2014 july&august issue of voices

VOICESOF CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA

Thoughtful. Fearless. Free.

REDSKINS: We’re having the wrong debate • JONES: The unspoken rules of yard sales • Homeless find hope at Housing Transitions • Book Review: HARD CHOICES • Vegan options abound at the Aardvark Kafe • The Blue Grosbeak’s Central PA expansion • The art and science of weather forecasting • Eco Machine: Clean water the natural way • ANALYSIS: Putting Iraq and ISIS in context • Sudoku • CROSSWORD!

July/August 2014 Issue #208

Voices reviews Hilary’s memoir

pg. 6

FarmFest to feature local farms and foods Aug. 1 - 2

pg. 9

Local talend abounds at Centre’s ArtsFest

pg. 17

We’re Having the Wrong

Debatepg. 2

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In This Issue...

2 — We’re having the wrong debate

3 — JONES: The unspoken rules of yard sales

4 — Homeless find hope at Housing Transitions

6 — Book Review: HARD CHOICES

8 — Vegan options abound at the Aardvark Kafe

9 — Free Farmfest festival fun for family, friends

12 — The Blue Grosbeak’s Central PA expansiom

13 — The art and science of weather forecasting

15 — Eco Machine: Clean water the natural way

16 — ANALYSIS: Putting Iraq and ISIS in context

16 — SUDOKU

17 — SPOTLIGHT: ArtsFest to showcase local talent

19 — CROSSWORD

EDITORIAL BOARD

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Sean Flynn

[email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

Marilyn Jones

[email protected]

Arts and Entertainment Beat

Amanda Dash

[email protected]

OPERATIONS

Advertising Manager

Marisa Eichman

[email protected]

Circulation Manager

Kevin Handwerk

[email protected]

Webmaster

Bill Eichman

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President pro tem

Arthur Goldschmidt Jr.

[email protected]

Secretary

Chip Mefford

Treasurers

Peter Morris & Jesse Barlow

2 | PAGE TWO

Thoughtful. Fearless. Free. © 2014 Voices of Central Pennsylvania Inc.

July/August 2014, Issue #208

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last several years, you’re probably aware that the NFL’s Washington Redskins have come under a wee bit of pressure about their name.

As it so happens, “redskin” turns out to be a racial epithet. At least, that’s according to prominent members of the Native American community, social scientists, and, most recently, the US Trademark

and Patent Office, which revoked the Washington team’s six trademarks on the grounds that their name was disparaging to “a substantial composite of Native Americans.”

Now the furor is apparently over whether enough Native Americans are offended by the name to warrant a change.

Opponents of the name cite a set of academic polls saying that nearly 70 percent of Native Americans consider the

name racist and offensive.Fans who want to keep the name

cite a different set of polls suggesting that the number is much lower.

But this is one of the rare cases in which everyone involved is wrong.

The name is offensive to a significant percentage of Native Americans. Full stop. Maybe it’s 30 percent, maybe it’s 75 percent. It doesn’t matter.

It doesn’t matter because the name of Washington D.C.’s football team is pretty damn far down the list of things actually harming Native Americans.

Sure, the name is in exceptionally poor taste. But it’s hardly unique in that regard (see: Chief Wahoo, the mascot of the Cleveland Indians).

Here’s the truth: Eventually, the team will change its name. A bunch of very white people will pat themselves on the back, a bunch of traditionalist football fans will be temporarily outraged, and the world will move on.

And after the world has moved on, Native reservations will still have some of the highest suicide rates in the country. Reservations will continue to be some of the most impoverished areas of the United States.

They will continue suffering under the incompetency of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the woefully underfunded Indian Health Service, thanks to a Congress that decided that the Indian Health Service was a

worthy target for a 20 percent budget cut during sequestration.

Native Americans will keep struggling with a culture that says getting an education is selling out to the people who murdered your ancestors; that getting a job is betraying your family and traditions.

They will keep fighting a losing battle against cultural drug and alcohol addiction, on reservations where drug and alcohol addiction rates are double or even triple the national average.

Native Americans will continue to be murdered and raped at more than 20 times the national rate.

Twenty times. That’s not a typo. The Navajo reservation suffered more rapes in 2009 than Detroit, despite having a fifth of Detroit’s population.

And in response, the feds have cut their reservation police forces and slashed funding for tribal courts.

Yes, we’ll all eventually move on from the Redskins controversy. But whether the name stays or goes, nothing of importance will have changed on the reservations.

Nothing will change because the American public has decided that the biggest problem facing Native Americans is that some white men made them into a shitty mascot.

And that’s what’s truly offensive. ■

PAGE TWO: “Redskins” is the wrong debate

SEAN FLYNNEditor in Chief

| 3July/August 2014

What’s this? I’m peering out my window eyeing the Spiegel’s house. First I see a pink easy chair come out the door. Next there’s an old bed frame. Oh yeah, here comes their daughter with a garbage bag full of clothes. It’s undeniable. It’s unmistakable! It’s the first yard sale of the season! I can hardly get my flip-flops on fast enough.

Every year, by the middle of April, I begin scanning street corners and telephone poles for those sumptuous signs. I imagine all the fine bargains I’ll be getting: a rusty tin watering can for a dollar, an old typewriter for a couple of bucks, a bag of wrapping paper with matching bows for 50 cents. The thought thrills me!

Every year, however, I rummage through about three yard sales before reality hits me and I become disillusioned and demoralized. What sets this downward spiral in motion? The unprofessional way many of these sales are being conducted.

So this year in order to mitigate the problem once and for all, I have decided to share with you the rigorous rules for yard sale success. Now pay close attention, please.

1. Never, ever, price your goods. This is essential! There is nothing that turns off a true bargain hunter more than seeing those little round colorful dots sticking conspicuously to every blouse and tie, toaster and magazine. I mean a sticker on a cup that says 10 cents – now I ask you! Why not just throw it in with the toaster?

2. Under no circumstances keep any records whatsoever. It is ridiculous, presumptuous and irritating. This is not a real store! Just keep your money in a bag and stick your hands in every once in a while to gloat over how much you’ve earned for all that junk you were going to take to Goodwill anyway.

3. Never bag the goods. What fun is that? The true junk collector loves what he is doing and finds pleasure in balancing a stack of Fleetwood Mac CDs on top of a ’76 edition of the Guinness Book of World Records in one hand, while carrying a red tricycle and a vaporizer in the other.

4. Don’t ever let your customers try on any clothes. This is cheating, and true garage salers do not like to cheat. They know that buying clothes from a complete stranger is a crapshoot, and they like it that way. Oh, they’ll try on the clothes if you insist, but they’ll never buy what they try on because it won’t fit.

5. Do not go inside to eat and leave the customer alone. It is disorienting. He does not know where to look or what to do and feels guilty just being there. In fact, he expects you to eat in front of him all over the plastic flower arrangements and the Hello Kitty notecards. He expects to see the crumbs fall into the broken leather suitcase on the grass, and the coke to spill on the fake fur your mother gave you to sell. This alerts the customer to the fact that this is your home – this is natural – this is a garage sale.

6. Don’t price anything using any kind of real thought process. For instance, do not ask $5 for a pair of Calvin Klein jeans you bought last year for $85 and never wore. This is a garage sale. Those jeans lost their value the second they hit the front yard. They are now worth 50 cents. Sell them for that. On the other hand, that electric waffle maker is a complete dud. No one in their right mind would buy it. Therefore, put a high price on it just for a joke and see what happens. Inevitably it will sell for $15, even though you found it in your neighbor’s trash can (true story).

7. Never tell anyone what time your sale is beginning. If you advertise it for 9 a.m., the first customer will arrive at 7:30, and, seeing nothing, will leave and not return. Just start putting out your

wares whenever the mood strikes you and the customers will appear instantly like magic, or like termites, depending on your point of view.

8. Don’t tell anybody you made anything you’re selling. This instantly cheapens the item. Just act innocent. Act like that coffee can with the skirt on it came that way from the store. Act like the dress with the pleats in the back was last year’s fashion statement.

9. Finally, don’t take checks. Even though you are intimately acquainted with the person offering this form of payment, this is anathema to the entire process. A yard sale is street stuff – the law of the jungle. For one day in your life you’re playing it loose. You don’t need to be reminded of the real world. Rather than accept a check, just give the person the merchandise for free. This way you get rid of it and don’t have to lose a friend by chasing him down for the money.

I’ll give you about a month to think this through and take appropriate action. Then I’ll start again on my rounds and hope to see some improvements in your garage sale decorum. If not, I will have to suspend my shopping and do something obscene like go into a store and purchase retail. Now you wouldn’t want me to do that, would you? ■

JONES: The unspoken rules of yard salesBy Marilyn Jones

VOICES Managing [email protected]

4 | July/August 2014

Homeless find hope at Housing Transitions

There is more to homelessness in Centre County than meets the eye.

In a single day in Centre County, 57 individuals have been homeless according to Housing Transition’s January 20, 2014 point-In-time count. Of those 57, 28 were living in emergency shelters, 27 were living in transitional housing, and two were unsheltered.

There are many different causes for homelessness in the area. Two of the most common issues surrounding homelessness are mental illness and drug and alcohol dependency, according to Ginny Poorman, founder of Hearts for the Homeless, a local organization that runs a daytime shelter In State College. Three homeless individuals in Centre County reported they were suffering from chronic substance abuse, according to the 2014 point-In-time count.

Poorman said she frequently sees homeless individuals who suffer from bipolar disorder, depression and schizophrenia. She has also seen some individuals with multiple personality disorder, although she said it is very rare.

According to Ron Quinn, executive

director of Housing Transitions, mental health issues are predominant with the homeless individuals who come to Centre House, the organization’s shelter that typically serves about 15 individuals. On Jan. 29, 13 homeless individuals reported having a severe mental illness.

Another common issue is dysfunctional family life, where there may have been abuse, according to Quinn. Eighteen homeless individuals in Centre County reported being victims of domestic violence, according to the point-in-time count.

“Just because homelessness doesn’t look like what it looks like in your head doesn’t mean it isn’t a huge problem,” Poorman said. “It is a huge problem in State College. Our homeless are just a lot more hidden than in Philly or somewhere else.”

Poorman said that homelessness in the area is also situational. She said that lack of affordable housing plays a big role, as homelessness has seemed to increase with the destruction of affordable housing in State College over the past ten years.

Quinn, however, said he believes affordable housing is only a small part

of the problem.“Sometimes, people mix up the

issues of affordable housing with homelessness,” Quinn said. “They are similar in that everybody needs a place to live, but they’re also very different in what people need to help them not only maintain their housing and stability, but also to thrive and live a satisfying lifestyle.”

Myths also surround what homelessness is and what it is not. According to Poorman, a common myth is that homeless individuals are alcoholics and drug addicts, which she said is ridiculous and false. One common myth is that the homeless do not try to get a job. Poorman said that a lot of them do try to get a job, but in State College, it is difficult when they

By EMMA STUCKVOICES Staff Writer

[email protected]

Photo by EMMA STUCK // VOICES Staff Writer

Hearts for the Homeless, which is located at 100 South Fraser Street in State College, right below Dunkin Donuts, provides homeless individuals with donated lunches, coffee, and personal care products, as well as place to stay during the day. Community response to the shelter has been very good, especially during the winter months.

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| 5July/August 2014

Homeless find hope at Housing Transitions

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Even more of a wonderful thing.Explore our naturally beautiful community with our spacious Cottage or Apartment Homes, a bustling community building, great dining options, plus the added value of life care.

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see homelessness, pg. 5

are up against college students and other factors.

Poorman said she has seen homeless individuals become discouraged after they turn in 18 job applications and not a single employer calls them back. She said it is even hard to get hired at McDonalds sometimes.

“I think a lot of people are one or two paychecks away from homelessness, unfortunately,” Poorman said.

Penn State students have not been exempt from homelessness, either. This year, Hearts for the Homeless had about three homeless students walk into their shelter. Poorman said the students could not afford housing, and the shelter was able to place them in people’s homes temporarily and get two of the students bus tickets back home.

“When it comes to homelessness, housing is basically the most visible part of an ongoing issue that is extremely complex,” Quinn said. “So it’s not as easy as putting a person in a house.”

The Centre House program was founded in March 1984 as part of Housing Transitions, and includes 12 apartments to help men, women, families and individuals who need temporary or permanent housing, according to Quinn. Seven beds are designated for permanent housing for individuals with severe mental health issues. Eight beds are set aside for temporary housing, where the typical stay is 15 months or less. However, Centre House does not give a deadline – people can stay there until they find housing as long as they continue to work toward their goals.

Currently, Centre House houses about seven or eight people since it is going through a transition where former residents have moved into other housing. Each resident of Centre House works with an on-site case manager, who helps them work toward

their goals. While Centre House and Housing

Transitions provide transitional and permanent shelter, along with a food pantry, Hearts for the Homeless tends to the needs of individuals who just need food, personal care and daytime shelter. According to Poorman, the

shelter, which is located beneath the Dunkin Donuts on South Fraser Street in State College, is typically open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., sometimes from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. However, it was closed the week of May 25 due to a large lack of volunteers and lunch donations.

Hearts for the Homeless, which was founded in 2008 and opened its shelter in February, has served about 25 homeless individuals in the past year. The organization also helps with resume writing, job placement and temporary housing. ■

Photo by EMMA STUCK // VOICES Staff Writer

(Above): Centre House, located at 217 East Nittany Avenue in State College, provides temporary and permanent housing to homeless individuals in the Centre County area. It provides two on-site case managers who help individuals seeking shelter there.

(Right): Ron Quin is the executive director of Housing Transitions, a State College-based organization that was founded in March of 1984. The focal point is its temporary and permanent housing, Centre House, and its food pantry, which, in order to get food to the homeless right away, operates during non-traditional hours when food banks are not open.

from homelessness, pg. 4


Hard Choices, Hillary Clinton’s 2014 political memoir describing her time as Secretary of State is, without argument, a thorough history of our nation’s most recent international affairs. At a grand total of 635 pages, it’s not what one could call a “light read.” To read the entire account is to devote oneself to a huge undertaking, which perhaps speaks to Clinton’s demand that her chronicle get the attention she felt it deserved. I had the sense it was mainly going to be consumed by the media – perhaps written for the media.

Unless one has a particular interest in politics that absolutely cannot be satiated, the text can come off as rather dry and unappealing. It’s not that it doesn’t cover issues of great importance – it absolutely does, and in doing so, highlights Clinton’s complete understanding of international events and their intended or unintended consequences, but it is just hard to read straight through. Perhaps reading the book in small sections would help - that isn’t to say parts aren’t witty and entirely enthralling.

The inside accounts of private meetings with our world’s leaders, including jokes, heartwarming stories and tense moments, provide information people wouldn’t ordinarily get from watching or reading the news. The glossy photos placed in three sections of the memoir reignite a waning interest. They reminded me that these were important current events, not old textbook synopses.

Barraging us with an abundance of political language, this memoir reads more like a chronicle of history than a personal recollection. Instead of attempting to persuade a reader to her side, her views on particular events

and legislation are presented almost as fact, as if the average reader would automatically agree.

To be fair, this i s Clinton’s personal

perspective and opinions. That isn’t to say that subtle efforts aren’t made to gloss over somewhat questionable endorsements. For example, the infamous Trans-Pacific Partnership, a secretive trade agreement that by some is seen as an infringement upon intellectual property rights and as a supporter of big business corporations, is briefly

addressed (and supported) by Clinton. However, she treads around it carefully: “Because TPP

negotiations are still ongoing, it makes sense to reserve judgment until we can evaluate the final proposed agreement. It’s safe to say that the TPP won’t be perfect – no deal negotiated among a dozen countries ever will be – but its higher standards, if implemented and enforced, should benefit American businesses and workers.”

The expected themes of nationalism and patriotism run throughout the work. She endeavors to assure readers that America,

despite its setbacks, is, and will remain, the greatest of nations. In true diplomatic fashion,

learned from her four years as Secretary of State, her descriptions of those she worked with, in her

own party or otherwise, remain optimistic and positive. Despite political or personal differences, she acknowledges that her colleagues come together for the common good of the country.

The memoir is, overall, far less personal than I had anticipated. The focus is solidly on Clinton’s professional career. The infamous Monica Lewinsky incident isn’t covered, and a mere page and a half is devoted to her daughter’s wedding.

But who can blame Clinton for being proud of her life’s accomplishments?

The fact remains that she has made history, not only because of her gender, but also because of some traditions she broke serving as Secretary of State; and no one can deny that she is deeply impassioned and seriously concerned about the country she has committed her life to.

So if you are going to endeavor to read this tome, be sure to have a large pot of coffee, an extended period of time and a soft pillow by your side before you begin your sojourn. ■

~ VOICES BOOK REVIEW ~

By KASSIA JANESCHVOICES Staff Writer

[email protected]

In a thorough memoir of her time as Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton’s new

book highlights and gives insight to her decision-making and politics of the

Obama administration.

| 7July/August 2014

perspective and opinions. That isn’t to say that subtle efforts aren’t made to gloss over somewhat questionable endorsements. For example, the infamous Trans-Pacific Partnership, a secretive trade agreement that by some is seen as an infringement upon intellectual property rights and as a supporter of big business corporations, is briefly

addressed (and supported) by Clinton. However, she treads around it carefully: “Because TPP

negotiations are still ongoing, it makes sense to reserve judgment until we can evaluate the final proposed agreement. It’s safe to say that the TPP won’t be perfect – no deal negotiated among a dozen countries ever will be – but its higher standards, if implemented and enforced, should benefit American businesses and workers.”

The expected themes of nationalism and patriotism run throughout the work. She endeavors to assure readers that America,

despite its setbacks, is, and will remain, the greatest of nations. In true diplomatic fashion,

learned from her four years as Secretary of State, her descriptions of those she worked with, in her

own party or otherwise, remain optimistic and positive. Despite political or personal differences, she acknowledges that her colleagues come together for the common good of the country.

The memoir is, overall, far less personal than I had anticipated. The focus is solidly on Clinton’s professional career. The infamous Monica Lewinsky incident isn’t covered, and a mere page and a half is devoted to her daughter’s wedding.

But who can blame Clinton for being proud of her life’s accomplishments?

The fact remains that she has made history, not only because of her gender, but also because of some traditions she broke serving as Secretary of State; and no one can deny that she is deeply impassioned and seriously concerned about the country she has committed her life to.

So if you are going to endeavor to read this tome, be sure to have a large pot of coffee, an extended period of time and a soft pillow by your side before you begin your sojourn. ■

~ VOICES BOOK REVIEW ~


Vegan options abound at the Aardvark Kafe

The Aardvark Kafé is a perfect example of the diversity of which State College is so proud. The cafe offersvegan and non-vegan food, antique shopping and some live entertainment.

“It’s neat working with someone that you love,” Karen Urbanski states, glancing over at her husband, Les. Together the two own and manage the Aardvark Kafé, which they opened in State College two and half years ago. The restaurant sits behind a remaining OIP/Original Italian Pizza sign, appropriate because it still serves both OIP pizzas and hot and cold sandwiches. However, the Kafé also offers up a wide variety of completely vegan food.

Les and Karen say they offer vegan options alongside “normal” food, so that non-vegan and vegan customers alike can enjoy a meal together. Their menu includes smoothies and shakes, made with ingredients like kale and almond milk, as well as more traditional choices. The owners supplement their usual food stocks with purchases from local farmers’ markets, preferring to use organic if possible. The food they use to prepare their meals is always fresh. During the growing season it often comes right from their personal garden, ranging from produce like romaine and zucchini all the way to cantaloupe, ensuring that customers know exactly where their food is coming from.

Though the trend of fresh and healthy eating is expanding, it is still difficult to find vegan food in State College. Karen, a vegan herself, and Les, who identifies as being “almost there” in regards to veganism, sought to provide an option for those who were already vegan, or wanted to explore becoming one. Their goal for the restaurant was to provide something for everyone – their motto being, “Where everybody eats.”

For the two, the most rewarding part is interacting with their customers, creating relationships with their regulars, and being able to see how the different choices allow couples, families, and friends to enjoy a meal together despite dietary differences. In fact, some of their sandwiches are even named after regular customers (look for the “Mick Mick Mick” and “Dink’s Delight,” among others).

Les, the main chef of the establishment, says he is extremely careful to avoid any cross-contamination of food. They have separate stations for preparing the vegan and non-vegan food, with separate pans as well, so that the true veganism won’t be compromised.

Just because one chooses to eat vegan however, doesn’t mean The Aardvark Kafé can’t satisfy a sweet tooth! The act of eating vegan simply means avoiding all animal products. Les and Karen are in the process of adding vegan baked goods to their menu.

The assortment of food choices mirrors the combination of experiences a visitor to the Aardvark Kafé can have there. The main attraction is, of course, the meals, but while dining in, customers can enjoy the aesthetics of Karen’s redecorations.

The location was cookie-cutter in appearance before, and in an attempt to make it feel more like home to customers who may be far from their families, Karen took up antiquing, bringing her unique finds into the restaurant. She said it was important that their restaurant “give a sense of home… a big part of it is giving a comfortable atmosphere.”

Karen restores and adds some of her own touches to pieces that need a little tender loving care. Just about everything you see in the restaurant is for sale, from the chairs you sit on, to an interesting print hanging on the wall, to a small figurine tucked away on a shelf, and even the plants hanging by the window. Karen calls this antique part of her business, “Giggling Aardvark.”

The restaurant experience doesn’t end with tasting and shopping, though. Every Saturday night, from 6-8 or 8:30 p.m., the r e s t a u r a n t- r u n n i n g duo hosts an open mic night, often starting with the music of a local band, Sticker Kids. The restaurant also offers fourteen parking spaces, Wifi, games, and is BYOB.

A unique dining experience, and a definite labor of love, Les shyly admitted that the favorite part of his work was getting to spend his time with Karen – a story even sweeter than the vegan shakes they serve up together. ■


[email protected]

Photo by KASSIA JANESCH // VOICES Staff Writer

The Aarvark Kafe, located at 908 W. College Ave., features a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Hours and a complete menu are available at www.aardvarkkafe.com.

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| 9July/August 2014

Do you want to know how to become healthier and live in tune with your environment? Then you might want to attend the third annual Pennsylvania Organic FarmFest on August 1-2. Being held at the Centre County Grange Fairgrounds in Centre Hall, this is a free event that the entire family can enjoy and benefit from. You can also rent a famous Grange Fair tent, and you can even bring your pets!

It is organized by Pennsylvania Certified Organic (PCO), who describe themselves as “a non-profit organization that educates and certifies organic growers and handlers in Pennsylvania and the surrounding region.” According to executive director Leslie Zuck, they do annual inspections, testing, and certifications of farms. They provide “education and certification for organic food and farming, growers and processed food products like canned goods – all the way through the farming as well as processing.”

Located in Spring Mills, the PCO organized FarmFest three years ago Zuck said, “to celebrate Pennsylvania’s rich organic heritage” and the growth of the organic farming and food industry in this area. Pennsylvania ranks seventh in overall organic production in the nation, and ranks first in overall organic production of mushrooms and poultry. Zuck said that although the farming industry in general in America is at a standstill, not only is the organic industry growing, but most farms are not the usual large operation, but small or family farms that cater to local clientele.

Sponsored by a host of stores and companies, FarmFest offers a wide variety of activities and experiences. There will be a keynote presentation by certified organic grain growers Mary-Howell and Klaas Martens. Workshops on a range of topics from backyard chickens to market farming will be offered. There will be demonstrations like sheep shearing and horseshoeing. In the Family Arena, fun activities and learning stations will be available for children and adults.

There will be an organic food court and a homemade and homegrown farm, food, and craft market.

The FarmFest 5K and 1 Mile Fun Walk fundraiser will be held on Saturday morning. The funds are raised to support organic farming education and certification so that the PCO can reduce their costs for farmers.

A new feature will be the barn dance. Live music will be played, dances will be taught, and everyone can kick up their heels.

Friday’s hours are from noon until 10:30 p.m. Festivities begin at 9 a.m and end at 10:30 p.m. on Saturday.

To learn more you can look at the FarmFest website at: farmfest.paorganic.org. ■

Free Farmfest festival fun for family, friendsBy MARILYN JONES

VOICES Managing [email protected]

Photo by KASSIA JANESCH // VOICES Staff Writer

The Aarvark Kafe, located at 908 W. College Ave., features a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Hours and a complete menu are available at www.aardvarkkafe.com.

Photo courtesy PA FarmFest

Attendees of a previous FarmFest enjoy the festival. This year’s FarmFest, located in Centre Hall, will run Friday, Aug 1 from noon to 10:30 p.m., and Saturday, Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.


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The Blue Grosbeak’s Central PA expansion

Man continues to impact the environment through his activities. According to National Geographic’s EarthPulse website, humans have left their imprint on more than 80% of the earth’s surface. While the vast proportion of that impact has been negative to wildlife, some species have been resilient and have exploited environmental changes to their benefit. For example, species such as the Blue Grosbeak that utilize habitats in the early stages of succession have done particularly well.

Blue Grosbeaks are stocky songbirds that are slightly smaller than the closely related Northern Cardinal. As their name suggests, Blue Grosbeaks are deep blue overall. Their wings are a dark bluish-black with two prominent chestnut-brown wingbars. The dark-silvery bill is stout and conical, like that of a Cardinal. The facial feathers at the base of the bill are black. Unlike the brilliantly colored males, the females are light brown overall, but retain the chestnut-brown wingbars. They also have a light blue wash on the rump and tail.

Blue Grosbeaks are most commonly confused with the locally abundant Indigo Bunting. The two birds can be readily distinguished by careful observation of a few features. The Indigo Buntings are slightly smaller, have smaller bills and lack the brown wingbars. The Blue Grosbeak also has a peculiar habit of twitching its tail sideways, rather than up and down like many other birds. Their songs are also different. The song of the Indigo Bunting is composed of paired phrases of sharp, clear notes; whereas, that of the Blue Grosbeak is a husky-sounding warble, similar to that of the Purple Finch.

The preferred habitat of the Blue Grosbeak consists of open weedy fields with interspersed shrubby thickets and medium-sized trees. Males grosbeaks can typically be heard singing from a prominent perch. Their diet consists primarily of seeds which they readily crack with their stout bills. Grosbeaks also feed on insects, with a particular fondness for grasshoppers and crickets.

Breeding begins in late April or early May. Males typically arrive on the breeding ground before females and stake out a territory. Once a pair

bond is established, the female takes the bulk of the responsibility for constructing the nest. Incubation and feeding of the young are also largely done by the female. Nests of the Blue Grosbeaks also appear to be heavily parasitized by cowbirds that lay their eggs there, saddling the unwitting grosbeak with the responsibility of raising its young.

Blue Grosbeaks are traditionally considered southern birds. Their range extends from north-central Florida to the southeastern corner of Pennsylvania in the east, and west to southern California in the west. In the Great Plains states, their range extends northward into southern North Dakota. Historically, Blue Grosbeaks have been fairly uncommon at the northern limit of their range, particularly here in the east. According to the “Birds of Pennsylvania” by McWilliams and Brauning, Blue Grosbeaks were considered “very rare and irregular summer residents across the southern counties [of PA] until the

end of the 1800’s.” Moreover, it wasn’t until the 1960’s that breeding in the state was confirmed.

Since that time, the range of the Blue Grosbeaks in PA has expanded northward and westward through the Piedmont region into the Ridge and Valley region of south-central PA. The range expansion is likely the result of anthropogenic factors, such as the clearing of forest areas for timber and agriculture. Over the past several years, there have been multiple sightings in our area. Most of the sightings have occurred in spring and early summer, and may represent migrating birds that have overflown their breeding territories. Other sightings indicate that breeding may be taking place. These sightings

include a breeding pair with young in Spruce Creek (Huntingdon Co.) in 2013, and a recent sighting of a potential breeding pair in Belleville (Mifflin Co) in May of the present year.

The best local places to see Blue Grosbeaks

are in reclaimed strip mines, such as those along Troy Hill Rd near Philipsburg (Clearfield Co.), and Rusnak Hill and Kato-Orviston Rds in Clarence (Centre Co). It is also worth checking open habitats that are in the early stages of succession. The best times to go are in the morning when the males can be heard singing. Late May and early June are a good time to catch migrants and potential breeding birds. Later in June and early July, one can often find pioneering males that have not bred and are wandering in search of territories. ■

Joe Verica is a vice-president of the State College Bird Club. He writes a monthly column for Voices about local avian life.

Photo by Creative Commons

A Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea). A stock songbird that has expanded its range to cover Central Pennsylvania. Multiple local sightings of the Blue Grosbeak have been common in the past few years, usually in spring and early summer. Recent sightings in Huntingdon and Mifflin County possibly indicate that breeding between the Blue Grosbeak may be taking place locally.

By JOSPEPH VERICAVOICES Staff [email protected]

The range of the Blue Grosbeaks in PA has expanded northward and westward through the

Piedmont region in to the Ridge and Valley region of south-central PA...likely the result of anthropogenic

factors, such as the clearing of forest areas for timber and agriculture.


The art and science of weather forecasting

So what did folks do up to 100 years ago before “official” meteorologists began predicting the weather? Did people know what was coming? Were they able to predict the future? Some people claimed they could. There were articles written in the papers about what the summer “should” do, or how much snow we “could” get that winter.

Since 1818 many people have reverently referenced the “Old Farmer’s Almanac,” which has been published annually since its inception. It was designed to try and guess what things would be like months, or even a year in advance. In reality, it had, and still has, an accuracy rate far below 50 percent. And yet folks still swear by it.

Today we use an array of giant software programs and super computers to help us prognosticate the weather through what we in the business call models. These models are available on your PC and your smart phone and anyone can dive in and have a look at them. But would that make you able to forecast the weather accurately? After figuring out what you were looking at, you could probably do better than the Old Farmer’s Almanac predicting tomorrow’s high temperature, but that would be about it. Forecasting and doing it well takes considerable training and experience. It is not just a science, it is also an art. Learning how the model will play out in real life is where years of experience come into play.

The first few weeks of June this year are a perfect example. We had one group of models telling us the temperatures were going to be quite warm, in the 80s for highs, while another model, that tends to sit out alone because of the way it is designed, was saying it was going to be much

cooler, only in the upper 60s. Talk about a c o n u n d r u m . Neither of the models turned out to be on the money, so it was up to good forecasters to do the job, and some did, most did not.

To give you an example of what

we look at, here is what is called Model Output Statistics, or MOS. This is created from a Global Scale model called the GFS. The model is a simulation of

the atmosphere over the entire planet and predicts how things are going to move for the next 14 days. The GFS

uses complex equations based on the mathematics and physical laws that govern motions in the atmosphere to predict where storms and sunny skies will be (see figure 1). Here is what the MOS looks like for State College (see figure 2). Each column is one 24-hour period and goes out one week in advance, or 192 hours from the time the model is run.

By JAY SEARLESVOICES Staff Writer

[email protected]

see weather, pg. 14

Photo by ZXYZYZYX YZXYZ // VOICES Staff Photographer

Figure 1. Sample of the four-panel model output from GFS. Upper left, 500 mb heights and vorticity. Upper right, surface pressure and 1000 to 500 mb thickness. Lower left, 700 mb heights and relative humidity. Lower right, six-hour precipitation and 850 mb temperatures.

Forecasting and doing it well takes considerable training

and experience. It is not just a science, it is also an art.


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The term “invasive species” itself has negative connotations, sparking thoughts of the swirling vines of kudzu, or environmental horror stories surrounding the zebra mussel.

But what if an invasive species such as duckweed could be harnessed for sustainable projects rather than endured as it destroys the natural ecosystem?

The Eco-Machine, right here on Penn State’s campus, is researching a solution to that very question. It is “an advanced ecological wastewater treatment” system.

The machine, which is located past Medlar Field, feels just like your average greenhouse when you step inside and are hit with a wall of heat. However, once you look around, it becomes apparent that it is anything but average.

There is no distinctly bad smell that one would normally associate with sewage and waste. Instead, it smells like new growth, that scent of plant life and soil that we can all recognize.

The machine is primarily composed of six above ground tanks, each of which has its own function important to the filtration of the water. This is done mainly through duckweed, plants and fungi, which are fundamentally able to capture contaminants like ammonia from urine and nitrogen, effectively removing them from the water in the course of just a few days.

The wastewater is delivered directly from the State College Wastewater Center in an almost “raw” state. When it arrives at the Eco-Machine, it has only gone through rag and grit removal of “eggshells, glass, even shoes. You’d be surprised what comes through the sewage system,” said Dr. Rachel Brennan, an Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering and the woman in charge of the research at the Eco-Machine.

Once the wastewater is delivered, it moves throughout the tanks. The first of these are closed off, anoxic (meaning there is no or little oxygen present in them) in order to remove any compounds with oxygen. The next four tanks are open, all of which have floating duckweed growth. The first two of these open tanks are aerated because they contain aerobic organisms, or ones that need oxygen. They have a small surface area but are

This model was run on Friday morning, June 13, and was predicting clear or sunny skies with a high of 74 for State College on Saturday. What happened? It was mostly cloudy with 63 at the airport and 67 at my house in the borough. My prediction was for 68, but I had gone with the sunny skies, so for me, I blew it! The problem is there is much more to look at than just the output statistics. For every city and town in the US there is a mountain of data produced in the form of MOS, forecast maps and soundings. Oh yes - soundings. These are vertical profiles of the temperature, moisture, wind speed, and direction. Plus there is lots more, when you dig for it. You can also kind of do it all yourself, but it is a lot of work and not very accurate

beyond 24 hours most of the time. The next two images are examples of data we look at to help forecast the weather. I show them to give a sense of how complicated it is.

So the next time the forecast is not spot on, there may be many reasons why, but a lot of it has to do with the experience the forecaster has in the different situations. Unusual weather patterns for the season usually trip up the inexperienced ones, and sometimes those with plenty of experience. Most of the weather phone apps people crave come directly off the computer model output with little, if any, human interaction. The app I have is very poor and I use it as a measure of how much better my skills are. Getting that message across to folks is challenging.

For September I will talk about hail, why we get it and how it is made. ■

from weather, pg. 13


Figure 2. (LEFT) Model Output Statistics for University Park on June 13, 2014 for the 00Z, 8:00 PM EDT simulation. See if you can dvecode it...have fun.

Figure 3. (ABOVE) Forecast sounding plotted on a Skew T thermodynamic diagram for State College. This is a plot of temperature profile, moisture in dew point temperature from the surface with height up to 60,000 feet. Also there is a look at forecast wind barbs on the right and what the winds would be doing considering thunderstorm motion on the left.


Eco Machine: Clean water the natural way

The term “invasive species” itself has negative connotations, sparking thoughts of the swirling vines of kudzu, or environmental horror stories surrounding the zebra mussel.

But what if an invasive species such as duckweed could be harnessed for sustainable projects rather than endured as it destroys the natural ecosystem?

The Eco-Machine, right here on Penn State’s campus, is researching a solution to that very question. It is “an advanced ecological wastewater treatment” system.

The machine, which is located past Medlar Field, feels just like your average greenhouse when you step inside and are hit with a wall of heat. However, once you look around, it becomes apparent that it is anything but average.

There is no distinctly bad smell that one would normally associate with sewage and waste. Instead, it smells like new growth, that scent of plant life and soil that we can all recognize.

The machine is primarily composed of six above ground tanks, each of which has its own function important to the filtration of the water. This is done mainly through duckweed, plants and fungi, which are fundamentally able to capture contaminants like ammonia from urine and nitrogen, effectively removing them from the water in the course of just a few days.

The wastewater is delivered directly from the State College Wastewater Center in an almost “raw” state. When it arrives at the Eco-Machine, it has only gone through rag and grit removal of “eggshells, glass, even shoes. You’d be surprised what comes through the sewage system,” said Dr. Rachel Brennan, an Associate Professor of Environmental Engineering and the woman in charge of the research at the Eco-Machine.

Once the wastewater is delivered, it moves throughout the tanks. The first of these are closed off, anoxic (meaning there is no or little oxygen present in them) in order to remove any compounds with oxygen. The next four tanks are open, all of which have floating duckweed growth. The first two of these open tanks are aerated because they contain aerobic organisms, or ones that need oxygen. They have a small surface area but are

relatively deep, to make up for space restrictions caused by budget issues. Because of their depth, large diffusing stones are used. The aeration does use some energy, as it happens four times a day. The third open tank, which isn’t aerated, holds a naturally formed, floating duckweed “mat” which is harvested periodically. This living m a c h i n e also includes a subsurface w e t l a n d that further r e m o v e s n i t r o g e n from the water, and a pond surrounded by plants and safe for fish, that holds the naturally treated clean water.

The Eco-Machine uses less energy and achieves a higher standard of water purity than conventional wastewater treatment facilities. Additionally, it calls for lower chemical use, and produces no sludge. After the initial cost of several hundred thousand for the setup of the machine, at the treatment of 600 thousand gallons a day, Eco-Machines have been proven by an EPA study to be more cost-effective than traditional treatment.

In the case of this specific Eco-Machine, a significant amount of the budget went into site preparation because of bedrock, as well as into the building of the greenhouse that houses the machine. In an area that has the appropriate climate, one where a greenhouse isn’t needed, the project can be less cost prohibitive.

However, the benefits do not stop at wastewater treatment, rather, that is just the beginning. Duckweed, the main form of plant life used in the Penn State Eco-Machine, can be harvested. This is done because the duckweed is now a great nutrient source after the water has run through. Therefore, when treated correctly, duckweed becomes a sustainable soil amendment, or an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizer, as well as a biofuel source. This, according to Dr. Brennan, is “closing the loop,” creating a solution

to the problem of synthetic fertilizers running out.

At first, the Eco-Machine wasn’t used for research focused projects, but when it was transferred to the College of Engineering, it was recognized as a valuable resource for learning. Brennan jumped at the chance to become involved, figuring out a whole

new system in 2008, and gutting it and replanting in 2011. After a six-month start up period, the system was functioning extraordinarily well. And now, two years later, the research being done there is almost ready for publication.

Eco-Machines are quickly on their way to becoming an efficient and sustainable means of water treatment, opening doors for environmental living and even communities in third-world countries.

The Eco-Machine was initially going to be funded entirely through the class gifts of the Class of 2000 and the Class of 1950. They made their contributions, and together with being given the Growing Greener Grant by the state of Pennsylvania, the Eco-Machine, designed by Ocean Arc International, became a reality. ■


[email protected]

Photo courtesy of the Penn State College of Engineering

The Eco-Machine, located in a greenhouse south of Medlar Field, is a way to research invasive species and how they can be used rather than simply allowing them to destroy the ecosystem. The Eco-Machine is comprised of six above ground tanks that each have its own function important to the filtration of the water, utilizing the invasive plants that capture contaminants, such as ammonia.


Figure 2. (LEFT) Model Output Statistics for University Park on June 13, 2014 for the 00Z, 8:00 PM EDT simulation. See if you can dvecode it...have fun.

Figure 3. (ABOVE) Forecast sounding plotted on a Skew T thermodynamic diagram for State College. This is a plot of temperature profile, moisture in dew point temperature from the surface with height up to 60,000 feet. Also there is a look at forecast wind barbs on the right and what the winds would be doing considering thunderstorm motion on the left.

The Eco-Machine uses less energy and achieves a higher standard of water purity than conventional wastewater

treatment facilities. Additionally, it calls for lower chemical use, and produces no sludge.


ANALYSIS: Putting Iraq and ISIS in context

We see political maps of the Middle East so often that the countries they depict seem like facts of nature, with boundaries that have always existed. These boundaries at best reflect those that existed from 1949 to 1967. They are not the actual boundaries of the lands that Israel has ruled since the June 1967 War. They do not show what parts of Lebanon are actually controlled by the powerful Shi’ite militia, Hezbollah, as opposed to the Lebanese government in Beirut. Huge swaths of Syrian land are now controlled by rebel groups, including Kurds, al-Qaeda, ISIS, and the Syrian National Coalition.

Increasingly, the Middle Eastern political map is changing to reflect ethnic or religious loyalties that, for many of the people, matter more than territorial nation states, republics, or kingdoms. Among these countries is Iraq, a country many Americans learned about when its dictatorial president, Saddam Hussein, invaded and annexed Kuwait in 1990.

Iraq is indeed a territorial state, but its recognized boundaries haven’t existed very long. Some were arbitrary lines in the sand. Some have been contested repeatedly. Mosul could have become Syrian or remained a part of Turkey after World War I, but because of its potential oil resources Britain joined it to its League of Nations mandate over Mesopotamia,

which it renamed Iraq.Iraq’s border with Iran has a history

going back to the 16th century, when it was contested between the Ottoman Empire, which had conquered the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers, and the Safavids, who had seized power in Persia (renamed Iran later). That border helped to cause the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), which killed more people than any other war in the contemporary Middle East.

Iraq’s borders had nothing to do with George W. Bush’s decision to invade the country in 2003, but Saddam’s dictatorship, alleged weapons of mass destruction, and threats against Israel were partly intended to hide discord between Kurds and Arabs and between Sunni and Shi’a Muslims in Iraq. The main result of the US-led invasion was to replace a Sunni dictatorship with a Shi’ite-led democracy.

Of Iraq’s total population, now nearing 34 million, some 60–65 percent are Shi’ite and about 30–35 percent are Sunni Muslims. More than half the Sunnis are Kurds, but a substantial Sunni Arab population remains in Iraq’s western and northwestern provinces, notably Anbar and Niniveh.

The conquest of these provinces, most notably the city of Mosul, by an irregular army called “The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant” or “The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria” (ISIS for short) has challenged—possibly destroyed forever—our mental picture of the Middle East map. How could a fighting force that has controlled so

little land in Syria overrun northwestern and western Iraq? It lacks the tight military structure that armies usually have. It enjoys support from former officers in Saddam’s army, who have seethed with rage ever since the US invasion forced them to demobilize. It also draws on some of the same Arab tribes that threw in their lot with the Americans, backing the Surge, but disillusioned with Shi’ite ruler, especially the increasingly sectarian (and corrupt) government of Nuri al-Maliki.

But the main cause of the surprising success of ISIS to date is the alienation of nearly all Iraqi Sunnis from Maliki’s administration and especially his army, which is predominantly Shi’ite and regarded in Sunni areas as an occupation force. That so many of these Iraqi soldiers, once trained and equipped by the Americans, throw down their weapons, change into civilian clothes, and flee is the result of their demoralization and perception that they are hated by the local inhabitants.

The Kurds, protected in northern Iraq by the Americans from 1991 to 2003, have created a government of their own and an army, the Pesh Merga, which has now proven its effectiveness by seizing oil-rich Kirkuk from the Iraqi Army. The Kurdish Regional Government enjoys the support of its people, has promoted trade with both Turkey and Iran, and has established the rule of law and basic freedoms that the “Arab Spring” revolutionaries must envy.

There are of course Iraqis who want their country to remain one nation.

Ninety years of shared history, a state-controlled educational system that influences nearly all young Iraqis, conscription of Iraqi men into the armed forces, and a huge bureaucracy all inspire Iraqi patriotism.

Yet the events of the past month have shown that many—probably most—Iraqis see themselves as Sunnis, Shi’ites, or Kurds. All three groups are fraying the ties that once bound them together. All have foreign supporters. Many Sunnis reject the ideas of ISIS, especially its attempt to bring back the caliphate (the political system that they believe prevailed in the seventh century), but they have the support of Saudi Arabia, the other Gulf States, Jordan, and Egypt. The Shi’ites look to Iran. Even if President Hassan Rouhani’s government decides not to intervene, some of Iran’s agents, notably the Quds Force, are already aiding Maliki in the defense of Baghdad. The Kurdish Regional Government is openly backed by Turkey, and secretly by both Israel and Iran.

The Obama administration is being pressed to intervene by the neoconservatives, some members of Congress, and unrepentant supporters of the Bush administration to intervene on the side of Nuri al-Maliki. Troops to guard the US embassy in Baghdad, military advisers, and possible air or drone strikes are Obama’s response, even as he refuses to send an invading army. Polls of the American people show that very few are willing to spill more blood and treasure in Iraq.

Only time can tell what will happen. ■

By ART GOLDSCHMIDTVOICES President/Writer

[email protected]


The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts provides a chance for people living in the Centre Region to wander among booths filled with art objects, see returning friends, and listen to a variety of musicians. It is also an opportunity for artists and artisans, who come from places near and far, to display and sell their wares.

Most exhibit at various arts festivals during the warmer months, some even year round. All labor for long hours to hone their skills and to produce the artwork that you will see during Arts Fest.

Voices visited three local presenters who are veteran exhibitors at the Arts Fest and other venues: Jason Bloom (potter), Liz Lasher (warm glass designer), and Debra Placky (photographer).

Bloom did not plan to be a potter. After starting as an electrical engineering major at Penn State’s DuBois campus, he assisted his father as a tanner. He came to ceramics by responding to a newspaper ad from Dan Harvey’s Grandville Hollow Pottery in Julian.

He began work there in 1998 applying glaze to clay pots and observing the various stages of pottery making. He became fascinated by the processes of throwing a pot and learned the art from Iain Stainton, a well-known local ceramicist.

It took two years and lots of practice to master all the basic techniques. He has belonged to the Art Alliance Pottery Guild since 1999, gradually building up his own business, selling at the Gallery Shop, and exhibiting at the Arts and Crafts Fair in Bellefonte.

The encouragement of his parents, his wife Tess, and many friends has sustained Jason, even in times when he felt disenchanted. He even took time off to work for Kohlhepp Stone Center, selling marble counter-tops, but soon came back to pottery.

Endowed with lots of energy, especially when he was younger, he observes other people’s work, reads books and trade journals, and has even studied the techniques of ancient pottery to keep learning about his craft.

Like the ceramicist Roger Pollok, he digs some of his clay. Coal country, such as Clearfield County, has ample clay deposits, and he speaks volubly about

how the mineralogical properties of different types of clay affect what kinds of glaze to apply. He has developed a hands-on, scientific approach to his work. Business has been good this year: among his customers are Bee Kind Winery in Clearfield and Happy Valley Brewery in State College.

This will be his twelfth year at the local Arts Fest, and he will also display his products at the Winter Crafts Market in Mount Nittany Middle School.

His studio contains two kilns, one of which is governed by a pyrometric bar that throws a switch when the interior reaches a particular temperature, and the other of which works by a computer.

His products include wine cups, beer mugs, bowls, plates (one of which serves as a garlic grater), and crocks.

Although they are designed to be functional for everyday use, their exterior may show a landscape aspect, influenced by the woodsy environment of his studio, and their decoration reflects haiku scenes in Japanese art. He works very intensely some of the time, especially when he has many orders to fill, but may also take time off to develop a creative thought.

Lasher, who works as a teacher of counselor education for Penn State’s World Campus, has always loved art.

She worked in almost every visual medium, but discovered the wonders of glass by way of a short course at the Creative Oasis about ten years ago.

She pursued the glass-making techniques that interested her in the Pittsburgh Glass Center, at Corning Glass in western New York, and Bullseye Glass Company in Portland,

Oregon. The techniques of glass-making are

daunting, for there are eight different segments in the firing process, and much work can only be done by hand. She is fascinated by the technical properties of glass, and hopes to keep varying what she produces not to get bored.

Her specialty is kiln-worked “warm” glass, which she prefers to glass-blowing because “you can more easily lay out your glass and think about it without feeling rushed.” Her major product is women’s jewelry, using lots of colors.

“Man, you nailed the color palette!” a friend told her.

SPOTLIGHT: ArtsFest to showcase local talentBy ART GOLDSCHMIDT

VOICES President/[email protected]

Photos courtesy of JASON BLOOM // Special to VOICES

Jason Bloom is a local potter whose work will be featured at ArtsFest this year. He trained under Iain Stainton, a local ceramicist of note.

Bloom has been working in clay mediums for more than 15 years, and digs some of his own clay.

His art is featured above and to the right.

see artsfest, pg. 18


Liz likes to work for long periods of time, for if she stops, it takes her longer to get back into the groove. She has exhibited her work in the Gallery Shop, the Winter Crafts Market, Fair in the Park (in Pittsburgh), the Lewisburg Arts Festival, and other venues.

She has exhibited at Arts Fest for the last four to five years. Every exhibition requires lots of last-minute preparation. Fortunately, she has a good group of friends who will come and help her with all the details, and they offer her a lot of encouragement.

Placky, a photographer, had a

varied education: graphic design at Kutztown, literature at West Chester, and a master’s degree in history from Penn State.

She started out in fiber arts, notably quilts with landscape scenes like the one of the Grand Canyon with a tree in the foreground. But in fiber art she was always feeling that her work was incomplete. Photography, which she has taken up in the last five years, was more satisfying. Using a Sony digital camera, she takes only color photos, mainly of trees, rocks, landscapes, and architectural details.

She likes her pictures to have texture, subtle coloring, simplicity, and a calm, spiritual, and peaceful (“more feminine”) quality. She has taken pictures in Pittsburgh and Italy,

and hopes in the future to visit France, Scotland, Ireland, Peru, New Zealand, and Australia. Bright sunlight, which she encountered in trips to Crete and Turkey, challenged her.

As the mother of two children, she must work in short bursts of energy. She sells her photos through a website and at art shows. She has recently exhibited at the State Theatre, Three Rivers Art Festival, Brandywine Festival of the Arts in Wilmington, the Winter Craft Market, MayFair Festival of the Arts in Allentown, the Fine Art Festival of Fairfax (Virginia), and the Westchester Festival of the Arts in Scarsdale (New York).

Displaying her photography is hard physical work and can be hazardous when the weather is stormy and there

is a tornado watch, as happened in her first exhibit in St. Louis and in mid-June this year in Pittsburgh. She will have exhibited in the Easton Art Affair near Columbus (Ohio) by the time of Arts Fest, where this will be her second year as an exhibitor.

Placky has written children’s books, been a librarian at Schlow, and worked in Penn State’s Archives.

She gets joy from keeping active, and said she may write a memoir about the hazards of setting up a display of her photographs when a storm is brewing and she has no other place to store them.

Don’t miss the booths at the Arts Fest and, if any exhibitors have time to talk to you, let them. ■

from artsfest, pg. 18

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Midweek Escape PackageIncludes 2 Nights in a Luxury SuiteBreakfasts and Dinner One Evening

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| 19July/August 2014 CROSSWORD by Alyssa AppelmanVOICES Crossword EditorSolution on pg. 16

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