December 6, 2018 Vol. 63, Issue 4
IBlade@Ferrum.edu
Ferrum College
215 Ferrum Mountain Rd., Ferrum, VA 24088
Former White House Press Secretary Visits Ferrum By AnnGardener Eubank Students, faculty, and members of the Ferrum community gathered in the Blue Ridge Mountain Room on Nov. 14 to listen to and speak with former White House Press Secretary and current professor of public theology at Wesley Seminary in Washington D.C., Mike McCurry. McCurry discussed how theology and politics intertwine with one another, the press and journalism, and his stance on the current state of our government and politics. Following a powerful performance by Ferrum’s own gospel choir, President Dr. Johns welcomed the guests and McCurry, stating how excited he and the community were to have him on campus. Dean of the school of arts and humanities, Dr. David Howell, then took over and formally introduced McCurry. Howell began the town-hall like gathering by asking some questions involving McCurry’s perspective and expertise on the political climate in America. “We’re in a broken time in our political world,” McCurry said. He discussed how he got into politics, his role in the Clinton administration, and how he sees the United
segwaying into a discusStates in a current state golden rule and how it is polarization can occur at sion on the press and the of distress, and how there ultimately tearing the nation Thanksgiving and other media have been chalneeds to be more humania part. He talked about how holiday events, so keeping lenged and criticized by tarianism in Washington polarization and blatant in mind the importance of the President and his party. and beyond. discrimination and prejuunderstanding someone’s “The roots are dysfunc“While we have the dices can be mended first opinion and having a tion,” McCurry said. separation of church and at home and with people, strong sense of where they The discussion turned state, and for good reason, we speak with regularly, are coming from can lead the media and we do have religion “Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but towards the press and how the and faith woven into us not their own facts, and we need more facts.” current political climate as citizens,” McCurry has shifted much of said. -Mike McCurry what the stanMcCurry shared dards of jourhow he sees that nalism is over the values of the course of religion and faith Trump’s presiare so woven into dency. us as citizens, that While Donit’s important that ald Trump has those same values openly criticized are apparent in our the media and nation’s politics, has even declared as well. He shared war on the press, that in his line McCurry shared of work teaching his insight on public theology, how the media he believes that is doing and if politics and govthey’re being fair ernment are supor not. posed to function “Good journalas people coming ism is practiced together for the Photo Courtesy of Wesley Theological Seminary every day in this common good. “The golden rule is a which would ultimately to a better discussion rather country. More opinion has crept into reporting core fundamental function transfer into widespread than an argument. over the past 40 years, and we need to weave back into understanding and less Ferrum professor, Dr. that’s where the criticism our political spectrum, and hate. Kevin Reilly was called if there’s the golden rule in “You should be able to upon as he asked McCurry comes in,” McCurry said. He did, however, share politics, it hasn’t been seen authentically state somea question regarding the that he thought there needs in these past few elections,” one’s opinion before makcurrent political climate. to consistently be more McCurry said. ing a comment,” McCurry “Is the division and factual reporting with less The former White House said. polarization within our Press Secretary also disHe said that many country really as bad as we spin. “We hunger for faccussed how polarization is political debates that can think it is?” Reilly asked. tual information because hindering the practice of the fuel further distance and McCurry responded by
we’re afraid we’re getting conned,” McCurry said. He also stated that he reads both the New York Times and The Washington Post every morning, giving him a fairly balanced synopsis of the news and current events. He also said that it’s dangerous to only speak and discuss with like-minded people and that we should strive to have intellectual and respectful conversations with people of different backgrounds to better shape our political understandings. When it comes to his past work in the Clinton Administration, McCurry’s job was similar to that as a middleman or mediator. “The hardest part of my job was taking the enormous complexity that is our government and translating it for the public,” McCurry said, “The public has the right to understand because the public has the right to know.” The evening discussion wrapped up with McCurry thanking Ferrum and everyone who attended the event. “I’m glad I came to this. For someone who was so prominent in politics, it’s amazing how he came to our small school, and how down to earth and real he seems to be,” said junior spectator, Camryn Holt.
From News Cafe to Panther Grounds By Mary Stoudt
Christmas Pro/Con
Townhall
of new tv screens which display information that would otherwise overwhelms campus e-mail. Additional screens are in the Library and Franklin Hall, with more screens planning to be placed around the campus. New apparel and gift options are also available in the spirit store section of the coffee shop. The new
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Ferrum College, as well as students, have worked on developing this space into the best it could possibly be. “It was a really fun project,” said Burnley. The Panther Grounds has continued to evolve throughout this semester into what it is now. In addition to new seating, the Panther Grounds is also home to the first phase
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Johns. With the textbook purchases now happening online, the bookstore opened up with more space for seating. This is one of the main reasons the bookstore was chosen for a new area for students to “hang out.” The creation of the new bookstore was “truly a team work that came from many sides,” said Sposato. Many departments at
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tiple chairs available for students to sit back, relax, and study. The new booths are also accompanied by charging stations below the seats. The bar will be getting charging stations in the coming weeks. This new coffee shop “emerged out of our town hall meetings during the spring semester when students talked about wanting places to hang out,” said
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Government Association, Lawrence Baranski, and Senior Todd Paris, winner of the naming contest for the coffee shop and spirit store. The Panther Grounds has a whole new interior look compared to the original layout of the coffee shop from the beginning of this semester. There is a bar, a number of booths, custom made tables, and mul-
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The Grand Re-Opening of the coffee shop and spirit store, now called Panther Grounds, was celebrated by the Ferrum College community on Nov. 28. The Panther Grounds ribbon cutting ceremony was performed by President Dr. David Johns, Provost Dr. Aimé Sposato, Vice President for Administration and Finance Chris Burnley, President of the Student
Sports
NaNoWriMo
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The Iron Blade
OPINION
December 6, 2018
Du-rags or Crowns?
It was the wave on campus Nov. 14th as Ferrum College hosted its first ever “Du-rag Day” in the Franklin Hall Atrium. Du-Rag Day is typically an HBCU (Historically Black College and University) event. It originally started at North Carolina’s Historical Black university, A&T State University. It was created as a symbol of black empowerment and unification. “It should come every year, matter of fact, twice a year,” said Freshman Nolen Dey. The student lead event was fulfilling a project for the Program Planning and Leadership class taught by Dr. Charles Christopher Mayer. “I think it was a great
idea. We don’t have the black student union anymore, so where else are the guys going to get a chance to get a free line-up?” said Senior Addison Philpott. The event included free haircuts and a chance to win a raffle of wave products. The wave products consisted of different types of wave gel, a brush used to get the texture, and a du-rags. The students who went to the event also received tips on how to achieve the “perfect” set of waves. “You have to brush and rug up every night. Trust the process. No days off,” said Freshman Shmar Johnson. Nov. 5th was the start of Du-Rag History Week. While Ferrum began a few
By Diamond Hudson days late, the campus felt Normally wearing a the cultural presence of head garment meant to what the day meant for the be worn at night for hair African American commucare maintenance would nity on campus. be frowned upon by the While Ferrum students public as it may carry participated in Du-rag “ghetto” or “urban” conDay, Bonnet Day during notations. Instead, it was a Halloween week on Oct. symbol of black excel25 was not recognized on lence, like a crown. campus. “It usually is seen as “Head wraps, du-rags, negative. People are bonnets, we need it all,” judged because they came said Philpott. out the house with one on. With The Black Student The same goes for women Union (BSU) disbanded, in bonnets. I see noththere are not as many ing wrong with it,” said outlets for the African Philpott. American community on Du-Rag Day successFerrum’s predominantly fully started a conversawhite campus. This event tion, brought awareness highlighted the aesthetic and comradery among and individuality of black the African American men with their multicolCommunity on campus, ored rags and various wave and potentially began an textured patterns. annual tradition.
From the Classrooms to Laptops By Destinee Nelson
Ferrum College students will now be able to get ahead in their college careers while improving their GPA’s by signing up for online courses this late fall and spring semester. Ferrum is now offering students a number of courses through The College Consortium, a network of accredited colleges and universities that share online course offerings. One thing special about the online courses being offered on the campus is that freshman are eligible to sign up. Freshman, Fedicia Bryant, who has taken online courses before in high school, is willing to take on new courses in college online. Bryant was excited to hear about the new changes Ferrum has made to the curriculum.
“I feel like it’s a good thing because not many students make it into class on time, so I feel like it would be easier,” said Bryant. Bryant expresses how hard it was for her in high school trying online courses. Bryant was enrolled in an economics class before and admitted it was hard at first. However, she got used to the routine of a remote class. Bryant admits that you have to have strong time management skills and be able to remain focused in order to succeed in an online course. “I feel like it would benefit me by managing my time and my work because I would just have to deal with myself and the professor teaching me,” said Bryant.
December 6, 2018 Vol. 63, Issue 4
Editor: AnnGardner Eubank Layout Editor: Mary Stoudt Sports Editor: Qazir Harnett
Staff: Ametria Booker Charlotte Hazard Diamond Hudson Marie Mance
Bryant is considering registering for a course in math or criminal justice to get ahead in her career at Ferrum. Bryant plans to become a lawyer and attend grad school in the future. She’s not the only freshman that is interested in registering for courses online. Freshman Myles Whetstone agrees that taking an online course at Ferrum would be beneficial to him as well. “It will be easier in the morning than having to wake up at six to get ready for class when I can just wake up and grab my laptop without any distractions,” said Whetsone. Whetstone has also had experience with taking an online course in high school. Whetstone said that he learned a lot in his Eng-
lish class that way and is able to adjust well to being taught in an untraditional setting. “I’m the type of student that doesn't have to be in the classroom. I can learn inside or outside the classroom,” said Whetstone. Unlike Whetstone, Senior Kevin Ramirez doesn’t think taking an online course won't be beneficial to him. “Honestly, well me personally, I like being in class, so I probably wouldn't have taken an online class even if I had the opportunity,” said Ramirez. In between trying to manage his time during his senior year and being in the Army, Ramirez said that he does have friends Cont. on Page 8
Ferrum College 215 Ferrum Mountain Rd. Ferrum, VA 24088 IBlade@Ferrum.edu Destinee Nelson Caleb Repass Advisor: Dr. Mingxiao Sui
The Ferrum College Iron Blade Newspaper is a student-written, student-managed, and studentproduced newspaper. Opinions do not necessarily express the views of all students or the staff. Letters may be emailed to IBlade@ferrum.edu. Like us on Facebook! Follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
Purcell Bervine giving a shape up on Rashad McCann.
Senior Farewell By Mary Stoudt
This semester the Ferrum College community says goodbye to a group of December graduates. This group of graduates has a wide variety of majors amongst them and they have all worked hard to reach this monumental achievement. Over the past few years this semester’s graduating class has become a part of the Ferrum famil.’ The graduating seniors will definitly leave a whole on campus and they will be greatly missed. Senior Terrance Reece II reflected on his time at Ferrum. “It’s been similar to that of a boxing match. No matter the knockdown. I never backed down to a challenge I’m proud of the fight I fought,” said Reece. Senior Declan Galvin also reflected on his time at Ferrum. “I enjoyed the sense of community that have come with being and seeing everyone so often. You get to know everyone on a personal level...The professors are very understanding and will go above and beyond to help make sure that a student is able to meet their academic potential. When I talk to my friends about their college experience it’s amazing to see the stark difference, and how at their college they are just another student while at Ferrum you’re part of a community,” said Galvin. To all December graduates the Iron Blade wants to and congratulates you on reaching this important milestone in your life. The editors and staff are proud of you for all the hard work and dedication you have put into earning your degree. Congrats December Class of 2018!
December 6, 2018
The Iron Blade
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Where Are You Christmas? Pro Commentary by Mary Stoudt Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way! The holiday season is here which means that Christmas music is playing at full force on the airwaves. Christmas music brings back many happy memories and the sense of family. In America, Christmas music is being played earlier and earlier as the years go on. Whether it be in the car, the mall, office buildings, or local grocery stores, Christmas music has started to play across America. Mix 93.1 located in Harrisonburg, VA started playing Christmas music on November 2, 2018. This is one of a few radio stations playing Christmas music before Thanksgiving. Nielsen (measures TV and radio ratings) recently did a study on Christmas mu-
The Arrival of Christmas in Ameri-
sic. As reported by the Chicago Tribune, “Nearly 500 stations across the country turn all-Christmas during the holidays, according to Nielsen.” Over the years, psychologists have looked into the effects of Christmas music and decorating earlier for Christmas and how it affects people. Psychologist Deborah Serani was hosted on the Today Show and spoke about the benefits of decorating early for Christmas. "It does create that neurological shift that can produce happiness. I think anything that takes us out of our normal habituation, the normal day in, day out ... signals our senses, and then our senses measure if it's pleasing or not,” Serani said. Christmas music and
decorating earlier for Christmas go hand in hand. The earlier the decorations go up, the earlier the music comes on.
Christmas music earlier people’s attitudes are improving. With more people having positive attitudes, assumptions can be made
Many people in America complain that Christmas music is starting to be played too early and that as a country we are ignoring Thanksgiving all together. However, in listening to
that America would be a better place. Some streaming stations such as Pandora and Spotify offer their listeners the option to listen to Christ-
society feel the need to go full-send into a winter wonderland, regardless of the temperature or color of the leaves outside. Beyond just the shopping centers forcing their cheap and tacky Christmas decorations down consumer’s throats before the time change even occurs, the radio stations are now chiming in our ears the same repetitive and overplayed Christmas songs before Thanksgiving is even over. If I had a dollar for everytime I heard the same beginning riff of Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas before the month of December, I’d have enough money to buy my mom something better than a Yankee Candle for the holidays. How many
different Christmas songs do we actually hear on the
is Coming to Town, Last Christmas, and Rockin’
Courtesy of shutterstock
mas music all year round. These stations also offer different genres of Christmas music like Christmas R&B and Christmas Country. Currently according to Nielsen, millennials tune in the most for holiday music. Having the ability to listen to Christmas music whenever can allow someone to escape from their reality, and return back to the happy memories and that sense of family. With millennials currently in college or the workforce, escaping from reality and the problems of everyday life sounds like paradise. This makes perfect sense for why Christmas music is starting earlier because the demand is high. With Christmas music playing earlier and becoming more easily accessible, one can only hope that
the moods of the people around them will continue to improve. The positive effects of Christmas music are endless. Christmas music is proven to produce happiness. The earlier the music comes on the sooner people will have a sense of nostalgia and happiness. Also, the earlier the music comes on the longer it will be on, meaning people are more likely to be happier for longer. Christmas music is not going anywhere anytime soon in America. The popularity of the songs has been steady over the past decades. If anything, the likelihood of Christmas music continuing to grow is strong. Who knows? Maybe it will take over Halloween next?
tually hear coming across the airwaves? There’s hardly any variety on the radio during Christmas time. By the time the week leading up to Christmas rolls around, I am so burnt out by the holiday tunes that I nearly wreck my car into the town Christmas tree out of aggression and frustration. Besides just the extremely early celebrations being showcased on the radio, the pushing of Christmas movies is also following the trend of celebrating early. While ABC networks remain tasteful and begin their “25 Days of Christmas” movie tradition in December, other outlets like Netflix and Hulu have began pushing their red and green stereotypical and white washed holiday films
before the Thanksgiving turkey even has a chance to be carved. I love Christmas, I really do. There’s a sort of magical feeling in the air, and everyone seems to be just a bit happier and more cheerful. However, with the crazy black friday antics beginning hours earlier each year, the radio playing the redundant jingles far too early, along with the pushing of un-original original holiday movies before December, it feels as if the holiday season is becoming far more commercially driven than community and giving driven. Instead of focusing on the gimmicks and bells of the season, we should focus on family, giving back, and remember the true reason for the season.
P R O
Con Commentary by AnnGardner Eubank Call me the Grinch, Scrooge, or even Hans Gruber- but the Christmas season is beginning far too early. Celebrating the jolliest day of the year months in advance is frustrating and is just downright foolish. By spreading the Christmas cheer before December, let alone before Thanksgiving, some of the holiday magic that used to feel so special and unique in December seems to be diminished as it’s spread to an almost three month period. Walmart and other megastores break out the Christmas lights and inflatable Santas on motorcycles before the Turkey even gets his time to shine. It feels as though once Halloween’s spooky season is wrapped up, we as a
C O N
Courtesy of shutterstock
airwaves? Besides All I Want For Christmas, Jingle Bell Rock, Santa Claus
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Review By Mary Stoudt The Ferrum College Theatre Arts Department recently put on a production of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The show was directed by Assistant Professor of Theatre, Rebecca Crocker. The show ran from Nov. 8th-10th. Each night a cast of 13 came together to perform on stage for the audience. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a comedy and one of Shakespeare’s most popular works. Currently, “A Midsummer Night’s
Dream” is performed throughout the world. The play’s main focus is the marriage of Theseus and Hippolyta. Within this story, there is a sub-plot of four lovers: Hermia, Lysander, Helena, and Demetrius. Woven into these two stories is also another story of six actors who are controlled by the fairies that live in the forest. Senior Malcolm McRae was the lead male in the production, playing the roles of Oberon and Theseus. Oberon is the King
of the Fairies and Theseus is the Duke of Athens. By McRae’s side was Senior Lacy Matthews who played the roles of Titania and Hippolyta. Titania is the Queen of the Fairies and Hippolyta is the Queen of the Amazons. The four lovers in this production were played by Freshman Haley Moore as Hermia, Senior Precious Leonard as Lysander, freshmen Laura Aylor as Helena, and freshmen Erica Leed as Demetrius. Continued on Page 8
Around the Christmas Tree, how many different Christmas songs do we ac-
Over the River and Through the Woods Review By Qazir Harnett The Ferrum College Theatre Department put on a heartfelt and comical performance of Over the River and Through the Woods on Nov. 3. The play tells the story of an Italian man named Nicholas who is deciding to move to Washington state in search of a new life. His family is close knit and tries to keep him home with them, but Nicholas would rather find happiness away from home. Actors in Ferrum’s theater department practiced night after night, weeks
leading up to the crucial moments of the play. In the story Nicky decides to move to Seattle, leaving his grandparents back home on the east. At first, Nicky asked if he could fly them out, but his grandparents feel like there is more for them at home than in Seattle with Nicky. Actress Alyssa Herman, Senior, made audiences sympathize with the situation. “I have been wanting to really make the crowd feel how we feel when we read the story for the first time,” said Herman.
As Nicky begins creating his new life, he continues to excel in his career allowing him to earn another promotion. Nicky returns home to inform his grandparents about the news and finds out that his grandfather had passed due to cancer that everybody but Nicky knew about before his departure. This was a powerful moment in the play because it showed that Alyssa had strong moments of displaying the right amount of emotion to make the room silent with Continued on Page 8
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The Iron Blade
NEWS
December 6, 2018
President Host Town Hall Meeting By: AnnGardener Eubank
J
Just a couple of weeks since his inauguration as Ferrum’s twelfth president, Dr. David L. Johns has been busy working with architects, planners, financial advisors, and academic accreditors to continue growing the school. “I think it’s a very exciting time at Ferrum College,” Johns said. Johns held one of his first town hall meetings of the year with Lakeside residents in the Chapman Basement on Tuesday, Nov. 6. He addressed rumors, questions, and concerns asked by a group of about twenty students. Johns was excited to discuss the growth of academic programs, restructuring of buildings, and the overall strengthening of Ferrum pride and student involvement. Johns said that the school had submitted a 305 page application to the accreditors so Ferrum could begin offering masters and specialized degree programs. The decision of whether or not Ferrum will receive the higher status should be announced this December, with new curriculums for advanced degrees hope-
fully being in place next year. With the academic expansion, one student asked Johns if the school would undergo a name change and become a university. “Well, the T-shirts would say ‘F U’ on them, so we’re definitely not going to be Ferrum University. In short, I don’t know if or when we will change the name,” Johns said. Johns added that there are many schools, like Boston College, which offer masters and even doctorate degrees but keep college name as opposed to a university title. He concluded that the name could change over time, however, it’s not a priority. The president also discussed the success of May Term this past year, and how that is something he thinks will not only continue to be successful, but will also aide in the problem of getting stuck in the “course rotation loop,” as in, students having to stay extra semesters due to scheduling conflicts in order to meet graduation requirements. “May term and winter terms just make sense. Students have bad semesters, and some just might
want to get ahead, and the response we’ve gotten from the extra terms have been great,” Johns said. Johns also mentioned that the school was working on having some lower level courses, many of which required within the general education curriculum, being offered online in order to avoid scheduling conflicts and for students to get ahead. “We need to be investing in programs students are demanding,” Johns said. These courses offered online would also include several language options, since Spanish is currently the only language consistently offered at Ferrum. Another topic of interest at the meeting was athletic spending and expansions. Student Government President, Lawrence Baranski, asked Johns to address the rumors of a potential track team becoming an addition to the Panther’s athletic arsenal. “That’s a plan for the long term, but not right now,” Johns said. John’s shared that he had recently discussed plans for a track with an architect and that the construction would cost the school around four million dollars. He said
that that’s money the school just does not have at the moment to build a track with, but in years to come, it will be in the works. Johns also shared that he wants to build upon the presence of club sports that take advantage of Ferrum’s geographic location. He said that he has ideas for cycling, mountain biking, and archery club teams. Jade Jones, a senior, asked Johns if he had any plans for increasing school involvement and spirit. Student Government Association President, Baranski, took President David Johns and SGA President Lawrence Baranski over, saying that this Photo Courtesy of Dr. David Johns Instagram year SGA was aimeverybody needs to buy Dr. Johns is continuing to make events more into the process, and also ously enthusiastic and inclusive and appealing to go all-in themselves. curious when it comes to everyone instead of just a Johns also discussed hearing student’s ideas, smaller group of students. the revamping of other concerns, and suggestions. He also discussed SGA’s dormitory halls in the fuHe said that there are now new approach to increase ture, and having the older two new suggestion boxes student involvement. dorms get the “Riddick on campus, one being in “We’re pushing less treatment,” is a high prior- the library and another in events, but we are making ity on the school’s to-do Franklin at the Career and all of our events bigger list. He also talked about Leadership center where and planning for them creating more managerial students can anonymously farther in advance. We’re positions within workmake suggestions at any trying to go all out for our study occupations in order time. There is also an events,” said Baranski. for students to have some- e-mail address students Baranski also added thing with credibility and are encouraged to write that in order for student weight to put on a resume. to to share their ideas, involvement to increase, suggestions@ferrum.edu.
Subway Meltdown Photo by Caleb Repass
Subway closed on a Sunday afternoon during the lunch rush.
By: Marie Mance
The new temporary hours of operation for Ferrum’s Subway have students in a frenzy. “I don’t have a car and can never make it to the dining hall, so Subway was a main source of food for me,” said sophomore Ashley Dalton. Rumors of the hour changes were confirmed through a campus wide email that was sent out on Oct. 30th. The new hours are Monday - Friday 11a.m. - 8p.m., and closed on Saturdays and Sundays.The Previous hours were Monday- Friday 11a.m.-9p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 4pm-9pm. Many students are frustrated and unhappy with the change. “With my busy schedule, the hours they are closed are the only hours that i’m available,” said junior Dar-
ian Marshall. The change in hours is a result of being short staffed, which is a problem retail and dining services have been facing for the past couple of years. This year, Ferrum has been trying to recruit and revitalize the staff for all of the retail operations centers, including, The Pizza Place, Subway, the Panther Grounds, and the dining hall. With the dining hall closing at 7p.m., those who have busy schedules, like athletes, theatre majors, and night classes students tend to rely on the alternative dining options. Sophomore Sheila Marquez, a student who takes night classes finds the change to be frustrating and hard to work with. “I literally have to rush out of class to get something
before work so I’m not starving,” Marquez said. Several incentives have been applied to entice more workers, such as offering $8.25 an hour to those who currently work there, instead of the standard wage of $7.25 an hour. “I used to work there, but they just didn’t seem to want to work with my hours,” said senior Amanda Divers. The hours are only temporary, so once more employees begin working the hours should return to as they were before. Retail operations are always looking for more employees, and applications can be submitted via Panther Portal.
December 6, 2018
The Iron Blade
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Veterans Day Memorial Service By Charlotte Hazard
On Nov. 12th in Vaughn Chapel, Ferrum College held its annual Veterans Day Program. The morning tribute featured different participants, including the Ferrum College Marching Band and the Air Force JROTC from Franklin County High School. After the marching band performed the National Anthem, Ferrum College President, Dr. David Johns, welcomed those in attendance and expressed gratitude towards those who served the United States. “Today we say thank you for the service of men and women for these
American ideals. Today we recognize courage, love, and dedication,” said Johns. A video was presented by Dr. Lynise Anderson’s Freshman Gateway Seminar class which showed students saying thank you to the veterans. English professor, Dr. Melvin Macklin, followed the presentation by introducing the guest speaker, Debra Robin Haas. Haas is a retired Navy Veteran from Roanoke, VA who enlisted in 1973. Her first duty station was the USS Newport News, Heavy Cruiser, Flagship of Commander Second Fleet. She was the only
woman stationed on that ship. She was also later stationed in Guam, Hawaii, and Norfolk, VA. Haas discussed her time in the Navy, the friendships she made, and the teamwork that was shared with all the different branches in the military. “I worked with all these people in the Air Force, Army, and Coast Guard. It was a group of all of us working together and it was amazing,” said Haas. Following Haas’s speech, Dr. Lynise Anderson presented a special recognition for all the retired veterans who work at Ferrum College. The names of the veterans
were read aloud as they were given special pins before taking a group photo. Student Hayley Fox Yates also performed a special tribute for the Veterans with President Dr. David Johns stands with veterans from the Ferrum College community and a perfor- Debra Robin Haas, retiered Navy Veteran from Roanoke, VA. service in peacetime event with a final thank mance of and in war time in this you to the veterans. America the Beautiful. great country,” said Dr. “Thank you very much Provost Dr. Aimé Sposato. for your unwavering Sposato concluded the
“Because they lived it, we teach it.” Margaret Burford and Lois Lindsay Brown were also remembered at the
standers. Burford contributed a great deal to the Holocaust Remembrance garden at Ferrum College and Brown
about Brown’s father who refused to join the Nazis and stood up to them in Southbury, Connecticut in 1937.
Annual Day of Remembrance By Charlotte Hazard
On Nov. 1st, Ferrum College held its Annual Day of Remembrance to honor those who died in the Holocaust. The victims of the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, PA on Oct. 27 were honored as well. Many members of the Ferrum community and the surrounding areas were present. This event was organized by Dr. Susan Mead. The present faculty lit candles to honor those who died in the Holocaust. The names of the victims in the synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh were also read and honored. Attendees stood up and read the Mourner’s Kaddish, which is read in the Jewish faith to honor those who died in the Holocaust. A famous quote by Charlie Crabtree was presented as the candles were being lit:
Holocaust Memorial Garden located next to Panther Grounds in full bloom. Photo Courtesy of Ferrum College
event. They were described by their family and friends as strong community up-
was a volunteer for the Developmental Center of Franklin County. A documentary clip was shown
There is a documentary about the town in Connecticut who stood up to the Nazis and refused to
let them establish camps. The documentary was created in 2012 and is titled “Home of the Brave: When Southbury Said No to the
Nazis.” Brown’s grandson, Cooper Brown, spoke about his grandmother.
“Her goal always seemed to be making others feel welcome. She had absolute joy in her last years teaching her father’s fight and legacy,” Brown said. Burford was also talked about by her friends and family. She was described not just as a community upstander, but a community uplifter. Margaret’s husband Guy Burford of 56 years said, “Margaret was a people person who never met a stranger. Her remarkable smile was always there letting people know that they were important to her,” said Buford. While the Annual Day of Remembrance was somber, there was an element of love and hope. It was inspiring and meant to inspire more community upstanders to fight hate and choose love.
Christmas in the Blue Ridge: Open House By Mary Stoudt
Photo by Ariel Hundley Live Christmas tree in the center of the Blue Ridge Institue and Museum of Ferrum College. The tree is decorated with traditional ornaments.
For the first time ever, the Blue Ridge Institute (BRI) and Museum of Ferrum College is hosting “Christmas in the Blue Ridge: Open House.” At the open house, there will be refreshments, vendors selling Christmas gifts, caroling, and the BRI’s extra-large Christmas tree (come see for yourself!) The museum stuck true to its roots by decorating the interior of the museum with 1800’s themed decorations. The Christmas tree is also period specific with its decorations. Employees and work study students of the museum helped in decorating the tree over a period
of a few days due to its massive size. The tree is real and is decorated with traditional ornaments. Senior Claire Bailey, a work study student at the museum said, “[the Christmas tree] was a lot bigger than what I expected it to be. I couldn’t wait to see how it would look once we got everything on it!” The open house will take place on Thursday, Dec. 13 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This event is free and open to all Ferrum faculty, staff, and students, along with members of the community. The museum also currently has two exhibits inside. The exhibits are the Crooked Road Royalty
Photo courtesy of Ferrum College
An upclose look at the orniments on the Christmas tree in the Blue Ridge Institue.
and Crooked Road Musical Styles and Helping Hands: Shared Work & Craft Skills. Located across from the BRI building is the Blue Ridge Farm Museum. The farm museum is set
in the 1800s and offers tours throughout the year. The Blue Ridge Institute and Museum is located at 20 Museum Drive, Ferrum, VA 24088 (below Clark and Dyer Hall.)
Sports News
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The Iron Blade
Ferrum Women’s Basketball Jumps into First ODAC Season By Ametria Booker The Ferrum Women’s Basketball team has been working hard getting ready for this upcoming season. Head coach, Bryan Harvey, and his team are eager for the season to come in full swing. “Our goals are to work hard every day and to continue to grow as a team,” said Harvey. The team is excited to compete in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC). Last season, the Lady Panthers finished their season with an overall record of 17-10, and even made it to the Semi Finals in the USA South Conference Tournament, finishing with a 14-2 conference record.
Kelsey Mosley in a game. Photo credit Ateyona Morris.
“I think it will be great for our student athletes. It will also help us in re-
Jessy Nichols had 11 points, three assists and three steals. Photo credit Ateyona Morris.
cruiting. We lost a lot of our scoring and rebounding from last year’s team. We will have to figure out what style of play best fits this particular team,” said Harvey. The team is hopeful and eager to begin a strong season. Coach Harvey discussed how he’s expecting the team to begin playing their best soon. “Hopefully come February we will be playing our best basketball and peaking at the right time. For this group to be successful, we will have to do all the little things well,” said Harvey. The Lady Panthers opened their season Friday, November 9 away at Meredith College in Raleigh, North Carolina.
October6, , 2018 December 2018
Swimming Into Season Men’s and Women’s Swim Teams Dive into 2018-19 Season By AnnGardner Eubank Two of the only teams on campus to Despite Ferrum’s tough start in the compete as ODAC members before this pool, senior team captain, Jonathan Kraft, year, the men and women’s swim teams said that the team is working to improve are ready to strengthen their rankings and and become stronger competitors each name against their conference competiday. tors this season. “Our goal for this year is to place Head Coach Margaret Parcell and her higher than we did last year at the ODAC team have already begun competing for Championships this February,” Kraft the winter season, with their first meet said. being held on October 8 in their season The team has been putting in hours opener where they fell to Emory and of work each day between practice and Henry. Despite the loss, junior Taylor weight lifting. Darnell came in first place in the 400m “We’re working hard with a new freestyle for the men, and sophomore revamped weight room program, having Katie Shoaf finishing second in the 200m higher intensity practices, and we have freestyle, along with freshman Elina Balt- a new found focus for the grind,” Kraft ins also taking second place in the 100m said. backstroke for the women. The teams came back and competed at Washington and Lee University for ODAC relays, where the women earned 6th place out of 12 teams, and the men falling short placing 10th out of 10. After a couple of weeks of not competing, the Panthers fell to Bridgewater College in their home opener, with the women putting up a score of 187-37, and the men faring a bit better with Photo courtesy of Ferurm College. Ferrum Men and Women Swim teams gather before a meet. a score of 117-91.
Fellowship, Teamwork, and Tradition: Ferrum Lacrosse Hosts Annual Alumni Game By AnnGardner Eubank It was a cold and windy November night at Adam’s Stadium when the Ferrum Men’s Lacrosse program hosted their annual alumni game. On the night of the 10th, recent graduates to alumni from several years ago returned to Ferrum to compete with the current team and reunite with former teammates. “It was overall just a great day for fellowship,” said 2018 graduate of the program, Andrew Gillespie. After weeks of good-spirited trash-talking between the alumni and the current team, the 2018-19 Ferrum team ultimately beat out their predecessors with a score of 106. This years team had been busy all fall in the weight room, on the field, and in the classrooms getting in shape and preparing for their upcoming season, while working to integrate their new freshmen into the program. “It’s going to be exciting to see how the freshmen blend into the team,” said Gillespie. The alumni game was an opportunity for the program to strengthen their ties to former competitors, along with sharpening the new teams skills and giving them
Alumni and current players gather together after a friendly competition to celebrate the lacrosse program. Photo courtesy of Ferurm Col-
a chance to compete in preparation for the upcoming season. While the team will continue to train and practice in preparation for their ODAC season debut, they’re season will officially begin, they have already began creating their goals for the season and developing a competitive and aggressive mindset to carry them through the spring. “Our goal in this season is to turn heads in the ODAC
Comedy Comes to Ferrum By Caleb Repass Swartz Gymnasium was filled with not Memorial Hospital, and Edna Jamieson only athletics, but also laughter, with the Realtor Wainwright and Co. Realtors. presentation of Comedy Sportz, which “Without these [sponsors] we would not was hosted by Ferrum’s Spiritual Life. be able to have this event,” said the Di“Comedy Sportz is competitive comedy rector of Helping Hands, Sam Campbell. improv played as a The show ran sport,” said David from 6 p.m. to 8 Catman, a referee p.m. and had the for the event. audience laughing The Spiritual the entire time. Life team hosted Two teams with the event to bring three players each awareness and competed in games support for Helping such as “Do Rap” Hands of Franklin and “Replay,” with County. Helping each game leavPhoto credit Caleb Repass. The teams get ready to start as the Ref gives the signal. ing the audience Hands provides assistance to the chuckling. citizens of Franklin County who are in The competition resulted with a victory the greatest need of assistance. The event for the blue team who beat the red team was sponsored by McDonald’s in Rocky by making the audience laugh the most, Mount, which gave out a coupon on the thus making them the winners of the back of the tickets, Carilion Franklin competition.
and show that even though we are a young team, we have a lot of grit and we are going to rely on that grit and toughness this season. We are going to start the new culture of Ferrum Lacrosse,” said senior player Rob Kaminski. The team will compete in their first official game of the 2019 season on Saturday, Feb. 16 at Adam’s Stadium against Methodist University.
Ferrum Games Recap (Nov. 17, 2018 - Dec. 4, 2018) Compiled by Diamond Hudson Men’s Basketball Nov. 17, vs. N.C. Wesleyan L, 68-49 Nov. 18, at Mary Washington L, 76-60 Nov. 20, at Randolph-Macon L, 73-54 Nov. 25, Averett W, 69-67 Nov. 28, East. Mennonite L, 75-68 Dec. 1, at Berry L, 77-74 Men’s Wrestling Nov. 17, vs. Otterbein W, 18-33 Nov. 17, vs. #20 Lycoming W, 13-26 Dec. 1, vs. Penn State Club W, 52-0 Dec. 1, vs. Wilkes W, 21-15 Dec. 1, at McDaniel W, 24-18
Women’s Basketball Nov. 20, at Averett W, 75-68 Nov. 24, at East Mennonite W, 57-52 Nov. 28, at Randolph L, 61-59 Dec. 1, Va. Wesleyan L, 49-33 Dec. 4, at Emory & Henry L, 28-87 Women’s Wrestling Nov. 10, at King L, 0-45
SPORTS Men’s Basketball Last second Miracle
December Page 6 6, 2018
October Page , 20187
The Iron Blade
By AnnGardener Eubank and Qazir Harnett
Anticipation and competition filled Swartz gymnasium as the men’s basketball team played against Averett University on Nov. 25. The Panthers were able to squeak by the Averett Cougars with a score of 69-67.
Marcus Huff (ball in hand) prepares to make the game winning shot for the Panthers. Photo courtesy Ferrum College.
“I feel the band gives the players a boost of energy when they need it.” Todd Paris comments on the player, “Seeing the players get hype makes us wnat to play and cheer louder.” The game was a tight one. Averett had started off strong, scoring several unanswered points against Ferrum. Ferrum was able to answer back over the first half of the game, but Averett held them close and didn’t let up on their defense. In just the last three seconds of the game, senior Marcus Huff hit a 3-point jumper to secure Ferrum’s first win of the season. Huff also had a game-high 23 points. The Panthers currently stand with a 1-5 record, and will be competing in an ODAC match at Hampden- Sydney of Dec.5.
Marcus Huff has his foot at the line for a free throw. Photo courtesy Ferrum College.
Congratulations to our ODAC Quarterfinalists By Qazir Harnett
The Ferrum Women’s Soccer team finished their season with a 9-6-2 record in their debut season as members of the ODAC. After making Ferrum history by being the first team to compete in a postseason ODAC match, the team is looking forward to another exciting and successful season next fall, as they anticipate strong recruits and a core group of veteran players. “Coach has high standards for recruiting. He wants to create a unique culture with standard setters,” sophomore Casey Raggett said. In reflection of the past season, Raggett also said that they had made great strides as a team which the entire program was proud of. “I’m so proud of our team for making it to the quarterfinals,” Raggett said. “We have made a jump from being in the USA South to being in the ODAC. We handled that jump very
well.” The team’s success stemmed from their teamwork and passing execution. They averaged 2.3 goals per game, with an overall shot percentage of 0.165% “We are a team that passes a lot and keep the ball low,” said sophomore Victoria Wagner. The women will be looking forward to next year’s season, as they will only be graduating two seniors, and having a large senior class with five returners ready to play.
Women’s soccer team prepares for a game on the road . Photo courtesy Ferrum College.
Volleyball Recap
By Marie Mance It has been a long season for the Ferrum College Volleyball team. With 27 matches in 3 months, 11 of those being home in which 4 of 11 were won. 11 away games in which the score reads 6-5. The statistics are as followed, Kills Per Set: 10.23. Hits: .144, Blocks per Set: 1.24, Digs Per Set 16.47. The Finial game was played as a home game against Johnson and Wales University of North Carolina. The match was non-conference, and the lady panthers took home the win of 3-1 on Senior Night. The set scores were 25-14, 17-25, 25-21, 25-22. This WIn was Ferrums Third in a row creating a winning streak of 3. What a way to close the season.
Kaelyn Daniel had nine kills and 10 assists for the Panthers. Photo courtesy Ferrum College.
Ferrum Volleyball - Senior Day 2018. Photo courtesy Ferrum College.
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The Iron Blade
December 6, 2018
Sister4Sister Talent Show
Panther Briefs
By Ametria Booker
On Friday, Nov. 9th, Sister4Sister hosted their first ever talent show in the Panther’s Den. There were several acts including dancing, singing, and rapping. The winners of the talent show were Donny Hunt, Sophomore(Singing); Seldon Poole, Sophomore(rapping); Vershawd Coleman, Junior(rapping); Jason Elliott, Junior(rapping);
and Quimirr Heyward, Junior(rapping). Seldon Poole, Jason Elliott, and Vershawd Coleman have a plethora of songs, individually and as a group; however, this was their first time performing together live. “It was our first on-stage live performance and y’all made me feel comfortable,” said Shawd Coleman, Junior, one of the performers Friday night.
Donica Hunt’s performance was unexpected and moving, especially for his girlfriend. “I can’t believe he did that, it was so cute,” said Freshman, Ashlee Johnson, Hunt’s girlfriend. The event showcased some of Ferrum’s most talented performers and was enjoyed by students and faculty.
From Classrooms to Laptops Cont. from page 2
Seniors Helen Ogbole (left) and Alexis Hatcher (right) performing a dance routine.
Halloween Night Write A Thon By Charlotte Hazard
On Halloween night, the Ferrum College English Club hosted a Halloween party in Britt 204. There were decorations, refreshments, and people showed up wearing costumes. There were about a dozen students that came and two faculty were there. Since November is National Novel Writing
Month, it was the perfect time to have a Write A Thon. A Write A Thon is when writers who want to be authors come together and write the first part of their novels for a certain period of time. Other colleges have also participated in this such as Grassmont College. At midnight, the students
got out their laptops and began writing the first chapters of their novels. Some subjects in the novels that were being written included the supernatural and war. The students wrote for about 30 minutes before they disbanded. Students Shela Muriel and Meaghan Hartman were the principal students
involved in organizing the event. Head of the English Club John Kitterman was very impressed with the work of the students. When asked about how he thought their stories were, he answered, “Shela is working on a book about twins who encounter the spirit of a dead girl who lives in the
pond. I thought it sounded very creepy because I love stories about twins. It’s tentatively titled “The Pond.” Over the next few weeks after the Write-A-Thon, the English club continued to meet and discuss the fiction they were all working on.
From News Cafe to Panther Grounds
Cont. from page 1 ...items range from different sweatshirts, numerous t-shirt options, new roast coffee, as well as different game day options like the new foam panther paw. In addition to the renovations that took place in the coffee shop, more renovations are coming to campus. An additional
higher end vending area with coffee and grab-andgo options will be built on the main entrance to the Library. Garber will also be getting the same custom-made tables as the coffee shop in the downstairs area. Overtime, Ferrum College will continue to
improve other areas around campus based off of necessity, as well as simply to improve the overall student experience at Ferrum. The students, faculty, and staff present at the grand re-opening were all “beaming,” as Sposato said, with pride and joy in this historical moment.
(L-R) Senior Todd Paris, Junior Lawrence Baranski, President Dr. David Johns, Vice President for Administration and Finance Chris Burnley, and Provost Amié Sposato cutting the ribbion for the Panther Grounds.
...that have time to take online courses unlike him. “I’ve never liked online classes because I learn better in the class but for some people, it makes it easier for them,” said Ramirez. Ferrum’s newest addition to the school’s curriculum will give students the opportunity to get ahead, avoid course rotational issues, and retake courses on their own time that won’t necessarily disrupt their semester schedules. More information on how to sign up and register for online classes can be found on the Panther Portal.
Over the River and Through the Woods Review Cont. from page 3 ...the right amount of emotion to make the room silent with shock at a fantastic ending. The play served as a reminder as to just how important it is to keep family close because they will do anything for another and that is a special bond that should never be broken, even when death comes. The performance definitely promoted family values and the importance of relationships and balancing out a career with those who mean the most to you.
Exam Schedule
Lower left, Senior Todd Paris enjoys a cup of coffee after winning the naming competition of the coffee shop. Upper left, new booths, custom made tables, and fire place where the former News Cafe used to be. Upper right, new booths and custom made table where the bookstore used to be and where the Panther Grounds and spirit wear are now located.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Review Cont. from page 3 Each love story was complex and manipulated by the fairy Puck played by senior Fox Yates. Puck was not the only fairy in the production as there were four other fairies who were servants to Titania. Junior Kathryn Bonner played Peaseblossom, senior LaShonda Graves played Cobweb, freshmen Alyssa Robles played Moth, and freshman Kareemah Stewart played Mustardseed. Woven within this story is also the story of the six actors. These
actors worked on their own production within the production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The six actors were tasked with putting on a play for Theseus and Hippolyta. The six actors included senior Jasmine Williams as Bottom, junior Kathryn Bonner as Flute, senior Marie Mance as Quince, Senior LaShonda Graves as Snout, freshman Alyssa Robles as Starveling, and freshman Kareemah Stewart as Snug. Ferrum Theatre Arts students put on a wonder-
ful production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” From the actors on stage to the lighting, down to the costume design, everything was there. Both the Cast and Tech Crew put in hours of hard work and dedication to make this show happen. Five stars The cast of Midsummer Night’s Dream performing their final performance. awarded to Ferproduction of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream. rum College Theatre Arts
This years exam schedule can be found by doing a Google search “ferrum college final exam schedule.”
Winter Break Students are expected to be off campus 24 hours after their last exam. Residence halls will be closed starting at 12 p.m. Tuesday, December 11. Graduating students or those not returning for the spring semester please speak with your RA about turning in your room key/card, mail room key, and student I.D.
Check-in and Advising Day
Monday, January 14, 2019
Classes Begin Tuesday, January 15, 2019