

Runners-up are Megan Herr, Lititz, Pa., for “Inspired by Many True Stories,” Jessica IIko, York, Pa., for “Blind Date,” and Nikki Goods, York, Pa., for Life Choices.”

The plays “Seventeen Too Many” and “Inspired by Many True Stories,” will be performed by theatre students on Thursday and Friday, April 4 and 5, at 7 p.m. on The Pullo Center stage. Admission to the performances is free. 

The play contest is an annual competition for Penn State York students designed to encourage the creation and development of new plays on campus. 

The competition was open to Penn State York students enrolled for fall 2012.  Original plays of 10-30 minutes were accepted.  The contest is also sponsored by the Penn State York Theatre Program.

UNITE’s Arrive Alive program uses a high-tech simulator, impact video, and a number of other resources to educate students about the dangers of drunk driving and texting while driving. The simulator allows students to experience, in a controlled environment, the potential consequences of drunk and distracted driving.

One of the most commonly recognized driving distractions is cell phone use. About 89 percent of all Americans have a cell phone, according to CTIA – The Wireless Association. Drivers under 20-years-old have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Their lack of driving experience can contribute to critical misjudgments if they become distracted. Not surprisingly, they text more than any other age group and the numbers of young drivers who text is only increasing.

UNITE brings health and wellness programs to high school and college campuses across the nation. Their programs are designed to heighten awareness to the dangers and consequences of drunk driving and distracted driving.

Penn State York’s Women’s History Month celebration continues with a lunch and learn session on Friday, March 22, a Women’s Fair on Tuesday, March 26, and a faculty colloquium on Wednesday, March 27.  All programs are free and open to the public.  The monthlong activities, sponsored by the Penn State York Diversity Committee, also include a Tree of Life Display in the Lee R. Glatfelter Library, highlighting the accomplishments of women. 

“These Women’s History Month events are an extension of the work we did last year, when we had two lunch and learns and a power point presentation of students, faculty, and staff on campus,” said Kristin Cole, a member of the Women’s History Month Committee and assistant professor of English at Penn State York.  “This year we’ve added a historical dimension to the slideshow and two more lunch and learns, but our most ambitious goal was to have a Women’s Fair as the culminating event of our celebration.  Using the national theme “Beauty, Brains, and Body,” we have created what I hope will become an annual Women’s History Month Fair that is focused entirely on every aspect of women’s health.”

Penn State York alumnae from the fields of engineering, science, and information sciences and technology will participate in a panel discussion on Friday, March 22 at noon and share their experience on how they have put their majors to work for them.  A question and answer session will follow the brief presentations in the Community Room of the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center.

Three other lunch and learn programs were held earlier in the month, including topics on women with careers in the humanities and social sciences, superwomen (or how to juggle it all), and a presentation by students who participated in women’s studies course.

The Women’s Fair, entitled Beauty, Brains, and Body, is set for Tuesday, March 26 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.  The fair will bring together a variety of community and campus organizations including Access York, the YWCA, the National Organization of Women (NOW), Life Changes Boutique, Bare Skin Care, Planned Parenthood, the American Association of University Women (AAUW), Mary Kay Cosmetics, and B3 Salon. Highlights include a student makeover by Harrisburg’s Dress for Success, a self-defense demonstration, health and wellness checks, and a performance by Carla Christopher, the York Poet Laureate.

A PowerPoint presentation featuring a history of women at Penn State (including the York campus) will be shown in its entirety during the fair.  The presentation was created by Deborah Eicher-Catt, associate professor of communication arts and sciences at the York campus.  In addition, several other PowerPoint presentations are being broadcast in the lobby of the John J. Romano Administration Building, featuring Penn State York female students, faculty, and staff.

For more information about the Women’s Fair, please contact Jessica Petrie at (717) 771-4196.

The final event of the month is a presentation by Dianne Creagh, assistant professor of history, entitled “Babies in Cubicles, Animated Women Warriors, and Rainbow Golf Umbrellas: A Cross-Section of one Historian’s Works in Progress.”  Her presentation is at noon on Wednesday, March 27 in room 107 of the M.S. Grumbacher Information Sciences and Technology Center.

In this colloquium, Creagh will discuss three projects she has underway.  The first, an offshoot of her dissertation on Catholic child-saving, considers the role of Jewish adoption agencies in New York, Philadelphia, and Baltimore, from the Progressive Era through the Great Depression.  Her second project, on the lighter side, compares changes over time in Disney’s marketing of two women warriors:  Mulan, from the movie “Mulan,” in 1998 and Merida, of the movie “Brave,” in 2012. 

In her final topic, Creagh will discuss an oral history project she has started on heterosexual allies in the gay rights movement, comparing a local Pennsylvania group to allies of the past.  She will consider the question, can heterosexuals play a unique role in promoting gay rights, or do they eclipse members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) community who should be leading their own struggle?

Born in Philadelphia, Pa., McDaniel is the author of four books of poetry, most recently “The Endarkenment,” published by University of Pittsburg Press.

He is the recipient of a creative writing fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts and his writing has been published in numerous works including “Ploughshares,” “The Best American Poetry 1994,” The Best American Poetry 2010,” and “The New Young American Poets,” as well as on the National Endowment for the Arts website.

McDaniel earned a bachelor of arts from Sarah Lawrence College in 1990 and a master of fine arts from George Mason University in 1993.  In graduate school, he was the poetry editor for the school’s national literary magazine, “Phoebe,” 1991-92, and the editor, 1992-93.  He was also active in a student performance troupe, Poetry Theater, where grad students presented their poems in a theatrical context.  It was while in grad school that McDaniel first began publishing poems in magazines including “Ploughshares,” “Fine Madness,” Exquisite Corpse,” and “Willow Springs.”

In addition to his writing, McDaniel has taught poetry workshops and participated in numerous poetry slams.  He has not performed in a poetry slam since the late 1990s.

Since 2001, he has been teaching creative writing at Sarah Lawrence College and in 2010 he was one of five judges for the National Book award in poetry.

Whether he’s playing his harmonica at a community event, volunteering at his church, visiting the gym that bears his name, or speaking with young people about the importance of an education to succeed in life, Voni Grimes is an inspiration to all who know him.   To honor his work in the community and 19 years of service to Penn State York as the director of business services, the Voni Grimes Trustee Scholarship is being established and will be used to provide scholarships to students who may not have finances to attend college but have the ability and ambition.

“In my short time in York, it has become very clear that Voni Grimes is a living legend both on our campus and in the community,” said David W. Chown, Penn State York’s new chancellor as of Feb. 15, 2013. “Everyone I have met knows Voni and his work to encourage area youth to pursue the right path in life.  It is only fitting that a scholarship in his honor be established at Penn State York to provide educational opportunities for young people.”

Thanks to a recent $25,000 donation from Glatfelter, a worldwide supplier and leading manufacturer of quality papers based in York, Pa.; $31,000 of the $50,000 needed to endow the scholarship in Grimes’ honor has been raised.
“Glatfelter is pleased to partner with Penn State York in the development of tomorrow’s leaders.  Investing in these student scholarships is our way of honoring a local hero like Voni Grimes, who has dedicated his life to educating and bettering the lives of local youth,” said William T. Yanavitch, vice president, human resources and administration, Glatfelter.

The idea to honor Grimes and create a legacy in his name came from a Penn State York graduate, Shilvotsky Buffaloe, now the deputy director of economic development for the City of York.  Buffaloe credits Grimes with being one of the positive forces in his life that helped him to succeed.  Buffaloe believes by honoring his role model and creating this scholarship, other young people will have the opportunity to fulfill their dreams and pursue the right path in life through education.

Grimes served Penn State York from 1969 to 1988, and throughout his career was a recognized leader and inspiration to the young men he came in contact with on campus and in the community.  At age 90, Grimes makes it a point to share his beliefs about education wherever and whenever he can.  He shares with area youth, especially high school seniors, his philosophy about making decisions in life and he doesn’t mince words.
“You who are in 12th grade, where do you want to be in five years, in the streets, in jail, in the ground, or in college?  I would love to see you in college,” says Grimes.  He also
shares his three Ds with them: desire to go to college, direction - your direction is Penn State York campus; and determination – that is what it will take to be successful in life.

John J. Romano, who worked with Grimes when he served as campus executive officer at Penn State York from 1985 to 1993, offered some comments about Grimes and his impact to the campus and York community.

“In addition to Voni Grimes’ outstanding service to Penn State as an exemplary employee for more than 19 years, Voni has had a great commitment to the youth of the City of York and he has promoted education as the avenue for young people today to achieve to the best of their abilities," said Romano.  “He has just been an outstanding citizen of the York community and also a great representative of The Pennsylvania State University.  We are most proud of everything he has done through many many decades of service to York and Penn State.”  Romano, Penn State’s former vice president for commonwealth campuses, came out of retirement and was back in York to lead the campus from August 2012 through mid-February 2013, while a search for the campus’ new top administrator was completed.

For Grimes, having a scholarship in his name is an honor, but what the scholarship will do to provide educational opportunities for area youth is what truly matters to him.  When he thinks about the scholarship’s potential positive long-term impact on York city residents, their families, and the larger community, it makes him smile. “I’m very happy that there is a scholarship to be known as the Voni Grimes Scholarship,” said Grimes.

Those interested in helping make the scholarship to honor Grimes a reality should contact Di Hershey, director of development at Penn State York, at (717) 771-4127 or dkh13@psu.edu. Once endowed, the scholarship will help students now and in the future.

Keeping a Penn State education accessible for future generations is the responsibility of the University as well as an opportunity for its alumni and friends to change the lives of talented students. Through the Trustee Matching Scholarship Program, Penn State has committed to matching the generosity of its donors by designating, on a permanent basis, funds from its operating budget for scholarship support. The program has been designed to maximize the impact of private giving while directing funds to students as quickly as possible, meeting the urgent need for scholarship support.

In this groundbreaking philanthropic model, the University matches 5 percent of the total pledge or gift at the time a Trustee Scholarship is created, making money available immediately for student awards. This University match is available to spend each year, in perpetuity, along with a payout equal to a percentage (currently, 4.5 percent) of the endowment’s market value. Therefore, when the endowment becomes fully funded, a Trustee Scholarship provides almost 10 percent of the endowment’s market value each year. Newly created scholarships can be designated for particular campuses (Penn State York), and a preference may be expressed for recipients within a particular geographic area (i.e. York city residents).

A performance by the internationalyl-known Vienna Boys Choir originally set for Wednesday, March 6 has been rescheduled, due to inclement weather, to Tuesday, March 12 at the Pullo Family Performing Arts Center (The Pullo Center) at Penn State York. Tickets are still available for the 7:30 p.m. performance and are priced at $65 and $50. Tickets can be purchased at The Pullo Center box office, charge by phone at (717) 505-8900, or online at ThePulloCenter.com.

Boys have been singing at the court of the Holy Roman Emperor since the early 15th century. In 1498, more than half a millennium ago, Emperor Maximilian I moved his court and his court musicians to Vienna. He gave instructions that there were to be six singing boys among his musicians. Historians have settled on 1498 as the foundation date of the Vienna Hofmusikkapelle and in consequence the Vienna Boys Choir. Until 1918, the choir sang exclusively for the imperial court, at mass, at private concerts and functions, and on state occasions.

Today there are about 100 choristers between the ages of 10 and 14, divided into four touring choirs. The four choirs give around 300 concerts and performances each year in front of almost half a million people. Each group spends nine to eleven weeks of the school year on tour. They visit virtually all European countries, and they are frequent guests in Asia, Australia and the Americas.

Together with members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the Vienna State Opera Chorus, the Vienna Boys Choir maintains the tradition of the imperial musicians: as Hofmusikkapelle they provide the music for the Sunday Mass in Vienna’s Imperial Chapel, as they have done since 1498. For the fifth time, the choir participated in the New Year’s Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra on Jan. 1, 2012, conducted by Mariss Jansons.

The choirs’ repertoire includes everything from medieval to contemporary and experimental music. Motets and lieder for boys choirs form the core of the touring repertoire, as do the choirs own arrangements of quintessentially Viennese music, waltzes, and polkas by Franz Lehar, Joseph Lanner, and Johann Strauss.

Set-up for the event is Saturday, March 2, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Judging takes place Monday and Tuesday, March 4 and 5, from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., and the fair is open to the public Thursday, March 7, from 5-6:30 p.m. No events are scheduled on Wednesday, March 6.  

Awards will be presented on March 7 at 7 p.m. in the Pullo Family Performing Arts Center (The Pullo Center) on the Penn State York campus. 

For more information, please contact Gary Butler at (717) 848-1126. 

Penn State York dancers Jimmy Clark, 19, of Red Lion, Pa., and Kara Smith, 22, of York, Pa., danced two nights away and completed the 46-hour annual Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON), Feb. 15 - 17, at the Bryce Jordan Center, University Park, Pa. THON raised a record-breaking $12,374,034.46 for the Four Diamonds Fund, topping the $10.6 million raised in 2012. Money raised through THON is used to help children with cancer at the Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital. Penn State York broke its own record by raising $22,550.53 and shattered the previous campus record of $17,160.71. 

First held in 1973, THON has partnered with the Four Diamonds Fund since 1977, and to date, the no-sitting, no-sleeping, two-day dance marathon has raised more than $100 million  More than 700 dancers and thousands of supporters come together at University Park in the hopes that one day a cure for pediatric cancer will be found.

In addition to raising money, THON enables campus students to raise spirits by sponsoring local families dealing with cancer. Members of York’s THON Committee have provided encouragement to the families through visits, parties, cards, and plenty of emotional support. York’s two THON families, the Follers and the Hagens.

Throughout the weekend, themed “Inspire Tomorrow’s Miracles,” members of the York THON Committee encouraged the dancers in the dance marathon, as did thousands of other spectators.
 
York’s dancers, and other members of the campus’ THON committee, have participated in a variety of fundraising efforts throughout the year; activities have included canning weekends (soliciting donations), pasta dinners, and even a poker tournament. Students involved locally with THON met weekly throughout the year and the culmination of their efforts occurred during THON weekend.

Penn State York’s men’s basketball team won the Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) championship on Sunday, Feb. 18, to become the first men’s basketball team in the history of the campus to claim the title. The team won a nail biter that came down to the last second, 1.2 seconds to be exact, in the 80-79 win over Penn State Beaver. Along with the championship, the team has accepted a bid to the 2013 United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) National Basketball Tournament, which will begin Tuesday, Feb. 26 in Uniontown Pa.

“Winning the PSUAC Men's Basketball championship for the first time in school history is a tremendous accomplishment for this group of young men, “ said Parrish Petry, head men’s basketball coach at York. “They have worked hard all year on improving as a unit and becoming a team that trusts one another and pulls together in the same direction to achieve a common goal,” he said.  “After winning the Southern division the past four years and being looked upon as one of the top teams in the conference, it feels really good to finally stand alone as conference champions.”

York led 37-28 at halftime, largely behind the 3-point shooting of Logan Steckel. York, Pa. Six of his seven 3-point shots came in the first half. The host team, Beaver, came back in the second half, tying the score at 62 with seven minutes left. Neither team was able to take a lead greater than five points during the rest of the game. The score was tied three more times before Beaver's Robert Agurs, Pittsburgh, Pa.; hit a pair of free throws with 17 seconds left to tie the score at 79-79.

The York Lions missed a pair of shots at the other end, but Ben Todd, Hereford, Md.; grabbed an offensive rebound and was fouled with 1.2 seconds left, setting up his winning free throw. Todd sank a free throw with 1.2 seconds left in the game, the go-ahead score that gave Penn State York the PSUAC men's basketball championship.

Steckel led York with 28 points on 7-of-9 shooting from 3-point range and 5-of-6 free-throw shooting. All five of his free throws came in the second half, and his only second-half field goal was a 3. He was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.

Todd (10 points, 11 rebounds) and Xavier Smith, Bel Air, Md.; (13, 11) each posted a double-double for Penn State York, which out-rebounded Beaver 39-27. Todd's total helped York’s bench outscore Beaver's bench 19-3.

Agurs led Beaver with 26 points, Mike Martin, Dublin, Ohio; added 19, and Nick Miller, Beaver Fall, Pa.; scored 17.

Penn State York men's basketball team continues in the Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) playoff with an 80-64 win over Penn State Hazleton on Tuesday, Feb 12 at home. The Penn State York Lady Lions ended their playoff run losing to Penn State Fayette 66-44 in a game that took them on the road to Fayette.

The York men will now take on Penn State Mont Alto in the semifinals on Saturday, Feb. 16 at Penn State Beaver. Penn State Mont Alto beat Penn State Fayette, 68-64, in its quarterfinal on Tuesday. Saturday’s game time was not available.

Penn State York and Penn State Mont Alto split two regular-season games. York won at home, 82-56, but lost at Mont Alto, 64-61.

The York men improved to 19-6 overall. Hazleton dropped to 11-13. Mont Alto will enter Saturday's game at 14-11.

The York Lady Lions trailed 34-18 at the half in the game against Fayette and were unable to recover. The York women dropped to 9-13 overall to complete a season that included numerous players scoring more than 30 points in a game and a playoff berth for the first time in many years. Fayette improved to 13-9.

Penn State York continues its celebration of Black History Month with “Road to Freedom,” an informative and thought-provoking live commentary which brings to life the stories of many remarkable black Americans in history. The program is set for Tuesday, Feb. 19 at noon in the Community Room of the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center. Sponsored by the Penn State York Office of Student Affairs and the Diversity Committee, the program is free and open to the public.

The challenge for civil rights and social equality in America did not begin with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in the 1950s. The struggle can easily be traced back to an outspoken group of courageous pioneers who risked it all in the fight for freedom at least 100 years ago.

“Road to Freedom,” a live multimedia experience, highlights the work of those who banded together to challenge the injustices of racial discrimination and inequality including Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Booker T. Washington, Frederick Douglas, W.E.B. DuBois, the Freedom Fighters, Dr. King, and many others. Musical performances and big screen video images make this powerful program an entertaining educational experience for all.

To learn more about this performance and others, visit Key Arts Productions.

In addition to “Road to Freedom, Penn State York will also offer “Bridging Gaps Through Education,” Friday, Feb. 22 at noon, featuring Sister Jane Wakahiu, LSOSF, PhD., executive director of the African Sisters Education Collaborative and project manager of the Sisters of Leadership Development Initiative at Marywood College. This program was original scheduled for Feb. 8 but had to be postponed due to inclement weather. The program will take place in the Community Room of the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center and is free and open to the public.

The African Sisters Education Collaboration (ASEC) is an innovative organization that has taken on the global challenge to bridge the cultural, technological, leadership, and gender gaps through education. Sister Wakahui is working with ASEC to use higher education to empower women in places where their leadership will determine the fate of entire continents. In response to dire need in Africa, ASEC was initiated in 1999 by leaders of four congregations of “women religious” in Pennsylvania and the presidents of the colleges and universities founded by those congregations: Marywood University; Chestnut Hill College; Neumann University; and Rosemont College.

Sister Wakahui will share her experiences and discuss the work being done by ASEC including online distance learning and service learning programs where American students teach for two weeks in the summer in Africa. 

She earned a bachelor of education from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya, a masters of arts from Saint Bonaventure University, Olean, N.Y., and a Ph.D. in human development with specialization in higher education administration at Marywood University, Scranton, Pa.

This program is sponsored by the Penn State York Diversity Committee.

John Pinette will present an evening of stand-up comedy on Saturday, April 13, at 8 p.m. in Penn State York’s Pullo Family Performing Arts Center (The Pullo Center). Tickets prices are $38.75 and go on sale Friday, Feb. 15 at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased at The Pullo Center website, The Pullo Center Box Office, or by-phone at (717) 505-8900. This is show for all ages.

When describing his own stand-up, Pinette says “I talk about my life; it is the funniest thing I can think of.” His current comedy special “Still Hungry” debuted on “Comedy Central” in July 29, 2011, and was released on DVD in August. The food-obsessed, storytelling Pinette, delivers smart, original, Bill Cosby-influenced observations on everyday life. “Still Hungry” is a follow-up to his successful “I’m Starvin’!” and “Show Me the Buffet” CD’s and DVDs.

Pinette is no rookie to the stage. For the past 16 years, he has been in entertainment one way or another. Once he realized he could use his knack to make people laugh and turn it into a career, he left his job as an accountant and began touring comedy clubs around the country.

His caught his big break when he was asked to tour with Frank Sinatra and he has since become a regular guest on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “The View.” Most recently, Pinette came off the theatrical stage and to the stand-up stage after wrapping up his starring role as Edna Turnblad in the winning Broadway musical “Hairspray.”

His note-worthy accomplishments include being named Stand-Up Comedian of the Year by the American Comedy Awards in 1999 and he was also nominated for a Gemini Award for his television performance at The Montreal Comedy Festival in 2000. Pinette’s acting career includes roles alongside Gwyneth Paltrow in the movie “Duets,” Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Junior,” and with John Travolta in “The Punisher.” He is experienced in both film and television and has been featured in programs such as “Parker Lewis Can’t Lose” and starred as a car-jack victim in the final episode of “Seinfeld.”

Participants can satisfy continuing education requirements with a variety of professional development courses for nurses, administrators, direct-care staff, and other health care professionals. Penn State’s program has been approved by the Department of Public Welfare. Classes will be held at Penn State, The Lancaster Center, which is located in the Farm and Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster.

State regulations include many requirements for personal care homes including staff training and education. Prior to initial employment as an administrator, a candidate must successfully complete the 100-hour standardized administrator-training course approved by the Department of Public Welfare.

The PCHA Exam will be administered on Wednesday, April 24, 6-8:00 p.m. and on Thursday, April 25 from 10 a.m.-noon.

For more information or to register please call Penn State, The Lancaster Center at (717) 299-7667 or email lancaster@yk.psu.edu or register online.

The Penn State York Lady Lions, the No. 7 seed, head to Penn State Fayette, the No. 2 seed, on Tuesday, Feb. 12 for a 6 p.m. tipoff.

The York men, the No. 2 seed, take on Penn State Hazleton, the No. 7 seed, at 7 p.m. at home in the Penn State York gym in the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center. The game is free and open to the public.

With the win Saturday night, Feb. 9, against Penn State DuBois, the York men claimed the Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) South Division crown for the 5th year in a row.

It’s never too early to think about summer classes at Penn State York and registration is under way now.  Two six-week sessions offer students, undergraduate or graduate, the opportunity to take day or evening classes. 

Two sessions offer students a convenient way to get ahead for fall, catch up on classes, or just get started. The first summer session begins May 13 and continues through June 21, and the second summer session begins June 26 and continues through Aug. 7.

Penn State York's small class size offers students the opportunity to get to know faculty members and work in research areas using state-of-the-art lab facilities. The two summer sessions also allow students to take a class and still have time to enjoy the summer. 

High school students can put the summer to good use by taking a college course through dual enrollment. Dual enrollment allows eligible high school students to take college courses at a 50 percent tuition reduction. This enables students to get a jump on their college careers by earning college credits while still in high school. 

With the variety of science and math courses offered in the summer, high school students can also get started on the Chancellor’s Honor Certificate in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), designed to provide them with the skills they need for jobs in the 21st century. For more information on dual enrollment and the chancellor’s certificate, please contact the Penn State York Admissions Office at (717) 771-4040.
For a more information on summer course offerings at Penn State York, email, call (717) 771-4050, or visit the website.

In celebration of Black History Month, Penn State York is hosting two programs on Friday, Feb. 8. At noon, Sister Jane Wakahiu, LSOSF, PhD., executive director of the African Sisters Education Collaborative and project manager of the Sisters of Leadership Development Initiative at Marywood College, will speak on the topic of “Bridging Gaps through Education; and at 7 p.m., Preacher Moss brings his “End of Racism” comedy, lecture tour to campus. Both programs take place in the Community Room of the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center and are free and open to the public.

The African Sisters Education Collaboration (ASEC) is an innovative organization that has taken on the global challenge to bridge the cultural, technological, leadership, and gender gaps through education. Sister Wakahui is working with ASEC to use higher education to empower women in places where their leadership will determine the fate of entire continents. In response to dire need in Africa, ASEC was initiated in 1999 by leaders of four congregations of “women religious” in Pennsylvania and the presidents of the colleges and universities founded by those congregations: Marywood University; Chestnut Hill College; Neumann University; and Rosemont College.

Sister Wakahui will share her experiences and discuss the work being done by ASEC including online distance learning and service learning programs where American students teach for two weeks in the summer in Africa.

She earned a bachelor of education from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya, a masters of arts from Saint Bonaventure University, Olean, N.Y., and a Ph.D. in human development with specialization in higher education administration at Marywood University, Scranton, Pa.

This program is sponsored by the Penn State York Diversity Committee.

The evening presentation features something totally different with Preacher Moss and the “End of Racism” comedy/lecture tour.

Preacher Moss is charismatic and dynamic but does not have to demand great attention or time because his audiences come to cooperatively listen, laugh, and in “special” moments, reflect. Viewed, respected, and revered as a man of the people, his words carry life and just as importantly, they carry laughter.
“Understanding diversity and multiculturalism requires that we eliminate or reduce the anxiety of our ignorance and how to speak honestly when we can’t,” says Preacher Moss. He has been called the new prototype for the comedian of these times and the times to come.

A writer for "The Damon Wayans Show" and "Saturday Night Live," his comedy stylings are distinguished for being sculpted out of the everyday relevance of life and the rare glimpses of truth we value as reality. He is intellectual yet humble. “Speaking on Truth," Moss has been playing to the hearts and minds of college students, faculty, and administrators all over the country. With his insight on "racial understanding vs. racial interaction," he has quickly become one of the funniest social commentators on the college scene today. Learn more about Preacher Moss.

This program is sponsored by the Penn State York Office of Student Affairs.

Nominations are being accepted for the 2012-13 James H. Burness Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award given annually to recognize any aspect of excellent instruction (lectures, demonstrations, classroom activities, handling of discussions, individual attention, laboratory instruction, etc.) that contributes to the academic quality of Penn State York. The purpose of the award is to recognize excellence in instruction, not to identify the “most popular” faculty member. The teaching award is named in memory of the late James H. Burness in recognition of his outstanding teaching and service to the campus. Burness died in December 1999.

All faculty are eligible to be nominated except for recipients of the award in the past four years: Mark A. Casteel (2009), Harley Hartman and Frank Miller (2010), Charles (Chuck) L. Kennedy and Judith K. McCormick (2011), Sukhdeep Gill and Stephen K. Lentz (2012).

Two awards are given: one to a full-time faculty member and one to a part-time faculty member. Do not worry if you are unsure whether a faculty member is full-time or part-time, the Teaching Award Committee will divide the nominations accordingly.

This nomination form is for faculty who are teaching in fall 2012 and/or spring 2013. Be as specific as possible with comments about nominees. When the committee receives something such as "she's a great professor and definitely deserves the award," it doesn't help much in making a decision.

Nominations should be submitted using the online form or the form can be printed off and returned to Cathy Sheaffer in Advising and Career Development in the Main Classroom Building. Please ask that your nomination be placed in Harley Hartman’s mailbiox.by 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 22.

For Jimmy Clark, the opportunity to dance at the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, fondly known as THON, is very personal. Clark, a 19-year-old sophomore at Penn State York, is a Four Diamonds child himself, and a cancer survivor. He will join Kara Smith, a 22-year-old senior at Penn State York, and represent the campus at the 41st annual THON, a 46-hour-hour dance marathon, set for Feb. 15-17, at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College. The event is held each year to raise money for the Four Diamonds Fund at the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital in Hershey, Pa.

The two dancers were chosen for York based on a variety of criteria, including spirit points they earned since last September by doing a variety of activities to raise money for THON and the battle against pediatric cancer. THON is the largest student-run philanthropy and weekend dance marathon is the culmination of a yearlong fundraising effort.

In addition to raising money, THON enables campus students to raise spirits by sponsoring local families dealing with cancer. Members of York’s THON Committee have provided encouragement to the families through visits, parties, cards and plenty of emotional support.

For York’s dancers, and members of the campus THON committee, the year has included a variety of fundraising efforts such as taking part in weekend canning weekends (soliciting donations) at several locations in and around the York area, pasta dinners, a raffle, a poker tournament, and a community day at a local yogurt business. Students involved in THON have met weekly throughout the year and will make the trip to University Park to cheer on York’s dancers and all those who are dancing For The Kids (FTK) during the 46-hour event.

The year culminates in a no sitting, no sleeping, two-day dance marathon. First held in 1973, THON has partnered with the Four Diamonds Fund since 1977, and in that time has raised more than $89 million and has helped thousands of children and families fight pediatric cancer. Last year the event raised more than $10.6 million and broke its own record. The mission of THON is to conquer pediatric cancer by providing outstanding emotional and financial support to the children, families, researchers, and staff of the Four Diamonds Fund.

Clark, of Red Lion, Pa., well knows what it is like to battle cancer. Diagnosed in December 2008 with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer in his right leg, he has battled the disease. He was treated for cancer at The Penn State Hershey Medical Center and the surgery to remove the tumor and save his leg was done at John Hopkins in Baltimore, Md.

Clark and his family received positive news on June 18, 2010, when his status was changed to NED (No Evidence of Disease).

A 2011 graduate of Red Lion High School, Clark has been involved with THON since his diagnosis in 2008.

“It has completely changed my life, my views and morals, and made it clear what is important in life.”

He has successfully raised money for THON during the past three years, hosting a poker tournament, “Poker with Jimmy,” and has been an active member in the York THON group since he was a freshman. Clark is a business administration major.

“I really know what it means to be a THON dancer and how everything affects the families,” said Clark. “I want to give back for all that I have received.”

In order to prepare for THON, Clark has cut caffeine and limited sugar in his diet He is also working out a little. His biggest concern is being able to survive being on his feet for 46 hours. He is most looking forward to family hour, when all the THON families and children are featured, and when the final total is released.

Smith, of York, Pa., and a communication arts and sciences major with a minor in human development and family studies, has been involved in THON since she was a freshman. She has served as a local THON co-chair for the past two years along with Alannah Lentz, 22, of Columbia, Pa. Smith and Lentz hope that this year the York THON group will break the campus’ record of more than $17,000 for THON.

A 2009 graduate of West York High School, Smith has be preparing for THON by running, eating very healtier, lowering her sugar intake, cutting caffeine from her diet, and doing lots of stretching. To become more accustomed to being on her feet for an extensive time, she tries to stand as much as possible whether she’s at work, eating, or doing daily activities.

“THON is so important to me and has been a great part of my life since I started college. Dancing is the perfect way to complete my college career before I graduate in December,” Smith said.

For Smith, seeing all the work that THON does and the impact it has on helping kids fight cancer is rewarding.
“All these kids should be in school having fun with their friends, learning, and growing. They shouldn’t have to worry about the pains of cancer and spending days in a hospital,” said Smith. “I’ve just learned so much and THON is for sure the best thing I have done at Penn State. The people I have met and the experiences it has given me are some of the best memories I will have for life.”

During THON weekend, more than 700 dancers and thousands of supporters come together at University Park in the hopes that one day a cure for pediatric cancer will be found. Whether standing for 46 hours as a dancer, entertaining the crowd, taking care of the facility, or even sitting in the stands, every person involved with THON plays a valuable role in creating an amazing atmosphere of love, compassion, and understanding. This atmosphere inspires the students to fundraise throughout the year and demonstrates to the families of the Four Diamonds Fund that they have the care and support they need. This collective effort, involving more than 15,000 students, has become one of Penn State's greatest and most unifying traditions.

For more information about Penn State York’s THON activities, please contact Alannah Lentz at anl5123@psu.edu or Kara Smith at kjs5375@psu.edu, York’s THON co-chairs.

The campus THON group is nearing their goal of $20,000 and is looking for your support. There’s still time to donate. Anyone interested in supporting the dancers from

Penn State York can send checks made payable to:

Penn State Dance Marathon
Penn State York
1031 Edgecomb Ave.
York, PA 17403 

Please be sure to note York, Org. 170 in the memo line of the check. Donations are also accepted online at www.thon.org. Be sure to use the dropdown box and designate your donation for York and it will count toward the campus total.

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2012-13 Penn State York Advising Award. Students may submit nominations for the award which is presented at the Academic Awards Program in April of each year. The Penn State York Advising Award, given by the campus Academic Affairs Committee, was established in 1991 to recognize the importance of advising students and is presented to a faculty member who has excelled in his or her advising of students.

The faculty member chosen for this award is selected by a committee of three former recipients of the award, plus two student members. This committee depends on nominations and supporting information that is provided by students. Prior award recipients from the past three years, Ali Kara, Emily Wenk, and Harley Hartman; and staff in Advising and Career Development, Andrew Caldwell and Jane Emery, are not eligible for the award.

Nominations should be submitted using the online form or the form can be printed off and returned to Cathy Sheaffer in Advising and Career Development in the Main Classroom Building. Please ask that your nomination be placed in Harley Hartman’s mailbox.by 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 22

New courses about modern art, the Civil War, architecture, and the Chesapeake Bay are just some of the topics on schedule for the winter/spring session of Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Penn State York, a nonprofit organization offering lifelong learning opportunities for York County residents over age 50.

Enrollment is in progress and most classes are offered at Penn State York, 1031 Edgecomb Avenue, York. The registration deadline is February 22 with classes beginning in March and throughout the spring.

OLLI courses are taught by active and retired volunteers including educators and other experts in their field. There are no grades or tests, and a college degree is not required to enroll in any of the noncredit courses or seminars. OLLI’s courses allow members to discuss and share varied interests like books, history, music, arts, finances, and local interests. These sessions provide an opportunity to meet people, pursue friendships, and discuss their interests.
 
Membership fees are $50 per year and are required to take courses. Course fees are $30 or less per session based on the number of classes required. For registration information and to download a catalog, visit the OLLI website. Please call (717) 771-4015 to receive a catalog in the mail or if you have questions about courses.

OLLI at Penn State York is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization established to enrich the lives of mature adults living in York County by providing a variety of educational and social activities that accentuate the joy of learning and personal fulfillment. OLLI at Penn State York is one of more than 100 lifelong learning institutes across the nation supported by a grant from the Bernard Osher Foundation.

More than 400 people packed the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center at Penn State York to watch 35 teams of middle and high school students compete in the First Tech Challenge (FTC) South Central Pennsylvania Regional Qualifier, a robotics tournament, on Saturday, Jan. 19. The alliance of CHS Cougars (Robot 4102) from Maplewood, N.J.; Landroids (Robot 4220) from Livingston, N.J.; and MASH (Robot 4077) from West Vincent, Pa., won the competition. Each team will move on to the state championship set for March 2 at Millersville University.

Landroids (Robot 4220) from Livingston, N.J. won the Inspire Award given by the FTC to the team that the judges consider truly embodies the challenge of the FTC program. The team that receives this award is chosen by the judges as having best represented a role model FTC team and serve as an inspiration to other teams, acting with gracious professionalism both on and off the playing field. This team understands how to communicate their experiences and knowledge to other teams, sponsors, and the judges.
Other teams that will also move on to the state championship are: MOE (Robot 365) from Wilmington, De.; Ratzo Robotics (Robot 6208) from York, Pa.; MFS Hawks (Robot 237) from Moorestown, N.J.; Silver Soldiers (Robot 4185) from North Coventry, Pa.; OZONE (Robot 61) from Oxford, Pa.; and Pro (Robot 5485) from Corning, N.Y. For results from competitions in Pennsylvania, visit the FTC website.

View photos from the awards ceremony.

View photos of the competition.

Penn State York's THON Committee is partnering with the American Red Cross for a THON Blood Drive on Monday, Jan. 28 at Penn State York. The blood drive is from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the conference center of the Main Classroom Building and is open to the public.

The American Red Cross will make a donation to THON for each unit donated. Proceeds go to the campus THON committee's effort to raise money for the Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Medical Center. The Four Diamonds Fund helps children with cancer and their families.

“You can help save lives by donating blood and also help us raise money to find a cure for pediatric cancer,” said Kara Smith, a Penn State York THON Committee co-chair.

To schedule an appointment to donate blood, please e-mail Kara Smith at kjs5375@psu.edu, call 800-RED CROSS, or visit the American Red Cross website at redcrossblood.org.

This is just one of many events the Penn State York THON Committee will have leading up to the 41st annual Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (THON), the 46-hour dance marathon, set for Feb. 15 to 17, 2013, at the Bryce Jordan Center on Penn State's University Park campus. The theme for this year's THON is "Inspire Tomorrow's Miracles."

THON, a year-round fundraising event benefits The Four Diamonds Fund, Conquering Childhood Cancer, at the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital in Hershey, Pa. The year culminates in a no sitting, no sleeping, two-day dance marathon. Since 1977 the students of THON have raised more than $89 million and have helped thousands of children and families fight pediatric cancer. Last year the event raised more than $10.7 million and broke its own record. The mission of THON is to conquer pediatric cancer by providing outstanding emotional and financial support to the children, families, researchers, and staff of The Four Diamonds Fund.

During THON weekend, more than 700 dancers and thousands of supporters come together at University Park in the hopes of one day finding a cure for pediatric cancer. Whether standing for 46 hours as a dancer, entertaining the crowd, taking care of the facility, or even sitting in the stands, every person at THON plays a small part in creating an amazing atmosphere of love, compassion, and understanding. This atmosphere inspires the students to fundraise throughout the year and tells the families of The Four Diamonds Fund that they have the care and support they need. This collective effort, involving more than 15,000 students, has become one of Penn State's greatest and most unifying traditions.

There’s still time to donate. The best way to be sure your donation is counted in time is to visit the campus or donate online at www.thon.org. Be sure to use the drop-down box and designate your donation for York and your donation will count toward the campus total.

Anyone interested in supporting the dancers from Penn State York can send checks made payable to:

Penn State York Benefiting THON
c/o York Student Government Association
Penn State York
1031 Edgecomb Ave.
York, PA 17403

Be sure to note York, Org. 170 in the memo line of the check. Checks sent to the local campus as well as online donations will be credited to the local dancers and then added to the final total at University Park.

“Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries,” is set to thrill audiences at Penn State York’s Pullo Family Performing Arts Center (The Pullo Center) Saturday, Jan. 19 at 1 and 4 p.m. Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. Gang take center stage in an all-new family musical presented by Warner Brothers Consumer Products and Life Like Touring. The show features everyone’s favorite characters from one of television’s longest-running animated series.

Ticket prices are $55, $40 and, $25 and can be purchased at The Pullo Center Box Office, charge by phone at 717-505-8900, or purchased online. Penn State York students can purchase one ticket at the box office at the special price of $12.

In this exciting new production, Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. Gang have been called upon to help solve an epic mystery. A trouble-making ghost is haunting a local theatre and Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, Velma, and Scooby-Doo are on their way in the mystery machine to crack the case. With crazy ghosts, perplexing puzzles, and an abundance of Scooby Snacks, it’s Scooby-Doo and friends at their best, travelling across the country, solving mysteries wherever they go.

“Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries features big musical numbers including the evergreen Scooby-Doo theme song, “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?” alongside original groovy tunes including “Round Every Corner” and “We’re Mystery Inc.”

“The timeless antics of Scooby-Doo and his mystery solving Gang have been delighting kids for generations,” said Brad Globe, president of Warner Brothers Consumer Products. “We are thrilled to be bringing the Scooby Gang home to North America in this exciting new musical for the whole family. Scooby fans of all ages will truly enjoy this immersive and entertaining experience.”

The North American tour of “Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries” reunites the Australian tour’s creative team: writer and director Theresa Borg, composer Craig Bryant, and choreographer Katie Ditchburn. This team was also responsible for the recent tour of “Sesame Street Presents Elmo’s World Tour.”

Scooby-Doo has been entertaining families for decades, and today, with 99 tour stops, and sold out performances and thousands of fans attending each show throughout Australia, WBCP and Life Like Touring are thrilled to be bringing “Scooby-Doo Live! Musical Mysteries” to all Scooby fans in North America.

More than 300 middle and high school students will descend on Penn State York for the FTC (FIRST Tech Challenge) South Central PA Regional Qualifier, “Ring It Up,” a robotics competition, to be held on Saturday, Jan. 19 from 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. in the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center at the campus.  Opening ceremonies are at 10 a.m. followed by competitions throughout the day. Prior to the ceremony, teams will have an opportunity to get organized, register their robots, and prepare for competition.  This is the third time the campus has hosted this event. The competition is open to the public to watch and it is free.

Thirty-five teams with up to ten members each from as far away as New York, New Jersey, and Delaware and as near as Sonoma Academy in York and SciTech High School in Harrisburg are registered for the event. The “Ring It Up!” competition features a task-oriented robotics event where teams are asked to perform a variety of maneuvers with their robots and this particular game is a variation of tic-tac-toe.

Those interested are encouraged to view a video of the game to get a better idea of what the contest involves.  Due to the great demand for participation in this event, the registration cap has been expanded twice, from 24 to 30, and now 36 teams.

Marshall F. Coyle, associate professor of engineering at Penn State York, is the volunteer coordinator for the event, and has worked to fill the many positions necessary to make the competition possible. It was his idea to bring the competition to campus three years ago. 

“It is truly amazing to see the creativity these high school student exhibit in the creation of their robots,” said Coyle. “These kids have a bright future in science, engineering and math fields solving world problems,” he said. “I am really excited about the FTC event!” 

Penn State York is one of the several regional sites. The qualifiers from the regionals compete in the State Championship being held Saturday, March 2 at Millersville University. Teams that qualify from the states will then proceed into the National Championship to be held in St Louis. Funding for the 2013 event on campus is thanks to a grant from ArcelorMittal, the world's leading integrated steel and mining company, with a presence in more than 60 countries, and a Pullo Family Grant funded through the Pullo Family Fund. The fund was established by Donna and Robert Pullo to support projects in innovative, technology-based, learner-centered teaching that are collaborations between Penn State York faculty and York area secondary school teachers.

The acronym FIRST means For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology and the organization was founded in1989 by Dean Kamen, an accomplished inventor, who wanted to inspire young people to appreciate science and technology.

According to Thomas Zawislak, FIRST FTC affiliate partner, team members are part of an alliance trying to perform tasks on the field with their robots. The event emphasizes gracious professionalism; winning is nice but the design process and participant attitude are the important goals. Teams help each other and members develop friendships and camaraderie throughout the competition.

Penn State York students, faculty, staff , and business members from the York community work as volunteers during the competition filling a variety of roles from judges to field tech advisors, scorekeepers, software inspectors, and more. In addition, students from Logos Academy in York, who qualified for states in the First Lego League will be working at the competition.

Throughout the competition teams are judged on their sportsmanship, performance of their robots, completion of tasks, ability to follow rules, and a variety of other criteria. Students in grades 7-12 take part in the competition.

Teams registered for the Penn State York FTC including their team name school or organization, and city and state are: ZONE, Oxford Area High School, Oxford, Pa.; Steel Hornets, Emmaus High School, Emmaus, Pa.; Ampere, Upper Dublin High School, Fort Washington, Pa; Hawks, Moorestown Friends School, Moorestown, N.J.; MOE Miracle Workerz, Wilmington, Del.; RoboWorks, Phoenixville Area High School, Phoenixville, Pa; Craftsmen, Boy Scout Troop 793, Ellicott City, Md.;SciBots, SciTech High School, Harrisburg, Pa.; Jag-Wired, Garnet Valley High School, Glen Mills, Pa.; MASH, Friends of 401, West Vincent, Pa; CHS Cougars, Columbia High School, Maplewood, N.J.; Wrench in the Works, Chesco Robotics, Downingtown, Pa.; Silver Soldiers, Lockheed Martin/OJR Education Foundation, North Coventry, Pa.; Landroids, Livingston Robotics Club, Livingston, N.J.; Watt The Hex?, Say Watt Robotics, Edison, N.J.; NanoGurus, NanoGurus Robotics, Morris Plains, N.J.; Autobots, TCHS-Brandywine, Downingtown, Pa.; Smokin' Motors, Conrad Weiser High School, Robesonia, Pa.; RoboFoxes, Sidwell Friends School,Washington, DC; RoboWarriors, Mifflin County School District, Lewistown, Pa.; Minnie MASH, Friends of 401, West Vincent Township, Pa.; Robo Scouts, Boy Scout Troop 793, Ellicott City, Md.; LANLords, Lancaster FTC, Millersville, Pa.; Imagine It, Imagine It, Palmyra, Pa.; Team Daedalus, Sidwell Friends School, Washington, DC; Domini Machinae, Sidwell Friends School, Washington, DC; Pro Corning Inc., Corning, N.Y.; Robodragons, Freire Charter School, Philadelphia, Pa.;Robodragons Freire Charter School,Philadelphia, Pa; Fightin' Irish Academy of Notre Dame, Villanova, Pa; Live Wire,Chesco Robotics, Downingtown, Pa; foobar, Oxford Area High School, Oxford, Pa.; Ratzo Robotics, Sonoma Academy, York, Pa.; Robo Dawgs, Wilson High School, West Lawn, Pa.; and Radioactive Raiders, North Brunswick Township High School, North Brunswick, N.J. 

For more information on FIRST, visit their Web site at http://www.usfirst.org/.

Schedule for the Day

7 a.m.
Volunteers Arrive

8 a.m.
Team Arrive – Registration
Hardware and Software Inspection Begins

8:15 a.m.
Welcome to Teams – Review Logistics for the Day

8:30 a.m.
Judge Interviews Begin

8:45 a.m.
Drivers Meeting On Competition Field
Reset Crew Meeting

9 a.m.
Practice Matches on Practice Field
Software Inspection on Competition Field

10 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies

10:30 a.m.
Qualification Matches Begin

12:30 p.m.
Lunch Break

1 p.m.
Qualification Matches Resume

2 p.m.
Alliance Selection (top four teams)

2:15 p.m.
Start Semi-finals

3:15 p.m.
Start Finals

4 p.m.
Awards and Closing Ceremonies

4:30 p.m.
Event Complete

David W. Chown, chief academic officer and senior vice president for the residential university of Upper Iowa University, has been named the new chancellor at Penn State York, effective Feb. 15. He replaces John J. Romano, Penn State’s former vice president for Commonwealth campuses and former CEO at Penn State York, who came out of retirement to lead the campus until a new chancellor was found.

"Dr. Chown is an accomplished academic leader with broad experience," said Madlyn Hanes, vice president for Commonwealth Campuses.  "He brings particular expertise in strategic planning, organizational leadership, and collaborative and entrepreneurial approaches to program development.  He is a scholar of strategic management.  I believe he will be an asset to Penn State York and its broader community for years to come." 

Chown said he is eager to lead Penn State York.

"I am pleased to be joining a recognized institution of high academic quality.  The faculty, staff, students and community members were genuinely welcoming and open on our visit, which made the decision easy," Chown said. "My wife, Peg, and I are looking forward to becoming active members of the York community, and I am excited to soon be able to continue discussions with various stakeholders regarding potential new programs at Penn State York."

Chown served as UIU's chief academic officer and senior vice president since 2009.  UIU is an international university of nearly 7,000 students at 25 locations including a portfolio of online programs.  Among his principal responsibilities, Chown had oversight of quality assurance, accreditation and continuous improvement initiatives at all of UIU locations.  Chown also oversaw the operations of the library, the office of the registrar, academic support, institutional effectiveness and student services.

Chown served two deanships.  From 2007 to 2009, Chown was dean of the School of Business at Northern State University in Aberdeen, S.D., and was responsible for all aspects of undergraduate business programs in multiple areas including scheduling, curriculum, development, assessment, program review and strategic planning. He also supervised the staff in the Center for Excellence in International Business and Banking & Financial Services. Before working at Northern State University, Chown served at Reinhardt University in Waleska, Ga., as dean of the McCamish School of Business, from 2003 to 2007.  Chown earned his doctorate in business administration at the University of Iowa.

"I am confident that Penn State York will enjoy its long-standing tradition of educational excellence and realize significant progress in the coming years under Dr. Chown’s leadership," Hanes said.

Contact:

Barbara Dennis

The same day that Phillip Phillips claimed his victory in “American Idol’s” season 11 finale, the 21-year-old singer/guitarist released “Home,” a debut single that showcases his rich, raspy vocals and masterful guitar skills— and marked the highest debut on the Billboard Digital songs chart with 278,000 downloads sold. Now, with a Billboard Hot 100 top-ten debut under his belt, the Leesburg, Ga.-bred songwriter is gearing up to record his first album for 19 Entertainment/Interscope Records.

“It’s going to have more of a rock sound to it,” says Phillips, who counts Eric Clapton as one of his key influences. “The most important thing to me is making music that comes from my heart and really connects with people on a gut level.”

Phillips first began making music when he was 14-years-old, thanks largely to his older sister’s boyfriend (and now husband), Benjamin Neil.

“Ben’s an amazing guitarist—he taught me a few chords one day and I just fell in love with it immediately,” says Phillips. Since the two lived in separate towns, Phillips kept on studying guitar on his own (“mostly by playing along to the karaoke machine”) and soon found himself mastering riffs from classic-rock tracks like Deep Purple’s “Smoke on the Water” and Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train.” Several years later, Phillips formed an acoustic band with his sister and brother-in-law and added singing to his repertoire.

“I used to always keep my singing to myself and never let anyone hear me, but then my sister and brother-in-law caught me one night and told me I had to start singing in the band,” he says. “We played at a church that Sunday and the room was packed and I thought I was going to pass out, but I did it.”

After graduating high school, Phillips began studying industrial systems technology at Albany Technical College in Georgia and continued playing music with his brother-in-law.

“We got a name for ourselves, playing in college towns and at festivals, sometimes just playing for free or for food,” says Phillips.

With encouragement from his family and friends, Phillips took a break from working in his family’s pawn shop and auditioned for “American Idol” in the summer of 2011. He soon found himself tearing through powerful, full-throated performances of songs by artists like Creedence Clearwater Revival, Otis Redding, and Wilson Pickett on the Idol stage. As he readies himself to record his debut release, Phillips aims to channel that soulful spirit into acoustic-driven rock with an earthy, authentic sound.

“I’m still so amazed at how this has worked out,” says Phillips, who plans to bring his brother-in-law onto the album as a guitarist. “I knew I’d always have music no matter what happens, but I never imagined that it would get to this level. I’m so excited to just get going and have a great time doing it.”

Food will be available beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Attendees are asked to being a nonperishable food item for the local food pantry. During the half times of each game, Innovations Dance Center will perform.

The Chili, Chips, and Cheer event is sponsored by the Penn State York Blue & White Society and the Student Activity Fee. For more information, please contact Iona Conlon at iona@psu.edu.

You won’t want to miss this opportunity to hear about the steps to take if you are interested in traveling the world as part of your Penn State education. The program is part of the campus’ First Friday Series and is free and open to the public.

The goal of the First Friday Series is to introduce people to a variety of cultures and diversity issues. The series is sponsored by the Penn State York Diversity Committee. Please bring your lunch. Drinks and light snacks will be available.