Owl Magazine Spring/Summer 2015

SPRING / SUMMER 2015

Harford’s Homemade Ice Cream p.4 Sustainable Fashion p.16

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SPRING 2015 | Owl Magazine

EDITORIAL

Editor’s Note: EDITOR IN CHIEF

Exploring Nature’s Gift

Matt Tennyson

COPY EDITORS

Sydney Gaeth, Jessica Conway

WRITING STAFF

Jennifer Lewis, Chris Scopelliti, Georgina Cammayo, Samantha Hauf, Daniel Mele

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Joshua Eller

FRONT PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY John Morin

PHOTOGRAPHY STAFF Nick Rynes

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOGRAPHY Cirque Alfonse, The Treehouse Camp, Jason Hollinger, Júlio Reis, H. Zell, Fritz Flohr Reynolds

ART DIRECTOR Faras Aamir

DESIGN SPECIALIST Brianna Breece

PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS

David Williamson, Uchenna Ifeacho, Tia Jones, Tracy E. Smith

In our modern age, we have many amenities and advanced technologies at our disposal. With so many distractions consistently bombarding us, we may forget the captivating natural landscapes that exist in our own backyard.

In this issue of Owl Magazine, we take a look into the natural realm as we go “Back to Nature.”

Whether we’re hiking along the Appalachian Trail (pg. 8-11) or we’re venturing off to the woods to camp out in a tree house (pg. 18), nature has many different adventures to offer us.

The importance and utility of beekeeping is explored with local beekeeper Steve Rouse as we dive into the “Sweet Harvest” of bees (pg.

5). Even in our own backyard, the plants and weeds we often consider a nuisance can have a practical and medicinal value (pg. 12-15).

As we explore our natural roots and the ways people are working to preserve the planet, we see various

highlights within the community of people striving towards an environmentally sustainable change.

Local farm owner Dawn Yurkiewicz found an eco-friendly method for lawn care using her fuzzy, four-legged goat friends (pg. 6).

Baltimore-based clothing companies are taking strides to eliminate pollution and use recycled materials (pg. 16-17). HCC has also taken initiatives to go green with many of the facilities on campus (pg. 7).

Nature has everything we need to survive. Whether we take our resources directly from nature or we change them into something completely different, the natural world is pivotal to our prosperity and growth as a species.

In this “Back to Nature” issue, we hope to drive home the importance of preserving nature while also highlighting the positive changes being made right in our own community.

BUSINESS MANAGER Rachel Mitchell

CHIEF ADVISER Claudia Brown

TECHNICAL ADVISER Philip Roszak

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Stockson Printing Company

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Back to Nature

In need of a getaway? The Appalachian Trail is calling...

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SPRING 2015 | Owl Magazine

TABLE OF CONTENTS

412

Broom’s Bloom Dairy

Indulge in a scoop of old-fashioned goodness from the Dallam family farm in Bel Air, Maryland.

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Eco-Landscaping

Ditch that old lawnmower for these four-legged herbivores.

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Sustainable Fashion

Find out how you can help the environment and be stylish at the same time.

Sweet Harvest

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Beekeeping has become more important than ever. See what all the buzz is about.

Backyard Medicine

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A Night in a Tree House

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Who knew weeds could be so useful?

Looking for a unique vacation experience? Venture into the forest at The Treehouse Camp at Maple Tree Campground.

Also Inside:

Green Initiatives Blossom at HCC p.7 Live at HCC p.23

Spring 2015 | Owl Magazine

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Broom’s Bloom Dairy

Harford’s Homemade Ice Cream

By Chris Scopelliti | Photography by Nick Rynes | Owl Staff

At first glance, I thought it was a barn. Situated in the middle of the farm, no one would guess that this is an eating establishment. I traveled on a gravel road and as I approached the barn and the picnic tables, it suggested that this was not a typical farm.

Broom’s Bloom Dairy, located on Route 543 in Bel Air, has been open for the past decade. As a small, locally owned business, the owner’s goal is to satisfy local customers on a daily basis with local products.

Known for their homemade delicious ice cream, they also sell artisan cheese, pork sausage, freerange eggs, seasonal vegetables, Dating back to the 1700’s, Broom’s Bloom farm is supporting its 9th generation of the Dallam family. flowers and they serve homemade heart-warming soups for both lunch the flavors that I sampled. Broom’s Broom’s Bloom also has numerous and dinner.

Bloom makes more than 100 different lunch specials that they serve year When I went to try some of the flavors a year, and serves 12-18 at a round. I tried the Cowman’s Repast, foods and ice cream out at Broom’s time, depending on the season. which is a cup of soup/stew or mac Bloom, I fell in Some of the different flavors that and cheese, half a sandwich, and a love with you would not see at other places small ice cream for $9.95. all include Coconut, Caramel Cashew, I really enjoyed this special because of Graham Cracker Butter Cake, the sandwiches are delicious, and it Marachino Cherry and Chips, and is not too much food at once; and to Coffee. I tried the Graham Cracker top it all off, you get an ice cream for a Butter Cake and it is now my new dessert. favorite flavor. It wasn’t too heavy and Charles, a 65-year-old Vietnam War sweet, which is what I loved about it.

Veteran says there is “no place like A small cup of ice cream costs $2.50, Broom’s Bloom.” He adds, “I love the while a large cup costs $4.50. customer service, it’s the reason we Aside from their unique ice cream come here. I go to other places around selection, Broom’s Bloom also has an town with my wife and the employees up and coming reputation for their don’t have a smile on their faces like soups. The “Maryland Half and Half” is they do here.” a combination of their Cream of Crab Broom’s Bloom represents how and Maryland Crab soup. My, was it small businesses are the backbone of delicious! our country. This place is for people I have never tasted any kind of of all ages, and if you haven’t tried soup like that before; it was extremely out this great restaurant, I highly creamy and had large pieces of crab advise you do so. You will not be meat in it. A small 8 oz. cup of soup is disappointed and their food will keep $4.25 while the 12 oz. bowl is $5.75 you coming back for more.

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SWEET HARVEST

Spring 2015 | Owl Magazine

SCIENCE

Inside the World of Beekeeping

By Daniel Mele | Photography by Ahmed Hamayun & Matt Tennyson | Owl Staff

A male honey bee is unable to sting or produce honey like his female counterpart.

The sun shines on a beautiful day in late May. The birds fill the skies with songs and a buzz is heard in the field as beekeeping veteran of 30 years, Steve Rouse of Rousedale farms (former host of Rouse and Company on WQSR), opens one of the hives.

The time has come to harvest a portion of the honey left by the bees. It is a complicated and time-consuming process to make the honey, but one that is well worth the wait.

Rouse is one of a handful of local beekeepers in Harford County. In order for the community to thrive, more beekeepers are needed. Rouse says, “Younger people need to get involved because everyone doing it now is 100 years old.”

HCC offers non-credit beekeeping classes. The Susquehanna Beekeepers Association also offers scholarships for kids between the ages of 13-17 interested in beekeeping.

In addition to its great taste, the honey that bees produce has several noteworthy health benefits. The Journal of Medicinal Food outlines that

others. Lewis continued to say that weeds and dandelions are a common food source for the bees.

Although lawn care companies promote weed-free lawns, this is not natural. These types of lawns are food deserts for the bees. Lewis states, “A green lawn is not a healthy lawn.”

Beekeeping plays an important role in the survival of honeybees, and honeybees play an integral part in the survival of humanity. Albert Einstein has been credited with making the statement that “if bees were gone, humans would be eliminated from the earth within four years.”

While the source of this quote has come into question, there is science to support the dependence of humanity on bees. Without bees, most food sources would be eliminated due to the bee’s role in plant pollination.

The bees need help. We can aid them by using local honey, signing petitions against excessive pesticide use, educating ourselves, and spreading awareness of this problem facing us all.

honey has been shown to lower cholesterol.

Studies by the British Journal of Surgery show that honey can heal wounds or ulcers when applied. According to Bee World, a scholarly journal, honey can cure sore throats and has antibiotic properties.

While bees have many benefits to offer, they are being threatened by unsustainable farming practices. According to Rouse and Joe Lewis of the Susquehanna Beekeepers Association, the colonies are collapsing. So much more work goes into beekeeping now as opposed to 30 years ago. Now, medicine and other manipulative processes are needed.

Despite these efforts, the bee popBeekeeper Steve ulation still decreases 30-35% each Rouse inspects cells winter. This is astronomical comof the beehive. pared to years past when the decrease was only 10%. One of the main reasons for this decrease is because of pesticide corporations and lawn care companies, among

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Spring 2015 | Owl Magazine

ENVIRONMENT

Eco-Landscaping

The New “Goat-To” For Sustainable Lawn Care

By Sydney Gaeth | Photography by John Morin | Owl Staff Randy, a 250-lb white Saanen goat, contentedly chomps through a pile of weeds in an overgrown field. There are many others like him who spend their days eating to their hearts’ content and clearing field after field of dense brush.

This lovable, eating machine calls Stratford Farm in Whiteford, Maryland home. Randy and other goats reduce the carbon emissions and chemical usage of typical weed clearing practices by putting their teeth and large appetites to use.

Owner Dawn Yurkiewicz has nearly 25 goats that travel Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware to clear areas that humans cannot clear manually. Stratford Farm isn’t the

The Ecological Society of America mentions that outdoor chemical use reduces biodiversity and prevents foliage from coming back healthily. So, instead of a diverse ecosystem, species disappear completely. The extinction of one species means no food for another – it’s a deadly cycle.

Additional eco-friendly methods of weed removal include hand-powered reel mowers, electric mowers, and slow growing or dwarf grasses.

Unfortunately, chemicals and machinery remain the standard; however, thanks to goat-raising pioneers like Yurkiewicz and Rent-A-Goat, the landscaping norm is changing.

Goats also provide natural fertilizer for the area they are

“One hour of lawnmower use expels the same amount of pollutants as driving a car 200 miles.” only company implementing this new landscaping method.

Rent-A-Goat, “cost-effective, eco-friendly, and super cute weed removal,” operates in California, Colorado, Maine, Indiana, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, Virginia, Iowa, North Carolina, and some parts of Canada.

Most people use weed whackers, lawn mowers, and countless toxic chemicals to manicure their lawns.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, one hour of lawnmower use expels the same amount of pollutants as driving a car 200 miles.

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clearing. According to gardeningknowhow.com, their manure is especially beneficial to farmers because “it [manure] doesn’t typically attract insects or burn plants as does manure from cows or horses.”

“The goats get the large part of the area cleared, but they don’t eat everything,” says Yurkiewicz. For one, they don’t eat debris such as tin or aluminum cans. It isn’t their preferred consistency and could damage their stomachs. Goats usually prefer to eat weeds and small shrubs over grass.

So, instead of a heavy, gas guzzling, carbon-emitting lawnmower, consider hiring a group of goats to handle your landscaping needs.

Spring 2015 | Owl Magazine

TECHNOLOGY

Green Initiatives Blossom at HCC Article & Photography by Jessica Conway | Owl Staff Students cross a path lined with Victorian lamp posts through the HCC campus. On one side is a fish pond for the science department and on the other is a small valley of reeds.

As they venture through the campus on this picturesque byway, these students may not realize that many of the lights on campus use multiple switching levels to reduce energy consumption and light pollution, or that the reeds that sway so gently also clean the run-off from rainwater during storms.

Harford Community College has made several efforts to create an environment that doesn’t take too much from the earth, but still retains the ability to cater to a fast-paced society. The Sustainability Committee, run by co-chairs Steve Garey and The fish pond at HCC is filled with recycled rain water from several bioretention ponds.

Tami Imbierowicz, has initiated wind turbine that “provides power for by using the earth as a heat sink for a number of changes, both big and a pump to aerate the pond,” according summer cooling and winter heating,” small, that all contribute to HCC’s to www.harford.edu. This is possible according to harford.edu. green movement. with the help of some photovoltaic soAll wood in the Joppa, Edgewood, Bathroom stall doors are 100% lar panels to increase the productivity. and Towson buildings come from a recycled, the carpets in Joppa Hall are

“The wind turbine provides power for a pump to aerate the pond...it keeps the fish and turtles happy.” recycled, the urinals are waterless and “save 40 thousand gallons [of water] per year,” says Garey. The Joppa, Edgewood, and Towson buildings are all LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver buildings. This means that the school has made enough changes to be upgraded to level silver under the requirements of the U.S. Green Building Council.

One of the most impressive sustainable initiatives taken at Harford is the

“It keeps the fish and turtles happy,” says Garey. The water from the bioretention ponds actually come from natural rainfall and run-off, thus it is all recycled naturally instead of becoming stagnant.

Geothermal wells, located at the Hays-Heighe house, the Observatory, and the Plant Services Building, are another eco-friendly feature HCC has to offer. Geothermal wells “reduce energy consumption by 30% to 50%

certified forest: a tree farm where trees are grown to be cut down rather than cutting them down from wild forests.

Aberdeen Hall also has an 11,000 watt solar panel array on the roof.

Kermit the Frog says, “It’s not easy being green,” but it isn’t hard if you make the time to do it. So, the next time you finish that drink, throw it in one of the recycling bins strewn across campus. Who knows? It may become a bench here on campus.

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Article & Photography by Jennifer Lewis | Owl Staff

Less

World. There are also various gear rental outlets if you aren’t ready for a large investment. Experts say an average person burns about 4,000 calories in a day hiking, so you need to make sure to replenish yourself with highly nutritious and protein-packed trail food.

All supplies should fit in a lightweight trail backpack, weighing 20-30 pounds. Remember, you carry everything you pack, so only bring essentials. Practice setting up your tent and know how to work your stove and water pump ahead of time.

Before dark, make your campsite in a flat area off the trail. You can also make use of wooden shelters; many thru-hikers do instead of carrying the weight of a tent. After setting up, cleaning up, and making dinner, make sure to hang up your pack five feet off of the ground in a tree to keep away from scavenging animals. Every day

then becomes a routine. You wake with the sun, fold up the tent, make breakfast on the stove, pack up and start walking.

To know you’re on the right path, a painted white blaze should be seen both in front of and behind you. Other colored blazes signify park trails. To refill on water, look for blue blazes which will take you downhill to a freshwater spring.

There’s a lot of wildlife on the trail; Adair and I encountered deer, snakes, woodpeckers, and even mountain goats. The general rule is to not interfere with the animals or natural environment. We also met many other “day-hikers” (hikers who only go for the day) and “thru-hikers.” As we neared the Washington Monument, we encountered many families and Boy Scout Troops.

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“ Af

Te r

than two hours away, the daily troubles of life fade after an adventure on the Appalachian Trail.

Created in 1937 as a scenic footpath, the 2,181 mile long path stretches from Georgia to Maine through the Appalachian Mountains.

Many college students (myself included) make it a goal to “thru-hike” (hike the entire trail) northbound after graduation and travel with the spring season.

I have been hiking sections of the trail for ten years. Through my experience, the best section for the first hike is through Maryland – a 45-mile, three-to-four-day journey. I suggest traveling southbound from Pen Mar to Harpers Ferry, as I did recently with my friend, Regan Adair, an HCC alum.

Before you get on the trail, you’ll need to prepare. The supplies you’ll probably need are available at any outdoor store like REI or Outdoor

every Tr ip,

I r

rn u eT

Hiking The Appalachian Trail

I return to the world with a new awareness and appreciation of life.

Adair outlines, “I felt so happy the whole time. The tops of the mountains were amazing, as well as everything along the way.” She adds, “I think the trail teaches you how to appreciate everything.”

Adair was so moved by her first experience on the Appalachian Trail, she says, “If I had packed more food, I would have just kept walking.”

Truly, hiking the Appalachian Trail at any time will not only give you a needed getaway, but new life experiences and perspectives.

ew awarene n ss and a h app r e wiT ciat ion of

life. ”

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Hiking is a challenge well worth it; you’ll be surprised by what you can accomplish. Stand at the edge of the mountaintop cliffs to feel on top of the world.

Above all else, let the calming scenery free your mind. Stop at every breathtaking view. After every trip,

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s T c a F n Fu

(Via Appalachiantrail.org)

• Thousands of volunteers contribute roughly 220,000 hours to the Trail every year.

• More than 250 three-sided shelters exist along the Trail.

• Virginia is home to the most miles of the Trail (about 550), while West Virginia is home to the least (about 4).

• Maryland and West Virginia are the easiest states to hike; New Hampshire and Maine are the hardest.

• The total elevation gain of hiking the entire Trail is equivalent to climbing Mt. Everest 16 times.

• About 2 to 3 million visitors walk a portion of the Trail each year.

• The Trail has hundreds of access points and is within a few hours drive of millions of Americans, making it a popular destination for day-hikers.

• 1 in 4 who attempt a thru-hike successfully completes the journey.

• Most thru-hikers walk north, starting in Georgia in spring and finishing in Maine in fall, taking an average of 6 months.

• Hikers usually adopt “trail names” while hiking the Trail. They are often descriptive or humorous. Examples are “Eternal Optimist,” “Thunder Chicken,” and “Crumb-snatcher.”

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Backyard Medicine

The Power of Plants

By Matt Tennyson | Photography by Matt Tennyson & Josh Eller |Owl Staff In the race to find the answers to our modern ailments, we often turn to the pharmaceutical industry for an easy, quick fix. The unfortunate consequence of this is that we’re often taking pills that we don’t need.

Daniel R. Levinson, Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, states that many physicians have “questionable prescribing patterns” and they often “prescribe per beneficiary, which may indicate that these prescriptions are medically unnecessary.”

In ancient times, plants were the basis of all health, functionality, and life. From the Native Americans using rosemary in their herbal remedies, to the ancient Chinese using ginseng to relieve stress and fatigue, to the Europeans using goldenseal to fight off infections, plant-based medicine has been at the forefront of holistic healing for thousands of years.

Interestingly enough, much of western pharmaceutical medicine has taken its roots from pharmacognosy, which is basically just a fancy term for plant-based medicine. For example, the National Institute of General Medical Sciences states, “The cancer drug Taxol originally came from the bark and needles of yew trees.”

While the development of pharmacology certainly has its merit, sometimes the cures we’re looking for are hidden in plain sight, right in our own backyard.

The famous dandelion (Taraxacum) has been used for centuries as a powerful medicinal plant. The University of Maryland Medical Center points out, “In the past, dandelion roots and leaves were used to treat liver problems. Native Americans also boiled dandelion in water and took it (dandelion) to treat kidney disease, swelling, skin problems, heartburn, and upset stomach.”

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Dandelion is easily infused into tea that has many medicinal properties. To make the tea, simply pour hot water over the dandelion roots into a cup and steep them for several minutes.

Local herbalist Bill Messenger has had personal experience with using natural remedies as an alternative to western medicine. Messenger had suffered a hiatus hernia, which he was able to cure using a plant known as calamus (Calamus aromaticus).

According to an article entitled “Calamus” written by Messenger for Maryland Conservationist Magazine, “the base of the plant is chewed as a folk cure for indigestion throughout the world, especially in India where it was once the official remedy for stomach disorders.”

Messenger adds, “The oil, extracted from the plant, is used in some patent medicines today as a digestive aid.” Calamus is often found near marshes, ponds, or swamp areas.

Another powerful medicinal plant growing in our backyard or garden is called broadleaf plantain. You may have seen it before and assumed it was just a nuisance. Broadleaf plantain contains several bioactive compounds, vitamins, and minerals.

According to a report from the Elsevier Journal of Ethnopharmacology, “Plantago major l. (broadleaf plantain) leaves have been used as a wound healing remedy for centuries.

They add, “These (cures) include diseases related to the skin, respiratory organs, digestive organs, reproduction, the circulation, against cancer, for pain relief and against infections.”

Messenger says that “broadleaf plantain seeds can be grinded into a meal using a mortar and pestle or they can be eaten raw.” He adds, “The entire plant is edible, though many find the taste of the leaves to be bitter.”

“Sometimes the cures we’re looking for are hidden in plain sight.”

Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) is another beautiful, yet effective plant that has promising skin healing properties.

As the National Library of Medicine states, “Jewelweed mash was effective in reducing poison ivy dermatitis, supporting ethnobotanical use.” Jewelweed is often found near streams or shady, moist areas.

For aches and pains that often permeate our joints as we work hard and get older, stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) may have some promising yield. Brandeis University lays it all out, saying, “Germany recently approved the use of (stinging nettle) roots (to treat) for prostate cancer, rheumatism, and kidney infection.” This prickly plant is found throughout open forests and streams, but it can also make the occasional appearance in your vegetable garden.

Along with its medicinal properties, purslane (Portulaca oleracea) makes for a revitalizing and healthy snack. As Cornell University points out, “P. oleracea (purslane) is listed as a treatment for parasites, a blood-cleanser, and to refresh the

Garlic: Shows promise in fighting heart disease, common cold, and cancer. (umm.edu)

Ginger Root: Used for common cold, nausea, osteoarthritis, diarrhea and heart conditions. (umm.edu)

t urinary Cranberry: Used to trea uce tract infections and to red .nih.gov) aam (Nc . que pla tal den

Chili Pepper: Used for stomach ailments, heart problems, and fever. (webmd.com)

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digestive system.” Purslane is also packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and other vital nutrients.

Purslane is a common garden weed that is found throughout the world.

It is important to note, however, that there are precautions one should take before consuming any of these natural remedies. A warning from the University of Maryland Medical

Center states, “Herbs can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, herbs should be taken with care, under the supervision of a health care provider qualified in the field of botanical medicine.”

Considering that just about everything we consume and use comes either directly or indirectly from

plants, it’s no surprise that there are powerful cures throughout the natural world. Whether it’s for a common headache or a more serious disease, plant-based medicine could very well have the cure to our bodily ailments.

As the philosopher Voltaire once said, “The art of medicine consists of amusing the patient while nature cures the disease.”

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine nccam.nih.gov

University of Maryland Medical Center www.umm.edu

Plants for a Future www.pfaf.org

Calamus Used for indigestion/stomach disorders.

Found near streams, creeks, and marshes.

Jewelweed Used for poison ivy and other skin irritations.

Found near streams, creeks, ditches, and moist/shady areas.

Dandelion Used for stomach, liver, kidney and skin problems. Found as a common weed in gardens, forests, and many other areas.

Stinging Nettle Used for aches and pains and some diseases. Found as a flowering perennial throughout moist landscapes.

Purslane Used to help with digestion and to kill parasites. Found in gardens, forests, and other landscapes.

Broadleaf Plantain Used for skin problems and to help fight some diseases. Found as a common garden weed in many areas.

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SPRING 2015 | Owl Magazine

FASHION

Sustainable Fashion Cleaning up a Polluted Industry

By Georgina Cammayo | Photography by John Morin | Owl Staff

A survey in Huffington Post claims that the average woman has $550 worth of unworn clothing in her closet. Factor in an environmental perspective, and that’s about $550 spent on unused items by one woman alone.

Fashion is a multi-billion dollar industry that is constantly targeted by environmentalists due to its long history of involvement in toxic additives, wasteful production, and animal-testing practices.

Today, more companies are devising their own eco-friendly approach, giving in to consumers’ demand to go green.

This breakthrough can be attributed to international organizations like Ecotece, which urge a growing sensitivity towards the earth.

After learning about this partnership, nursing major Ryan Hamby says, “I think it’s very responsible that companies are taking their time, energy, and effort to be responsible and smart with how they treat the planet.”

Nike, which was slammed with several sweatshop controversies in the past, has since come up with clever tactics to regain consumer trust. Programs and innovations unique to

Blue Sky creates gorgeous patchwork tops by using low impact dye and fabrics that are recycled, repurposed, and upcycled.

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the company include Reuse-a-Shoe, which grinds old sneakers into playground turf and in turn, trims waste from production and increases the use of sustainable materials. They’ve also devised Flyknit products that promote efficiency by making every stitch in the shoe count.

Other popular brands participating in the movement include TOMS shoes, which offer a vegan collection that prohibits the use of animal products, and H&M, that advocates the use of natural fibers such as hemp, jute, and silk, as well as other recycled materials.

On a smaller scale, local names in Maryland have also joined this environmental revolution.

Sweet Pepita is a Baltimore-based company that promotes fabric recycling. The owner, Shannon Delanoy,

an interview with Baltimore Magazine, Brownstein says “[There’s] a growing community in Baltimore that is looking for alternative opportunities to enjoy clothing designed without the traditional sweatshop, harsh chemical label attached to it.”

Hope Daugherty, a history major, praises the ongoing trend of preserving nature through fashion. However, she admits that at the moment, she is more “wallet-conscious” than environmentally conscious, stating, “I absolutely want to support them as much as I can, when I can, when I have the money to, but there’s only so much I could do on a limited budget.”

The popular belief that anything labeled as green or organic is more expensive than other mass-produced items can definitely throw people off.

“Local shops and designers in Maryland have joined this environmental revolution.”

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Perhaps a viable solution, then, is to continue pushing fashion companies to make these products more accessible and thus, more affordable. Doing so will help consumers make environmentally conscious decisions without having to compromise style or quality.

More importantly, look into small local businesses that are up against other larger mainstream competition.

Their valiant strides to promote sustainability and establish ethical standards are worthy of attention.

So the next time you go shopping, consider opting for eco-friendly, fair trade fashion. The money you put in today could very well be a long-term investment for the future.

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encourages parents to send in their favorite old t-shirts to be reconstructed with organic cotton to produce customized clothing for their little ones.

Blue Sky of Chester, Maryland makes bohemian-themed clothing, handbags, and accessories for women by using low-impact dye, organic cotton, and recycled materials. Their production process and goal of fair trade (humane working conditions) ensures both the social and environmental responsibility of the company.

As the owner of The Joshua Tree boutique, Joshua Brownstein shares that his ultimate dream is to own a full clothing and accessory line that would serve the Maryland community. In

rends in s and t w e n t s nd a the late ade fashion a enTo get r t dv ir n nd fa nd s a green a ticipating bra ionworld. ar sh list of p se visit ecofa n.com. a le hio s p , fa s r do ndly ecofrie r o m o c nd stores a e local : s d e n h t la t y ar ou Check mpanies in M co online

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Spring 2015 | Owl Magazine

TRAVEL

A Night in a Tree House

By Samantha Hauf & Matt Tennyson | Owl Staff

The newly designed and custom-built “Hobbit House” was inspired by The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Maple Tree Campground may seem like an unusual vacation spot, but for many vacationers, sleeping in a tree house surrounded by nature is just the getaway they need. Only an hour and forty-five minute drive west of Bel Air, the campground is located in a rural part of Washington County, Maryland.

Founded in 1971 by Phyllis Soroko, Maple Tree Campground has grown into their niche. The

activities. Whether it’s hosting your own music jam, organizing your own sporting activity, or just exploring the wilderness, there’s always an adventure waiting to be discovered.

Campground amenities include indoor and outdoor showers, a dumpster, and a camp shop that sells firewood, food, water, ice, and camping supplies. Prices range from $22 a night to $149 a night depending

to fuel your desire for excitement, there are also opportunities for white water rafting, tubing, horseback riding, fishing and more, all within 10 minutes of the campsite.

Lauren Pinckney, an HCC student majoring in psychology, says she “loves going to Maple Tree. When I went in the fall, they had many events going on such as haunted hayrides; it was awesome!”

In addition to local hayrides, there are several local farms, vineyards, and orchards nearby where there are opportunities to pick blueberries, apples, pumpkins, and more.

Maple Tree is also a renowned location for scenic and memorable weddings. Louise Soroko, daughter of Phyllis Soroko and current owner of Maple Tree, says, “we’ve had some really magical events and weddings, you know, the ones where the sun shines at just the right moment.”

Soroko adds, “Every weekend is different. There is almost always a peaceful and loving atmosphere at Maple Tree.”

Maple Tree Campground is not just a summer getaway spot; it’s also the bedrock of magical memories for people year-round.

“Every weekend is different. There is almost always a peaceful and loving atmosphere at Maple Tree.” campground offers a variety of camping arrangements including tree houses, tree cottages, tent sites, and even a “Hobbit House.”

As you venture into the natural realm at Maple Tree, you’ll find a variety of exciting and adventurous

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on the amount of people and the accommodations.

There are also a number of venturesome locations nearby, such as the Appalachian Trail, Harper’s Ferry, Antietam Battlefield, and Crystal Grotto Caverns. If that isn’t enough

Staying at Maple Tree is unique, fun, and relaxing all at the same time. If you are on a budget this summer and want to do something that is out of the ordinary, take the short trip to Maple Tree Campground and “let the forest be with you.”

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Ready to transfer? It's simple!

Be transformed at Notre Dame of Maryland University's Women's College. We make it easy to transfer credits and complete your degree on time. We offer programs in business, communications, education, international studies, nursing, marketing and more.

Go to ndm.edu/womenscollege for more information.

4701 North Charles Street | Baltimore, Maryland 21210 ndm.edu | 410-532-5330

Visit

Bringing the stories of Harford to you 401 Thomas Run Road Bel Air, MD 21015 www.harford.edu/hays-heighe-house 443-412-2539 Open Hours: Tuesdays, 1 - 3 p.m.

Fridays, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

First Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

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2015 Spring Student Activities Calendar Feb 18 - SGA Forum w/ Billy Lehr 12 PM @ Globe Cafe Feb 19 - MSA Open Mic Night 5 PM @ Globe Cafe Feb 19 - Finding Your Roots Screening & Luncheon 11:30 AM @ SC 243 Feb 23 - Karaoke & Cookies 11 AM @ Globe Cafe Feb 24 - SGA Forum w/ Rachael Ermatinger 11 AM @ Globe Cafe Feb 27 - National Great Blacks in Wax Museum 10 AM Sign-Up in OSA Mar 2 - SGA Forum w/ Smit Shah 3:30 PM @ Globe Cafe Mar 4 - Uno Tournament 11AM @ Globe Cafe Mar 12 - SGA Forum w/ Chandler Kozlowski 11 AM @ Globe Cafe Mar 17 - St. Patricks Day Luncheon - LIVE MUSIC 12 PM @ Globe Cafe Mar 18 - SGA Forum w/ Billy Lehr 12 PM @ Globe Cafe Mar 18 - DUI Simulator 10 AM @ Globe Cafe Mar 19 - DUI Simulator 10 AM @ Globe Cafe Mar 19 - MSA Open Mic Night 5-7 PM @ Globe Cafe Mar 20 - Soar2Succes Luncheon & Art Exhibit 11:30 AM @ SC 243 Mar 26 - New York City (Ellis Island and UN) 7 AM Sign-Up @ OSA Mar 30 - SGA Forum w/ Smit Shah 3:30 PM @ Globe Cafe Apr 1 - Opening Day for SGA Executive Board Applications Info @ OSA

Apr 15 - SGA Forum w/ Billy Lehr 12 PM @ Globe Cafe Apr 16 - MSA Open Mic Night 5-7 PM @ Globe Cafe Apr 21 - SGA Forum w/ Rachael Ermatinger 11 AM @ Globe Cafe Apr 21 - Soar2Succes Luncheon 11:30 AM @ SC 243 Apr 26 - Trip to see Wicked in Baltimore Sign-Up @ OSA Apr 27 - SGA Forum w/ Smit Shah 3:30 PM @ Globe Cafe May 7 - SGA Forum w/ Chandler Kozlowski 10 AM @ Globe Cafe

Locations and times of events are subject to change.

Please check www.facebook.com/studentactivities or call Student Activities at 22 443-412-2140 for the most accurate program information.

Programs, unless otherwise noted, are offered for HCC-Registered Credit Students.

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Apr 9 - SGA Forum w/ Chandler Kozlowski 10 AM @ Globe Cafe

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Owl Magazine | SPORTS

Timber! Cirque Alfonse March 8 @ 3PM Amoss Center Reserved Seating, $15-20 Sunday Afternoon Concert Series February 22 & April 12 @ 3 PM Joppa Hall With a Bang February 27, 28 & March 6, 7 @ 8 PM March 1,8 @ 3 PM Black Box Theater Jim Henson’s Sid the Science Kid LIVE February 28 @ 12:30 & 4:30 PM Amoss Center Fiddler on the Roof March 13, 14, 20, 21 @ 7 PM & March 15, 22 @ 2 PM Chesapeake Theater An Evening of Jazz March 13 & May 1, 15 @ 8 PM Joppa Hall

Miss Nelson is Missing April 10 @ 7 PM Amoss Center Brass Transit: The Music of Chicago April 11 @ 7:30 PM APGFCU Arena Rhythmic Circus: Feet Don’t Fail Me Now April 16 @ 7:30 PM APGCFU Arena Alice in Wonderland April 24 @ 5:30 & 8 PM & April 25, 26 @ 1 & 4 PM Chesapeake Theater Reefer Madness April 24, 25 & May 1, 2 @ 8 PM & April 26 & May 3 @ 3 PM Black Box Theater

Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale May 1 @ 7 PM Amoss Center An Evening of Chamber Music May 11 @ 7 PM Joppa Hall Comedy Night Save the Date!

May 16 @ 7:30 PM Amoss Center The Hit Men May 30 @ 7 PM APGFCU Arena The Wizard of Oz June 5, 6, 12, 13 @ 7 PM & June 7, 14 @ 2 PM Chesapeake Theater

Visit tickets.harford.edu for more information.

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