Lycourier staff bids farewell to Jan

By Julia Cuddahy
Lycourier Staff


This semester Lycoming College says farewell to Lycourier’s adviser, Janice L. Ogurcak. Beginning in 2000, Ogurcak has been working for Lycoming’s newspaper.

“When I first started here,” Ogurcak said, “the newspaper was in a tabloid format, originally half the size of a regular newspaper.”

Now, the newspaper has expanded to a broadsheet, typically eight to 10 pages; although on one occasion the Lycourier had 16 pages worth of news. Throughout the years the Lycourier has won a slew of awards under Ogurcak’s supervision such as The Columbia Scholastic Press Association, Outstanding Organization of the Year, Outstanding Web Page, and Organization of the Month. Given the growing transition of newspapers from print to digital format, the Lycourier may switch once again.

“Young people like college students are used to iPods and iPads,” said Ogurcak, “but some people still like to hold a paper, (and we want to give them that opportunity.)”

According to Ogurcak, “what really matters about journalism is that newspapers give a voice to both sides of an argument. As long as reporters are doing that, they are doing their job, regardless of whatever form they choose.”

Ogurcak is an expert on newspapers because she has spent a great deal of her life working with them.  She graduated from Penn State University with a degree in journalism, and was employed by the Williamsport Sun-Gazette as an editor. For the last seven years Ogurcak has served as director of the Peter J. McGovern Little League Museum in South Williamsport.

“Working with the Lycourier staff was a labor of love,” Ogurcak said. “It gave me a way to keep my fingers in the newspaper business.”

“Right now, the most important things in my life are my husband, my children, and my grandchildren,” Ogurcak said. “I would like to have more time for them on evenings and weekends; that is the real reason why I’m retiring.”

“The real reason she’s leaving,” Robert Rinaldo, one of the Lycourier editors commented jokingly, “is that she is tired of buying us Papa John’s pizza at one in the morning.”

Buying pizza is one of the many gestures that Ogurcak used to motivate her students to do their best, especially on nights when articles came in late. Ogurcak fondly recalled many moments in the editor’s office.

 “The best times at the Lycourier were when we got a big enough news story that we needed to change the front page around,” Ogurcak said, reminiscing about her time here. “It felt like we were working on a real newspaper.”

Another major news event was when a Lycoming graduate working in Egypt provided up-to-date information about the beginning of the Egyptian revolution in January 2011.

Ogurcak will be missed, not only for her contributions to the Lycourier, but also as an adviser for Lycoming Roller Hockey and the Iota Mu chapter of Alpha Xi Delta. She has been with the hockey club and sorority since the inception of both.

During the Leadership and Service Awards dinner, she received the “Fraternity and Sorority Adviser of the Year” award.

In the last 12 years, Ogurcak has taught several communications classes, ranging from “Introduction to News Writing” to speech to feature writing. “I’m going to miss all of my students,” she said, noting that she keeps in contact with past Lycourier staff members via e-mail and Facebook.

She hopes the Lycourier will continue to thrive and grow in her absence.

“The Lycourier is one of the most well-rounded organizations on campus,” Ogurcak said. “We give students on-the-job training about writing, interviewing sources in person, time management and leadership skills. That is why I encourage everyone to come out and participate.”

Many past editors went on to find interesting jobs. For instance, one editor is a producer of a television show that concentrates on forensics and another worked for the “Public Broadcast Station “NewsHour” and  “Jeopardy.”

Ogurcak said, “My best advice for all students is to do an internship. On-the-job experience is crucial. Students entering marketing or communications fields should write or take photos for the Lycourier.”

Thanks to Ogurcak’s dedication, on-the-job experience through the Lycourier has been made possible for a dozen years. As a result, Ogurcak’s legacy is a chance for students to achieve all that they can be during their time here at Lycoming College, giving students a promising start to their future.

C. Marshall named Lycourier Editor in Chief for 2012-2013

By Cody Marshall
Opinion Editor/Lycourier


As next year’s editor-in-chief, I can say that I am excited to tackle this position for the Lycourier. Being the opinion editor this year has prepared me for what I will be expected to do in my future with the newspaper.
This year has been fun and extremely knowledgeable. You really don’t know how much work goes into a newspaper until you put pages together yourself.

Aliza Davner has been a great editor-in-for the last two years. She has devoted much of her time to the Lycourier to make sure that every issue is published on time, and correctly done. I am ready to take over her position and maintain standards when putting the issues together.

I am excited to be working with almost a completely new staff next year. I know it will be challenging at first, but I don’t have any doubts about the year to come. The new editing staff will consist of Justin Ossont, Tory Irwin and Julia Cuddahy. We are always looking for new students for editing and writing positions so do not be shy if interested. All majors are welcome to join our ranks.

We are still looking for a business manager to take care of the newspaper advertisements. What a better way to earn quality experience

Our staff adviser, Janice Ogurcak, will leave us this year. I will miss her. She has taught me a lot about the editing process and what it takes to put a good newspaper together. Her knowledge and skills will be missed, but will be put to great use. I will be looking forward to working with our new staff adviser, whoever it turns out to be.

Becoming a member of the Lycourier staff is one of the best decisions that I have made here at Lycoming. It has taught me much about myself and my capabilities. I look forward to using all of my skills next year as editor-in-chief.

I will be able to test my abilities through this process and fine-tune my editing and writing. I hope to gain a lot from this position that can be put to use in my future endeavors when pursuing a degree in the field of law.

I will miss my position as the opinion editor, particularly being able to write about anything that I wanted. The overheard quotes will be memorable, as many students will agree. I will be expanding my writing topics over the next year which is something that I am very eager to start. Being the opinion editor has been fun and a great learning experience, but it is time to move on.

The Lycourier staff has been great this year and I will miss all of them. I can only hope that next year goes just as well as it has in the past. The 2012-2013 school year will be a great year for the Lycourier, especially with our new staff editors who are eager to begin putting issues together.

Here is to the future of the Lycourier!

Dining services celebrate Earth Day

By Victoria Irwin
Lycourier Staff


Lycoming College’s dining hall celebrated Earth Day 2012 with the college’s first local foods dinner.

The event is being held by Lycoming’s food provider, Parkhurst Dining Services, as a sustainability project to help support local agriculture, artisans and food producers. The meal was served for dinner April 19.

This is done through an extension program of Parkhurst called FarmSource™, a buy local program to promote sustainability and support smaller markets.

A press release from the company highlighted the amount of support this program gives to local food businesses.

 “Through FarmSource™, Parkhurst and its parent organization, Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, purchases $23 million in food and beverage from more than 300 of the finest local growers, family-owned farms and producers of food within a 125-mile radius of its dining services locations.”

Lycoming’s Earth Day meal will be prepared by Executive Chef Peter Zerbe. The cafeteria will make use of the finest fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins all obtained from local farms and food providers. During the event, the farms will have displays of the food that they produce and will answer questions about their products and their harvesting methods.

Several farms will be exhibited during the event. The farms and their products include:   Hatfield Meats providing pork loin and sausage from Hatfield, Dries Orchard providing local apples and pears from Sunbury, Georgie Bagels from Williamsport, Schneider – Valley Farms providing local dairy and ice cream from Williamsport, Tallman Farms providing locally grown potatoes from Tower City, Pocono Produce providing local vegetables from Northeastern and Dehart Inc., New Columbia, providing locally produced confectionary and sustainable paper products.

The menu for the dinner includes carved rosemary pork loin, roasted garlic mashed potatoes and fresh cut fries, Portobello stir fry with mushrooms, sub rolls, fresh herb salad, ice cream and apples.

The first Earth Day took place April 22, 1970, and marked the beginning of the modern environmental movement.  About 20 million Americans participated in this first Earth Day to protect against the deterioration of the environment by fighting against several polluting factors, including power plants, raw sewage, oil spills, and pesticides.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to encourage environmentally friendly practices, and on their website ask visitors to make every day Earth Day.

The EPA said, “Why is this important? Because many people don’t see ‘environmentalism’ as an important issue in their lives. When actually having clean air to breathe, water to drink, and a neighborhood safe from toxics is important to ALL of us!”

Sustainability is an important part of preserving the land and preventing travel pollution from spreading to the environment.Not only is Lycoming College doing its part by participating in the FarmSource™ program, but the cafeteria is providing a great experience for students who can learn to carry sustainable dining practices with them after their college careers.

College announces new meal plans; four options available for next year

By Julia Cuddahy
Lycourier Staff


Next semester the dining hall will be different once again. This time the changes are mainly concentrated in the meal plans. Instead of the standard three plans, there will be four.

“Plan A: Carte Blanche” is the usual unlimited meal plan that freshman are required to purchase.
This plan includes “unlimited access during the hours of operation at Wertz Dining Hall plus $100 in flex dollars per semester.”

Carte Blanche offers the most food out of the four plans. Since freshmen do not know how much or when they will eat, this is the ideal plan for them, allowing them to understand their own habits and then decide whether they need three meals a day or only two. If the answer is only two, they should consider one of the other three plans.

“Plan B: The 14 Plan” allows for two meals a day at Wertz Dining Hall and $75 in flex dollars per semester. This plan used to be cheaper than the unlimited plan, but according to the latest e-mail this plan is the same price. The 14 Plan offers significantly less food than the unlimited plan, but the flex dollars are still significantly less than Carte Blanche.

“Plan C: The 12 Plan” is good for a person who rarely eats at Wertz Dining Hall on the weekends. As the plan suggests, the 12 plan allows for 12 meals a week and 100 flex dollars.

Although this plan offers two meals less than the 14 plan, it provides the same amount of flex dollars as the unlimited plan. This plan is also not less expensive than the unlimited plan.

Finally the last plan is “Plan D: The Block Plan.” This plan is entirely new and will be implemented for the first time in fall 2012.

The Block Plan offers “any 150 Meals per semester plus $150 in Flex per semester.” The increase in flex dollars will work to the advantage of many people who spend flex dollars rather quickly. The meals themselves, however, are not as much as they seem.

For a person who eats three meals a day, seven days a week throughout the semester, this is exactly 165 meals short of what the average total meals eaten per semester is, that is the 315 meals this person would expect to eat. Even a person who only eats twice a day, seven days a week still eats 210 meals. Therefore, 150 meals is not an extraordinary amount of meals and does not make up for the increase in flex dollars, especially for a person who consistently eats at Wertz Dining Hall for lunch and dinner. The Block Plan is also the same price as Carte Blanche.

Dan Miller, dean of students, sent out an email with a Meal Plan Calculator. This calculator helps determine which meal plan works best for each student. Especially for students contemplating the 14 Plan, 12 Plan, and The Block Plan, the calculator could really help students see exactly which plan meets their needs. For students that wish to change their meal plan, they must submit a form by May 4.

“Students may also make changes to their meal plans during the first two weeks of each semester by completing a Meal Plan Change Form (available on the Residential Life website),” Miller said.

In addition to the implementation of The Block Plan, the Wertz Dining Hall is also changing its hours. Wertz Dining Hall will  open at 7:30 a.m. instead of 7 a.m. and will  close at 7:30 p.m. instead of 7 p.m.

While this is an improvement for students participating in choir and other extracurricular activities, it puts students taking 7:45 a.m. classes at a disadvantage.

The cafeteria will prepare Breakfast To-Go bags for students who wish to eat before class, and hopefully teachers will be receptive to this change in the cafeteria and allow students to eat during the beginning of class.

Honors Convocation recognizes students, faculty

Photo Provided

The winners of the two faculty awards pose with Lycoming College President Dr. James E. Douthat (left) and Provost Dr. Philip Sprunger (right). Dr. Susan Beery, professor of psychology (second from left), received the Senior Faculty Award. Dr. Kerry Richmond, professor of Criminal Justice (second from right), received the Junior Faculty Award. 

Photo Provided

Juniors (from left) Elisa Becker, Caitlin D’Angelo and Alyssa Webb received Haberberger Scholarships. These scholarships are funded through an endowed scholarship fund established by Art. Haberberger, also pictured, to assist current juniors who intend to write research papers in varying disciplines during their senior year. 

Joseph Andrie named Chieftan

By Victoria Irwin
Lycourier Staff


Lycoming College senior Joe Andrie, a biology major with minors in chemistry and Spanish, received the Chieftain Award during the Honors Convocation ceremony on Sunday.

Students voted for one of five candidates who were nominated for the award.

An email sent to the student body by Dan Miller, dean of Student Affairs, encouraging them to vote said, “The Chieftain Award is presented to the senior student who, in the opinion of the faculty, staff, and student body, has contributed the most to Lycoming College through support of school activities; has exhibited outstanding constructive leadership qualities; has evidenced good moral character; and whose grade point average is equal to or above the median GPA of the preceding graduating class. The senior class nominated the candidates and the entire campus community is now given the opportunity to vote for the candidate of their choice.”

The other nominees included Ethan Sellers, Kari Lenz, Christopher Bernstorf and Angelika Maryniak.
Andrie is highly involved on the Lycoming campus and was voted Homecoming King in the fall.

He is a member of the swim team, has served as a resident adviser, a Spanish and Organic Chemistry tutor, Campus Activities Board vice president, past president of Beta Beta Beta Biology Honors Society and president of Alpha Epsilon Delta Pre-Health Honors Society.

 He is a member of Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honors Society, Phi Sigma Iota Modern Language Honor Society, and Sigma Tau Delta English Language Honor Society.

Andrie is a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory committee and the PAL program. He has earned recognition on the Dean’s List every semester of his college career.

Off campus, Andrie volunteered at Williamsport Regional Medical Center Emergency Department and in the Lewistown Community Hospital Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Department.

In addition, he has helped with the Study Buddies program and has tutored elementary school kids.
Andrie is humbled by the decision to name him Chieftain.

 “I’m really honored and grateful to have received the award and would just like to thank everybody, from professors and coaches and fellow students for giving me the knowledge, support, guidance, and good times that I’ve received from my time here at Lycoming College.”

Following graduation, Andrie is going to attend medical school at  Pennsylvania State University - Hershey. There he hopes to specialize in family medicine. He hopes to pursue his dream of practicing medicine in a rural setting.

Science Column: ‘Coronal Cells’ discovered on Sun

By Suzanne Smith
Lycourier Staff


At the end of 2011, Neil Sheeley, a solar scientist at the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., discovered something new when looking at the daily images of the sun from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory. A pattern of cells with bright centers and dark boundaries could be seen occurring in the sun’s atmosphere, the corona. The cells looked somewhat like the granules, convection cells, that occur on the sun’s surface, but it is surprising to see the phenomenon to occur higher up in the corona.

Sheeley and his team at the Laboratory set out to learning more about the coronal cells. The team used observations from the NASA spacecraft Heliophysics System Observatory. The report of the research is explained more thoroughly in a paper published this month in the Astrophysical Journal.

The coronal cells occur in areas between coronal holes, colder and less dense areas of the corona, seen as dark regions in images of the sun. Understanding how these cells evolve can provide clues as to the changing magnetic fields at the boundaries of coronal holes and how they affect the steady emission of solar material streaming from these holes.

The researchers used time-lapse sequences obtained from the three satellites, STEREO A, STEREO B, and SDO, to track the cells around the sun. When an observatory looked down into one of these areas, it showed the cell pattern that Sheeley first noticed. But when the same region was viewed obliquely, it showed plumes leaning off to one side. Taken together, these two-dimensional images reveal the three-dimensional nature of the cells as columns of solar material extending upward through the sun’s atmosphere, like giant pillars of gas.

To complete the picture of the coronal cells, the team turned to other instruments and spacecraft. The original SDO images were from its Atmospheric Imaging Assembly, which takes conventional images of the sun.

Another instrument on SDO, the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager, provides magnetic maps of the sun. The scientists superimposed conventional images of the cells with HMI magnetic field images to determine the placement of the coronal cells relative to the complex magnetic fields of the sun’s surface.

The discovery of coronal cells has already increased our knowledge of the magnetic structure of the sun’s corona. In the future, studies of the evolution of coronal cells may improve scientists’ understanding of the magnetic changes at coronal-hole boundaries and their effects on the solar wind and Earth’s space weather.

Students go barefoot for good cause

By Victoria Irwin
Lycourier Staff


Many Lycoming students have stepped forward to help children in need. Students did personal shopping and also are donating to a good cause: they have signed up to participate in the college sponsored TOMS shoes decorating day, scheduled Thursday, April 19, on the Quad from 11am-1pm.

Students who wanted to participate in the “TOMS: Style Your Sole” event signed up with their RA before the end of March. For $44, students purchased a pair of cool shoes to decorate for themselves as well as donating a pair to a child in need.

Thursday's event included food and entertainment as well as a fun time decorating TOMS with fellow students.

The TOMS mission to help children started six years ago. The company website offers the background on the goal, stating, “In 2006, American traveler Blake Mycoskie befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by TOMS customers.”

Since 2006, over one million pairs of shoes have been provided to children in need through the One for One program.

The TOMS company chooses to focus on providing shoes for young children because a leading cause of death in developing countries is diseases transmitted through soil, which can be spread by penetrating bare feet. Also, several countries have schools with uniforms that require children to wear shoes, and if they don’t have shoes, they miss out on an education.

TOMS Shoes works to identify children in countries that need shoes and sticks with these communities as children grow to continue providing them with the protection shoes offer. They work personally in these communities and make sure that children receive shoes that fit. Once a pair of shoes is paid for, it usually takes about four to six months to distribute them.

According to statistics on the company’s website, the countries that TOMS distributes to the most are Guatemala, Peru, Argentina, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi and South Africa.

TOMS also sponsors “One Day Without Shoes,” a movement to raise awareness for the children’s shoe cause. The company states that by experiencing the shoeless lifestyle that these children go through, people will raise questions in their own communities, which will then lead to researching the problems these children have, in turn bringing new attention to the cause and catalyzing change.

This year’s day without shoes was held April 10. More than 7,000 people pledged to participate in this event, and posters were displayed around the Lycoming campus to show support and encourage students to participate. Several students braved the Williamsport weather and went shoeless in the rain. Photos from the 2012 event can be found at www.onedaywithoutshoes.com.

In addition to “One Day Without Shoes,” TOMS sponsors many college campus events nation-wide. Lycoming’s “Style Your Sole” is among many that are taking place across the country, as well as festivals, fashion shows, and other gatherings to promote awareness of the TOMS cause as well as raise money to provide shoes to children in need.

In addition to shoes, TOMS has launched an eyewear line that functions on the One-for-One premise. The company offers several styles of shoes and eyewear, and all can be found and purchased online at www.toms.com.

Students test limits at ‘Fear Factor’

 Robert Rinaldo/ Lycourier

Student participants gather around in preparation for their 

first task as part of Lycoming College’s first Fear Factor

competition. Tasks included eating baby food and

 transferring it by their mouths from the table 

to a cup at the other end of the gym. 

                                 Robert Rinaldo/ Lycourier 

Senior Robert Wiechecki and his partner
participate in another Fear Factor event.
One partner sat chained to a chair with
his feet in a bucket of ice water. The other
partner sorted through a mixture of bugs,
spaghetti, worms and cottage cheese with
his mouth in search of a key with which
 to free his partner.

Dance Club ‘Owns the Night’ at spring show

Photo Provided by Kristy Angstadt

At left, senior Daniel Angstadt and freshman Megan Cunningham perform as 

part of the latin dance class at Monday’s Spring Dance Show. The Lycoming 

College Dance Club sponsors student-led dance classes in a variety of styles,

 culminating in a large performance at the end of each semester. The theme of

 this semester’s show was “Own the Night.”

Photo Provided by Kristy Angstadt

 Members of Dance Team, led by sophomore Danielle Foye (center)

 perform during the spring semester dance show, hosted by

 the Lycoming College Dance Club. 

Photo Provided by Kristy Angstadt

Freshman Marissa Bayer performs with the country line class during 

Monday’s Dance Show. The Dance Club hosts two dance shows per year,
one in the fall and one in the spring. The theme of this

semester’s show was “Own the Night.”

Saying good-bye to the ‘Lycourier’

By Aliza Davner
Editor-In-Chief 

Well Lycoming, here we are — the end of the road. I like to think of it as the end of an era, but I’m afraid that might come off as a bit too pretentious.

In all seriousness, though, I consider my time at the Lycourier to be time well spent. Rising from staff writer my freshman year, to College Life Editor sophomore year, to Editor in Chief, this paper has become an integral part of not only my life, but of my grad school applications, as well as of my very being.

I do not believe that the majority of students on campus understand exactly how much work goes into putting together the Lycourier. Over the past few years the editing team has spent countless nights in the Lycourier office, silly with sleep deprivation and high on a combination of caffeine and pizza grease. While I will look back on these moments with what I suppose can only be called “amusement,” at the time they were the furthest thing from amusing. To write, edit, and layout a paper is not an easy task, and often the editors found themselves doing all three in one night, which left us exhausted and bitter, but ultimately proud of our accomplishment.

Last year the Lycourier and I got off to a rocky start in our newfound relationship. An awkward academic schedule made for an almost unbearable printing schedule consisting of two back-to-back issues separated by a two-week-long break. As such, the staff scrambled to find article ideas, leading to the production of issues which were less-than-perfect.

This year, however, we at the Lycourier hit our stride. After receiving comments from students that the paper was reporting old news, which was affecting readership, the staff attempted to remedy this problem by being proactive and seeking out stories, as opposed to waiting for people to contact us. This semester, in particular, we produced several top-notch issues with breaking campus events. For me, Lycourier highlights from this year included the Buildings and Grounds fire and the ARC’s AT&T grant, both of which made for engaging and relevant front-page stories.

I regard the Lycourier as my baby and producing 15 of them per year makes me a very busy mama. Over the past few years I have seen the paper grow from being irrelevant and unimportant to the majority of students, to flying off the shelves. Every time I see someone taking, reading, or carrying one of “my” papers, I can’t help but feel a swell of pride, and also a bit of discomfort knowing that I’m creeping on people I don’t know over a newspaper. Nonetheless, I thank the Lycoming students and faculty for supporting us in our endeavor.

However, don’t think I’m too disillusioned; I’m well aware that the paper is not only being read, but also used as fodder for end-of-year homework bonfires, in which case I am happy to provide a large supply of free burning materials. I try not to take it too personally, telling myself that it is convenience which draws pyromaniacs to the Lycourier, not a personal dislike of our journalistic endeavors.

Not only has the Lycourier provided me with an outlet for writing outside of class, it also has given me an office with a desk and computer all my own (which is only because there would be serious consequences were someone to touch my space), a couch to nap on, and a staff which I consider family.

While we abide strictly by the motto “what happens in the Lycourier office, stays in the Lycourier office,” I urge you to let your imaginations run wild and attempt to understand the hilarity that ensues when you place six people in a claustrophobically tiny office with only four (extremely temperamental) computers and a looming deadline. Take it from me — Monday night can only go downhill from here.

Speaking of Monday nights, Janice Ogurcak, the most amazing, fantastic, wonderful woman in the world (and the Lycourier adviser), has been a big part of mine for the past two years. Jan and I have what I can only suppose normal people would call a “special relationship.” For example, we bicker and banter like an old married couple, filling the office with my exasperated exclamations of “Janice!” and “dammit woman!” Hey, to each their own.

If you ask any of the editors on staff, they’ll probably tell you that Jan and my relationship is based on the consumption of pizza, as opposed to a mutual love of journalism. While it is true that Jan treats us to the occasional pie, it is always under the terms of our pizza rule — no food unless we’re stuck in the office until after midnight because Papa John’s doesn’t deliver after 12:30. As much as I appreciate the late-night brain food, I’m fairly certain that Jan only continues to buy me food in an attempt to fatten me up so she can slaughter me and roast me on a spit. But I digress…

What is almost grossly adorable about the end of my time at the Lycourier is that Jan is leaving with me. For me, Jan’s presence at Lycourier meetings and on layout night made this job tolerable at its lowest points and downright fun at its highest. As much as I wish our time together wasn’t coming to an end, I’m sure her husband is happy that I’m not keeping her out late once a week.

Anyway, I’ll stop rambling about the recent past and look to the future instead. Big changes are in store for the Lycourier next year, which I anxiously await with the same kind of anticipation as a nauseous child on a rollercoaster. As of right now we have a fabulous line-up of editors arranged for next year, with Cody Marshall attempting to fill my shoes as Editor in Chief, Tory Irwin as Opinion Editor, Julia Cuddahy as Entertainment Editor and Justin Ossont as Sports Editor. However, we are still in need of a Business Manager and a College Life Editor, leaving the paper slightly understaffed. Perhaps the scariest part of leaving the paper is knowing that we have not yet secured a new adviser to wield the mighty red pen.

All I can say is that I left the paper in the best possible shape that I could. With this issue, I relinquish my claim to the desk by the door and leave my baby in the hands of next year’s editor.

“Live Long and Prosper.”

Senior staff spotlight: Aliza Davner

By Robert Rinaldo
Lycourier Staff


Aliza Davner, a senior English Literature major with a double minor in philosophy and German, will retire from her current position as editor-in-chief of the Lycourier at the end of the semester.

“It’s hard not to develop an emotional attachment to something that you’ve worked hard on,” Davner said about her time as editor-in-chief. “I am proud of the Lycourier this year and I will miss it greatly.”

Davner first joined the Lycourier as a staff writer during her freshman year. “My roommate at the time and I thought it would be cool, something fun to do. I like to write, and the Lycourier was a way to write outside of class that wasn’t related to my course of study. It was a writing outlet and it had a bit of creativity.”

Davner remembers how different the Lycourier was when she first joined compared to now. “It wasn’t as relaxed as it is now.”

“Ashley Wislock, the editor-in-chief at the time, ran a tight ship. She was tough and made sure that everybody wrote something. We always put out a 12-page paper. My sophomore year, when Eddie Frick was editor-in-chief, it was much more relaxed, almost too relaxed. There were not any solid deadlines, but things still got done and everybody was much more chill. Back then, we did interviews via e-mail.” Davner commented that compared to the previous two editors, she was a happy medium between them.

Davner became a page editor the fall semester of her sophomore year. “I jumped at the chance to be college life editor. I had a lot of fun, and it was a great way to become super involved in school activities.”

Eventually, Davner was named editor-in-chief at the end of the spring semester of her sophomore year.

“Being editor-in-chief certainly helps with grad school applications, but it was mainly a great way to prove that I could write well, that I could work well with others, that I could meet deadlines, and that I could lead a group efficiently. It was definitely a character-building position.”

Davner comments that the position was much harder and much more than she thought it would be. “It is enjoyable, but it comes with a lot of stress. There are actually more responsibilities than you would think. I have to be in contact with everybody on campus for article ideas and so we can maintain constant communication. I have to recruit students to join as writers and editors and I need to make sure that those students do the work. I then have to develop the print schedule and write up the spreadsheet as well as establish deadlines for when articles are due. On top of that, I have to produce four pages myself and then edit all of the pages. It involves a lot of late nights; we’ve actually spent several nights until 3 a.m. putting the paper together.”

Davner says that working with the Williamsport Sun-Gazette has been a pleasant experience. “We used to print on campus, but it was too expensive and the print room was closed down. The people at the Sun-Gazette have been extremely nice to us. They let us know when we have issues with photographs and send us story ideas. It is definitely a partnership because they want to make sure that we put out a great paper.”

Davner enjoys working with the staff writers and editors. “We had a good staff this year. The writers were all enthusiastic and did all of their work, which made my life so much easier. We had less writers in the spring than the fall, which is to be expected, but those we had got in all of their work on time. The editors have also been great. We spent one night writing, editing and laying out an entire paper from scratch. It was a long night, but they stuck through it. We put out 15 issues on a bi-weekly basis, and I am very proud of that.”

Davner especially enjoys working with Lycourier adviser Janice Ogurcak.

“Jan is the most fabulous woman I have ever met. She has such an indispensable knowledge of the journalism field and is such an asset to the Lycourier. She does all of the edits and keeps me on top of things.” Davner describes their relationship as an “old married couple.” “We bicker often, but she buys me pizza. She has been great, and I wonder what will happen in future years without her.”

Davner comments on the major accomplishments the Lycourier achieved this year.

“I think the big one is that more people are physically taking the paper and reading it more than any other year. We had a few really big front page stories such as the hot dog eating contest, the B & G building fire and President James Douthat retiring. The faculty has been much more responsive and supportive of the paper as well. Dr. Christopher Kulp reads every single issue and inspired us to start the science column. Other offices such as dining services and Long Hall have shown great interest in putting stories in the Lycourier. It is just great the paper is being noticed. And I taught Jan some slang.”

Davner enjoys the experience of being in charge of a professional group and mentions the office space as one of her favorite parts of being editor-in-chief.

“I like having an office to call my own. I like having my own desk, computer, chair, even a couch! I have taken a few naps in the office on my couch.”

One thing Davner will not miss is the late nights. “Three in the morning and I do not get along. I am a like a robot then. Do not try to be funny or make any snide comments with me, they do not work.”

She also explains how frustrating working with people sometimes gets. “I find it frustrating when you ask to have something done and people leave you hanging. I do not like sending out angry e-mails, but I feel like sometimes I have to be their mom on top of editor and manager.”

Davner mentions faulty computers and the obscure location of the communications building as other factors she does not enjoy.

“It can be a very stressful job,” Davner summarizes, “but I do enjoy it and like it a lot.”

Davner recalls one particular moment that she treasures during her junior year. “Jan, Steph VanDerWal and I were working on the layout one night. We had two back-to-back issues and it was 12 a.m. I was exhausted and freaking out about something and almost started crying. Steph pulled up a clip of Aladdin without telling me, and all of a sudden we hear ‘Calm yourself Iago!’ I almost fell out of my chair. It became our motto whenever I got stressed out.” Davner recalled Frick and Ogurcak visiting urbandictionary.com as another memorable moment.

Davner explains that the Lycourier helped develop her own sense of leadership. “I like to think of my leadership style as a happy medium between a prison labor camp and a hippie commune. I knew I was assertive and that I could communicate with others, but I also learned a higher degree of professionalism. There is certain decorum to journalism that you have to learn, like ‘you cannot ask that’.”

Davner hopes the paper can return to the 12-page version.

“We ran a small paper the last two years, but there is always so much going on campus. I hope the Lycourier can start to include more on-and-off campus events as well as different pages like a letter to the editor page or a world news page. Having a bigger staff would be very nice.”

Davner concludes with these parting words to next year’s staff, “Peace (comma) yo.”

Students interview Res Life Candidates

Two candidates were on campus this week to interview for the director of Residential Life and Conferences.
Students were invited to attend the sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday, Daniel Miller, dean of student affairs, said.

Students who planned to attend the sessions received the resumes and candidate evaluation forms prior to the interviews.

Selected by the Director of Residential Live and Conferences Search Committee to interview for the position being vacated by Andrew Kilpatrick are David Falletta and Kate Heiser.

Lauren Smith, Panhellenic Council president and member of Alpha Sigma Tau, suggested by e-mail that members of the Greek community take an interest in the selection process.

"This decision is one that will have an effect on us seeing how we will have to work with this person in the future," she wrote. Students appreciate the opportunity to offer input on the selection, she continued.
Students had the opportunity to participate in question and answer sessions.

Kilpatrick accepted a position as assistant dean of freshmen students.

Leadership awards honor clubs, organizations

By Samantha Ferraro
Lycourier Staff


About 200 people attended the Leadership and Service Awards to recognize the nominees and winners of each of the 21 categories of awards. Held in the Lycoming College Recreation Center, the atrium was decorated for the event, decked out in India themed decor.  Programs were printed in matching style as well as the invites that select students received through their campus mailboxes.

According to Larry Mannolini, director of Student Programs at Lycoming College, “This was the most we’ve had so far, and each year we grow, which we're very happy about.”

Photo Provided by Lycoming College

Award winners pose for a group photo after the Annual 

Leadership and ServiceAwards Banquet, held April 6 in

the Recreation Center. The ceremony honors individuals

and organizations which have excelled in the areas of leadership

and community service. Noted honorees include Lambda 

Chi Alpha (Chapter of the Year), English Society (Organization

 of the Year) and the members of Alpha Psi Omega, who

 were honored for their work in creating the Jerry 

Allen Memorial Talent show.

The Leadership and Service Awards began six years ago when the departments of Lycoming College decided to come together to celebrate the successes of their students in a way that brought together those students who put in impressive amounts of time to co-curricular activities.  Prior to the formation of the awards reception, each segment of activities held their own private dinners and awarded their students separately, but eventually, a larger group formed by combining recreational activities, student programs, community service, the Interfraternity (IFC) Council, Panhellenic Council, and Student Senate.  Together, they pulled their finances and collectively held the first Leadership and Services award as a whole.

The goal of the event was to recognize the level of importance in co-curricular events as much as academic programs, Mannolini said.  Both are equally important in character building and succeeding in a college setting and both should be rewarded and acknowledged.

There were 21 award winners in total from a range of categories such as Intramural Female Athlete of the Year Award, Panhellenic Council Spirit Award, and Outstanding Program of the Year.  Students were nominated and judged by a group of anonymous faculty and staff members of the college, and all nominees and winners were invited to attend the event, as well as four members of each club/organization involved, club/organization advisers, student affairs staff and the administrative cabinet.  Though no families were present, there was a surplus of support from friends and faculty in attendance.

The winners of the awards each received a wood mounted certificate, themed in style with the India decor.  According to Mannolini, the theme changes to keep things fun and interesting for the students.  The event was designed to not only recognize exceptional students, but to have fun, as well.

The hosts of the evening were two students selected by application process.  They were seniors Stephanie Robinson and Samantha McConnell, who received guests as they arrived and introduced presenters.

As a part of the Endowed Speaker Series, Carol (Marsland) Schoch, Class of  1973, gave a speech on the importance of leadership and service following the dinner. The speech was funded by Andrea Seuren, Class of 1976, who also was in attendance at the ceremony; a special was special for the college.  She also discussed the importance of being involved in activities alongside the typical academics.

  Overall, the Leadership and Service Awards were successful in bringing awareness to students who excel not only in their studying, but also in co-curricular activities around campus.

Lambda Chi Alpha inducts new brothers

By Justin Ossont
Lycourier Staff


Lambda Chi Alpha initiated three brothers into their fraternity of brotherhood.  Aaron Hufnagel, Terry Laughbaugh and Dominco Giodanio are the newest additions to Lambda Chi Alpha Iota-Beta chapter.  That brings the total to 38 active brothers on the campus.  All three men bring great contributions to the fraternity.
Terry Laubach was elected as the secretary for the fall.  

Five of its members, Myles Biggs, Michael Tonart, Ethan Sellers, Derrick Lupia and Robert Jumper, will graduate this semester.

All the brothers returning in the fall would like to extend how grateful they are to the seniors for their contributions to the fraternity.  Also they would like to wish the graduating seniors good luck with all their future endeavors.

The chapter this year won the Chapter of the Year award at the Leadership banquet.  It is the first time that the fraternity received the award.

Biggs also received the Inter Fraternity Council's Most Greek Sprit Award.

James Book will be taking over as the chapters' president in the fall.

James said, "I am greatly honored to be taking on such an important job as president.  This is a very important job and I am going to work to the best of my ability."

Lambda Chi Alpha raised more than $350 from its charity dance event, Dance for a Cure.

Ashley Newcomb a member of Colleges Against Cancer organization said, "The party was such a great idea. The turnout was really awesome and it was great to see so many people come out and support a great cause."

For the event the brothers charged each person a $1 donation fee to enter the party, although participants could donate more if they wished to do so.

Green Corner: Sustainability Office, Semester wrap-up

By Alyssa Tomaskovic
Lycourier Staff


As the spring semester winds down, many people often take these last few days to look back on everything that has occurred this past year.

From the Maroon 5 concert that left girls even more in love with Adam Levine than they were before to the conflagration that resulted in nothing but an empty lot where the General Services building once stood, everyone has a memory or two that stands out.

One event that probably flies under the radar for most people is the formation of the Sustainability Office, and the impact that the coordinators have had on greening the campus.

What started as an idea tossed around in the Sustainability Committee meetings eventually led to hiring of coordinator Alyssa Tomaskovic, ’13, and co-coordinators Zebidiah Buck, ’12, and Laura Walter, ’13.
The first initiative that was implemented under the team was the “Flip It Off” campus energy conservation campaign.

This campaign is designed to provide a lighthearted reminder to students, faculty, and staff to turn off lights, unplug appliances, and even be conscious of water usage.

Additionally, signs located near elevators are meant to help persuade individuals to “Burn calories, not electricity” in terms of taking the stairs versus an elevator.

Perhaps one of the most visible changes was the introduction of the 6-gallon blue recycling bins that appeared in every residence hall room upon students’ return from Spring Break.

The almost 1,600 receptacles were given by the ALCOA Foundation’s grant to encourage students to enhance their recycling efforts. The excess bins are being placed by the Building and Grounds staff in classrooms and faculty offices.

The grant was discovered as a result of Lycoming’s participation in RecycleMania, which is a recycling competition between colleges and universities across the country. After ten weeks of recycling, Lycoming College weighed in at 14,412 pounds of plastics, cans, paper, glass and cardboard.

The most recent program that was implemented is the Call2Recycle program, a free battery recycling program. Collection boxes are located in Burchfield Lounge, the Library, and the Sustainability Office (Heim 105B), where students can drop off almost any kind of rechargeable battery in addition to old cell phones.
The coordinators are very excited about the progress that was made this year and would like to take this opportunity to thank the administration, staff, faculty, and the students for all of their collective help with making Lycoming College more sustainable.

We look forward to continuing this momentum into next year. As always, feel free to contact the sustainability coordinators at sustainability@lycoming.edu with questions, comments, or ideas. Thanks for a great year!

Public relations wins two awards

The Lycoming College Office of College Relations earned two awards during the 27th annual Educational Advertising Awards, sponsored by the Higher Education Marketing Report. This year, the total public relations campaign for Lycoming’s new admissions pieces was honored with a gold award and the annual President’s Report received a bronze award.

All of pieces were designed by Murray Hanford, publications manager. He has worked at the college since 1991 and has earned more than 60 awards for excellence in publications and new media pieces.

Awards were given to those entrants whose programs and materials display exceptional quality, creativity and message effectiveness. Lycoming won the awards in competition with colleges that have less than 2,000 students. Gold awards were given to only 201 institutions.

The Educational Advertising Awards is the largest educational advertising awards competition in the nation. This year, more than 2,900 entries were received from more than 1,000 colleges, universities and secondary schools from all 50 states and several foreign countries.

Lycourier spotlight: Paige Cole’s senior goodbye

By Paige Cole
College Life Editor/ The Lycourier


Although I’ve only been a part of the Lycourier staff for two years, I can honestly say that it has taught me a lot, just like my four years of college.

In high school, I was involved in journalism for four years, so when coming to college, I wanted to try something new. And that I did. I found myself running and holding a class office, taking a leadership role in Habitat for Humanity, and  pledging a sorority. Growing up with three brothers, that last one was an interesting experience. But regardless, each activity I participated in definitely made my college experience a great one.

Out of the many clubs and organizations I belonged to, my favorite by far (excluding the Lycourier *wink) was Habitat for Humanity. I got the opportunity to spend my spring break with some of the nicest people on this campus, and help people in need. This year we went to Rockford, Ill., one of my many hometowns.

When I was younger, I attended elementary school in Rockford. Ironically, the house we were refurbishing was zoned in the school district where I attended.

The woman moving into the house had four children. Knowing that the children would soon be exposed to same educational foundation that I had made me feel like my work had impact. It’s feelings like this that made the Habitat experience more meaningful.

I will miss the trips next year, and wish next year’s leaders and members the best of luck.  And remember, Casey is always the mafia!

Of course, I saved a portion of my goodbye for the Lycourier. I came to the Lycourier two years ago, as part as a requirement for colloquium. And although, the long nights and endless articles were rough, I can say it was a good experience. For those, who want to do something in the journalism field or even go onto grad school, I would recommend writing for the Lycourier. People look for strong writers and the Lycourier can definitely help with that.

By the time the paper is printed, I will have one day of classes left. I wish I could say that this is my last day of classes ever, but I am going on to Law school at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis. And though I look forward to being close to home (I’m from Wisconsin which is 14-hours away from Lycoming), I will always have a soft spot for Lycoming College and Pennsylvania.

In the years to come, Lyco will sit fondly on my heart. The moments when I randomly burst into laughter, it will probably be about some random college moment, and no one will understand.

I leave with advice for the underclassmen. Get involved and find your niche! My activities helped me stay sane throughout college. To be cheesy there is a LeeAnn Rimes song that says “If you have the choice to sit out our dance, I hope you dance.” You can sit in your dorm room all  of college, but you’ll miss out on one heck of a time.

Finals are finally here ...

By Cody Marshall
Opinion Editor/ Lycourier

As finals are just around the corner, students are buzzing around campus with much on their minds. The semester end often comes quicker than students expect and course work builds up with little time to complete it.

This is perhaps the most stressful time of the year for many students at Lycoming College. Everyone has to finish papers and study for exams. How should they go about their course work at this time of the semester?
There are many things students can do to help complete their work on time and be successful when tackling that exam everyone has been worrying about.

We’ve all heard it: “Do not cram for your exams.”

Do students listen to this? I have mistakenly fallen into this trap in the past and have learned that it is not the way to go about preparing for any exam. As my advice to you; avoid cramming at all costs and only turn to it when it is your last choice.

According to acedemictips.org, one of the best ways to be successful is to have a good schedule of times to study for that big test or write your paper. The schedule will help you to become more organized and will serve as a reminder of when assignments are due and when tests are.

Making your final exams and final assignments a priority is extremely beneficial. If students can get their minds set on studying for finals, it then becomes much easier to say “no” to college distractions.

Don’t be lazy. Laziness, in turn, creates work build up which then creates stress when due dates and test dates come. A quote from studyskills.org reads, “When you let laziness and stress get to you, it may take you backward instead of forward.”

Listening to music can be useful when studying. Through multiple studies conducted over the past couple of years, it has been found that listening to music without vocals serves to stimulate the mind when studying or completing other school work. Classical music has been found to be the most beneficial, but other genres, such as dubstep, with just instrumentals has been proven to work too.

Getting ideal amounts of sleep every night will prove beneficial in the long run as well. Pulling “all-nighters” is not the way to prepare for exams. Devote a couple of time-slots a day for studying and homework and make sure to take breaks in between.

The studying facilities here at Lycoming College are excellent for studious activities. A lot of students prefer the upper levels of the library because of their seclusion from the rest of the campus. With all of the nice weather we have been having, take your materials out to the quad and set up camp for a few hours. Remember to study.

It comes down to one basic idea. The time and effort a student puts into school work affects the end result. Waiting until the last minute might work for you, but can you always say that you could not have done any better? I know I cannot.

Students, we are now in the homestretch of yet another year, and for many Lycoming students, their first. Let us end the year right and show our professors what we are all capable of.
Challenge accepted.

Summer movie line-up hyped with excitement

By Robert Rinaldo
Entertainment Editor


This year has seen a number of hit releases in theaters. Currently, “The Hunger Games” is the highest grossing film of the year, but the year is still young.

The summer line-up of new releases looks very promising, with a couple that have high likelihood of dethroning Katniss and Peeta’s fight for survival. Here are a few films to keep an eye out for this summer.

 “Dark Shadows”:  Vampires remain  in vogue, with Johnny Depp playing dress-up again as vampire Barnabas Collins in Tim Burton’s take on a ’60s gothic soap opera of the same name. Featuring other big names such as Helena Bonham Carter and Eva Green, “Dark Shadows” goes in a different direction from the original television series, aiming for a more comedic tone rather than the original melodramatic and eerie tones. Whether this will hurt the film or help it is unknown, but one thing is for certain: Another team up between Depp and Burton is bound to produce another cult hit like “Corpse Bride and “Sweeny Todd.”

“Battleship”: A movie based off the popular children’s board game involving naval fleets seems like a weird idea at first, but throw in aliens and it makes the idea even weirder. “Battleship” follows a line of “humans versus aliens” movies such as “War of the Worlds” and “Battle: Los Angeles” and is directed by Peter Berg, who is known for “The Kingdom,” “The Rundown” and Hancock.” Starring Taylor Kitsch, Rhianna and Liam Neeson, it will be interesting to see if the movie is as big as the trailers are making it out to be. Like “The Avengers,” “Battleship” is either going to be an action-packed thrill or a Computer-Generated Imagery mess.

“Prometheus”: Directed by Ridley Scott, known best for “Alien” and “Blade Runner,” the film is conceived as a prequel to “Alien.” The script was rewritten numerous times to create a separate story that precedes the events of “Alien,” but which is not directly connected to the films in the “Alien” franchise. According to Scott, though the film shares “strands of Alien’s DNA, so to speak,” and takes place in the same universe, “Prometheus” will explore its own mythology and ideas. It will be interesting to see if the film will refer to “Alien” at all.

“The Amazing Spider-Man”: 2012 is turning out to be the summer of the super heroes yet again. Along with “The Avengers” and “The Dark Knight Rises,” comes the reboot of the “Spider-Man” franchise. After the disappointing “Spider-Man 3” and the cancellation of “Spider-Man 4,” director Marc Webb looks to bring the franchise back to its full potential. Starring Andrew Garfield as Peter Parker/Spider-Man and Emma Stone as Gwen Stacey, the film looks to tell the origin of Parker’s powers in a different way from the previous films. According to Webb, events such as Uncle Ben’s death and the spider bite will still occur as in canon but in a different fashion, hoping to give the audience something new and fresh.

“The Dark Knight Rises”: Possibly the second most anticipated film of the year behind “The Avengers,” “The Dark Knight Rises” is the final installment in Christopher Nolan’s reboot of the franchise. The film seeks to continue the high success of the previous film “The Dark Knight,” which is cited by many as the best super-hero film of all time. This means the upcoming film has unbelievably high expectations as to whether or not it can match the same quality as its predecessor. Also, there is much controversy surrounding Anne Hathaway and Tom Hardy’s portrayal of Catwoman and Bane, respectively. One thing is for sure: “The Dark Knight Rises” will be one of, if not the most, talked about film of the year.

“The Avengers”: Easily the most anticipated film of the last few years, “The Avengers” finally debuts in May after being pushed back from its original 2011 release date. The film stars Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hiddleston and Samuel L. Jackson returning to their roles as Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Black Widow, Loki and Nick Fury respectively as well as newcomers Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo as Hawkeye and The Hulk, respectively. Under the direction of Joss Whedon, whose works include “Thor,” “Captain America: The First Avenger” and the first “X-Men” film, “The Avengers” has a lot of hype and expectations to live up, setting up to becoming either the perfect superhero film or the perfect disaster.

This is only a sample of the number of big name films coming out this summer. With other hits such as “Snow White and the Huntsman,” “Rock of Ages” and “The Bourne Legacy” debuting, it is obvious that this summer will be a great one for going to the movies.

‘Charley’s Aunt’ filled with laughter and fun

By John Villarose VI
Lycourier Staff


For those who missed it, the final Lycoming College play of spring 2012 ran from April 11 through Saturday. The play was “Charley’s Aunt,” a comedy written by Brandon Thomas in 1892. The Lycoming College adaptation was directed by Professor Grechen Wingerter and was, as usual, free to any Lycoming students, staff or faculty.

 “Charley’s Aunt” focuses on college friends Jack Chesney (Chase Mack) and Charley Wykeham (Taylor Anspach) who are in love with two young and occasionally naïve girls and desire to ask the girls to marry them.

The girls, Kitty Verdun (Krista Peterson) and Amy Spettigue (Sarah Beddingfield), are equally in love with the boys, though they are unwilling to meet with the boys without a chaperone. That’s where Charley’s Aunt Donna Lucia d’Alvadorez (Diane Robertson) comes in. However, due to a late arrival, they convince the disgruntled but easily swayed friend Fancourt Babberly (Nathan Bahn), who is also in love with a girl he knows only as Delahay (Taylor Granger), to take her place.

The mischievous, yet noble plan, is interrupted by Jack’s father Francis (Tom Robinson), Amy’s easily-angered Uncle Stephen (Jesse Shade), and Jack’s sarcastic valet Brassett (Tobias Anderson).
Though the acting was done well all around, some specific performances stood out.

Two of the stand-out actors were seniors Robinson and Shade, both portraying old bachelors with opposite personalities looking for love.

Robinson remained calm throughout with just a hint of humor with his voice, presenting a very believable maturity in his character. Shade on the other hand was far from it. He portrayed Stephen Spettigue with a hilarious sort of anger and foolishness, making great use of the large available space, presenting booming vocals, and providing much of the already-funny play’s comedy.

Yet, judging by the audience’s reactions alone, the favorite of the night seemed to be freshman Nathan Bahn, who played both Lord Fancourt Babberly and his alter-ego, the imposturous Donna Lucia d’Alvadorez. The play maintained running gags in which Mack and Anspach would unwillingly carry Bahn across the stage and Bahn would in return deceptively steal the affection of each of the boys’ desired partners.

Aside from the actors, a lot of credit goes to the designers of the stage. The set was large and magnificent. The play itself was three acts each running between half an hour to an hour, with ten-minute breaks in between. The set was drastically changed every time from particularly large and fancy bedroom, to the grounds outside the house, to a spacious main room. Such large changes left the design crew with a great challenge, but from the richness and extravagance visuals, it appears as though they succeeded.

Some of you may know that before control was given to Gretchen Wingerter, “Charley’s Aunt” was meant to be directed by the late professor and designer Jerry Allen’s play. After his tragic death earlier this semester, the cast and crew took it upon themselves to dedicate the play to him.

Though I unfortunately was only able to know Jerry Allen for a short period of time before his passing, he was still able to leave a powerful impact. For me, one of his most memorable aspects was his wondrous sense of humor and wit. From this alone, I can say that I believe Jerry Allen would have been proud to see what became of his play.

Though not perfect, this play was one of the most entertaining to be presented at Lycoming College this year. I would find it hard to believe that there was a single person in the audience who didn’t laugh or cheer at some point throughout the performance.

The writing was excellent, the acting easily did the play justice, and the set was astounding. The viewing of this production was certainly worth the dedicated two and a half hours filled with laughter and general fun.

Senior Spotlight: Kristina Maurer

By Justin Ossont
Lycourier Staff


With the semester well on its way to being over, only one item remains for the seniors is the biggest day of their lives, graduation.  But for senior goalkeeper Kristina Maurer, graduation will have to wait until her season is over as a Lycoming College Lady Warrior for the women’s lacrosse team.

 Maurer, No. 3, is from Jim Thorpe and attended Marian Catholic High School but never played lacrosse there.

“My high school never had a lacrosse program so I walked on in college and picked it up quick.”

She said, “I was really close with a couple girls on the team and had practiced with them for fun and when the program got a new coaching staff my friends suggested I should come to the information meetings. I played with borrowed equipment until my new stick came in and I have been playing ever since."

Maurer’s career started in 2011 where she played in 11 games and started in 8 of them.  She played a total of 480 minutes in the net. She posted 90 saves and had a save percentage of .413.  She recorded 15 saves in consecutive games against Alvernia University, Reading and Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove.  In her debut match she posted 12 saves in a victory over Arcadia 12-11.

The biggest influence on her short career was the coaching staff here at Lycoming.

Maurer said, “Coach (Chrissy) Trescavage is a coach and a friend, she knows how to motivate the team and inspire every player.”

Maurer stated that the team has been a huge influence in her life. “I love my team, they are like my school family. They always have my back and have made my time at Lycoming fun and memorable.”

Maurer recollected her most memorable time on campus was with the lacrosse team.

“Our 2012 spring break trip to Myrtle Beach against Rochester University (New York) was definitely one of my team’s finest moments. It was almost 80 degrees outside and we played a back and forth game the whole first 30 minutes. The second half we pulled through to win 9-7 and I have over 12 saves. It was an amazing feeling to know I helped up clinch a huge victory for Lyco.”

Her favorite football team is the Philadelphia Eagles.

Maurer’s advice to freshman: “When you think you have pushed yourself to your absolute limits, you can always go further, work harder, and be faster.  Never give up, trust your team, and be confident.”

Maurer’s major is Business Administration: Sustainable, Business Management and a minor in Biology. She is a member of Alpha Xi Delta.  When she graduates she is “Planning to get a career working for a non-profit organization and go to graduate school to get my MBA.”

Maurer is the daughter of Linda and William Maurer.  Her father is a 1988 graduate of Lycoming.
Maurer’s major is business administration: sustainable, business management and a minor in biology.  When she graduates Maurer is “planning to get a career working for a non-profit organization and go to graduate school to get my MBA.”

She is the daughter of Linda and William Maurer.  Her father William was a 1988 graduate of Lycoming College.

Senior Goodbye: Kelly Prendergast

By Kelly Prendergast
Lycourier Sports Editor


As classes wind down and graduation approaches, I find myself feeling both sad and excited. I am really excited to celebrate my academic success with my classmates, but at the same time I dread saying goodbye to everyone who has become so important to me. For the past four years Lycoming College has been my home, filled with amazing memories and my friends here have been my family; making it even harder to say goodbye.

Four years ago, I moved into Skeath Hall, hoping that I had made the right decision in coming to Lycoming. Well, now that I am about to finish, I know that I made the right choice. By coming to Lycoming I received an excellent education, ample opportunities and develop lifelong friendships and memories.

First, I want to thank my family because without their support I wouldn't be where I am today.

Anma and Pop - you are the best grandparents I could ask for. I can't tell you how special you are to me and how much I truly appreciate everything that you have done for me. Both of you have taught me so much over the years and I will never forget it.

 Michael - I want to thank you for always going the extra mile for me, literally. I wouldn't have had half of my opportunities if it wasn't for you offering to drive me where I needed to go. Your support at every single one of my games meant so much to me. Looking up and seeing you in the stands gave me extra confidence.

Mom - I don't know how to thank you for everything you have done for me. I wouldn't be where I am today if it wasn't for you always pushing me to be better. I know I may not have liked it at the time, but now I see how lucky I am to have a mom like you.

While at Lycoming several people have greatly influenced my development as an individual and I want to thank them for being a part of my life.

 Diane Langley - you have been a professor and a mentor to me but more importantly you have become my friend. Your constant support has helped me strive for goals that I didn't think were attainable before. Thank you.

 Joe Guistina - I just want to thank you for everything you have taught me while working in the Sports Information Office. You help me realize what I wanted to do in the future and also played a major role in my acceptance to West Virginia University.

 Matt Dunn - I am so glad that you chose to come to Lycoming and coach. Thank you for challenging me day in and day out. Your constant high expectations not only made me a better player but also a better person and I am truly thankful.

In addition to those who have supported my development, I have made several friendships that I'm sure will last a lifetime.

 Ashley Sitler - over these past four years we have had so much fun together. I will miss walking down the hall and going adventures with you. You have to promise to come visit me at WVU so we can procrastinate and go to Denny's together like we do now.

 Allison Tripoli - although we have only lived together this year, you have become one of my closest friends. I'm going to miss sitting around, talking and going on daily river walks together. One of my favorite memories with you was fishing in Key West. It's something I will never forget and I'm glad we got to share it. We'll have to plan another trip and go again in the near future.

Juice - I honestly don't even know where to start. I am so lucky to have a best friend and her roommate like you. Thank you for being there for me through all the ups and the downs these past four years. We have had so many great memories that I can even begin to list them. I'm going to miss you so much next year. I love you like a sister and consider you a part of my family, so you better come visit me.

Being a part of the women's soccer team has also influenced my experience at Lycoming. Many of my best memories were all around my involvement in soccer.  My favorite memory was traveling to Europe and playing in other countries. Scotland, England, and Ireland were beautiful, but the best part was experiencing it with my teammates. I am very lucky to have had that amazing opportunity.

Good luck with the upcoming season ladies, I love you all like my family.

I think this goodbye is so hard because Lycoming college has given me so much. I'm going to miss soccer, my friends and even classes.

 I can say though that I am ready to confidently take the next step into my future. I'm very excited to be a part of West Virginia University sport management program and I believe my experiences here at Lycoming will help me with all of my future endeavors.

The drive for artificial turf has begun

By Justin Ossont
Lycourier Staff
The Lycoming College football field has seen been played upon for so long a change is needed. So the football program has begun a fundraising event to help raise the 1.1 million dollars required to begin the rebuilding process.  The reason for the change to turf is that the field has seen a great of damage due to the physical play of the game as well as the weather causes the field to become very muddy on game days.

 Lycoming college football has been known for various accolades for being one of the prestigious football teams of the NCAA Division III section.  The numbers speak for themselves, 55 All-Americans, 12 appearances in the national tournament, 14 MAC titles, and 2 appearances in the NCAA Division III national title game.

 Lycoming College is one of only two schools in the MAC football division that still has grass as the football teams playing surface.  The other school is Delaware Valley College in Doylestown.

 “Many high school student-athletes are playing on artificial turf and astro turf for today’s game and we think that with a turf field we could help our recruitment,” Head Football Coach Mike Clark said.

 Along with the field getting redone the project is aiming to build a statue to honor legendary football coach Frank Girardi.  Girardi has been one of the biggest people to help drive the turf campaign; the other has been long time assistant coach and former player Steve Wiser.  Both men have huge ties to both the program and the community. 

“This is one last time that you can suit up for Lycoming and help out the Warriors by donating to the drive for turf,” Wiser said.

 According to the Monday update on the school’s website, the project has raised $725,000 toward the project. Donations are coming in every day.  The goal is to have the field finished for the 2012-2013 season.

 Few details have been revealed about how the field will look but sketches have been made.  This seasons’ recruitment also centered on the fact the field was going to be redone. The sketches show the field with turf and the end zones inscribed with “Lycoming” and one with “Warriors”. Details about the center field are not available.

 The advantages of having a turf field is that it will help with space for practice, improve the football atmosphere, and it will be available for all-season use.  When it rains during a Lycoming College football game the Warriors will not have to worry about ripping up grass heading for the end zone to score a touchdown.

ARC receives $20,000 grant

By Aliza Davner
Editor in Chief/ Lycourier


Tutors are a resource known by many, but used by few. Students struggling in classes seek the help of student “experts” in a given field, while others choose to go it alone. While the reasons for not seeking out tutoring are varied, the fact remains that the program provides a valuable resource for those students who choose to take advantage.

Recently, the Lycoming College Peer Tutoring Program received a $20,000 grant from AT&T. The contribution is aimed specifically at training peer tutors and expanding the resources available to students through peer tutoring.

“We know that some students may need extra academic assistance on occasion and AT&T wants to support their efforts,” Michael Schweder, a Lycoming alumnus and president of AT&T Pennsylvania, said.
AT&T is a multinational communications company with products and services ranging from Wi-Fi and high speed internet, to mobile communications, to television and media.

Photo Provided by Lycoming College

Lycoming College received a $20,000 contribution from AT&T

 to support the College’s Peer Tutoring Program. Pictured from

 left are: Shanna Wheeler, assistant director of Lycoming’s

 Academic Resource Center; Ethan Sellers ’12; Kabongo 

Bukasa ’14; J. Michael Schweder ’71, president of AT&T 

Pennsylvania; Dan Hartsock, director of the Academic Resource

 Center; State Sen. Eugene Yaw ’70; Victoria Yuskaitis ’14, and

 Alexis Naugle ’15.

Joining Schweder in announcing the grant were: Lycoming President Dr. James Douthat; State Senator Eugene Yaw, a member of the Lycoming Class of 1970; and Jacque Bell, constituent service manager to Congressman Tom Marino, who is a member of the Class of 1985.

Dan Hartsock, director of the ARC, and Shanna Wheeler, assistant director and head of the Writing Center were in attendance. Student tutors Ethan Sellers, senior, and Victoria Yuskaitis, sophomore, and tutees Alexis Naugle, freshman, and Kabongo Bukasa, a sophomore, attended the conference as representatives of the Peer Tutoring Program.

The contribution was announced at a press conference last Thursday morning in the Wertz Conference Room. It comes as part of AT&T’s commitment to advancing education. The company has a similar grant program aimed at high schools throughout the country. In 2010, At&T philanthropic efforts contributed more than $148.2 million dollars toward educational programs.

Douthat expressed thanks and gratitude to AT&T for its support of the college’s peer tutoring program.
“The generous support from AT&T will make a real difference to those who may need guidance in transitioning from high school to the rigors of Lycoming’s academic program,” he said, “It will also serve those students seeking to improve their academic performance in certain courses.”

Recognizing Lycoming’s high graduation rate, Schweder said that “this contribution will keep those students on track for graduation and better prepare them for both personal and professional success.”

The Academic Resource Center provides peer-tutoring services covering over 30 disciplines and currently employing a large amount of students. In addition to individual tutoring sessions, many subject tutors also lead group study sessions.

Lycoming, as a liberal arts institution, requires students to participate in classes outside of their intended course of study. However, sometimes students find themselves in classes which pose a particularly large challenge and in which they require outside help.

“The college’s curriculum is designed to emphasize the intellectual skills developed through both the academic major and the broad study of other disciplines,” Douthat said.

“This grant will expand the services of the College’s Peer Tutoring Program by pairing more of our most academically successful students with other who are in the process of developing those key learning skills.”
The ARC also houses the Writing Center, a program in which student tutors meet with students to review all aspects of the writing process, from outlining to final edits. Students can bring papers to the Writing Center at any point during the writing process.

The WC currently employs 11 student tutors and is open from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. and 7 to 10 p.m Monday through Friday, with evening hours on Sunday and a 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. shift on Thursdays.

New bins aid recycling efforts

By Kimberly Dreese
Lycourier Staff


Lycoming College was the recent recipient of a grant from the Alcoa Foundation, which provided recycling bins to all the residential students.  Lycoming was one of 33 schools of higher education to receive a grant of this kind.  

As part of its partnership with Keep America Beautiful and the College & University Recycling Coalition, the Alcoa Foundation distributes bins to the selected colleges during the Recyclemania competition in the hopes of enhancing student recycling during the academic year.

This year, Lycoming College received 1,600 six-gallon plastic recycling bins which were distributed to student rooms in mid-March, as well as in common areas and faculty offices.

The recycling bins have been a big hit with many students.

Photo Provided by Lycoming College

Members of the sustainability committee (from left, 

Junior Laura Walter, Junior Alyssa Tomaskovic and

Senior Zeb Buck) pose with one of the 1,600 six-gallon 

recycling buckets awarded to the college by the 

Alcoa Foundation. 

Resident Adviser Kayleigh Misner said, “Before, I used to only recycle cans and glass.  But now that I have my awesome new recycling bin in my room, I recycle paper. I actually haven’t had to take my trash out in almost two weeks because I’ve been recycling so much paper.”

RecycleMania is an annual nationwide competition among several colleges and universities promoting the reduction of waste and the enhancement of awareness in the college community.  The competition started Feb. 5 and ended Saturday.  Lycoming has participated in RecycleMania since 2001.

The official results for this year’s competition will be posted on the RecycleMania website on April 13.  In the last week of the competition, Lycoming ranked 47th in bottles and cans, 99th in corrugated cardboard, and 148th in paper recycling.

These values amount to a reduction in Lycoming’s carbon footprint equivalent to 5 metric tons of carbon dioxide, or three fewer cars on the road.  In the 2011 RecycleMania competition, Lycoming recycled more than 11,000 pounds of materials.

Lycoming’s participation in Recyclemania is headed by the Sustainability Committee.  The Sustainability Committee is a fairly recent campus organization, established in Fall 2011 and headed by Junior Alyssa Tomaskovic, the coordinator, and co-coordinators Senior Zeb Buck and Junior Laura Walter.

RecycleMania is just one of the many campus involvement strategies the committee has introduced.  
In addition to the RecycleMania contest, the Sustainability Committee, made up of more than 20 students and staff members, also produced a video promoting environmental awareness featuring student Junior Terrance Lynn as Captain Planet and started a campus-wide “Flip it Off” program to encourage energy and water conservation.  Many students have noticed the signs in the rest rooms printed on recycled paper featuring the popular Internet meme “Y U No Guy” inquiring “Lycoming, Y U No Turn Off Tap?” The group also attended the PREC Conference in 2011 and has planned several activities in celebration of Earth Day, April 22.

Members of the committee also regularly contribute a sustainability-themed piece, “The Green Corner,” to the Lycourier student newspaper in a further effort to educate the campus on environmental issues.

Students honor professor with talent show

“Jerry Allen did not just teach us about theater, he taught us a lot about ourselves,” junior Molly Collier said as the rest of Alpha Psi Omega nodded in agreement.

Allen was such an inspiring character to the Theater Department as well as the rest of Lycoming College that APO dedicated a talent show in his memory.

The show was so successful that the honors society intends to make an annual spring event in his honor. Professor Allen unexpectedly died in January.  

“We used to have an annual talent show and we thought it would be a good idea to do it again,” Chase Mack, a senior and member of APO, said. “We decided to name it after Jerry as an additional legacy.”

Along with Allen’s legacy in the title of all future shows, APO raised money toward buying “a permanent resource” in his name, as stated in the program. They hope to use the money toward a new piano for the theater department, which currently is missing essential pieces such as the music rack.

When Allen died, many roles in the theater department needed to be filled. He ran the costume shop and designed costumes as well as sets. In his spare time, he directed and advised APO.

Photo Provided by Alpha Psi Omega

Sophomore Taylor Anspach finds a good seat to watch 

the performers during the first annual Jerry Allen Memorial

Talent Show. The event was hosted by members of Alpha

Psi Omega and raised over $250 toward a permanent 

contribution to the theater department in Allen’s name.

“He practically did everything,” APO members unanimously concluded.

Every year inductees of APO are asked to do something special to honor their new roles in the group. This year inductees were in charge of the talent show. Before the show was ready for the public, inductees auditioned the acts.

Everyone, including people from the Williamsport community, were, and will continue to be, invited to audition.

“We welcome all types of acts,” said senior Jesse Shade. “As Jerry used to say, always give it a shot.”

Beatrice Gamble, a student information specialist in Long Hall, and her husband, Loni, performed “Then Came You” by Dionne Warwick and the Spinners and “Unforgettable,” originally by Nat King Cole and then later with the help of technology a duet with his daughter, Natalie Cole.

The Gambles sang “Then Came You” in connection with a scene from the movie, “The Breakfast Club.”

“I just used that scene from that movie where everyone was in the kitchen, putting away food, dancing to the oldies,” she said, adding that it was one title that came to mind ... and I imagined him, in his kitchen ... cooking ... bopping around and singing along,” she said. “I’m a very visual person. Using that analogy was my way of getting everyone to see into my mind.”

Gamble said the songs were selected because “they best described Jerry to me.”

Also selected by APO to perform were Michael Ludwig and his rendition of Van Halen’s “Woman in Love” while playing the guitar; Taylor Kendra’s reading of “If I Should Have a Daughter” by Sarah Kay; Lizzy Shaffer singing “Butterfly Fly Away.”

Julia Cuddahy playing “My Heart Will Go On” on the piano; Todd Hartsock and Alyssa Allen singing “The Tango Maureen;” Victoria Parker performing the hilarious “Rindercella,” John Hardy singing Blink 182’s “Wishing Well” while playing guitar.

Bridget Bellmore playing Claude Debussey’s “Suite Bergamasque” on the piano; Chelsea Moore and Molly Collier singing “Hallelujah” with guitar accompaniment; Lindsey Peterson, Anthony Pilla, Tyler Wuerthner and Krista Peterson performing “A Thousand Years;”

Kahla Moon performing a ukulele mix; Chris Bernstorf performing his own poetry; Josh Hines and Chelsea Moore singing with guitar “The Longest Day;” Anna Pysher singing “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree” with guitar; and finally, Wuerthner and Bill Mastandrea’s original song.

Miss Vivian Darling ( the alter-ego of senior Kevin Milliard) hosted the event in her beautiful formalwear. The Omega Chi Cast helped her out, selling refreshments in between the show. Between 30 and 40 people showed up for the event, a wonderful accomplishment for APO, especially for the inductees.

“Normally we put the money toward Broadway Cares,” Mack said. “We hope to support this organization in the future.”

 “Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is one of the nation’s leading industry-based HIV/AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. We fund the social service work of The Actors Fund and award grants to AIDS service organizations nationwide. With your help, what we do together makes a difference,” according to the organization’s website.

APO hopes to hold auditions for the show every spring. Contact Mack, Millard, Allen or any other officer or member for more information.

Gamble said,  “All in all I think (APO) did a great thing for Jerry. I think he was proud and smiling down the whole evening.”

Gamble said she was “very excited to see the banner said ‘The First Annual Memorial Talent Show.’ My heart smiled. Count me in every year.”