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Elderly invasion?
By Lauren Robinson, Opinions Editor
Photo by Karen Rodriguez
It’s Friday night. I am about to go to a concert with my friends. However, what you don’t realize is that the combined age of my friends is 300. As a college student, I look forward to the weekends where I can go dancing at a club with friends and let go of the week’s stresses. However, I do not take any particular interest in doing the Charleston or The Twist. For goodness sake, I’m a college student. That does not tickle my fancy.
If you look around campus, you will notice a surprising amount of attendance from elderly people in the community. Weekends seem to be a time where they migrate to campus and the actual students seem to make an exodus elsewhere. The crowd at any given event held on the weekend consists of people that have salt and peppered hair, and that may have retired or live in the community. However, on the contrary, college students should be at school, doing things with people their own age.
When you think of college, it is usually not associated with mingling with people that are older than your parents or grandparents. I am in no way saying that hosting the community or alumni is a negative thing, it is just quite unusual for a college. Young Harris College hosts the ICL Program, which helps senior citizens become computer savvy.
It’s almost as if there is no confidence in our peers. If you were to visit Georgia Tech or UGA, there is school spirit. People who are proud of their school and tend to show up to events, whether they are on weekends or weekdays. That is what college students do. The fact that we are in college inherently means that we stay on campus to get the “college experience” our parents rave about. It does not make sense that the parking lots are empty by Friday afternoon. Because we attend a small college in the north Georgia mountains, it is more difficult to find something to do because we do not live in a major city. But that is no excuse for the pathetic atmosphere you can cut with a knife on weekends.
My challenge to you is to take some initiative in what happens on campus on weekends. The senior citizens in the community attend campus events more than the actual seniors do. They have already been to college and it’s quite pathetic to have more in common on weekends with people that have already lived the majority of their lives.
This post copyedited on April 18, 2011.
YHC baseball tops Reinhardt, Morrow ends home run slump
By Ethan Burch, Sports Editor
Today the Young Harris College baseball team used a four-run rally in the bottom of the fifth inning to battle back and defeat visiting Reinhardt University by a score of 11-9.
“I’m not sure that I have ever had a team in all my years coaching that is working as hard as this team to finish the season strong,” said YHC Head Coach Rick Robinson.
YHC (23-20) began the game by scoring one run in each of the game’s first two innings to give the Mountain Lions an early 2-0 lead.
Freshman Travis Donahoo (3-1) started on the mound for the Mountain Lions. The freshman had a shaky inning in the top of the third, which resulted in four runs for Reinhardt (15-23-1). The four-run rally by Reinhardt gave the Eagles a 4-2 lead as the game went into the bottom of the third inning.
Donahoo’s problems on the mound continued when he gave up a three-run Reinhardt home run which gave the Eagles a 7-4 lead to start the fourth inning.
Freshman Jack Morrow started the Mountain Lions’ fifth inning rally with a three-run home run that tied the game up at 7-7. This was Morrow’s first home run since his last blast on March 12 in a match-up with Bloomsburg University that resulted in a 16-3 loss for YHC.
Sophomore Zach Bricknell gave YHC an 8-7 lead after plating freshman Mike Medori on a sacrifice fly ball.
YHC extended their lead to 11-7 in the eighth inning when freshman David Atwood reached base on a double in the gap and scored by way of a sacrifice fly from sophomore Josh Rudnik.
Reinhardt scored a pair of runs in the top of the ninth, but it would not be enough as freshman Tyler Isbell sealed an 11-9 Mountain Lions victory.
“Isbell really wasn’t even scheduled to throw tonight,” Robinson said. “He was actually just down in the bullpen getting ready for his weekend start…so he came in to finish that inning and get the save.”
Donahoo, who started the game for the Mountain Lions, pitched four innings, giving up seven runs on five hits with a walk and a strikeout. Donahoo was relieved by freshmen Oliver Pratt, Brice Merritt and Tyler Isbell. Pratt (3-1) earned the win in four innings of relief. Isbell earned his fourth save of the season in relief.
Junior Taylor Smith (1-3) started on the mound for the Eagles. Smith pitched for 4.2 innings, giving up eight runs on nine hits with two walks. Smith was relieved by former Mountain Lion Kendrick McDonald and freshman Jeff Roberts.
The match-up between the Mountain Lions and the Eagles hosted YHC’s tenth annual Steak Night at Zell B. Miller Baseball Field. However, it was an energized Rick Robinson that put a spark in the Mountain Lions when he sprinted back to the team huddle after meeting with Reinhardt Head Coach Bill Popp in the batter’s box before the game.
“The guys really didn’t know that I was going to do that,” Robinson joked. “I think it actually caught some of them off guard. It may have even scared a couple of them.”
Making the last push of semester
By Lauren Robinson, Opinions Editor
Photo by Karen Rodriguez
As final exams grow closer with each passing day, we grow closer to summer break, and for some, graduation. The atmosphere on campus reeks of the aftermath of spring break. Students returned to campus with a look of exhaustion plastered on their faces. Professors are placing pressure on everyone and really kicking this ship into high gear.
Thankfully, the winter weather is packing up and moving along. Hopefully, this will help bring some life back to the campus. Spring is moving in, and the campus outdoor recreation is starting to pick up. The beautiful flowers and trees are blooming.
Students are lying on the lawn, playing Frisbee, catch, studying in hammocks and soaking up some sun. This will definitely aid in repairing the attitudes and outlook around campus as things become a little more stressful.
Now that the school year is coming to a close, keep in mind that this is a place in the semester where students, faculty and staff alike are pressed for time. Nevertheless, it is pertinent that we, as students, remain diligent about finishing the best way we know how.
The last stretch is the notorious area of the race where the athlete becomes tired and will reason with him- or herself to either slow down and quit, or really challenge him- or herself to sprint towards the finish line.
Additionally, this is the place where we, as students, need to really push and try as hard as we can. This is what we have been working toward all school year. Essentially, this is the part of the race that counts the most. I dare you to do better than you have done previously. My mom never fails to mention a quote by a great man, you never started a race unless you finish it.
This post copyedited on April 18, 2011.
YHC baseball falls to Crusaders in game 1; hosts free clinic for youth
By Ethan Burch, Sports Editor
On Saturday, the Young Harris College baseball team fell 14-10 to the visiting North Greenville University as six team errors plagued the Mountain Lions defense.
The Crusaders (23-9) stuck first by scoring a run in the first inning of game one in Saturday’s doubleheader.
The Mountain Lions (17-18) answered with one run in the bottom of the third off of a run driven in by freshman. David Atwood. Atwood later scored by way of a two-run home run from sophomore Josh Rudnik. This was Rudnik’s fourth home run of the season.
North Greenville plated four runs in the top of the third inning to put the Crusaders on top 5-3 after YHC committed three fielding errors.
“It’s simple. It’s what I’ve said all along,” said YHC Baseball Head Coach Rick Robinson. “When you play defense you win, when you don’t play defense you don’t win.”
YHC scored two runs in the bottom of the fourth inning to tie the game up at 5-5.
North Greenville started a late rally in the top of the seventh inning as Adam Taylor plated Brian Giles on a single. The rally resulted in a 9-5 Crusaders lead as the game entered the bottom of the seventh.
The Mountain Lions answered the Crusaders’ rally with one of their own when freshman Jack Morrow plated freshman David Atwood with an RBI single. YHC continued to rally as freshman Evan Carr scored off of a single by freshman Trey Rogers.
Freshman Ryan LaRose put the Mountain Lions within one run of the Crusaders after plating freshman Jack Morrow by way of a single. With one out in the bottom of the seventh and the bases loaded, sophomore Zach Bricknell attempted a sacrifice bunt, but Rogers was thrown out at the plate.
Freshman Tommy Ferguson then plated Mike Medori and Josh Rudnik to give the Mountain Lions a 10-9 lead at the end of the seventh inning.
The Crusaders battled back in the top of the eighth inning as freshman Adam Moore allowed North Greenville to score five runs. The rally by North Greenville gave the Crusaders a 14-10 lead heading into the bottom of the eighth.
YHC held off North Greenville in the ninth inning with the pitching of freshman Taylor Topping, but the Mountain Lions were unable to recover from the four run deficit resulting in a 14-10 Crusaders victory.
Rudnik (3-3) started on the mound for YHC. Rudnik threw for six innings and allowed four runs on four hits and six strikeouts. Rudnik was relieved by freshmen Oliver Pratt (2-1), Adam Moore, and Taylor Topping.
Drew Provence started on the mound for North Greenville and earned his third win of the season. Provence pitched 6.1 innings and allowed six runs on 12 hits with five strikeouts. Provence was relieved by Caleb Phillips and Nate Richards.
The Saturday doubleheader for the Mountain Lions was preceded by a youth baseball clinic given by YHC players and coaches that was free for all that attended. The clinic started at 11 a.m. and the 35 youth baseball players that attended the clinic were provided a free meal and also invited to attend the doubleheader between the Crusaders and the Mountain Lions.
“We have done that every year,” said Robinson. “People enjoy coming out and watching their kids work with the players. I am all about helping the community and making the community feel part of the college.”
The Saturday also featured YHC baseball’s Junior Day, which attracted a number of high school recruits that have been targeted by the Mountain Lions. The high school juniors were given a tour of the YHC campus and invited to watch the match-up between YHC and North Greenville.
YHC bounces back to defeat North Greenville in game 2
By Ethan Burch, Sports Editor
In game two of a double header against North Greenville University on Saturday, the Young Harris College baseball team jumped out to an early lead and held on to defeat the Crusaders 3-1.
The Mountain Lions put themselves on the scoreboard first with a leadoff home run by sophomore Zach Bricknell to start the first inning. This was Bricknell’s sixth home run of the season.
North Greenville tied the game up at 1-1 in the top of the third inning when Freshman Tyler Isbell walked in a run with the bases loaded.
YHC pulled ahead in the bottom of the fourth inning when an RBI single by sophomore Zeke Gribble plated freshman Trey Rogers to give the Mountain Lions a 2-1 lead. YHC continued to extend their lead after an RBI double by Bowen Klosinski plated Gribble to extend the Mountain Lions’ lead to 3-1.
YHC held on to their lead throughout the game to finish with a 3-1 victory.
Tyler Isbell started on the mound for the Mountain Lions. Isbell pitched for 3.2 innings and allowed one run on three hits and four strikeouts. Isbell was relieved by freshman Brice Merritt (2-4).
“We make no errors the second game and win a 3-1 game,” said YHC Baseball Head Coach Rick Robinson. “When those kinds of things happen, you’re going to win.”
Sean Willingham (1-1) started on the mound for North Greenville. Willingham gave up three runs on three hits and seven strikeouts.
Campus Gate to showcase “Foundation to Fruition”
By Lauren Robinson, Opinions Editor
Imagine holding something that you can feel. Something that takes you back to your grandfather’s workshop: A motor; a propeller; a wrench; a screwdriver; a piece of carved wood that your hands seem to disappear within. These objects allow you to engage your brain and hands when looking at the artwork.
The Campus Gate Art Gallery will exhibit various sculptures from artist, Tom Haney. The sculptures are pieces featured from his collection, Foundation to Fruition. Haney incorporates different tangible objects that give the artwork a kinesthetic feeling, allowing the viewer to touch and interact with the artwork.
Tom Haney has been showcasing his artwork full-time since 2000. As a well-qualified artist, he has experience in the commercial and film businesses respectively. He has worked on numerous movie sets creating props for movies as well as commercials that air on television and in theaters.
The collection features some mechanical pieces as well as some static pieces. A few of his older pieces have a Southern influence that is reflected throughout the pieces. Time and effort is no stranger to Haney; as it can take up to a week to complete one particular piece.
As a child, Haney was very inquisitive and quite fond of disassembling things and then assembling them. He has a knack for creating things that remind his viewer of old traditions and memories. Haney uses old tools to bring a nostalgic presence to the artwork and the viewer and an excellent way of incorporating a fresh twist in everything that his hands create.
If you are looking to experience something new and something old all at once, make time to visit the Campus Gate Art Gallery. It can be a time of exploration, or for some a time to re-familiarize themselves with things that have been a long-lost pastime. Foundation to Fruition will be on display starting March 3rd until April 1st.
Affection out of obligation
Photo by Karen Rodriguez
By Lauren Robinson, Staff Writer
Roses are red; violets are blue; I like you; I hope you like me too!
I’m pretty sure that each one of us has read a love note sometime during our early childhood that was from a secret admirer. Elementary school marks the beginning of when we learned to love out of obligation. Your teacher tells you that Valentine’s Day is next week. You then turn right around and tell your mom that you have to go to the grocery store to buy candy for your class. You’re not exactly sure why you feel like you have to do this, but you go along with it. I mean, after all, it is normal right?
This romantic holiday has a questionable story line. There is no actual account of when and why this holiday came to be. There are legends, versions and accounts but none are concrete. St. Valentine was said to be a Roman martyr for whom this holiday is celebrated. He was rumored to have been executed on February 14th sometime around 260 A.D.
My next question would definitely raise the issue of why this “holiday” has become the 4th highest day in sales throughout the year.Around 189 million roses are sold on Valentine’s Day versus the 1.2 million that are sold any other time of the year. Why now? What makes Valentine’s Day so much more important than any other 364 days of the year? Why do people not take the time to love those they care about all year long?
If you are going to give a gift or show appreciation, make it worth your while. Don’t buy a diamond pendant necklace from the jeweler that is running commercials the week before. Every other guy is going to run to the mall and purchase the same piece.
Ladies, when he gives it to you, he’s going to say that he loves you, but should that mean anything to you?
I mean, everyone else is doing it too. But hey, if you like it, I love it. I just believe that demonstrating practical gestures towards those you love continuously is more genuine.
For those that choose to pay, here are a few facts on purchasing those oh-so-wonderful gifts on Valentine’s Day.
Red roses are the most expensive. Growers know what time of year it is and definitely inflate the prices. For what you pay, you could purchase seeds and grow a rose bush throughout the year.
I mean, this would at least symbolize a love that grows and not a love that is only present on February 14, as well as give a good return on your money.
Let’s be honest here, the average person spends about $80.00 for the holiday. You might as well invest in something that’s going to live longer than 14 days.
If you choose to spend a lump sum and shake out your piggy bank for Valentine’s Day be my guest, and do it next week.
Remember, corporate America thanks you generously for your contribution. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Williams’ crayons color me pensive
By Lauren Robinson, Staff Writer
Herb Williams's artwork, featured in the Campus Gate Art gallery, uses children's crayons to contrast the innocence of childhood with more serious topics such as civil rights and environmental issues. Photo by Ashton Jones
Sculptures— we’ve all seen them. Some are in bronze, granite and clay. Others are in ice or on occasion wax. Herb Williams creates many sculptures. They just happen to be made out of crayons.
Herb Williams is an artist that is showcasing certain pieces of his collection of sculptures at Young Harris College. His artwork is something that everyone can identify with. Crayons are usually a part of everyone’s past, thus making his artwork quite relational.
The off-the-wall, non-cliché, pieces provide a nostalgic presence within in the gallery. The complexity of the artwork is astounding. Upon entering, there are multiple points of interest in which to begin gazing.
Children playing, a majestic predator arranged on a limb, a variety of fish swimming along the wall and adolescent games jump off of the wall, all reminding us of our past experiences. While all of the pieces were absolutely mind-boggling, I have a few favorites.
Photo by Ashton Jones
“The Wheel of Fortune” is a game-show that has been aired on daytime television for years. However, this wheel of fortune is nothing even remotely encouraging. It is not spun on the hope of winning money, a new car or an all-expense-paid vacation to a tropical island.
Instead, “suicidal” and “delusional” are a few words that are on the wheel. This wheel is not necessarily a wheel of fortune but more on the aspect of revealing what your fortune in life may be.
Fish floating along the walls of the exhibit attract much attention. The varieties of fish call attention to the viewer. A piece called “Oil Slick” is a piece that most everyone can understand due to the major oil crisis that occurred in the summer months of 2010.
The fish had a dark and dismal look and definitely made me think about the severity of the oil spill. I personally can attest to the traumatic effects of the oil spill. I took a Caribbean cruise last June and saw oil spots in the Gulf of Mexico.
The art exhibit was simple because it was easy to relate to. If I could merit a grade, it would be an A. This, to me, is a once-in- a-lifetime experience that I believe everyone should go and see.
This artwork will be on showcase until the 25th of February. Happy Coloring.
Where do I fit in?
Photo by Karen Rodriguez
By Lauren Robinson, Staff Writer
Young Harris College prides itself on being a college as well as an environment in which students and staff members alike are incorporated in the culture and activities that occur on campus. As a freshman, college in general has been a major adjustment in regards to academics and campus life. When I find free time in my schedule, which is usually in the evening, I enjoy watching my favorite series on television. Engaging in something that I am familiar with away from home allows me to feel that much more comfortable with my surroundings.
Sitcoms, dramas, cartoons, reality shows and the newest star search have been quite an influence on today’s pop culture. You may find yourself perusing through the channels and happen upon a show that interests you. Consequently, you set your DVR and/or TiVo to record that particular show if you cannot be present to view it as it is being aired. Television has evolved into more than a pastime where families spend time together during the evening hours watching a show that pleases everyone. It has become something of which people in society find themselves scheduling their daily lives and/or schedules around.
Now let’s change the dynamic, shall we? It’s 10:00 o’clock at night and the game is on. The channel that I am looking for does not appear to be there. Just to be sure, I check the TV Guide Channel for that particular channel. The network that I watch my favorite television show is not offered. Now what do I do? Immediately, I think to check Hulu online. The show could possibly be available for later viewing. However, it is not. Two strikes and I’m almost out of options. I may just have to wait until I can take a break, go home and catch up on the latest drama.
As a student, there are a multitude of things that are un-constant and changing. While most things are in sync some things have yet to reach equilibrium.
Black Entertainment Television, otherwise known as BET, is a division of Viacom Inc. BET was launched January 20, 1980. As stated on the website, “BET provides contemporary entertainment that speaks to young Black adults from an authentic, unapologetic viewpoint of the Black experience. BET connects with its target audience in a way no other media outlet can providing hit music, entertainment and news programming that is reflective of their experiences such as: 106 & PARK, RAP CITY, MEET THE FAITH, COLLEGE HILL, and AMERICAN GANGSTER. In addition, outstanding mega-specials such as the BET AWARDS (the #1 Awards Show on Cable Television), BET HIP-HOP AWARDS and CELEBRATION OF GOSPEL keep viewers regularly tuned in for the latest and greatest in black entertainment. Reaching more than 84 million homes, BET can be seen in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.”
More often than not, there is a stigma placed on BET and the people that watch it. There is an underlying prejudice towards the network in general. An assumption is made and those who do not care for the content usually judge those who like the channel. In my case, BET is a source of information as well as an outlet that allows for self-expression. BET is an advocate for social justice, on the forefront of political news, first to leak new music from new and old artists and fighting the AIDS epidemic. It is a part of my culture and being without it is difficult. I feel as if I’m not aware of my cultural happenings and lagging behind.
I can easily choose to be pessimistic and play the victim in the situation. However, that would not be in my best interest. I’m pretty sure that I am not alone in this predicament. There are probably more people on campus and in the community that have a preference of channels. The best way to solve a minor issue like this is to bring it to the forefront and verbalize my frustration. What channel are you missing?
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