INSIDE
September 20, 2019 | Vol. 65, Issue 4
Meet The Staff p. 2 BRI Exhibit p. 4 Club Fair p. 5 Women’s Golf p. 6 Sports Previews p. 7
Dr. Johns: Welcome Back Panthers! By AnnGardner Eubank With the new 2019-2020 academic school year back in full swing; students, faculty, and members of the Ferrum community can notice several major changes on campus, along with more change on the way. From new academic programs to a change in dining services, Ferrum has been growing under the leadership of President Dr. Johns and his team. After several town hall meetings and student surveys, Dr. Johns had an idea of what the students wanted to see different on campus this year. A new outdoor classroom has been built so students have a new space to learn, study, and hang and is located beside the YMCA. A donor gave a gift in honor of her husband to construct the new Leo Scott Pavilion at the Blue Ridge Institute, which Johns said is great for the children who come to visit the campus and museum. The official ribbon cutting ceremony is being planned for later this fall. New furniture, awnings, and other interior enhancements have been added to campus over the summer as well, along with the development of the E-Gaming center in Bassett Hall where Confetti’s used to be. While the school has noticeably been revamped in an exterior sense, the major changes have primarily been more internal. Johns discussed building new and stronger connections with other institutions to help build more seamless transitions for both high schoolers coming to Ferrum, along with connections at institutions like University of Pikeville in Kentucky for graduating Ferrum students to explore opportunities in higher level medical education and training while they pursue a higher degree. Johns said that the connections made with other institutions will aid in more seamless transfer of credits with further articulation agreements. Other major changes for the new year include the addition of three new majors of study, including ecotourism, elementary education, and music. Each of these areas of study show promise to better and enrich the college campus. “Dr. Mayor and Dr. Caston have worked hard to bring the Ecotourism program up to speed and make it what it is at Ferrum,” Johns said. Ecotourism, which focuses on balancing tourism with conservation of the natural world, is not only an expansion in Ferrum’s academics, but a necessity. “No matter what area you study or major in, everything and everyone is impacted by the natural world,” said Johns. Having the ability to major in elementary education will offer students a more clear and concise path into their careers upon graduation. “A great thing about education majors is 100% of them have jobs when they graduate,” said Johns. The expansion of the music department is another academic
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rum
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is to get the school’s level changed in order to begin offering graduate degree programs. While the administrative team has been working tirelessly towards the level change, the institution’s accredditors need more information and data. More finalized information on the status will be available by the end of the semester. Johns is also very focused on bringing programs in Health Sciences to completion, including the development of the nursing program. “Everywhere, especially around this area, is always in need of nurses,” said Johns. Dr. David Johns signing an agreement with Kentucky College of Optometry. Johns’ other primary goal for this Photo courtesy of Ferrum College. year is to allow Ferrum’s message and identity to change that is hopeful to attract more students along with be heard and understood. helping the program grow as a whole in general. “I want to promote more assertively who Fer“The marching band has grown so much in just its rum is. Why people should come here and why second year. This past summer we’ve even had band camps people should invest in themselves here,” said for highschoolers for the first time in years,” said Johns. Johns. While the addition of three new majors for this acaJohns said that he wants to articulately and demic year is already quite the feat, Johns and his team loudly let the world know of the unique and valuhave much more in store as far as growth and development able qualities Ferrum and the community have to on campus. The President’s number one goal for the year offer.
“Ferrum is a destination college where education is impacted by the natural world and where every student is prepared for innovative and meaningful work,” said Johns. Johns and his team are ready to promote, improve, and enjoy Ferrum and the community this year more than ever before, and are very excited to welcome everyone back to campus, especially the freshmen and new students who have arrived this fall. “My biggest piece of advice for freshmen would be to show up. There is so much here for them, for all of us. It goes beyond just being here. Open your eyes and take everything in. You’ll miss it all if you don’t take everything in. Being engaged and immersed is an investment for their own life,” said Johns. While a new crop of freshmen will be immersed into everything that is Ferrum, time is also winding down for students gearing up for the “real world” and preparing for life after graduation. “For the seniors, I’d like to say thank you. Thank you for choosing to come to Ferrum. You have made this place better and more creative. I am so proud and excited to see how your lives and futures unfold,” said Johns. The 2019-2020 school year is officially underway and off to a fresh new start with many changes and improvements to be seen and enjoyed.
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The Iron Blade
September 20, 2019
OPINION
Meet the Staff
Frances Best is a Media Communication major with a Journalism minor. This is her second semester on the Iron Blade. She is from Fairfax Station, VA and she plays for Ferrum’s Womens Soccer. She is currently a Junior and is hoping to go into marketing after graduating.
“I think they did a really good job on doing something different and outsourcing. I feel like the only thing that I go to the caf for are the sandwiches and the salad. Everything else is the same and bland. It makes me sad. The lines are bad and seem to be long wherever you go in the caf, they also take too long to serve the food.” --Jason Nauta, Junior
AnnGardner Eubank (AG) is a Senior Political Science major with minors in Journalism and International Studies. This is her seventh semester working for the Iron Blade. While working for the paper, she has served as a Staff Writer, Sports Editor, and is in her second year as Editor-inChief. Along with the paper, she works for Chrysalis, is a member of the women's volleyball team, a member of the Boone Honor's Program, a member of Alpha Chi National Honor Society, president of Sigma Tau Delta English National Honor Society, served as secretary for Lambda Sigma National Honor Society, and is a sweetheart for Delta Chi. After graduating in May, AG plans on pursuing a career in journalism with aspirations to work overseas.
“The structure is just awful. The food is the same. Them serving food for you just slows it down and there are a lot more restrictions now. You can’t get multiple entres or omelets or those croissants. They also base the portions they give you on your size. For example, football players always get way more food than I do. They also don’t post the menus online and the times of operation are listed incorrectly.” --Ayanna Virgin, Sophomore
Lindsey Foster is a Freshman from Wirtz, Virginia and this is her first semester on the Iron Blade. She is majoring in Media Communication and minoring in Spanish. She is also a member of the color guard in the Ferrum College Marching Band. One interesting fact about her is that she has a love for many genres of music and enjoys going to concerts. Lindsey’s plans after graduation include working in a profession that involves film/video editing. Diamond Hudson is a Senior and is about to graduate this December. She is also the Layout Editor for the Iron Blade and this is her third year on staff. She is a Media Communication major and Journalism minor. She has recently been inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success. After graduation, she plans on going to graduate school to earn her masters degree in Women and Gender Studies from either University of North Carolina of Charolette or University of North Carolina of Greensboro She currently works remotely full time for a company in Greensboro as a Social Media Manager but wishes to become a fulltime anime blogger involving her website someday.
“It’s not good. The pizza can be hit or miss. Some days it’s good, some days it’s really bad” --Ethan Jones, Freshman
Caroline King is a Freshman from Wytheville Va. She is majoring in Biology with a minor in Theatre. She plans to continue her education in veterinary medicine after she graduates. Caroline is on the women’s golf team and is part of Ferrum’s band. This is her first semester working on the Iron Blade and she plans on having many more. Sam May is from Matlock, Derbyshire in England. He is a Junior at Ferrum and his major is Media Communication, and his minor is Journalism. May plays on the men’s soccer team, and is also an RA. He has recently joined SAAC too. He is a massive Derby County fan and after he has graduated hopes to go into some form of journalism. A dream come true for May would to become a sports journalist.
good ggets are very “The chicken nu s every the serve burger and I like that g to see ry disappointin meal, but it’s ve e now e caf workers ar how unhappy th mhed to a new co that we’ve switc pany.” s, Senior --Sarah Hodge
Destinee Nelson has been apart of the Iron Blade for three semesters. This is her second semester as Social Media Editor. Destinee’s major is Media Communication with a minor in Journalism. She is currently the Vice President of her sorority, Theta Gamma Omega and this is her second semester as social chair for Theta Gamma Omega. She is from Northern Virginia and her hobbies include writing movie reviews, traveling, and going to car shows.
September 20, 2019 Vol. 65, Issue 1
Ferrum College
Ferrum College 215Mountain FerrumRd.Mountain 215 Ferrum Ferrum, VA 24088 VA 24088 Ferrum, IBlade@Ferrum.edu IBlade@Ferrum.edu
Editor: AnnGardner Eubank News Editor: Mary Stoudt Sports Editors: Sam May Frances Best
Layout Editor: Diamond Hudson Social Media Editor: Destinee Nelson Staff: Lindsey Foster Caroline King
Rd.
Joshua Reeves Kieran Sawyer 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.
Joshua Reeves is a Freshman from Wytheville, Virginia. He intends to major in Psychology while minoring in Journalism. As of now he plans on either becoming a therapist or a school counselor; however he may possibly switch and decide to become a teacher. In his spare time he enjoys playing video games and writing poetry. He also plays on the basketball team and intends to participate in the psychology club and the Panther of Christian Athletes Club. Kieran Sawyer is a Freshman and this is his first year contributing for the Iron Blade. Kieran is from Winston-Salem, North Carolina and is a Media Communication major and plans to work in the sports media field after college. On campus Kieran is a student athlete and plays for the men’s lacrosse team. Other than being an athlete Kieran enjoys being around friends, drawing, and listening to music. He is looking forward to his next four years at Ferrum. Mary Stoudt is a Junior and has been working on the Iron Blade for five semesters. During her time on the Iron Blade Stoudt has been a CoEditor, Layout Editor, and News Editor. While not working on the paper Mary is involved in Lambda Sigma, Sigma Tau Delta, her sorority Delta Phi Epsilon, and numerous other clubs on campus. When Mary isn’t busy with her activities she can be found at her job at the Blue Ridge Institue and Museum. After graduating Stoudt plans on pursuing her masters and working in a museum.
September 20, 2019
The Iron Blade
Page 3
News Pro Commentary By Diamond Hudson It came and it left. For those who were unable to partake in the sandwich, it was $3.99 with a buttery toasted brioche bun with a buttermilk battered chicken fillet, topped with crisped pickles and drizzled with cajun mayo that set the nation ablaze on August 12th. The infamous chicken sandwich that allegedly is incomparable to the Chick-fil-A sandwich was supposed to be sold for a limited time only between August 12th to October 1st. The franchise was forced to close up shop and end the promotional combo before its deadline. But how did this happen? The answer is social media. The sandwich gained over $2.3 million in free advertising from being shared via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube. The sandwich originally was announced on Twitter, which started a sandwich war between Chick-fil-A before it debuted in its restaurants. Prior to the sandwich-making head-
P R O
such as Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. Others were even desperate enough to attempt to sue Popeye’s for false advertising the sandwich because they happened to be one of the unlucky customers who left the restaurant empty handed. Fortunately for the Popeyes franchise, their stocks have increased due to the publicity the sandwich has received. There were many memes created about the sandwich pertaining to the Twitter war between not only Chick-fil-A but also Bojangles, Wendy’s, Zaxby, and even McDonalds. Of course, as a trending topic, content creators, such as YouTubers who focus their channels on mukbangs and those who do occasional mukbangs had to feature the sandwich and even conducted comparison tests. With people who base their occupation off of millions of viewers, those who had access to the sandwich and watched the creators eat their meal online joined those lines as well. Even now that the sandwich is sold out, many who have yet to taste it are waiting for its return. Popeyes recently announced that it will return for a comeback in October with a larger inventory to help with the lines.
t Diversion at Popey a h T es Love
The release of a new sandwich from the infamous fried chicken chain, Popeyes, had taken social media to the next level in the short time span of only two weeks. The new chicken sandwich that didn’t have a special name became a trending topic in the media since upon its nationwide release on August 12th. Social media users across the country couldn’t stop talking about the sandwich. But was the new chicken sandwich from Popeyes really that delicious? Ferrum College Alum, Sierra Magdaleno, tried the sandwich when it was first released. “I tried the regular and the spicy sandwich. It smacked!” said Magdaleno. The social media marketing strategy also caught the attention of various rival food chains such as ChickFil-A, Wendys, and Mcdonald’s. The infamous food chains argued over who’s chicken sandwich was the “best.” Why are people so intrigued by a chicken sandwich when there are more important things to discuss in the
C O N
lines, Popeye’s had a drop within their stock. At the same time, Chick-fil-A was being boycotted because of the CEO voicing personal and political views. On August 19th there was a Twitter thread between the two restaurants which comedically went viral, promoting the sandwich along with it. Following the thread, lines within the drive-thru and dine-in were formed as early as 9:30 a.m. before the restaurants opened. The sandwiches are supposedly made one-by-one which caused the lines to slow down. Restaurants were constantly selling out and were unable to keep up with the service. Some customers even bought multiple sandwiches in order to resell on websites
Con Commentary By Destinee Nelson
news, such as Hurricane Dorian or mass shootings? People spend so much time on their phones following a trend rather than actually paying attention to what is currently going on within our country and globe entirely. In the society that we live in, standing in line for hours for a chicken sandwich is more important than taking a stand against the various types of violence we have encountered in this country. Throughout the two weeks that this sandwich was released, the hype and demand to taste the sandwich never ended. Popeyes has recently come out with an alternative for those who still have the chicken sandwich craving. For
a limited time only, Popeyes has created the BYOB (bring your own bun) initiative. Restaurants across the country are allowing guests to bring their own buns, order their three-piece chicken tenders and make their own version of the chicken sandwich right there on the spot. It is unknown how much of an impact this new idea will affect customers, but the Popeyes head of North America remains hopeful. He has been quoted by saying “ While we work to get the sandwich back in our restaurants, we want to offer our guests a fun way to satisfy their Popeyes sandwich cravings.”
Ferrum Renovations By Mary Stoudt
Various renovations have been made on Ferrum College’s campus for the past year, but one major renovation that was discussed during the 2018-2019 school year was put on hold. With a transition in leadership, the renovation of the Academic Resource Center (ARC) was postponed until the summer of 2020. Right before the start of the new school year Dr. Dave Wiggins, who previously worked for Ferrum in the 1990’s, has returned back to campus as the Dean of Students Success. His office is located in the ARC for additional academic support. Dr. Aimé Sposato, Provost of Ferrum, was excited with the returning of Wiggins. “Dr. Wiggins has returned to the Ferrum College community and we have welcomed him with open arms. He brings a skill set to our campus which will provide increased academic support through a holistic approach. He’s a dynamic and caring leader that I found that the students will love in a short period of time,” Sposato said. In addition to Wiggins being added to the ARC team, Tom Steele’s (Director of Academic Outreach and Athletic Initiatives) office, the Think and Learn Center, was moved to where the Help Desk (moved to Basset Hall) was previously located in the lower level of the Stanley Library. Other renovations occurred on campus this summer in addition to the library. The outdoor classroom located near the YMCA was finished this summer with the help of Recreational Leadership’s students designs. The new outdoor classroom is able to be booked through Conferences and Events.
After months of renovations, Grousbeck Hall was also finished during the summer. Both the upstairs and downstairs now have seating available. A piano was also added upstairs for future recitals to showcase performances by students, faculty and staff, and guest performers. Another area that was renovated this summer was the admissions building. The main lobby now has new seating as well as fresh paint. With potential new students coming to admissions for tours, the admissions building was added to the list of renovations. “[We wanted to] freshen up the places where potential students would come,” said Sposato. Beyond buildings, different grounds projects were also completed this summer with the addition of new flowers and plants throughout campus. One of the most awaited renovations by students also took place this summer. Formerly known as “Confetti’s” in Basset Hall has officially been transformed into an e-gaming center. This new space features multiple tv monitors and desktops. The e-gaming center will have hours of operation and is open to all students. With the addition of the e-gaming center, an intercollegiate competition e-gaming team is being introduced to campus. Ferrum has been busy with renovations over the past several months with more changes in the works to help modernize more locations on campus. For example, this November to honor and celebrate Veteran’s Day, the new Veteran’s Lounge will be unveiled and be a functioning space. The Veteran’s Lounge will be in the former Commuter Lounge upstairs in the library.
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The Iron Blade
September 20, 2019
NEWS
It’s a Small World By Sam May
Leo Galpin, Louis Scott ,Massimo Cirignaco enjoyng food at Stratton House, credit Sam May.
Ferrum College celebrated all of their new and returning international students at Stratton House (the President’s house) to kick off the new semester. On September 5 all of Ferrum’s international students were invited to the Stratton House. The reception allowed all of the international students to get to know eachother and celebrate all of the
President D. Johns and some of the International students pose for a photo, credit Patty Suppes.
different countries students had travelled from to study at Ferrum. Many faculty and staff also came to the event and the students and staff were able to learn more about each other and the difference between Ferrum and their countries of origin. Amongst the faculty were Dr. Suppes, President David Johns, and many other members
of staff. Johns was very proud because Ferrum currently has 29 international students which is the most the college has ever had at one time. “It’s very good for everyone at the college. The world is a global community and we want all of our students to experience the world as it is. It’s not just groups of people staying together, everyone
is mixing in with each other and getting to know many people on campus. It’s fantastic for all parties involved,” said Johns. Among the 29 international students there are 23 new students this semester, including five exchange students. The majority of the international students are on the men’s soccer team, while others play different sports like cross
gave his opinion on Ferrum and what is different from Honduras. “It’s fantastic. I love the diversity there is on campus and the food is very different. For differences, I feel the language is a lot different and people here at Ferrum are a lot more polite too.” Ferrum will continue to enjoy the diverse campus and hope it continues for many years to come.
By Mary Stoudt
By Anngardner Eubank
game. For many, it’s a way ing much of his time and of life, an escape, and a energy on the lacrosse center of gravity. Lacrosse field, Kaminski is ready has always been more than and excited to continue his just a game for Kaminski, education in social work as and he credits the sport to well. He’s passionate about much of his success he’s social work and wants to had in his life thus far. use his degree to make a “Lacrosse has been difference. everything to me! I have “I’ve studied and am sticks tatted on my forearm continuing to study social because this game literally work because I want to saved my life and had gothelp the next Rob Kaminten me out of a bad spot. It ski who may be struggling helped and need me find to find puroutlets; pose,” whether said Kait be minski. through Kasports minski or other compethobed for bies,” the said KaFerrum minski. Panthers Kafor four minski seasons Rob Kaminski’s old roster photo, credit Ferrum uses his Athletics as a own defenpast to sive asset to the program. motivate and inspire him While sport as an entirety in social work. He is deterhas been a constant focus mined and excited to make in his life, he keeps a spea difference in the lives of cial place for the Ferrum kids who need guidance Lacrosse Program in his and someone to cheer them heart. on. “Ferrum Lacrosse espe“I want to be the guy cially gave me a family these kids can relate to and and support system that be like ‘hey, this is only allowed me to succeed and temporary. You can change believe in myself. I never your situation if you work thought it would mean this your tail off and put your much to me, but it gave me best foot forward,’” said life,” said Kaminski. Kaminski. While he’ll be dedicatWhile the thought of
country or are just at Ferrum for an education. The countries Ferrum’s international students are from include: Guatemala, Colombia, Ecuador, England, Scotland, Ireland, Canada, Finland, Spain, South Korea, South Africa, Brazil, Honduras, Japan, Senegal, Nigeria, and Puerto Rico. Alan Zahir, a sophomore and men’s soccer player,
Night at the Museum
A New Challenge Recent Ferrum graduate, Rob Kaminski ‘19, from Cape Canaveral, FL, will be England bound in just a couple of weeks to continue both his education and lacrosse career. The defender will be pursuing his master’s degree in social work at Leeds Beckett University in Leeds, England. Kaminski sought out the opportunity to continue his athletic and academic career through the organization Lacrosse the Pond, which enables international student-athletes with the resources and guidance of pursuing higher education in England while playing Lacrosse. “The idea came from some friends I worked with at a summer camp in New York who had told me about the program years ago. I didn’t fully look into it until the past year,” said Kaminski. Kaminski, who has lived and studied in several states, is no stranger to new environments and finds the prospect of change in scenery exciting and worthwhile. “What made me want to do this was the ability to keep progressing and furthering my academic and athletic careers in a brand new environment,” said Kaminski. For many athletes, their sport is more than just a
International students putting their Birthplace on the map, credit Patty Suppes.
up and moving to another continent may be terrifying to many, Kaminski embraces the nerves and uses it as motivation and finds thrill and excitement with change. “I’m excited to travel and be the new guy again! It’s always nerve wracking at first but it’s always cool to go off somewhere and have no real idea about the place. It’s refreshing. It keeps you humble. Every place I go I consider a chapter in my life, and I consider this one to be the next big one for sure” said Kaminski. In his four years at Ferrum, Kaminski learned more than just what was taught in the classroom and on the field. He learned life lessons alongside his friends and teammates that will last a lifetime. “My advice for students at Ferrum is to enjoy the little things! Embrace little things about campus, your sports, your teammates, your friends, and embrace Ferrum for the place it is. And most importantly, invest in yourself and others will invest in you,” said Kaminski. While Kaminski will be spending the next year continuing his lacrosse career and furthering his degree in social work, his Ferrum Family will be supporting him the whole way from across the pond.
Ferrum College’s Blue Ridge Museum, Credit State Symbols USA
Over the past few months the staff of the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum (BRI) have been working to prepare and open their new exhibit. The new exhibit focuses on the history of souvenirs throughout Virginia. The new exhibit at the BRI features numerous kinds of souvenirs. There are various plates, pendants, postcards, and more. The museum currently has a surplus of items and is unable to display all the souvenirs they’ve acquired. Director of the BRI, Bethany Worley, explained the significance of the new exhibit. “We decided to create this exhibit because of the fascination and perseverance of souvenir collecting and also because an exhib-
it of this nature had never been done in the state. Not to mention that it was also lots of fun gathering all of the objects for the theme. Souvenirs evoke memories for people so it’s been very interesting talking to museum visitors who share their stories with us,” said Worley. In addition to all the souvenirs included in the new exhibit there is also plans to include a photo booth section in the exhibit to make it interactive. The photo booth section will allow visitors to take their own pictures inside the exhibit. Worley expressed her excitement for the opening of the new exhibit. “We look forward to the exhibit opening which will be September 26 from 2 to 4 p.m.,” said Worley.
September 20, 2019
The Iron Blade
Page 5
Club Fair 2019 By Diamond Hudson Club fair is an annual event that occurs in the Panther’s Den. Many clubs and organizations on campus attended to share their mission statements and projects with the incoming freshmen and the returning students who are now deciding to get active within the Ferrum community. Greek Life on campus was present during this event as well to promote their letters and attempt to recruit new pledges. There’s an organization for everyone! From Dance Team, Criminal Justice Club, Brother for Brother and more, no one on campus should be left out. If anyone did feel left out at club fair then they are more than welcome to create one of their own.
Senior, Brianna Martin represnts the Psychology Club at the fair
Students represent Theta Chi Epsilon at the fair. Photo credit: Joshua Reeves and Kayla Anderson.
Students show their support for the Mu Sigma Chi brotherhood
Sophmore Jacob Glass, Junior Katie Shoaf, and Sophmore Caroline Saalweachter all support the Fellowship of Christian Athletes
Junior, Lindsay Koogler represents the Equestrian Club
Junior, Chenell Rogers and Senior, Chante Elam show their support for Dance Club
Delta Phi Epsilon members represent their sorority at the fair
Sophmore, Andre Williams shows support as a member of the Black Student Union at club fair
Senior, Derek Thomas and Junior, Christian Haley represent Delta Chi
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The Iron Blade
September 20, 2019
Sports Puttin: The First Women’s Golf Team By Caroline King It was an early departure for the Ferrum Lady Golfers. For Junior, Arin Bunker, and Freshman, Caroline King this was the first step towards their collegiate golf careers. Returning golfers, Hunter Tharpe and Jetta Huffman assured them that everything would be okay. “No matter the outcome you will only get better,” said Tharpe. After arriving in Ohio, the ladies stepped of the shuttle and began getting ready for their practice round. “After the practice round, the course seemed like a fairly easy setup,” said Coach Cox. “But, being a Donald Ross design I knew that the greens were going to be the most difficult part of the course,” said Cox. Competition was tough for the girls. Five teams played in the national championships last year and there were several other strong programs competing. “I had never played in a competition this big. If anything, it was an opportunity to meet new people,” said King. The first round wasn’t the best round, but it helped the girls improved their game. “We improved 33 shots after the first round. I think we can improve by several more shots if we continue to work hard,” said Cox. Overall, the Lady Panthers had a good weekend. “I’m fairly happy with the outcome this weekend, we had way too many big numbers and a lot of putts, but those are all things that we can work on,” said Cox. Coming up the Lady Golfers will be traveling to Bridgewater Va. on September 23rd.
Caroline King, Jetta Huffman, Arin Bunker, and Hunter Tharpe pose for a picture after the second round of thier first match. Photo courtesy of Ferrum Athletics.
Gary Holden as Acting AD By Frances Best
Gary Holden. Photo courtesy of Ferrum College.
Gary Holden is very familiar face around Ferrum College campus, especially for those who attend or are involved in any sporting events. Holden is normally found behind the scenes as an active member of Ferrum’s athletic staff. He acted as the Assistant Athletic Director and also primarily worked as a Sports Information Director for years. As Sports Information Director Holden, is in charge for much of the media production and coverage that involves Ferrum Athletics. Since the departure of the previous athletic director, Abe Naff, Holden has stepped into the role of Acting Athletic Director (AD) as well as continuing his work as the Sports Information Director. Ferrum is in the process of looking for a permanent replacement for AD and has advertised the position on multiple websites. In the meantime, Holden is helping to continue improving Ferrum Athletics as acting AD. “We’ve got a lot of different initiatives that we’re trying to have right now, and moving forward with a lot of different projects that we want to get off the ground,” said Holden. One of the projects in the midst of taking off for Ferrum athletics is a new recruiting software that will not only help the different sports teams on campus, but will also help with the school’s admissions process for incoming athletes. “One of them is taking us into the new era of recruiting software. We’re using a company called Front Rush, and basically it’s going to allow our coaches, as they get information on recruits, to have that migrated directly to the college admissions database and the communication back and forth between admissions and athletics to help with enrollment management here,” Holden said. Although Holden’s current position as acting AD is temporary, he is open to making the position permanent as he as applied to be the official AD. This implies that he would most likely step down as the Sports Information Director to focus primarily on the duties of the AD. “I have applied for it and I’m hoping to get the position but it’s moving slowly right now,” said Holden. Regardless of who gets the position of AD, there will be changes made to Ferrum’s athletic staff in the near future but the official time frame of the entire process of replacing the previous AD is still up for debate.
First Half of Fall Athletic Previews Women’s Volleyball
Men’s Soccer
By Kieran Sawyer After the fall opener, the Women’s Volleyball team has faced many challenges against several competitive teams. The program has been making adjustments from substitutions for performance and chemistry. Molly Patterson, a freshman outside and opposite hitter, has stepped up to the plate and has been making adjustments both on the court and off. “It has been difficult trying to balance everything out and trying to manage my time, but it has been easier because I have a support system and I can relate to the other freshman athletes,”said Patterson. As she makes her adjustments, Patterson stresses the pressure that many
By Frances Best The Ferrum Men’s Soccer season is underway and the team has some new additions to the team and coaching staff. Dani Aguirre is one of the new members this year and he feels that the team is adjusting well to the new additions. “I feel we’re improving everyday. It’s really hard to play with the whole team and it obviously takes time to get to know each other, but I feel Men’s soccer team. Photo courtesy of Ferrum College.
we can be very successful and surprise a lot of people,” said Aguirre. Aguirre also feels the team has a good coaching staff this season along with some great leaders on the team. “I do feel we have a good coaching staff. Not everyone is going to agree on the defensive plan or attacking tactics but as a team if we get on the same page with the coaches, we can be even better. So far our captains have been a great link for the young players, not only on the pitch like Sam and Jeff, but also like Jose and Alan,” said Aguirre.
Freshman, Molly Patterson
student athletes face around the country and on campus. “It can be overwhelming sometimes,” said Patterson. The team currently holds a 7-1 record and will be competing in a home tri-match on Sept. 22.
Freshman, Daniel Aguirre
The men’s team will be playing next on Saturday, September 21st against Johnson and Wales at 3:00 pm.
September 20, 2019
How Fast Are The Panthers? By Lindsey Foster
The Iron Blade
Four More Years of Football By Lindsey Foster
2019 Cross Country Schedule Sat. 28 Hornet Harrier Invitational The Kernstown Battlefield (Kernstown, Va.)
’s Golf n e M
Sat. 5 Hagan Stone XC Classic Hagan Stone Park (Pleasant Garden, N.C.) Sat. 19 Gettysburg Invitational Gettysburg College Cross Country Course (Gettysburg, Pa.) Sat. 2 ODAC Championships Green Hill Park (Salem, Va.)
With the 2019 Cross Country season now in full swing, Ferrum’s first meet was on September 6 at The Virginia Tech Invitational. The men finished last with a score of 220 and the women finished eighth out Domonique Veney, freshman, of nine teams with photo courtesy of Steven Marsh, Franklin a score of 250. The News Post cross country team had their most recent meet September 14th at the ODAC Preview meet in Salem, VA, where the men finished ninth out of eighteen and women finished seventeenth out of nineteen. The team has several new faces this season. During the 2018 season the team competed with ten members and have since grown to eighteen members for the 2019 season, with nine athletes on each team. Freshman newcomer, Domonique Veney, is excited to be a part of the squad. Veney competed for two seasons for the Lancaster Red Devils at Lancaster High School in eastern Virginia and is now competing in his first collegiate season. Although Veney is a new member, he believes he can be a real contribution to the team. “I’m just a good moral booster. I bring energy,” said Veney. The squad’s next meet will be at The Hornet Harrier Invitational on Saturday, September 28th in Kernstown, VA.
n ’ s e G m olf o W By Kieran Sawyer
Hunter Tharpe, Freshman
After finishing the Schweitzer Invitational, women’s golf learned a lot and are very excited for the season. Junior, Hunter Tharpe, plays a big role for the team and has high hopes after the first invitational. “I feel that the season is going great so far I think that we all learned a lot from the first tournament and as the season progresses we will continue to improve,” said Tharpe. For Tharpe, balancing both athletics and academics has also been an improvement. “Balancing sports and academics is challenging, but having good time management and commitment to both athletics and academics is crucial to excel in both,” said Tharpe. The women’s golf team will compete at the Bridgewater Fall Invitational on Monday, September 23.
Page 7 The Ferrum Men’s Golf team has had a positive start to the season after finishing third in the Green Turtle Invitational at Winchester Country Club. The Panthers competed in the event on the 9th and are hoping to climb up the ranks even more in upcoming tournaments. Junior, Hunter Shelton, thinks the team is in a much better place than it was last year, as the Panthers have gained nine new players taking them up to eleven for the current season. “I think the team will do well this season. I think we have great potential. We had three freshmen with their first collegiate
By Sam May
Camden Mariotti, Freshman. Photo courtesy of Mariotti’s social media.
After a split 2018 season with 5-5 overall record, Ferrum College Football is ready to take on a new season. The Black Hats had their first game of the season at Greensboro College and took a win with a score of 55-7. Camden Mariotti is a new face to the roster and is from Fairlawn, Virginia. Mariotti played for four years at Pulaski County High School and is in his first year playing defensive tackle at Ferrum. Even though Mariotti is a new member, he says he is a good aspect to the team, “I try to bring speed and strength and I’m also a good teammate.” said Mariotti. The football team’s next game is Saturday, September 28th at home.
Women’s Soccer By Sam May
Casey Raggett, junior. Photo courtesy of Triangle United Soccer Association.
The Ferrum Women’s Soccer team has had a solid start to their 2019 campaign after beating Maryville 1-0 in overtime on Saturday September 14th. Casey Raggett scored the goal to seal the game. The Panthers have Erin Saleeby as their new coach for their second year in the ODAC and have also gained eight freshmen for the season. Raggett, a junior forward, also feels that they have had a strong start to the season. “The season is off to a good start with Saleeby. She is a new coach but she still holds the entire team to a high standard on and off the field. We have a strong freshman class and the team is excited to see what they can do on the field,” said Raggett. The women have already played four games so far this season, winning three and only losing one. “My favorite game was Averett. That was our first game of the season and I think we were all very excited to finally play. We also played very well as a team in that game too,” said Raggett. In the match against Averett, Raggett also scored a hattrick, scoring three times in one match, a feat which not many have achieved for Ferrum. Ferrum will play their ODAC opener on Friday September 27th against Hollins University. “We know what to expect in terms of speed and intensity that the ODAC teams have. So we are definitely prepared to battle this year. If we play as a unit the entire game we will have a successful season,” said Raggett. The women will play again on Sunday, September 22nd at away against Salem.
Hunter Shelton, Freshman
tournament this weekend. We really struggled last year but this year is a whole other ball game. Coach Erick Cox has worked hard on getting recruits for the first team, and we are definitely competitive this year and we will be for the next two for sure,” said Shelton. There are seven new freshmen who have joined the team and they will all be working hard and trying their best to make it to every tournament they can. “I feel all the freshmen are gonna fit in well. Lance Keiser (senior) and I are the only two on the team from last year and the rest are new or freshman. If you are on the golf team, then we are like brothers, we will help each other out no matter what. All the guys on the team work really hard and do their best and want to help improve Ferrum’s golf program,” said Shelton. The team has spent the last several weeks practicing and putting their skills to the test. “Practice has been really good, there is a lot of competition on the team, which makes everyone better. Everybody on the team has someone to compete with and everyone wants to be the best, this makes us all work even harder. Everyone on the team counts on each other and we try not to make the competitiveness take the fun out of the game. Our coach makes sure he tells us every game to have fun out there, but of course we want to win, while finding that enjoyment as well,” said Shelton. The Panthers compete again on Monday 7th October in the Oglethorpe Royal Lakes Fall Invitational Tournament.
2019 Men’s Golf Schedule Sun. 8 Green Turtle Invitational Winchester Country Club (Winchester, Va.) Mon. 9 Green Turtle Invitational Winchester Country Club (Winchester, Va.) Mon. 16 Tom Kinder Memorial Lakeview Golf Club (Harrisonburg, Va.) Tue. 17 Tom Kinder Memorial Lakeview Golf Club (Harrisonburg, Va.) Mon. 7 Oglethorpe-Royal Lakes Fall Invitational Royal Lakes Golf and Country Club (Flowery Branch, Ga.) Tue. 8 Oglethorpe-Royal Lakes Fall Invitational Royal Lakes Golf and Country Club (Flowery Branch, Ga.) Mon. 14 VSGA State Intercollegiate Blacksburg Country Club (Blacksburg, Va.) Tue. 15 VSGA State Intercollegiate Blacksburg Country Club (Blacksburg, Va.) Mon. 28 O’Briant-Jensen Memorial The Cardinal by Pete Dye (Greensboro, N.C.) Tue. 29 O’Briant-Jensen Memorial The Cardinal by Pete Dye (Greensboro, N.C.)
Page 8
The Iron Blade
September 20, 2019
The Food Chronicles Part 3 By Mary Stoudt
Since 2017 the Iron Blade has worked on covering Ferrum College’s food situation. Going back in time originally with the biggest news for students, faculty, and staff was the closing of the Mercantile and Papa John’s Pizza. Ferrum alum Joshua Sanders said, “The best non-cafe option was the burger place [Blue Ridge Burgers] at the Merc. I loved that place more than anything.” Since the closings of these two food options, numerous other changes have occurred on campus. In addition to the closing of the Mercantile and Papa John’s during the 2017-2018 school year, Subway also limited its hours. Originally Subway was opened until 11 p.m. and gave athletes and students with night class an opportunity to eat dinner. Over time due to the lack of student employees, Subway limited its hours and began closing at 10 p.m. and then 9 p.m. just weeks later. During the 2018-2019 school year, Ferrum introduced a new in-house pizza option for students, faculty, and staff called the Panther Pizzeria. Students, faculty, and staff were able to order pizza, chicken poppers, stromboli, and breadsticks. In addition to the new pizza option, Ferrum also introduced grab-and-go sandwiches and salads in the renovated coffee shop which is now called Panther Grounds. With the introduction of graband-go sandwiches and salads, the Hot Dog Cart (original grab-and-go option) closed. Keeping with the tradition of change, this past summer Ferrum made the decision to outsource its dining services with the company Aladdin. With the new outsourcing, different changes occurred in the Dining Hall. New food areas were introduced and old ones were renamed. Students are now unable to serve themselves in an attempt to limit waste, the exits have been changed in order to prevent students from taking food from the Dining Hall, and the balcony seating has been changed. With the changes made in the Dining Hall, students have noticed an increase in wait time. Senior Cayla Stephens said, “A lot of my friends and I don’t go to the cafe anymore before lab because we never have any idea if we will get our food in time because of the wait lines for everything. We used to go to the cafe every lab day and now we just settle for the same old pizza every day. I feel like when they came up with this system the science majors who have three hour labs were not thought of.” This year besides changes to the dining hall, the biggest upset to students has been the closing of Subway. Right before the start of the semester the last remaining employees left Ferrum which forced the closing of Subway. Until new employees are hired, Subway will remain closed. Senior Cameron McAfee said, “We have three options to deal with which is a questionable cafe, a pizza shop, and a subway that can’t stay open. Where is the Merc?” Students have now found since the closing of Subway in order to get a grab-and-go sandwich or salad they need to arrive to the Panther Grounds early because they are bought so fast since they are the last remaining grab-and-go options for students. Junior Dakota Fletcher said, “The bookstore runs out of sandwiches and salads by 1:40 p.m., so if you are in class till two, then you have no other option but to get pizza or salad in the cafe.” When Subway closed originally, Panther Pizzeria had limited hours because pizza is served in the dining hall. However, in an effort for all students to be able to eat lunch, Panther Pizzeria has extended its hours to serve students in the afternoons as well. The Dining Hall has now extended its hours until 8:00pm in an attempt for all students to be able to have dinner. In regards to the current food options on campus, senior Kimberly Clements said “There are limited options [on campus] and the options we have are trash. Why is a caramel frappuccino $5.25 when it’s not even a large, and does not taste like a traditional Starbucks caramel frappuccino? However, the birthday cake ice cream in the Dining Hall was delicious!” In an attempt to offer more food options, Ferrum has introduced the Panther Perks program to offer discounts on food in Rocky Mount to students, faculty, and staff. The program includes Buddy’s BQQ, the Rocky Mount Burger Company, and El Rio. As the semester continues, The Iron Blade will continue to keep up with the food situation at Ferrum and report accordingly. To leave suggestions about food options on campus, the dining hall still has its suggestion wall across from the dish pit and there is still a suggestion box at the Career and Leadership Center.
d r a o B n i t e l l u B r e h t n a P
Panther Briefs
Submissions can be sent to Katherine Grimes at kgrimes@ferrum.edu. Keep an eye out for a list of rulesChrysalis and guidelines in Are ferrum you a writer, your email.artist, or photographer? If so, Chrysalis, Ferrum’s only literary and arts magazine, needs YOU! Chrysalis is currently taking submissions for poetry, pros, photography, and other visual arts. A first place prize of $100 along with a sec-
ond place prize of $50 Ch will be awarded in each category. The deadline for submissions is October 7 at midnight. A full set of guidelines can be found on https://www. ferrum.edu/campus-life/ chrysalis/. Volunteers Needed Are you looking for volunteer opportunities? The Franklin County Agricultural Fair is looking for some volunteers for their fair next week, Thursday, September 18 - Saturday, September 21. Most help is needed on Friday and Saturday. If you volunteer for 3 hours, then you will receive an unlimited ride pass. If you would like to volunteer, please call 540-483-3030 (do not use the online form). If you just want to attend the fair, cost of admission is $5.00 and an additional $10.00 for unlimited rides. For more information visit the website at www.fcagfair.com. Rocky Mount's Habitat for Humanity f you are a student, sports team, club, or community organization that are looking for service hours, consider volunteering for Rocky Mount's Habitat for Humanity.
They are working on a renovation project on Sontag road with the goal of getting the homeowner, Elaine, “Home for the Holidays” but to make that happen,they need help! Feel free to reach out to the President, John Wilson (johnpwcc@yahoo. com), or board member and Dean of Students, Nicole Lenez (nlenez@ ferrum.edu), to sign up to help! Their next big work day is Saturday September 21!