March 2015 Voices of Central Pennsylvania

VOICES Book review pg. 14

OF CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA

Salt buildings pg. 23

Thoughtful. Fearless. Free.

Marriage equality - will the U.S. ever recognize it?

The rebirth of Millheim pg. 9

pg. 20

BANK ON IT A look at the amount of banks in State College With 61% more banks than the average county of its size, VOICES looks at why Centre County has so many banks and if that’s good or bad for the local economy.

Pg. 3

What affects our community? • Why are there so many banks in State College? • PSU leads research into army cyber-technology • A Personal Memoir of a Civil Rights Activist • Activists lobby for open-source PSU system • Mush! The scenic detours of our lives • VOICES Choices • Millheim Renaissance - Rebirth of a town • BOOK REVIEW: Unstoppable • BIRDWATCH: American Black Ducks • Reaction/Rebuttal • Undisclosed location: The LAGuide to memory • At the Torch Club - WPSU: Fifty years of TV• Whitey Blue • Walking on Broad Road • NATURAL LIFE

March 2015

Issue #214

2 | PAGE TWO

Page Two: What affects our community?

This month we are really calling upon community members to come forward and write about topics that are of interest to local citizens and that affect our community.

In our effort to meet this goal, we are continuing to print the fascinating memoir by Charles Dumas which offers our community a personal view of events that have shaped our nation’s history. This article brings to front and center the continuing need to work for equality for everyone, regardless of race, religion, or sexual preference.

Sharon Baney asks and discusses the question: Will the U.S. finally recognize same-sex marriages?

Although many states have finally passed legislation to grant same-sex unions, they are still not yet universally recognized or condoned by our federal government.

Katherine Watt has written about community activists lobbying for open-source PSU system design how the community needs “access to complete, accurate data about Penn State’s historic, current and projected energy usage and fuel pricing.”

Chris Dornblaser’s article is about cyber security research at Penn State. All of us are members of the cyber community whether we like it or not, and we all are open targets

Thoughtful. Fearless. Free. © 2015 Voices of Central Pennsylvania Inc.

March 2015, Issue #214 EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR IN CHIEF Marilyn Jones editor@voicesweb.org LAYOUT CHIEF Amanda Dash arts@voicesweb.org

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In This Issue...

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Got an opinion on a topic that’s near and dear to your heart? send it to us. it might be a perfect fit. Contact marilyn jones at editor@voicesweb.org.

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OPERATIONS

for cyber hackers.

Kassia Janesch has Dornblaser gives us written an interesting some information article about houses about what is being made of salt. In an age done to learn how where recycling and using to combat some of natural products is of these threats. extreme importance, this Mark Higgins gives us an example of a has finally creative and safe way to answered the use our natural resources age-old question: to meet a basic human Why are there so need. many banks in Can you think of State College? How something you would MARILYN JONES like to inform us about, many of you have pondered this as something you are willing Editor in Chief you have driven by to research and share? the twentieth bank Please let us know. We on Atherton Street? Well, you will are looking for cutting edge, relevant receive the answer this month. stories. ■

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2 — PAGE TWO: What affects our community?

3 — Why are there so many banks in State College?

4 — PSU leads research into army cyber-security 5 — A Personal Memoir of a Civil Rights Activist 7 — Activists lobby for open-source PSU system 8 — Courtship rituals in American Black Ducks 9 — Millheim Renaissance - Rebirth of a town 12 — Mush! The scenic detours of our lives 13 — VOICES CHOICES 14 — BOOK REVIEW: Unstoppable 15 — Undisclosed location: The LAGuide to memory 16 — Reaction/Rebuttal 16 — Whitey Blue on Pennsylvania liquor sales 17 — Who’s in charge these days? - Not me!

18 — Walking on Broad Road: Five ref lections 19 — At the Torch Club - WPSU: Fifty years of TV 20 — Will the U.S. recognize same-sex marriage?

21 — NATUR AL LIFE: Herbal remedies for cold sores 23 — Favorite seasoning now a building material

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March 2015

Why are there so many banks in State College?

By MARK HIGGINS higgins3270@hotmail.com First question: Are there really more bank branches in Centre County than average?

As a point of comparison, the bank and credit union members of the Blair County Chamber of Commerce in Altoona have 32 locations in Blair County. The bank and credit union members of the Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County have 62 locations in Centre County. The population of Centre County is 22 percent higher than Blair County, so you would expect roughly 22 percent more banks instead of the 94 percent difference. Further research uncovers additional banks and credit unions that are not members of the Chamber of Business and Industry of Centre County. The most recent data shows a total of 82 bank branches and 5 credit union branches in Centre County.

The average number of bank branches per 100,000 residents in the United States has held steady at 35 branches for years. With a population of 155,171 residents, Centre County should have 54 bank branches on average. The actual number is 61 percent higher. Therefore, Centre County does have significantly more banks than the average county its size.

Second question: Is having significantly more bank branches than the average a problem?

Having too many banks and credit unions may not be a problem.

Competition is healthy, keeps service levels up and financial transaction costs down. If you do not like your current bank or credit union In Centre County, you can easily move to another one. Many counties in the United States are underbanked. Banks and credit unions provide critical financial services on an affordable basis.

Lacking sufficient banks for a local population is a serious problem. In these areas, local resident are often overcharged for financial transactions, and fewer financial services are available. With fewer local deposits available, there is less money available for loans. While it is easy to make jokes about bankers, banking is a low margin business which is critical for the health of a local economy.

Third Question: Why are there so many banks in State College?

There are at least four reasons: Willie Sutton, the famous bank robber, said he robbed banks “because

that’s where the money is.” In the banking world, you locate branches where the money is. In June of 2014, the FDIC insured bank branches in Centre County had $2,650,000,000 on deposit. Yes that is $2.65 billion.

This figure does not include nonFDIC insured and credit union deposits. Banks use branches for many activities, but one of the most important is to gather deposits. There is a lot of money in Centre County, so there are a lot of bank branches.

Second, the larger banks in the region have another reason to locate additional branches in Centre County.

They want to capture college student loyalty. There are over 45,000 students who attend the Penn State University Park campus. As many as 96 percent of them will leave the area when they graduate and move to well paying jobs elsewhere in the region. Larger banks want to retain the students as customers when they move.

Third, during major events (football games, graduations, arts festival, etc.), tens of thousands of outsiders visit the county for days at a time. These visitors need banking services, and our county has the network to serve them.

Fourth, Centre County is developing into the largest concentration of population and businesses in Central Pennsylvania. Of the 67 counties in Pennsylvania, Centre County is now twenty-second by population.

It appears that Centre County has the highest county population between the Harrisburg area and suburban Pittsburgh.

As Centre County becomes a regional hub, more financial institutions are needed to serve State College and surrounding areas. During a phone interview, Bill Hayes, Chairman and CEO of Kish Bank, said, “Kish Bank recognizes the growing importance of Centre County to the entire region. We see additional people and businesses moving to the region, especially as Centre County continues to be a mecca for retiring Penn State Alumni. Because of our focus on banking, wealth management, insurance, and travel services, our State College Financial Center on Green Tech Drive positions Kish Bank very well to serve the continuing growth of Centre County.”

Question answered? ■ Mark Higgins is a managed services specialist and has thirty years of experience in business turnarounds.

In downtown State College alone there are six banks within a two block radius of each other.

Here are how many branches of these banks are in State College

4 4 3 6 3 1

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March 2015

PSU leads research into army cyber-security The group of 17 professors from Carnegie Melon University, Indiana University, University of California Davis and University of California Riverside Penn State Computer Science and includes experts in computer security, Engineering Professor Patrick McDaniel networks and systems, working alongside co-leads an unusual research program psychologists who study what makes – the Cyber-Security Collaborative people effective, how people think and Research Alliance – in which military make decisions, and “how to give people personnel with the Army Research information that makes them make good Laboratory are involved in day-to-day decisions,” McDaniel explained. research.

The academic research team is “Historically people are used to supported by roughly 50 graduate what we call ‘grant models’ in which students, and works alongside 30 ARL the military throws some money over researchers. the wall to a university and they come “When you’re dealing with cyberback with some results. That’s not the security environments and even real way this works,” said McDaniel, who Photo courtesy of CRA world environments, cyber-security is maintains offices at University Park and as much about decision-making as it is at the Army Research Laboratory in CRA leaders. Bottom left is Patrick McDaniel, one of the leads of the research anything else,” McDaniel said. “So we organization and a Penn State professor of computer science and engineering.

Maryland. brought this collection of people together “In general the military saw that and we focused on how do we develop a the risks, human behaviors and motivations, and they needed to develop a playbook for how to deal new science that says given an environment, given a attacks within Army cyber-maneuvers,” to improve with cyber-security threats, which is similar to the security issue, given what we know about the people the Army’s ability to “detect and thwart attacks as playbook that they use for physical threats. And and the computer, what’s our best course of action? well as allow mission progress in the face of ongoing they just didn’t know how to do it,” McDaniel said, What’s the best decision?” and evolving threats.” adding that Penn State’s long-standing involvement During the second phase, cyber-security McDaniel said it has “been very successful thus in military research helped the university become technology created by the research alliance will far,” as academic researchers have been working the CRA’s lead institution. be deployed in military operations, McDaniel with US Army researchers involved with operations The consortium (cra.psu.edu) is funded for 10 said, adding that the research will provide tools in Iraq and Afghanistan to map how technology has years: $24 million for each five-year period, totaling to respond quickly to cyber attacks, so companies, been used in field missions, and how cyber-attackers $48 million, and started its work in September 2013. organizations and citizens can be better prepared. ■ have exploited vulnerabilities.

According to the cyber-security project website, Christopher Dornblaser is a journalism major at “We’re starting to understand the impacts of the the program works to “understand and model Penn State attacks,” McDaniel said.

By CHRISTOPHER DORNBLASER czd5134@psu.edu

Home of the 9-to-5 No-Repeat Workday VOICES AD: 5” X 5-1/2”

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March 2015

Personal Memoir of a Civil Rights Activist Part 4 - FIFTY YEARS LATER - REUNION AND REBIRTH

unrest on college campuses. Many young people who had been involved cxd28@psu.edu in the struggle for civil rights became “Time moves on, alas no, we move involved in the struggle against on, time stays.”- Fountain of Time. the war and for academic freedom.

Mario Savio, a leader of the Berkeley Jackson Park Fountain, Chicago.

To some of us the fifty years from Free Speech Movement (FSM), was 1964 until now seems to have flashed a veteran of Mississippi Summer as by forming changing landscapes and were many of the activists from the passages of time. In order to better Columbia University protests. Other understand those passages and young people active in the Movement changes I need to package those years remained involved in mainstream into discrete but connected moments politics, hoping to change policies of history, which reflect my own from the inside/out.

I did both. As an activist I became experiences and journey. I was never a involved in the struggle against racial major leader in the Movement. Rather discrimination in hiring in the Bay I was a foot soldier, and at times, at area.

To recruit for our picket lines we best, a Sargent called upon to facilitate a foray on a battleground for freedom. recruited students from the University I was also a witness to some of the of California at Berkeley. This angered the trustees more important moments of the University in the unfolding of that and they forced the struggle. There are many administration to close ways to tell the story, many down our recruiting factors, which go into tables. The students creating an historic event. protested and FSM To tell the story from my was born. We also perspective, of the Civil organized voter Rights Movement from registration campaigns fifty years ago till now I in poor and working have chosen to segment it class communities. into Presidential Periods: Soon after the Democratic Convention 1965- 1968 LYNDON Martin Luther King JOHNSON CHARLES DUMAS was awarded the Nobel Despite his fears of loosing to Goldwater, Theater Professor, PSU Peace Prize which he accepted “…on behalf of Johnson won the a civil rights movement presidency by a landslide which is moving with determination with 61.05 percent of the vote. At the and a majestic scorn for risk and time, it was the widest popular margin danger to establish a reign of freedom in the 20th century – more than 15.95 million votes. The only States he did and a rule of justice.” The Voting not carry were the five in the Deep Rights Act of 1965 opened the door South and Arizona, Goldwater’s home throughout the South for campaigns state. Voters also gave Johnson the to enfranchise African-Americans.

King also began to address another largest majorities in Congress since root cause of oppression in America, FDR’s election in 1936 – a Senate with poverty.

Johnson’s War on Poverty was a 68-32 majority and a house with a failing.

Forty to sixty million (a quarter 295-140 Democratic margin. He used his mandate to get the Voting Rights to a third) Americans lived below the Act of 1965 through Congress and to poverty line during the greatest period of economic prosperity the country continue the War on Poverty.

Unfortunately the program to had ever seen. Senator Bobby Kennedy reduce or eliminate poverty in America had urged King “to bring the poor was undermined by the cost of the people to Washington to make hunger War in Viet Nam. The War was also and poverty visible since the country’s responsible for eroding the popularity attention had turned to the Vietnam of one of the most powerful Presidents War and put poverty and hunger on of the 20th Century. In order to conduct the back burner.” SCLC and Dr. King the War, Johnson reinstituted the begin to address the issue. He planned draft which contributed to fomenting to bring the poor to D.C. He said, “We ought to come in mule carts, in old

By CHARLES DUMAS

trucks, any kind of transportation people can get their hands on. People ought to come to Washington, sit down if necessary in the middle of the street and say, ‘We are here; we are poor; we don’t have any money; you have made us this way...and we’ve come to stay until you do something about it.’”

I accompanied my mentor and parish priest to an organizing meeting for the Poor Peoples Campaign (PPC), which had been called by SCLC. The plan was to bring thousands of poor people to DC to lobby Congress for an Economic Bill of Rights which would include five planks: 1) A meaningful job at a living wage, 2) A secure and adequate income for all those unable to find or do a job, 3) Access to land for economic uses, 4) Access to capital “for poor people and minorities to promote their own businesses”, 5) Ability for ordinary people to “play a truly significant role” in the government.

In addition to SCLC and SNCC, the effort was endorsed by many organizations: “The National Welfare Rights Organization and the American Friends Service Committee were key partners in the campaign’s organizing, including developing demands, fundraising, and recruitment, The American Federation of Teachers promised to set up “freedom schools” for children in the camps; the National Association of Social Workers also said it would help with child care. The Youth International Party held its own rallies in support. The campaign received an endorsement from the YMCA. Volunteer advocates from the Peace Corps and VISTA formed a Speakers Bureau, which helped publicize the Campaign and educate outsiders.”

(Wikipedia, accessed 2/15/15) As plans for the PPC began to coalesce King was called to Memphis to support the Sanitation Workers strike in March 1968. He considered his efforts there to be a major part of the PPC. J. Edgar Hoover considered the PPC plan to bring thousands of poor people to occupy Washington and lobby for the economic bill of rights a serious threat to national security.

Under a clandestine program called POCAM his agents around the country attempted to disrupt the PPC through intimidation and misinformation.

President Johnson wasn’t too happy either. He mobilized 20,000 troops to defend the capital in case the PPC posed a threat.

On April 4 Dr. King was killed

by James Earl Ray, a lone gunman.

King’s brutal killing sparked riots in 150 American cities and almost smothered The Movement. Amidst the despair and mourning after his death there was a dearth of leadership.

The PPC never really got started. On May 21, we did ride into Washington on our mule drawn wagons. A few thousand of us poor people did set up Resurrection City in order to lobby for the Economic Bill of Rights. Our occupation lasted until June 24 when the rain, deplorable conditions, and a thousand police officers shut down the encampment. Along the way on June 5 another supporter for the rights of poor people, Senator Bobby Kennedy was assassinated by another lone gunman.

Because of the long prevailing policies of racial exclusion in America, progress in civil rights were often measured by “firsts”. In 1965 Bill Cosby was the first Black in a starring role on television when he appeared in I SPY. The following year Nichelle Nicholas became the first Black woman to have a major role on TV in STAR TREK. A year later she made history when she participated in TV’s first interracial kiss when she kissed William Shatner.

Only a few years before Petula Clark had created a major scandal when she touched Harry Belafonte’s arm when they sang a song together on her TV show.

In 1966 Edward Brooke of Massachusetts became the first Black US Senator since Reconstruction. He was a Republican. Two years later Shirley Chisholm from Brooklyn became the first Black woman elected to Congress. In 1972 she made more history by becoming the first African-American to become a candidate for the Presidency. In 1967 Johnson appointed NAACP attorney Thurgood Marshall to the US Supreme Court. Also on the SCOTUS legal front Loving v. Virginia made laws against interracial marriage, which existed in many Southern states, unconstitutional.

1968 was a memorable and tragic year in American history. Both Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy were assassinated. RFK was killed just after a victorious California primary

see memoir, pg. 6

6| from memoir, pg. 5 victory, which would have most assuredly given him the Democratic Party’s nomination for President at the Convention, which was to be held in Chicago. I remember running into Abby Hoffman, one of the YIPPIE leaders, in New York before the Convention. He told me that they were going to Chicago to protest. They were going to take over the City. “Days of Rage”, he called it. I told him, “Abby, I’m from Chicago. Daley runs that City like an emperor. You’re crazy, if you think he is going to let you take over his city.”

I was right. Between Daley, the police, riots, assassinations, student protests, the escalating war in Viet Nam mirrored by an increasingly militant antiwar movement, the Democratic National Convention held in Chicago was a study in chaos and confusion. The Democrats lost their center, their minds and the general election in November.

1969-1976 NIXON/FORD Richard Nixon had narrowly lost to John Kennedy in 1960. He drifted off into relative obscurity.

In 1968, promising to bring order to chaos, he made his comeback by soundly whipping Hubert Humphrey, the sitting Vice President. His administration was marked with several milestones; opening the door to the People’s Republic of China, ending the war in Viet Nam and, of course Watergate which led to his resignation and a return to the dismal recesses of the public consciousness.

During his time in office, the Congressional Black Caucus was formed. It was made up of all the sitting Black legislators. Originally there were nine members. Today there are fortythree in the CBC. The Supreme Court, in Swann v. Mecklenburg, upheld the legality of busing to achieve school desegregation. When I worked as a caseworker intern for Congressman Rangel, a second term co-founder of the CBC, in 1975, I represented him at an antiracist rally in Boston. It was a violent time. School busing radicalized even the friends of the Movement.

In 1970 Bobby Seale, head of the Black Panther Party was indicted and acquitted in New Haven for the murder of a police informant. Many of us came to support and protest. Yale students and administration, particularly the Chaplain William Sloane Coffin and President Kingman Brewster were cordial and respected our citizens’ rights. We were fed, housed and

March 2015 allowed to engage in dialogue about and other Arab forces which changed a wide range of subjects. The Green the face of middle-eastern politics. In became what had been originally 1970 Charles Gordone became the first intended, a place where citizens could African-American to win a Pulitzer openly express their grievances. Prize for drama with his play, NO Yale’s treatment brought a sense of PLACE TO BE SOMEBODY. In 1973 justice even to the streets around the Governor Nelson Rockefeller of New courthouse. On the other hand, the York instituted severe penalties for FBI took the opportunity, through its drug possession, this greatly impacted COINTELPRO program, to increase incarceration rates, particularly for its efforts to dismantle and discredit young Black males. A year later Ford civil rights and militant Black appointed him Vice President of the empowerment organizations. Fred United States.

Hampton, another Panther leader was killed by police in Chicago.

1977-1980 JIMMY CARTER In 1972 George Wallace, the racist The Watergate scandal pierced the Governor of Alabama, made another veil of national political corruption. bid for the American Presidency. In President Ford, Nixon’s successor 1968 he had carried the five Deep could not distance himself from it.

South States with He was beaten his American in the general Independent election by the In 1973 Governor Nelson Party. In 1972 as relative unknown Rockefeller of New York a Democrat he Governor of won the Florida Georgia, James instituted severe penalties for and several Carter. Carter was drug possession, this greatly not Wallace. He other primaries. impacted incareation rates, was a moderate He was shot and severely particularly for young Black to progressive wounded by a D e m o c r a t males. A year later Ford lone psychotic who had one who sought fame appointed him Vice President o u t s t a n d i n g by emulating quality- he was of the United States. previous crazies. a Washington Wallace lost outsider.

He the election but maintained a he crystalized steady moral a strategy of compass, which appealing to the undercurrent racial pointed him in the direction of racial attitudes of ordinary marginalized justice and equality. There were many white working people. It was a strategy former activists from the Movement in utilized by several candidates in future his administration including Andrew elections.

Young, King’s right hand, who he Senator George McGovern, a appointed Ambassador to the United progressive running on an antiwar Nations. and economic redistribution platform, Young’s appointment transformed became the Democratic nominee. America’s image overseas particularly Many young college students and in Africa. Often America was seen movement activists campaigned for abroad as being against national him, including the Clintons. My wife liberation movements. Andy Young and I worked for McGovern in upstate was a known freedom fighter. He along New York to no avail. The Democrats with Randall Robinson, Mary Frances were crushed 61% to 37%. Nixon won Berry, Eleanor Holmes Norton and 520 to 17 in the Electoral College. others had been the spirit behind the The only two places he carried were Free South Africa Movement. Through Massachusetts and The District of their efforts and the Congressional Columbia.

We didn’t even carry Black Caucus the Comprehensive AntiMcGovern’s home state of South Apartheid Act was passed. It created Dakota. It was the end of the inside/ sanctions and embargoes against the out strategy. The next year I went racist government of South Africa. The back to school, enrolling in the local United Nations and many European community college. countries followed suit by enacting Other changes were occurring their own sanctions. I worked at the in the world outside of US politics. UN in the Centre for Transnational In 1968 students in Mexico City, Corporations in 1977; the issue of a Barcelona, the Sorbonne, Prague, code of conduct for dealing in South Tokyo protested against oppressive Africa was the primary agenda item. conditions. In 1967 Israel won the Six When I visited the country in 1978 its Day War against Egypt, Syria, Jordan isolation from the world community

A

was nearly complete. Some say that the anti-apartheid struggle was the most important and successful initiative undertaken by black private citizens since the civil rights era. It expanded the influence of African Americans in forming US foreign policy. The full effect did not surface for years. In 1994 South Africa held its first ever-Democratic elections.

Nelson Mandela was elected President on the same day as Richard Nixon was buried.

Carter attempted to resume the progressive domestic and economic policies of Roosevelt and Johnson’s War on Poverty. But the country’s war debt from Viet Nam had emptied the treasury and the Poor People’s Campaign had not gained a foothold.

But more importantly Carter had to face two crises. In response to the US supporting Israel in the 1973 Yon Kippur War, the OPEC Oil Cartel raised oil prices. Soaring gas prices triggered double digit inflation and gasoline panic all during the Carter administration.

There were long lines at the pump and actual talk of initiating war against the oil producing countries.

In November of 1979 a group of Iranian students under the protection of the government attacked the American Embassy in Teheran and took 52 Americans hostage. The President had a major dilemma.

Many in his administration wanted to attack Iran to free the hostages.

Others thought a more nuanced and peaceful approach would be better. My friend, Hodding Carter, had become the spokesperson for the Department of State. He said that Carter, though a peaceful man, became persuaded by the hawks and decided to attempt a military rescue. It failed and the situation worsened. Ronald Reagan, Carter’s conservative Republican opponent, used the hostage crisis to his advantage. He attacked Carter for being ineffectual and wishy-washy.

The hostages were held for 444 days, through the American election cycle. They were not released until twenty minutes after Ronald Reagan delivered his first Inauguration speech. Jimmy Carter became the first elected incumbent President not to win a second term in the later part of the 20th Century. ■ Charles Dumas, a Fulbright Fellow, is a theatre professor at Penn State, a professional actor, director and writer, and the artistic director and co-founder of The Loaves and Fish Traveling Rep Company.

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March 2015

Activists lobby for open-source PSU system

that was ssful vate current campus demand. relations, lobbying and other forms of activist By: KATHERINE WATT a. It Citizen activists think about long-term energy management don’t support the collection and katherine_watt@hotmail.com ican planning issues in factual and emotional terms, and consideration of a wide variety of data-supported eign in the context of other town-gown issues, including citizen-generated proposals. They do support face On February second, the Penn State Sustainability student housing development, zoning and property marginalization of non-institutional voices and heldInstitute (SI) released the Harvard Negotiation and maintenance issues; State Patty’s controlling supervision of local ons.Mediation Clinical Program Report, written by Day; the Penn State’s employee government officials to push a Penn State leaders hire dentHarvard Law students Joshua Fogarty and Tara health care controversy; the demonstrably unsound, fossilexternal consultants to wasNorris.

Sandusky scandal; the Penn State fuel-dependent regional energy convene task groups and agenda.

The Fogarty-Norris Report is the latest in a series employee child care controversy; theof Penn State moves designed to reassert Office of sexual assault rates and reporting Penn State leaders sometimes write reports, but direct omicPhysical Plant (OPP) dominance in institutional procedures; Marcellus fracking argue that the University is the consultants to focus on simply a large organization son’sstrategic energy planning in the wake of the 2013 and the PSU Institute for Natural try’sPSU/Columbia Gas pipeline controversy – a conflict Gas Research; and the recent cataloging and deflecting making internal decisions ptiedwhich opened a small window of opportunity appointment of Margaret Gray through internal procedures. emotional responses to ple’sto establish open-source as the new director of local the school’s position as the the controversies, not on But hold.energy system planning government and community primary regional economic d toprotocols built on a platform resolving factual disputes engine means that internal relations. theof community access to We’ve now become familiar decisions overwhelmingly or developing policy Yoncomplete, accurate data about with a pattern of Penn State shape regional developments. alternatives. artelPenn State’s historic, current behavior marginalizing The people of State College ricesand projected energy usage community members to and their dependent spouses andand fuel pricing. the detriment of the University’s own long- and children don’t renounce our right to selfarter The campaign to close that term interests in institutional and community governance when we study or work at Penn State. longwindow began with OPP’s stability. Public announcements of top-down, We retain the right to protect our health, safety k of“Our Energy Future,” a public closed-door, justification-free decisions and welfare by adopting and enforcing of local cingforum held September 12, spark skepticism and anger among affected laws equally binding on residents, businesses and 2013. The invitation-only subordinates. Penn State leaders hire external University operations. ■ p of“Getting to Zero” conference consultants to convene task groups and write tionfollowed on April 11, 2014, reports, but direct the consultants to focus on thehosted by PSU faculty led by KATHERINE WATT cataloging and deflecting emotional responses Katherine Watt is a State College writer and andJon Brockopp. Another series VOICES columnist to the controversies, not on resolving factual community organizer. Visit Steady State College Theof workshops began August disputes or developing policy alternatives. Penn (steadystatecollege.wordpress.com) for more mma.23: “Community Solar-onState leaders also compartmentalize issues, information. ntedState” was planned by Penn marginalizing alternative ages.State professor Jeffrey Brownson in consultation analytical and problemandwith OPP staff, and facilitated by 7group consultants. solving frameworks.

See our website for all of the . My The Sustainability Institute then hosted a forum The Fogarty-Norris events happening at Webster's omeon September second: a directed discussion of the Report exemplifies both this month and every month. mentWiker-Fowler “stakeholder assessment” of the forms of marginalization, WebstersBooksAndCafe.com oughpipeline controversy released the previous month. proposing one appointed adedSI consultant Alex Wiker had been hired in March, borough seat and one mpt2014 to research and write the report, supervised by appointed “resident” seat thePenn State law professor Lara Fowler. on a 24-member energy gan, Instead of facts, the Wiker-Fowler Report goal-setting committee icancataloged a range of community perceptions and that specifically excludes Used Books • Records • Café • Events s tofeelings. At the forum, SI leaders situated the Wiker- “operational” goals Coffee • Tea • Vegetarian & Vegan Fare r forFowler Report as Phase 1 of a mediated institutional from consideration and March’s Brunch Music ashy.goal-setting process. During the Fall, 2014 Phase 2, ignores the fact that the 8th 444SI staff worked with Harvard Law students Fogarty most significant longSunday Brunch Rocks (& rolls) DAvid Pulizzi tionand Norris to develop “design principles” for a term energy decision for Every Sunday from 10-2 we serve a Eve until“stakeholder engagement” model, producing the the next several decades special brunch menu full of wonderful 15th agannew report. has already been made meals for the vegan, vegetarian, and Richard Sleigh tion Oddly (since Penn State is a first-rate public and (so far) declared carnivore.

And each week we have live firstresearch institution), fact-finding has been placed beyond reconsideration: 22nd music for you by the best musicians in t tobeyond the scope of Penn State-directed projects. the decision to convert The Tommy Roberts rt ofOPP leaders have also consistently stymied the town.

West Campus 29th independent fact-finding efforts, by classifying Steam Plant from coal energy strategy documents as “confidential.” to natural gas and the The Strayers OPEN the week of Spring Break, Nonetheless, the limited public record includes a 30- probable installation of but closing early on Sat & Sun year contract for natural gas delivery by Columbia a Combined Heat and Gas, the new 400-psi pipeline across campus, and Power (CHP) unit at the Normal Hours the conversion of the West Campus Steam Plant West Campus plant.

133 E. Beaver Ave. Mon- Fri: 7:00am - 9:30pm from coal to natural gas and diesel fuel at an energy Financial outlays Saturdays: 8:00am - 8:00pm State College, PA 16801 production capacity far higher than required for for mediation, public Sundays: 8:00am - 8:00pm 814-272-1410 (under Uncle Eli’s)

MARCHt

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March 2015

Courtship rituals in American Black Ducks By: JOE VERICA joeverica@gmail.com I spend a fair amount of time during the winter months gazing at the night sky. As I watch the constellation Leo climb toward the meridian, I am reminded that spring is coming soon. It won’t be long before waves of songbirds return from their wintering grounds to begin the nesting season. For the eager and impatient birder, one need not wait for the Spring Equinox. Some birds, anticipating the coming of the vernal season, have already begun courting and breeding during the winter. One such anxious bachelor is the American Black Duck.

The Black Duck is a dark chocolatebrown duck. It has a pale brown head with a dark crown and a dark eye line.

The speculum (colored wing patch) is an iridescent purplish-blue fringed with black borders. The Black Duck is similar in size to the ubiquitous Mallard, with which it frequently Photo by DICK DANIELS// Creative Commons associates. Both sexes are similar in The American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) begins courtship in the fall. The drake can display a head and tail shake or nodappearance but can be distinguished swimming to attract a female. Then the female must respond, often by her own nod-swimming display. This continues with the by the color of the bill. The male’s bill is chasing away of other males or other rituals. After the bond is formed, mating happens in late winter producing about 8-10 eggs. bright yellow, while that of the female is dull olive.

While Black Ducks are not easily pair bond is formed. or slow moving streams near brush. mistaken for a Mallard drake, they can sometimes Courtship among Black Ducks begins in the fall.

Mating typically occurs in late winter and has be confused with Mallard hens. To differentiate Courtship displays are usually brief, but are repeated its own ritualistic display. The two pair-bonded them, there are a few key features to be aware of. The often. The most common display is the head and tail ducks will float around together, raising their wings first is body color. Unlike the darkly colored Black shake, where the drake briefly dips his bill in the and nodding their heads. They may also face each Duck, the Mallard hen is light to medium brown water, then raises his head up while shaking his head other and begin bobbing their heads up and down. overall, showing less contrast between the head and tail. This is followed by the uttering of a soft This is the sign the drake has been waiting for, and and the body. The Mallard hen also has a white tail whistle. Males may then engage in nod-swimming, copulation ensues. and an orange bill. Another feature is the speculum. wherein they lower their outstretched heads to just The mated pair then begins a series of short The Mallard’s speculum is also purplish-blue, but is above the water’s surface while swimming close to flights around appropriate habitat in search of a fringed by bold white borders. the female. The male may use its bill to flick water nesting sight. The sight itself is chosen by the hen.

The Black Duck is a duck of eastern North on a female of his choosing. These ritual displays Construction of the nest begins a few days before America, breeding in region extending from are typically performed simultaneously by several the first eggs are laid. The nest is typically formed by Manitoba and the Maritime Provinces in the north, males, each hoping to attract the female’s attention. scraping a bowl-shaped compression on the ground south to Illinois and North Carolina. Here in Central The hen has some say in the matter. She performs or matting down vegetation. The nest is lined with PA, they are considered uncommon local breeders. her own inciting displays to elicit a response from grasses, twigs, leaves and downy feathers.

Their preferred habitat consists of wooded wetlands the attending drakes. She may call often and Hens typically lay between eight to ten eggs. perform her own nod- Incubation is done exclusively by her and lasts about swimming display. The four weeks. For the first two weeks of incubation, chosen drake will respond the drake remains nearby and joins the hen during with his own displays, and feeding times. Soon thereafter he abandons her. will aggressively chase away Within a few days of hatching, the ducklings feed other males. He may then independently, but remain with the hen until they attempt to lead the hen away fledge (about seven weeks). from other potential suitors.

If you wish to see the American Black Duck, Other males, thinking they the best local places to go are the Centre Furnace are the chosen ones, will Duck Pond in State College, or Tallyrand Park in engage in short jump flights Bellefonte. They can also be seen in large numbers where they try to jockey for at Bald Eagle State Park during migration. ■ a position close to the hen Joseph Verica is a vice-president of the State where they can attempt to College Bird Club. He received a PhD in Biology lead her away. Eventually, from Penn State in 1995. He has been a birdwatcher one drake wins out and the for over 30 years.

March 2015

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Millheim Renaissance - Rebirth of a town By: MARK HIGGINS higgins3270@hotmail.com Large portions of rural Pennsylvania have been slowly dying since the early 1970s due to the closing of its many factories and mills. Millheim, (German for “home of the mills”), at the intersection of Pa. Routes 45 and 445, was one of those towns: one closure followed another. The locals said the hosiery mill couldn’t get a leg up and the bra factory couldn’t support itself. Burkholder’s Country Market and Hosterman & Stover Company hardware moved to another location.

The population plummeted.

The downtown was dying. Then, seemingly overnight, everything changed.

Millheim became red hot, with the population increasing by 21 percent in the last decade. The downtown is now busy with visitors enjoying the locally owned eateries and shops. So how did Photos by KARL ERIC LEITZEL//Green Drake Gallery this rebirth happen?

Millheim began as a thriving (Above): Art show reception at the Green Drake Gallery, opened by Karl Eric Leitzel in Millheim in 2011. The gallery boasts a first crossroads of the Penns Valley region. floor with local art (paintings, photographs, sculptures and others), while upper floors are dedicated to space for working artists.

The Millheim Hotel’s liquor license was granted in 1794, and the hotel, located (Below): Since 2013 the gallery has been hosting a monthly 4th Friday Poetry Night. Generally the poetry nights feature guest at 112 West Main Street, catered to poets as well as an Open Mic period. The Green Drake also provides classes and workshops for the central Pennsylvania area, travelers. Buddy Cowher and his wife ranging from summer art camp for children, private drawing/painting lessons, to guitar and piano lessons for beginners.

Beth purchased the hotel nine years ago just before the town’s rebirth started.

The historic hotel now has 20 available rooms, a bar and a large dining room.

Nightly specials include pizza, locally famous wings, and lobster (on the third Thursday of the month except in the winter). There is a presidential theme, (and oddly, a chef named George Bush).

The theme derives from the story about President Millard Fillmore who became a frequent guest at the hotel while visiting his mistress, Helen, who lived next door. The affair eventually produced an illegitimate child that Fillmore wanted nothing to do with, so he abandoned Helen and never came back. Legend has it that Helen died of a broken heart and still wanders the hotel, waiting for her lover to return.

The ghost of a small boy (their son?) is said to inhabit the second floor. Cowher said he has seen them both and that they are friendly.

When Millheim first developed, it was a clothing-manufacturing center, working in the shop as a child and is grateful to all any other OIP restaurant). The menu includes Italian with a hosiery mill, bra factory, and sewing factory. of the faithful customers who stood by the market specialties, pizza and sandwiches. Castiglia did not The population grew to 871 residents in 1970. when times were lean. The market sells wet aged plan on staying for as long as the 20 years he’s been Downtown was a bustling, thriving place. Then the steaks, smoked cheeses, scrapple, roasted Virginia here, but he said that Millheim and its hardworking, mills closed and a steady decline started. peanuts, and other locally made products. honest people grew on him. Two years ago he opened Sixteen years later, the first business to buck the Vinnie Castiglia from Palermo, Sicily, found a an ice cream shop next to his restaurant. trend was Penns Valley Meat Market, which opened storefront in Millheim in 1995 and opened The in 1986. Nathan Bierly, son of the owner, remembers Original Italian Pizza (which is not affiliated with see millheim, pg. 10

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March 2015

and conducts wine tastings Wednesdays through Saturdays.

The Winery won two Silver and In 2005, Richard Winebold three Bronze medals at the 2015 wanted to move his jewelry Pennsylvania Farm Show. shop to a rural Pennsylvania Beverley is an interior designer. town. He liked the vibe and They completely remodeled people of Millheim and opened another property at 106 E. Main Penns Valley Jewelers in an over and opened the self-catering 200-year-old log cabin at 110 B&B, Triple Creek Lodge, in 2010.

West Main Street. Richard, who The lodge, which is decorated has been creating jewelry by hand like a hunting and fishing lodge, for almost 40 years, works with contains many family items, such his wife who has filled the rest of as animal mounts and an old the store with home accents, gifts wood and canvas canoe. and cards.

As business increased at the In 2006, local food-pluslodge, the Owens wanted to offer farm entrepreneur Tim Bowser their guests breakfast. They struck organized a partnership of a deal with Martha Hoffman, and investors that led to the opening IngleBean CoffeeHouse opened of Elk Creek Café + Aleworks in on their first floor in 2011. In late 2007. Establishing a brewpub addition to coffee, IngleBean has and sourcing most of its menu baked goods, breakfast items, ingredients from local farms sandwiches, salads, and soups. in a small town nowhere near a Many of the ingredients are city was an unconventional and locally sourced, gluten free and/ risky move. Bowser put together or vegan. a team that has succeeded in Karl Eric Leitzel, an artist creating a popular gathering who was looking for studio place. The Head Brewer is Tim space, liked the developing Yarrington, who has won Gold Millheim community. He and and Bronze medals for his Porter several partners and supporters and Bitter at the Great American opened the Green Drake Gallery Beer Festival. They offer six in 2011, right across the street standard beers, all ales, India from the Elk Creek Café. There Pale Ales (IPAs), and Porters. is an art gallery and public space There are often stouts and bitters on the first floor with regional available as well. fine art (including paintings, The menu features farm-tophotographs, sculptures, and table cuisine. There are standard work in other media) displayed, dishes year round and seasonal and on the upper floors there is dishes depending on what is space for working artists. available from local farmers.

Millheim continues to grow.

Chef Andy Rose was born in the Less than a mile away on the area but spent the past 18 years west side of town, another working in fine restaurants and resorts in Boston, Chicago, Photo by MARK HIGGINS// VOICES concentration of businesses is developing, supporting the local Boulder, and San Diego. There On E. Main Street in Millheim, Pat and Beverly Owens, frequent Millheim visitors, decided Amish community. A former are many selections including to remodel two adjoining properties, Shade Mountain Winery and Triple Creek Lodge. The church is now St. Luke’s Cultural steak frite, fish and chips, veggie award-winning Winery conducts wine tastings Wednesdays through Saturdays and the lodge is Center, a concert and rehearsal wraps, and vegan dishes. The connected to IngleBean CoffeeHouse, which opened on their first floor in 2011. These properties hall. The old movie studio may overall style is “gourmet meets are only a small representation of the increased popularity and business Millheim is experiencing. reopen for new uses. An event rural” that they call Nouveau space called the Bremen Town Dutchie Cuisine™.

With Elk Creek doing great business, other Ballroom has opened across the Recently Amy Seaton joined businesses in town started to see more customers. street from IngleBean Coffee and is hosting special the team as General Manager. Amy is a long-time The buzz spread: Millheim was coming back. events that bring hundreds of visitors into town. veteran of the Centre County restaurant scene, Pat and Beverley Owens lived the next county over The same owners remodeled the UpTexas Chapel having managed the Gamble Mill and Spats among and had been traveling through Millheim for years. two blocks away. The chapel complements events at others, and was most recently teaching hospitality at They noticed the change and began talking with the Bremen Town Ballroom and has hosted music Penn College.

Bowser about an interest in purchasing a property concerts, film screenings from local filmmakers, Thursday nights include free live music from in Millheim.

He directed them to Castiglia who told weddings, fundraisers, etc. local bands. On Saturday nights touring bands are them about two adjoining buildings he owned close The 904 residents of Millheim are working booked, all playing original music. The works of by.

Pat took the keys, checked out the buildings and hard together as a community, pulling in the same local artists, which change frequently, are exhibited. an hour later they bought the property on a hand direction, creating art, growing the local economy, Marty Colyer, local farmer and Penns Valley shake!

Only in Millheim! and taking control of their lives. ■ native, is one of the local farmers who picks up the The Owens, along with their children, remodeled used mashed malt grains from Elk Creek and feeds Mark Higgins is a managed services specialist them to his steers and pigs. Then Marty sells meat the storefront at 108 E. Main Street first. In 2009, and has thirty years of experience in business it was occupied by three wineries as a wine co-op. to Elk Creek, completing the sustainability cycle.

Shade Mountain Winery still occupies the space turnarounds.

from millheim, pg. 9

March 2015

Great opportunity with Voices!

Are you in touch with the local music scene? Do you like a wide variety of music and love to meet musicians? Then apply here.

We are looking for someone to do a monthly feature on local musicians and bands. We also want great pictures.

This is your opportunity to make a great addition to your resume, and meet new and interesting people.

If this sounds like your thing, e-mail Marilyn Jones at editor@voicesweb.org.

P.S. You might be able to do this for credit or use it as an intern experience.

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March 2015

Mush! The scenic detours of our lives By: ELLE MORGAN nlscripts@gmail.com

launches, etc., while still nabbing freelance jobs and juggling time for the percolation, birthing, and nurturing of a new creative writing project. By all accounts, Tara has moved onto the center stage of her own life!

What does it feel like to live your dream? Caimi said, ”I feel a sense of calm. I feel more like me than I ever felt in my life. I feel like I am contributing, because this is what I have to offer.”

When I read Mush, it was clear that the scenic detour to Park City, Utah with boyfriend Nick, the sled dog musher, was just what was needed to solve the “mystery” of Tara’s being sidelined in life, and ultimately to her steady progression toward her dream to become a writer.

What happens to a dream deferred?

Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?

Or does it explode?

Langston Hughes poses an interesting question. The answer is part of the mystery to be solved in local author Tara Caimi’s debut memoir Mush: from sled dogs to celiac, the scenic detour of my life.

What happens when a person hitches her star to someone else’s wagon?

Many women can identify with this. Even if it feels like you are on an adventure, when the adventure is not of your own design, something is missing. Maybe I think it is fair to ELLE MORGAN what’s missing is say that celiac disease VOICES columnist the hero of the story. was the elusive That’s the sense I monster that Tara had while reading was unknowingly Mush. It feels like Tara is trying her battling while trying to come to grips best, although unsuccessfully, to move with her sense of self, and her direction into center stage in a drama that has as a young adult. a hidden and even insidious sub plot.

It can be a completely debilitating Any artist can identify with disease. When people with celiac Tara’s reluctance to step into the disease eat gluten (a protein found role she later cast herself in – that in wheat, rye and barley), their body of a full-time, freelance writer. It’s a mounts an immune response that scary proposition. Before receiving attacks the small intestine. These accolades from an adoring public, you attacks lead to damage of the villi, have to find your own support, while small fingerlike projections that line waiting to be cast, published, given a the small intestine, that promote contract, hired, and, in a word, valued. nutrient absorption. When the villi Tara and I belong to the same State get damaged, nutrients cannot be College “support group” for artists, absorbed properly into the body. originally called, The Artist’s Way Celiac disease is one of the story group, named for the book written threads of Mush. It reads a bit like a

by Julia Cameron, which guided and detective novel. Strange symptoms informed the group’s first year of plague Tara at odd times and with weekly meetings. When I joined the no direct link to anything particular group, Tara had begun what seemed (as far as we know). Her description like a daunting proposition. She had of how she reacted to the Sundance quit her full-time job as a marketing Sunday brunch while on a ski lift ride person at Penn State to become a is an example. full-time writer. On the heels of this “About halfway up, as we dangled decision was the offer by Plain View from our seats a few hundred feet from Press, of a contract for her book. the earth, a tidal wave of nausea arose I was, and still am in awe of Tara’s in my gut and surged into my chest. brave move, from “cushy cubicle” The mountain range surrounded to home office. And now, with the us like a row of teeth, and the valley publication of her book, she has the loomed below like an open gullet.” job of promotion, planning book This is one story where knowing

the ending doesn’t spoil it. The scenic journey of Tara Caimi’s story is worth reading no matter whether you know the outcome or not. It is the process of moving through the reality of it, from moment to moment that is captivating and inspiring.

And knowing the “sequel” to Mush, is an added bonus. What does it take to get your life on track, to follow your dream and become as well as you can be?

For Tara, it would take the diagnosis of celiac disease to start.

Slowly and surely she was able to make adjustments by learning to make gluten-free versions of chicken divan and other favorite dishes. She learned to be non-negotiable about cultural expectations around food, and to explain her condition with confidence.

Next, the road to her dream involved enrolling in an MFA creative writing program at Wilkes University. Here she developed the manuscript which became Mush. And although the first draft was completed while she was in school, it was a laborious process to get it to press. The process involved countless revisions and several rewrites of the entire manuscript, one of which included the addition of 40,000 words and a subsequent final edit that eliminated 10,000 of those

words.

Both Tara and I agree that a metaphor for her life as an artist are her numerous encounters with strays.

It started with a pregnant cat that she prepared a bed for on the porch of her family home.

Next it was a Katy, a stray fox-dog, she picked up on a road trip out west and bought a plane ticket for in order to provide a home for her back east.

And today she has Kaela, a rescue husky mix that she and partner Bill traveled to Indiana for, in a snowstorm, I might add.

It would seem that Tara sees the potential, and the promise in a neglected being. Just by leaning in toward a poor animal, a malnourished body, a story that needs to be told, a dream worth having, with that act of defiance, faith and love, Tara, as all true artists do, ushers in something brand new that wants to be born. ■

Elle Morgan is the Director of The Elements of New Life Scripts and the facilitator of a retreat facility in Clearfield County, Halfmoon Hollow.

She conducts workshops in health, wellness and personal transformation through theatre.

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March 2015

VOICES CHOICES Poet of the Month ~ Lee Peterson

By SARAH RUSSELL voicespoetry@aol.com

Poet… Wife… College Professor… Mother… in what order? No order, it seems, for poet Lee Peterson. “It’s a beautiful mess mostly,” she said.

“We have our children with us for a very short time, really, especially if you have one, like I do. And amidst all the usual chaos and tears, I try to come back to that perspective, to this one moment we’re sharing, whatever that is.”

This feeling is apparent in the new poetry collection Peterson is working on, “The Book of E,” written about her daughter, her husband, and home. “I stumbled into these poems,” she says. “I had all these drafts of poems about my daughter and motherhood and thought, ‘Well, I’ll get these out of the way and then get down to other more serious work.’ But then it turned out the domestic poems were my work, were what I was already writing about.“ Peterson says these personal poems also address larger, global issues – “the baseline normal terror of the experience of being a parent compounded with the whole experience of bringing a child into a world that feels so uncertain both politically and ecologically.”

Peterson says she doesn’t feel so much inspired as compelled to write. “I think all writers, all artists, feel compelled to do what we do, paying attention both to what’s inside and to the world around us, sort of holding those things at once and turning them into poems, paintings, songs, stories, whatever’s inside that needs to come out.”

For Peterson, the compulsion is poetry, although she says in contemporary society poetry is at “low tide,” without much money or support. “But poetry is an antidote to all the empty noise that surrounds us,” she says. “For me, it feels like a reprieve from all that. There’s so much space in poems. Time changes. It usually slows and sort of opens up. It’s all about the fire of attention. These are the things that media overload tends to rob us of.”

Peterson stresses that although the bulk of cultural conversations are happening in different ways and places today, poetry isn’t going anywhere.

“Just go to Webster’s for a poetry reading and open mic,” she says. “It’s still kicking, right here in Central PA!” Peterson’s first award-winning collection of poetry, Rooms and Fields: Dramatic Monologues from the War in Bosnia was published by Kent State University Press in 2004. She currently directs the campus writing center at Penn State Altoona and teaches in both the English and Women’s Studies programs. She lives in Hollidaysburg.

If you would like to be a Voices Featured Poet, please email Sarah Russell at VoicesPoetry@aol.com for information. ■

PARTS of SPEECH I. On the day of her birth, at its moment, I said: It’s safe here, come out— from inside the inside of my voice.

I beckoned her from her known darkness into mine, this foreign light.

II. You speak now—more words all the time.

I don’t know where they come from.

You said—eagle—today.

Remarkable—the other.

As your life is, a thing of wonder, a thing with wings.

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March 2015

~ VOICES BOOK REVIEW ~

By JON VICKERS-JONES castletale@yahoo.com

Republicans and Democrats can come together and dismantle the corporate state, claims Ralph Nader in his latest book Unstoppable, published in 2014 by Nation Books.

The book, filled with well-researched facts, combines his vast political knowledge with his understanding about what the average person needs and wants.

He names names. He tells us who is bought by the large corporations that seem to run the government today. Money talks and Nader shows us how by factually exposing what many people already assumed, that corporations are financing government officials. He gives facts about how members of the government, including the Speaker of the House, are being bought with huge amounts of money that are being placed into their coffers by outside interests (businesses).

In the first half of the book Nader describes how it’s possible for things to change so that a dismantling of the corporate takeover can be achieved. “Convergence” is the word that he uses throughout the book to describe how both parties can actually come together to create a government free of financial influence. For the naysayers, he shows that it has been done before.

He gives examples when conservatives and liberals have joined forces and, against all odds, have passed laws that have helped the people and the country as a whole, instead of the corporations.

In Chapter five, he lists 25 ways in which both parties need to converge to change the system. At the top of the list is to get the Department of Defense (DOD) to audit its budget.

This department has over a 527 billion

dollar yearly budget, and yet, every year the Government Accountability Office (GAO) auditors report that the DOD’s books are “unauditable.”

Congress just shrugs its shoulders. Nader claims that this problem is a perfect candidate for convergence by both sides of the aisle.

Another idea he suggests is to link the minimum wage with inflation.

He says that if someone at the

bottom would start this convergence then it would rapidly gain momentum, because in addition to liberal thinkers, all leading traditional conservative thinkers, with few exceptions, agree that we need to have a minimum, mandatory level of worker wellbeing.

In Chapter six, Nadar lists ten obstacles that could prevent convergence within the 25 ideas he is promoting, and how they could be overcome.

It is apparent that Nader has not only done his homework for this book, but is very knowledgeable about the way people in government think and act.

His career has spanned a broad spectrum and he has innumerable friends and acquaintances in both government and corporations. Without him saying so, it becomes apparent to the reader that they all do respect him and hear what he is saying.

Nader puts up a good case for convergence and the benefits to everyone, if it would ever happen, but his evidence about the financial collusions are so strong that they actually confirm how deeply embedded corporations are in the pockets of government officials, and how unlikely it is that the Democrats and Republicans have the will and the willingness to converge in order to produce a truly democratic government.■ Jon Vickers-Jones is a storyteller, writer and artist.

March 2015

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Undisclosed location: The LAGuide to memory

By STEVE DEUTSCH VOICES Satirist sdeutsch22@gmail.com

My Aunt Lilly is a platinum life master at duplicate bridge, who has accumulated so many Master’s points she has stopped counting. Weather permitting, Uncle Max plays chess in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park.

Plays chess is a bit of an understatement, as Max plays eight different opponents at eight different ouldtables, calmly walking from table to table while he n tocalls out things like “knight to bishop four.” Away ativefrom the bridge and chess tables, however, Max and ed toLilly are a mess. Max might brew a cup of coffee and well-put out his blood pressure medication on a Monday morning, only to have Lilly run into the pills in the thatcat’s water dish and the coffee under the sink on he isWednesday afternoon.

Lilly will go chasing off e hisin a taxi—she can never ableseem to find her car act. keys—already two hours andlate for the appointment nceswith the urologist that houtMax was scheduled Last year, they aderfor. at hespent the entire month of April looking for enceshoes, medication, cell everphones, computers and ncialpets, unable to leave the uallyhouse for a walk in the STEVE DEUTSCH ionssun. They raised three VOICES Satirist ials,children in their raised andranch, and when asked ss towill tell you that they believe one son is still living raticthere.

The couple’s well organized neighbors hold all their tickets for them—sending them reminders about upcoming events and providing the tickets no sooner than an hour before the show is to start or the flight is to leave. Max tells the story about buying tickets downtown for a musical, somehow making it to the theater with both Lilly and the tickets, and spending the entire first act in sad balcony seats wondering why his friends, who were sitting in the second row, had two empty seats next to them. After the show, he remembered buying tickets twice— once with his friends and once by himself, but the final irony was having Lilly remember she had also bought four tickets, although she was not sure where they might be.

In this crazy, over caffeinated world of hurry, hurry, hurry, we are all more like Lilly and Max than we would like to admit, and that is the reason, we at Stevieslaw are please to publish: At an Undisclosed Location—The Less-intelligent-than-averageAmerican Guide to Memory. In the guide, you will learn hundreds of helpful memory tips, among them: 1. Traditional Methods---These include the use of string and more recently post-it notes. The string technique dates back to antiquity—the early 1950’s, and was first used by Wilma Blecker, who tied a bit of string to her ring finger to remind herself that the gas stove was on. While not effective in her case— the fire and subsequent explosion engulfed two city

The downside of post-it notes is their easy availability - most people just steal the pads from work, which fosters their overuse. My cousin Jerry lost his living room wall to the weight of post-it notes, all of them inscribed with the location of his cell phone, which he finally found buried under the wall.

blocks, she will be remembered forever for her idea. Priceless.

The technique is multifaceted as if you have many 4. Downsizing —Remember last month’s LAGuide things to remember, you may use different fingers, on downsizing? Of course you don’t. Read it again, or wrists and ankles, or even different colored as the simplest way to keep track of everything you strings. The downside of the technique---gangrene, own or need to know is to not have anything at all. particularly among the elderly, led to the meteoric Get rid of it! Get rid of it all! growth of post-it notes as a memory stimulant.

Buy 30 or 40 copies of the guide wherever they Post-it notes come in 1014 different colors and have are sold. You are certain to forget where you put the a distinct advantage over string—you are able to first dozen or two. ■ write down what you are trying to remember. The Steve Deutsch, a longtime resident of State downside of post-it notes is their easy availability— most people just steal the pads from work, which College, has a hard time remembering that global fosters their overuse. My cousin Jerry lost his living warming is bad on most February mornings. room wall to the weight of post-it notes, all of them inscribed with the location of his cell phone, which Now, through the wonders of computer he finally found buried under the wall. miniaturization, you can equip every 2. Computer Based Methods—My wife and I feel that “find your I-phone/ I-pad,” is the greatest single thing that is important to your life app ever invented. If only we could remember how and well-being with a gnaat-sized chip to turn off the pinging. Pinging seems to erupt from perfectly arbitrary places in our house all day and that will emit a clear, crisp ping, each time all night. Now, through the wonders of computer it is voice activated. Imagine your relief as miniaturization, you can equip every single thing your keys ping from under the stair, your that is important to your life and well-being with a gnat-sized chip that will emit a clear, crisp ping, cell hone from the clothes dryer, and your each time it is voice activated. Imagine your relief as underwear from the vegetable keeper in your keys ping from under the stairs, your cell phone the refigerator. from the clothes dryer, and your underwear from the fresh vegetable keeper in the refrigerator. All Unrelated political cartoon at the same time!

3. C o u n s e l i n g and Medication—My friend, the renowned psychologist, Iseek A.N. Ifind, told me recently that counseling and medication have never cured anyone of misplacing their entire lives someplace in the attic. What it can miraculously do, however, is make you not worry about the loss.

Imagine you are missing your car keys, your phone and your left shoe, yet you are able to hobble off downtown to your job (which is actually uptown) with a song in your heart and a smile (and some egg) on your face.

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March 2015

Reaction/Rebuttal

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Voices encourages letters to the editor and opinion pieces commenting on local issues or opinions on articles. Send submissions to editor@voicesweb.org.

Letters should be a maximum of 250 words; opinion pieces should be a maximum of 800 words. We reserve the right to edit for length. Because of space limitations we cannot guarantee publication. Letters become the property of Voices.

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‘Black Lives Matter’ is not your to the post-Paterno riots when those are the only using obscure definitions of “justified” homicide If yo incidences of mass violence to occur in recent State and aren’t included in this number. The protests advi Scapegoat Let us begin by discussing the context in which State College police preparedness is relevant to our town. Dornblaser’s article frames the necessity of riot training as a response to the national protests against police brutality. As a participant in the local protests, I assert there was not even a threat of violence. No riots and no hate speech came from protestors. Any violence was from students who stepped on our hands as we lay on the frozen ground or harassed us online with a slew of unimaginative slurs. Based on this town’s recent history, police preparedness is relevant in the context of sports-related riots. The Penn State fans are legion and often intoxicated. There is a higher probability they will start a riot than a group of protestors that are seeking to raise awareness. I want to make this clear, as Dornblaser did not refer

College history. I find it interesting that the national protests were the framework for this article, but the only photograph of a State College riot was of a crowd of violent white students. As for the national protests, they are largely peaceful affairs and it is an injustice to the organizers and activists that stress the importance of civil disobedience for all who gather.

Another issue I will address is the phrase “a few police officers” when referring to the unindicted officers that have gained attention. This is unfair as it downplays the gravity of this national issue.

While only a “few police officers” have been subject to public scrutiny, the movement is a response to the many officers that abuse their power. Additional research would have revealed at least 76 people of color have died in police custody since 1999 (NAACP). Other unarmed deaths are filed away

are not a response to a “few police officers”, this is a response to many.

If State College police are increasing preparedness for violence, it is in response to the post-Paterno riots. It is not a result of the peaceful demonstrations by Black students and their allies.

To suggest otherwise is prejudiced. The way we tell stories and frame the news is of vital importance.

Our mainstream media is biased, censored, and ratings-driven. I remind all to be critical consumers and implore thinkers and writers to be vigilant of how our own biases affect our words and actions. ■ Dellea K. Copeland Department of Political Science The Pennsylvania State University 224 Pond Laboratory https://sites.psu.edu/delleacopeland/

Editor’s Note Editor’s note: Nowhere in Dornblaser’s article did he state or imply that the State College Police riot training was in response to the national protests against police brutality or associated with any race or religion. Nowhere did it state anything about local protests at that time or any threat of violence. I stated in my introduction that in light of recent protests against the actions of a few police officers and their trial outcome, this article seemed even more relevant. I did not state that the officers’ not being convicted was good or bad, or that the protests were good or bad. Neither Dornblaser nor I were speaking about any other situation or time period. The picture was chosen for the front cover because the article was about local police training and verifies Copeland’s own statement that our riots have been in response to sports’ issues.

The article stated that the police are trained for any possible violence from any cause. Nowhere in the article did Dornblaser state that there was a threat of violence or that there were “hate speeches.”

Copeland is right when she says that due to the town’s recent history of large gatherings, police preparedness is relevant. It is especially true in avoiding an escalation of violence and in training police officers to do the right thing if something threatening happens.

State College, like many other towns and cities across the country, has had its share of protests for a variety of causes, and the police have always either kept a silent vigil or dispersed the crowds peacefully without violence. We feel this is due to their diligent training. ■

Whitey Blue on Pennsylvania liquor sales By: DAVID M. SILVERMAN VOICES Satirist dsilverman104@comcast.net I was talking the other day to Whitey Blue, longtime Centre Region

resident and hardnose.

Whitey, what are your thoughts about the proposal now before Pa. state law-makers, to sell off the stateowned liquor sales system?

“I think it would be great! Why should the government be involved in

the sale of booze?”

To have some control over who buys liquor. So under-aged guys and gals can’t easily buy it! State-run liquor stores won’t even allow under-aged kids on the premises.

“More big-brotherism!

More

intrusion by government into what should be private decisions.” ■ David M. Silverman was a child in Prohibition days and is a combat vet of WWII, when he hoisted a few.

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March 2015

Who’s in charge these days? - Not me!

By: MARILYN JONES VOICES Editor-in-Chief Whose opinion counts these days?

If you are a doctor, does your medical advise carry any more weight than the medical advice of your next-door neighbor, Mr. Riley the electrician?

Likewise, does Mr. Riley’s electrical knowledge weigh any heavier than that of Ralph the butcher?

I mean, who’s in charge these days?

No one seems to know. Whose advice should we respect? Apparently, no one’s but our own. It didn’t used to be this way. In the 1950s we all knew who was in charge, and it wasn’t us.

I came home for lunch one day in third grade and said to my mother, “Mrs. Brown said that nuclear weapons could poison the planet and we should not use them. “ “Well, if she said it, it must be right,” my mother answered. No analysis. No commentary. End of conversation.

Yesterday eight-year-old Amy came home and said to her mother, “Mommy, Mrs. Glen said the world is getting hotter and we need to do something to stop carbon emissions.”

Her mother answered, “Mrs. Glen is not entirely right. She is only seeing one side of the picture, darling. Some places are getting hotter, but others are not. Some scientists agree with her, while others think her theory is wrong. It will all balance out in the end, and there is nothing we can do about it anyway. We just need to wear sunscreen and enjoy the nice weather.”

And that was the final word.

When I was little I got a few sore throats and my doctor said I needed to have my tonsils taken out. So I went to his office, laid down on the operating table, he gave me ether, I wanted to die, he ripped out my tonsils, and I went home for a week of ice cream and chicken noodle soup.

Last week little Marvin’s throat was killing him so his mother took him to their pediatrician who told his mother that he needed to have his tonsils removed.

Mrs. Martin said, “I was just on Web Dr. and read that we really need our tonsils and that doctors just want to take them out because it is easy and profitable, and that it really ruins the immune system in the long run and should be avoided at all costs.” Okay.

Operation off, sore throat on!

One wonders why people seek advice in the first place.

When I was ten, my Photo by JAMES VAUGHAN// Flickr dad smashed up his Bert the Turtle of 1950’s civil defense propaganda fame. The short film promoted the idea of “duck Rambler and went to and cover” where you would hide and cover your face under your desk in the face of nuclear weapons.

Rocco’s Auto Repair Nowadays we know this is useless in the face of nuclear weapons, but back the- no questions asked. to have it fixed. He picked it up a week have a clue about my hair. I went to rehearsal he was told to speak louder, later, paid the bill, and drove home.

Last month my friend Sandy the beauty parlor, asked them to style but insisted he was already yelling. smashed her SUV and took it to be my hair, got it cut, went home, loved it. At the next rehearsal the director repaired. She got an estimate and Last month my cousin Renee went to asked him not to gesticulate so much studied it like it was the law boards. the hairdresser to get some highlights and he shoved his arms in the air in She went back to the repair shop and and a cut. The stylist recommended a “Whaddya want from me?” gesture. argued every point, every detail, every about seven platinum streaks to be Three months later he tried out for price until finally the repair’s manager placed strategically throughout her another play and didn’t get the part told her that he had several places front and sides, with razored bangs (“They only pick their favorites.”). to recommend that would certainly and a layered trim. Renee disputed What a surprise!

So the next time your friend asks better suit her needs. She left quite this idea, arguing instead for golden streaks and a bob.

Of course Renee you a leading question like, “Does this confused, wondering why they hated the result, the color was coppery, dress look appropriate for a funeral?” would turn down good money from a the cut was medieval, and it was all and the dress has a plunging neckline, meticulous person like her. the stylist’s fault.

She left angry and is bright pink with purple stripes and It doesn’t pay to be an expert these complained about it for weeks.

I kept shows a lot of tush, say, “Yes, it’s great.” days. It only gets you in trouble. People a stiff upper lip.

In response she will take it off, put on resent it. When I was younger I didn’t When I was a teen I tried out for a a full-length black dress and leave for part in The Sound of Music and didn’t the event dressed perfectly. get it. I figured I wasn’t right for the Take my advice (which you won’t) role and moved on. Last year my Uncle and don’t tell anyone anything. If they Phil took acting lessons (“Even though ask you about their illnesses, what your I’m a natural.”). He learned to project, diagnosis for their wheezing car might memorize lines, use expression in his be, or how to make a mac and cheese voice, and follow directions. Then casserole, just tell them you don’t have he tried out for his first play. He was a clue and run in the other direction. offered a small part, complained that it This way you will remain a wise and was not large enough for an “educated” beloved friend, to be respected and man such as himself, but grudgingly admired for many years to come. ■ accepted it. He showed up at his first rehearsal not having reviewed the part Marilyn Jones is a writer and and thus, read awkwardly (It was just retired high school teacher. the first rehearsal, right?). The next

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March 2015

Walking on Broad Road: Five reflections By: ABBY MINOR, CATHY PIERCE, JOANN SUN, ANNIE PAW PAW, and JESSIE PIERCE Wherever We Walk…

Abby Minor

In early December, just a few months ago, nine people and three dogs went walking. The people talked; the dogs ran; someone said, “Walking with a dog reminds you that being free can be new again every day.”

It’s hard to say why we went walking.

Pennsylvania at this time of year is as inspiriting as a lump of iron. The mountains hunch, the fields freeze.

Even the active limestone quarry near where we walked was still, the stone stillness broken only by a flash of red, the distant snap of the wan American flag flickering above the pit, stuck at the top of the tallest machine.

But there were other things to see: the dogs in their joy, the red-tailed hawk above a white field. And there were things to do: tell stories, feel the contrapuntal rhythms of many feet.

In a certain sense, the walk was a protest walk. We walked for the last time on a stretch of road that’s now closed, that will soon give way to the expansion of that limestone mine.

This is south of Aaronsburg in Haines Township, where many of us live. The week before we walked, there had been a public hearing where some of us had spoken against the proposed ordinance to close and mine through a portion of Broad Road; the ordinance passed.

But still, it’s hard to say why we went walking. Why mourn for a road, a field, a view? The mine operator and the township supervisors tell us that, once the road is mined through and rebuilt, “it will be better.” The road, the land, will no longer rise and curve; the spot will be flat. I can’t argue, really, that they’re wrong. I can’t make a case for rises and curves. I can only joke, ruefully, about whether they’d better not take out Shriner Mountain, too, so that we can see all the way to Rebersburg.

This walk is part of a long story. Not only the story of this town, this mine, this conflict and the people and actions that have been part of it, but also of the generations of Pennsylvanians who have battled over the definition of “better” when it comes to the social, environmental, political, and aesthetic changes wrought by the taking of lumber and oil, coal and stone, water

Photo courtesy of ABBY MINOR

Residents, friends, and dogs of Haines Township take a walk in early December. The road in which the people walked on is now closed in order to give way to the expansion of a limestone mine. Though a public hearing had some of the Haines Township citizens speaking against the ordinance to close the road, the ordianance passed and the road is now currently closed for expansion.

and gas. This is our history; these images, these worked-over landscapes, are with us. I think of my father, two thousand feet down in the North Sea, living in decompression chambers, welding oil pipelines. I think of my great-grandfather, also living in the dark, coal dust in the cracks of his skin. I think of the tin mill, the locks built on the Monongahela River, the old Pittsburgh coke ovens around which my uncles played as kids. And now I think of the open-pit mine, the valuable Valentine Limestone used in the coal-burning plants, the crushing of stone that sometimes rumbles my teeth from dawn to dusk.

Why walk? At the public hearing to consider the closing of Broad Road, one Township resident advised those of us who spoke against the closure to “accept change.” And I do. When I look at my own familial histories, when I look at the history of this place and its people, I do yearn for change. And I think of Muriel Rukeyser’s words from the poem “Wherever”: Wherever we protest we will go planting

Wherever I walk I will make.

A Final View of Aaronsburg from Broad Road Cathy Pierce

The kestrel peers down at us from its’ perch on the power line briefly before deciding there may be better hunting from the next wire, fifty feet or so away. When the ground beneath him falls away, he will adapt, perhaps by infringing on the territory of a sharp-shinned hawk, until a peace settlement is reached. But unlike the kestrel, the people of Aaronsburg are more tied to their surroundings and possessions. We refer to it as home and collectively as community. The relationship of people to each other in a specific place or area.

What then, does a pit mine have in common with the values of home and community? Shaking the earth beneath these houses, regardless of whether or not it physically damages them, is an act of violence against the home and its residents. It is like an unwelcome intruder, rattling the walls

and foundations, creating a sense of insecurity and instability in a place that should be a refuge from both. Even the most objective observer would find it a bewildering task to construct an explanation of the thought process that led the township supervisors to believe this was actually good for the community!

And so the next phase begins with the destruction of Broad Road. The kestrel will find new fields to seek its prey. But the town of Aaronsburg, its land, its homes, and its inhabitants will remain - devalued, disregarded and scarred forever by the desire of one man for power and another for money, ultimately and literally giving Aaronsburg the (mine) shaft.

On Top of the Crest…

Joann Sun

On top of the crest a majestic view of mountains, steeple, valley, sky soon to be no more destroyed by man, machine, greed forever lost into a hole

see broad road, pg. 19

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March 2015 from broad road, pg. 18 Uncovered

Annie Paw Paw in that moment when the earth breathed again it had been opened we walked to touch the earth with our skin it had been uncovered, relieved, liberated and some how turned in on over itself like a molting snakeskin peeling back with the lifting asphalt. came for the beauty and the peace freedom and a wondering exodus when the only last hope that you have is hope in one foot after another “The Path is made by Walking” -Helen Prejan

On “Paradise” Jessie Pierce

When I was a child, my family lived near the Kickapoo Valley Reserve in southwest Wisconsin.

This quirky piece of wilderness had an odd story. In the 1960’s and ‘70’s, the Army Corps of Engineers was authorized to build a dam. The project failed

due to lack of funding and environmental impact complications, and left in its wake a half-finished dam structure, 140 displaced farmers, and over 8,000 acres of ungoverned no-man’s-land. Finally, nearly 20 years later, the community achieved protection for the land under the name of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, but the scars left by the project remain. My father and some local musicians once rewrote the song “Paradise” by John Prine to commemorate the Reserve’s anniversary; the story they told was ultimately a hopeful one, a tale of a community reclaiming and protecting its own. The community in John Prine’s version, of course, was not so fortunate.

John Prine wrote “Paradise” as a eulogy to Paradise, Kentucky, his father’s hometown. In the 1950’s, Paradise was bought out by the Peabody Coal Company, whereupon it was subjected to mountaintop removal. The town was slowly depopulated until the only traces of its existence were a small cemetery uphill from the Paradise Fossil Plant and the memories of the people it displaced. The story of Paradise is a modernday parable, a not-so-subtle warning against the dangers of overconsumption. Lately, my mind has been fixating on this parable as an allegory for the situation in Haines Township.

The Haines Township supervisors have approved the expansion of the Con-Stone limestone mine,

and that means that another slice of our own piece of Paradise will be irreparably destroyed. But the significance of this act reaches further than our own community. The limestone from Con-Stone is used in the linings of coal-fired power plants, and that means for every blast that shakes the foundations of our homes, another blast gouges a wound in the face of a mountain further down the Appalachian Trail. The interconnectivity of resource extraction cannot be understated. It’s not just our Paradise that is at risk, but the Paradise of all of us. Although there are many conflicting interpretations of what Paradise is, the one thing that nearly all versions have in common is that humankind has lost it due to greed. I hope that the citizens of Haines Township will recognize the value of the Paradise we have, and not allow Con-Stone to haul it away.

When I die let my ashes Float down the Green River Let my soul roll on up to the Rochester Dam. I’ll be halfway to heaven With Paradise waiting Just five miles away from wherever I am. ■ Abby Minor, Cathy Pierce, Joann Sun, Annie Paw Paw, and Jessie Pierce live, work, and walk in Haines Township.

At the Torch Club - WPSU: Fifty years of TV By: ARTHUR GOLDSCHMIDT axg2@psu.edu “WPSU: Fifty Years of Public Television” was the title of a paper delivered by Gary Miller, aided by Dave Phillips, to a recent meeting of the Central Pennsylvania Torch Club, an organization of professional men and women that meets once a month to hear a paper prepared by one of its members.

On March 1 WPSU-TV, formerly WPSX, will celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of its first broadcast as Penn State’s educational station. Its first program was broadcast to 124 elementary and secondary schools across Pennsylvania to supplement their curriculum and provide inservice training for teachers. Among its most popular early programs were “Farm, Home, and Garden” and “State of the Weather, the Shape of the World.” Another favorite was “TV Quarterbacks,” starring Joe Paterno.

In its early days, the station operated out of two rooms in

Wagner Building, plus a truck parked outside, using two black-and-white cameras that took six men to move around. Today it has a state-of-the art headquarters in the Outreach Building, and operates three channels, all HD and in color, of course. Its transmitter was—and is—located on a mountain near Clearfield. It must be located at least 120 miles from any competing station’s transmitter.

WPSX formed ties with school superintendents in the 29 counties of Central Pennsylvania, providing educational programs for elementary and secondary school classes. It teamed up with WITF (Harrisburg) in a weekly public affairs program in 1967. They later created a network of seven Pennsylvania stations supported by external and state funds. It is now part of national public television, broadcasting cultural and educational programs in conjunction with many other stations.

Gary Miller worked for WPSX during its pioneering days. He later became Director of Instructional

Media and in 1998 became the founding executive director of the World Campus, Penn State’s online distance education program. He retired in 2007. Dave Phillips was the station manager for WPSX-TV. The Torch Club of Central Pennsylvania, founded in May 1955, is one of almost seventy clubs in the International Association of Torch Clubs. The parent organization was founded on June 18, 1924 by William Bullock, who wanted to form an association of clubs across the country with a purpose of broadening its members’ intellectual and social horizons. He pulled together a group of seventy-five professionals in Minneapolis to discuss the development of a new association of men in various recognized professions.

One month later, on July 10, 1924, the Minneapolis Club, the first Torch Club, was formed. Bullock then set out across the Midwest to promote this new association. In the next decade he and an associate established a total of fifty-one clubs, many of which remain

active to this day.

Today, nearly seventy Torch clubs across the United States and Canada meet regularly to hear and discuss cross-profession presentations. The International Association of Torch Clubs, based in Kalamazoo, MI, provides support services to each affiliated local Torch Club and holds an annual convention hosted by one of the clubs.

The Torch is the symbol of light and truth. The Torch Club’s emblem consists of a lighted torch set in a triangle, viewed as symbolizing the Deity, hence the source of all intelligence.

The next program sponsored by the Central Pennsylvania Torch Club will feature Amit Das, Director for Research and Development at State of the Art Inc., speaking on Ramnjun: India’s Most Famous Mathematician.

The talk will be in Celebration Hall on March 11. ■ Art Goldschmidt is Professor Emeritus of Middle East History at Penn State.

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March 2015

Will the U.S. recognize same-sex marriage?

By: SHARON BARNEY, Esq. sharon@sharonbarneylaw.com While Valentine’s Day has come and gone, the subject of love and marriage is still very much on the minds of many couples living in the United States.

For Ijpe DeKoe and Thomas Kostura, a same-sex couple living in Memphis, Tenn., whether their marriage is even recognized by their state will be a matter of national conversation for many months to come. Ijpe and Thom are plaintiffs in Tanco v.

Haslam, a recent case selected for review by the U.S. Supreme Court. “Ijpe and Thom are very private people,” according to Maureen Holland, one of the attorneys representing them in the case. “It’s a lot for them to put their private lives out into the public, but the issue is so important for their lives and the lives of other same-sex couples that they are willing to do this,” Holland said.

Facts concerning their lives are very public. They are included in federal court documents and may be recounted in our nation’s history. But the facts read as excitingly or banally as any other couple, gay or straight. Ijpe is a full-time reservist in the Army Reserves, while Thom is a full-time student at the Memphis College of Art. Ijpe received his orders to deploy to Afghanistan in the summer of 2011, and like many couples with a partner serving in the military, they chose to formalize their commitment before his deployment. Ijpe and Thom married on August 4, 2011 in New York, and Ijpe flew to Afghanistan a week later. After a nearly yearlong deployment, Ijpe joined his spouse back in the U.S. in May 2012, and was stationed in Tennessee. When he returned, they Photo courtesy of Freedom to Marry found that their marriage did not exist to the state of Tennessee or the federal government.

The above graphic represents a review of same-sex marriagein the USA. While nowadays a major portion of the According to the organization Freedom to Marry, states all freedom to marry, some states, such as Tennessee, fail to allow or recognize same-sex marriages.

18 countries in the world currently recognize samesex marriages. The United States is one of two countries (the other being Mexico) that has regional, recognized outside of the state. a “legal nullity” in Tennessee. In Windsor, the but not country-wide, recognition of marriages Many of the 37 states that currently recognize Supreme Court refused to extend its decision and involving same-sex couples. With the recent same-sex marriages did so after the landmark rationale to require all states to grant same-sex addition of Alabama in February 2015, 37 states decision in United States v. Windsor in 2013, marriages on important constitutional grounds. and Washington, D.C. now where the Supreme Court overturned Given that the Windsor decision was closely decided allow same-sex couples to significant portion of the Defense of on a 5-4 basis, many believed that the court would When he returned, they aMarriage marry. Tennessee, located Act (DOMA). The Supreme take up the larger constitutional battle another day. found that their marriage in the Sixth Circuit Court Court ruled that Section 3 of the Act, That day arrived on January 16, 2015, when the of Appeals, is one of 13 did not exist to the state of which defined “marriage” and “spouse” Supreme Court agreed to hear four cases involving states that neither allows apply only to heterosexual couples, was same-sex marriage, including Ijpe and Thom’s Tennessee or the federal to nor recognizes same-sex unconstitutional. Windsor paved the way case. The Supreme Court will decide whether the government. marriages. for same-sex marriages to be recognized U.S. Constitution requires a state to issue marriage On May 20, 2014, a on the federal level for certain benefits, licenses to same-sex couples and whether it federal judge ruled in and it also led to a dramatic increase of must recognize out-of-state same-sex marriages.

Whitewood v. Wolf that same-sex marriages in the states as well. According to SCOTUSblog, oral arguments will Pennsylvania must allow same-sex marriages and Windsor was a positive court decision for occur in April, with a possible decision rendered by recognize same-sex marriages performed out of same-sex couples, including Ijpe and Thom. After the end of June, 2015. “Wherever you live, this issue state. However, like Ijpe and Thom, an issue for many Windsor, they finally had their marriage recognized, affects you,” stresses Holland. “Marriage is portable same-sex couples married and living in the state at least on the federal level. On the military base, and should be recognized no matter where you are was whether their marriages would be recognized where Ijpe works, Thom is allowed to be covered in the United States.” The Supreme Court may make out of state lines. A particularly interesting issue is as a beneficiary for health insurance, allowed to this a certainty for all couples this summer. ■ whether same-sex married couples should continue enter the base as a spouse of an active reservist, to keep the formal adoption of their children moving and allowed to enjoy the same benefits as any other Sharon Barney is a local attorney who practices forward, given that their parental custodial rights spouse on the base. However, once they step off of immigration law, family law, employment law, and may not be recognized if their marriages are not the military grounds, their marriage is considered victim rights law.

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March 2015

NATURAL LIFE: Herbal remedies for cold sores By: LINDA MEEK stonepondfarm@hotmail.com Now that winter is just about over and along with it a passing fullblown flu and cold season, many are experiencing a weakened immune system. Many also suffer from SDS, sun deficit syndrome, or depression during winter months and are now eagerly anticipating warmer weather.

This is the perfect formula for cold sores.

Although there are many causes for cold sores, more often than not, there is a connection between recurrent outbreaks and periods of weakened immunity, and a long winter season can trigger more than one stressors.

Cold sores, also referred to as fever blisters or Herpes labialis, are caused by the Herpes simplex 1 virus. They are highly contagious, and symptoms may not always be present. This means that the virus infection can very easily be spread through direct contact.

About 90 percent of American adults have been exposed to the herpes simplex virus, HSV1, that causes cold sores. Cold sores are painful, unsightly and commonly occur on the skin around and inside the mouth and lips. Sometimes though, they may break out on the chin, nostrils, fingers, back, legs, or on the soft delicate tissue under the eye. Once a breakout has occurred, it is likely that future breakouts will occur in those same areas, but may also spread to other areas. The herpes virus may also be spread through indirect contact such as sharing lip balm, make up, a towel, or utensils. The virus passes through tiny lesions or breaks in the skin and mucus membranes, and microscopic abrasions that would go unnoticed allows entry for the virus.

The herpes virus is problematic because unlike most other viral infections, where the body’s natural defenses gradually eliminate the virus from your system, the herpes virus lingers on in a dormant state until a stressor compromises the immune system. This is why anyone who has experienced a cold sore, is most likely to experience recurring outbreaks throughout their lives. A permanent cure for cold sores does not exist.

However, there are effective methods of preventing or at least minimizing the occurrence and severity of outbreaks. Outbreaks on the delicate facial tissues particularly need gentle

care and attention to encourage proper acts as a viable preventative option. In healing. Conventional treatments for addition, olive leaf tincture was found cold sores generally include ointments to be effective in healing the blisters, and other topical applications for the confining the infection, and relieving blisters, and antibiotics prescribed pain and itching.

Witch Hazel (Hamamelis to control and prevent secondary virginiana) has shown to have antibacterial infections.

Herbal remedies are a time- viral properties. It is believed to be honored approach to treat many the proanthocyanidins in witch hazel different conditions. They can both that successfully combats the herpes strengthen the body’s immune system simplex 1 virus in test tube trials. and treat diseases. Cold sores are one Normally a topical cream containing of the conditions that may be treated 2 percent witch hazel bark extract naturally with medicinal herbs. Since is suggested for use six times a day for three to eight cold sores are caused Since cold sores are days.

Studies by a virus, medicinal herbs that have caused by a virus, medicinal have shown that by the eighth day, antiviral properties herbs that have antiviral there should be are the most properties are the most noticeable results effective, and herbs that have immuneeffective, and herbs that in the size and spread of the boosting properties have immune-boosting inf lammation. are also a great though, help as remedies properties are also a great Beware that liquid witch for cold sores. help as remedies for cold hazel contains Clinical studies have sores. Clinical studies alcohol and indicated that some have indicated that some will burn when herbs can be used for applied. preventative care, as herbs can be used for R e i s h i well as a treatment. preventative care, as well as (Ga noder ma Herbal remedies for lucidum) is a type cold sores should a treatment. of mushroom with be discussed with immune boosting a medical doctor qualities much like or natural health Echinacea. It has practitioner before beginning treatment. It is important been used for centuries in traditional to diagnose the HSV1 outbreak to rule Asian medicine. It is often used in out that it is not something of a more conjunction with the herb astragalus to enhance its performance. This serious nature.

Here are some natural treatment medicinal herb can be obtained in both powder and tablet form. The options: Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) recommended dose is 600 milligrams is one of the most popular herbal once or twice a day to control the remedies for cold sores. Melissa spread of cold sores causing herpes officinalis has substantial antiviral virus. Patients who are taking aspirin, benefits. Evidence from numerous warfarin (coumadin), or any other clinical studies suggests that lemon medications or supplements that balm is a successful preventative interfere with blood clotting should measure for fighting viruses such consult a doctor before taking Reishi.

Propolis (Bees Propolis) is a resin as herpes simplex. It also acts as a treatment once a viral infection from tree buds, sap flows, and botanical manifests. Untreated blisters take an sources that honey bees collect for average of 10-14 days to heal, while a sealant in the hive. Bee propolis using lemon balm cream can shorten contains antioxidants which are the time to four to five days. Look considered to be the active ingredient for a cream that has a concentrate of in aiding cold sores. This remedy has Melissa extract of 70:1 for the faster quite a long history as being used for wound infection and other illnesses. results.

Olive Leaf (Tinctura olea foliorum) Studies show it to be active against is a natural treatment for cold sore bacteria and other microorganisms outbreaks. Typically it is administered when applied topically.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) orally in either liquid or capsule form. extracts that contain Olive leaf oil can give relief of blisters Licorice within 36- 48 hours, and continued use glycyrrhizin or glycyrrhetinic acid

should be used, as these are the properties that are most likely to provide help in treatment of cold sores. Licorice in the forms of creams or gels can be directly applied to the sore three to four times a day.

Echinacea (a augustifolia, echniacea purpurea ) Echinacea is yet another herbal treatment for the herpes simplex virus based on a study by the University of Ottawa. It is thought to boost the immune system which then defeats the virus. Perhaps the effect is due to a substance it contains which works to protect mucus membranes known as collagen from the harmful effects of bacteria and viruses.

The recommended procedure for administration is to swish about 1 teaspoon of liquid Echinacea root decoction or ½ teaspoon tincture in the mouth for few minutes and then swallow the solution. Repeat three or more times a day to maximize both preventative and healing potential.

Peppermint Oil is an extract shown to inhibit the growth of some viruses, including HSV1. Peppermint oil when applied to the skin for cold sores has been found to be very effective.

Peppermint oil can penetrate the skin and its powerful antiviral properties can have a curing effect on cold sores and quelling pain.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is one of the herbal remedies for cold sores that has been gaining in popularity. It contains the substance bisabolol which aids in the healing of cold sores of the mucous membranes and serves as an antimicrobial as well.

It also contains chamazulene, which is an anti-inflammatory substance.

Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) is an herb many choose above all else due to its antiseptic properties that are very high in natural iodine. Black Walnut can be used both externally for pain relief and internally for future prevention.

Zinc Lozenges - Stress can trigger cold sores and one of the best ways to prevent cold sores is by sucking on zinc lozenges. These lozenges are very good for boosting the immune system and can therefore help in preventing cold sores.

Lysine is an essential dietary protein that can be taken as a supplement or by eating fish, chicken, potatoes and eggs in your diet. Some studies have shown that taking one to three grams of lysine a day can shorten a cold sore

see herbs, pg. 22

22 |

March 2015 from herbs, pg. 21

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outbreak and may also prevent recurrences. Supplements should only be taken when the symptoms begin and for only several days. Consulting with your doctor is recommended if you are on medication. Lysine is an amino acid, and antioxidants are believed to strengthen immunity and boost your natural defenses against infections.

Some simple advice and home remedies that might give some fast relief are: rub ice on the infected skin for a few minutes and repeat as needed. Ice will help to slow the pain receptors and give some comfort. The tannin in tea also gives a soothing effect: apply warm, dampened tea bags to the blisters as desired.

According to some naturalists cold milk has a role in cold sore treatment, as they believe it can provide relief and even promote healing. Simply soak a cotton ball or swab in some cold milk and dab it or apply gently over the sore. Small pieces of raw onion can be applied directly on the cold sores for treating and preventing cold sores from getting worse.

Avoiding acidic and salty foods is a wise choice during times of outbreaks. Foods such as chocolates, peanuts, grains, peas, seeds, oatmeal and whole-wheat are high in arginine, therefore they should be restricted. While the amino acid, lysine has a positive effect on your bodies natural defense system, arginine, which is another amino acid, demonstrates a suppressing effect on lysine.

It is therefore best to limit your intake of arginine sources like meats, dairy products, nuts, seeds and corn. Avoid tea and coffee.

Avoid processed food. Eat a vitamin rich diet: fresh foods with high antioxidants and high complex carbohydrates. Eat fruits and green leafy vegetables. Your diet must include vitamins A, C and E. Zinc and iron are also necessary. Include garlic in your diet. Garlic is a natural infection fighter by destroying bacteria, fungus, and virus in the body.

Avoiding using make-up to conceal the sore will aid a speedy recovery. Make-up only harbors bacteria and does not allow proper air circulation or medicinal absorption for healing. Use a separate towel and washcloth for the infected area; remember it is easily spread. Harsh cleansers and hot water should also be avoided, as they will only irritate the sore more. Cleanse with warm water, dabbing the infected area, not scrubbing or rubbing.

Allowing the blisters to drain and to dry will speed healing.

Applying warm compresses to the area can help relieve pain, drain the blisters, and start the healing process. After cleansing, apply medication to the sore and allow to absorb undisturbed.

Cold sores are a nuisance. They can be painful and very unattractive. Although there are many cold sore treatments, there is no cure. The best that we can do is to make our skin comfortable during the outbreak, and relieve the pain and discomfort during the healing process. But, the good news is that eventually the cold sore will go away. â–

March 2015

| 23

Favorite seasoning now a building material

By KASSIA JANESCH kaj5227@psu.edu

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A new building material is emerging as an ecofriendly way to create an enivornmentally sustainable building that is not only organic, but edible.

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Salt is a constant in our lives. We reach for it when we need to season that dish that came out just a little too bland, rely on it to keep us from slipping and sliding when we step outside into the Northeastern winters, and are even told by our mothers and grandmothers to gargle with it when we are sick.

The one thing we don’t think of when it comes to salt is… architecture.

Green construction is becoming more and more popular with the trend of eco-friendly living increasing and expanding into all aspects of life.

Architects from Emtiaz Designing Group chose salt as an environmentally sustainable building material for a restaurant in Shiraz, Iran. Yes, you read right – a building made entirely from salt.

Photo courtesy of Emtiaz Designing Group Buildings and structures made An interior view of The Salt Restaurant in Shiraz, Iran. The building, tables, bar, and even the staircase are made from salt. Parts of from salt are most commonly formed the staircase and chairs are made from recycled soda cans, making the building completely green construction and eco-friendly. from raw salt bricks -- this can come in colors like red, pink, or orange, not the normal white we see on our kitchen tables. When salt isn’t refined and According to the United Kingdom The material is especially ideal for architecture is still far from being ground down, it is a hard substance publication Daily Mail, a spokesperson the restaurant industry, because in commonplace. However, the idea suitable for building. However, in the for the architects stated that “Salt is addition to being environmentally seems to be picking up traction. case of the restaurant in Shiraz, the a natural disinfectant and the ions friendly, it can filter kitchen smells out Biova, a German salt company, has salt is held together and protected by a it releases also purify and filter the of the air. expanded its business to include salt natural gum covering. air…

Salt Though one building might not help building materials. They sell blocks of The appropriatelysuffers a bad polluted air from heavily populated salt in the several colors, suggesting Though one building might reputation in cities, the possibility remains for a that even private homeowners may named Salt Restaurant was built from salt g a s t r onomy new, innovative, and beautiful way to want to utilize salt as a form of not help polluted air from mined locally, and to its combat building costs and city smog. environmentally-friendly décor in heavily populated cities, the thanks the design mimics overuse in For now, this remains a reality in arid their homes. the organic salt caves possibility remains for a new, most diets, climates only.

If salt architecture intrigues you, that inspired it. innovative, and beautiful way m e a n i n g Though this seems like an entirely you don’t even have to leave the country Almost everything that most modern and groundbreaking idea, to view these amazing architectural to combat building costs inside is formed from people are not buildings from salt have been and environmental feats. The salt the sustainable and and city smog. For now, aware of its around for centuries. There are mines of American brand Morton affordable material – this remains a reality in arid a s ton i s h i n g entire underground cathedrals and salt are located in Saline, Texas, and a including the tables, h e a l i n g mosques carved from salt in Krakow “lickable” salt structure stands above climates only. bar, walls, ceiling, and powers. But and Bochnia, Poland and Punjab, them. It’s 80 years old, but visitors can even the staircase. in fact salt has Pakistan, respectively. In Bolivia, you still give it a literal lick today. ■ The salty chairs are been known can stay at the Palacio de Sal, a hotel supported by legs as a powerful constructed from one million blocks of Kassia Janesch is a senior at made from recycled soda cans, adding health remedy since ancient times, salt, residing on the biggest salt flat in Penn State studying English and to the theme of eco-chic dining especially for respiratory health and the world, Salar de Uyuni.

Environmental Inquiry.

(Treehugger.com). detoxification.”

Despite these examples, salt

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