I have been reading the Thon blog and I have to say the [posts] are very interesting. The one in particular I like the most is the "That Purple Sign" by Lauren. I along with a few friends made that sign three years ago after our friend Matthew Christman passed away at age 14. I have hung it up at Thon every year for the past 3 Thons. Sometimes I wonder if I should continue hanging it up because I always get so sad when I think about it, but it makes me happy to realize when other people see it, that it also means something important to them as well. I just wanted to say thanks for writing that blog. Also I'd like to thank Rossilyne for writing that blog about Tony the Tiger, because that was me inside there and I have never had so much fun making so many kids so happy.Thanks David. And if anyone else has Thon moments to share with us, please send them to collegianthon@gmail.com.
- David Ly
Thursday, February 22, 2007
About That Purple Sign...
We promised we would post anything people sent in and we got a great response for David Ly:
Sunday, February 18, 2007
FOR THE KIDS
It's the LAST LINE DANCE of Thon 2007 - "Double oh seven Thon."
Everyone is anxious for the total. The overalls are all on stage leading the line dance.
2 MINUTES UNTIL THE TOTAL IS REVEALED
- Lauren, 3:58 p.m.
Everyone is anxious for the total. The overalls are all on stage leading the line dance.
2 MINUTES UNTIL THE TOTAL IS REVEALED
- Lauren, 3:58 p.m.
The BJC Is Rocking!
Rossilynne's on the floor, and she has some things to report...
"The scene on the floor is crazy. There are water bottles, Gatorade bottles, spilled Gatorade, crayons, coloring books, hula hoops and balls covering the floor.
Even with the floor a mess, it's not stopping the dancers from having the time of their lives at the last half-hour of Thon."
This place is absolutely going nuts. They just played Zombie Nation, My Love and Hey Baby, causing the crowd to go wild. A group of people are even starting to do the wave!
Only 18 MINUTES until the total is revealed!
Much love.
- Lauren, 3:42 p.m.
"The scene on the floor is crazy. There are water bottles, Gatorade bottles, spilled Gatorade, crayons, coloring books, hula hoops and balls covering the floor.
Even with the floor a mess, it's not stopping the dancers from having the time of their lives at the last half-hour of Thon."
This place is absolutely going nuts. They just played Zombie Nation, My Love and Hey Baby, causing the crowd to go wild. A group of people are even starting to do the wave!
Only 18 MINUTES until the total is revealed!
Much love.
- Lauren, 3:42 p.m.
Hey, hey baby!
The atmosphere in the Bryce Jordan Center is like a Penn State football game.
The crowd is singing "hey baby...I wanna know...If you'll be my girl" right now.
The entire floor is a sea of waving arms.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 3:20 p.m. Sunday
The crowd is singing "hey baby...I wanna know...If you'll be my girl" right now.
The entire floor is a sea of waving arms.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 3:20 p.m. Sunday
BJC doors still open to spectators
Although the Bryce Jordan Center is packed right now for the final hour of Thon, people will probably still be able to come watch the extravaganza.
"The doors will only close if we estimate that we've reached occupation capacity," said Lt. Stewart Neff of the University Police, who guessed that 25 to 30 percent of the available seating was left. "At this time, there's no reason to believe we'll reach capacity."
"The doors will only close if we estimate that we've reached occupation capacity," said Lt. Stewart Neff of the University Police, who guessed that 25 to 30 percent of the available seating was left. "At this time, there's no reason to believe we'll reach capacity."
Final Hour!
There's only one more hour left in Thon 2007!
Dancers -- and even the crowd -- are doing the line dance.
There's only one more line dance (after this one) left in this year's Thon.
Within an hour we'll know the grand total. Check back for updates.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 3:05 p.m. Sunday
Dancers -- and even the crowd -- are doing the line dance.
There's only one more line dance (after this one) left in this year's Thon.
Within an hour we'll know the grand total. Check back for updates.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 3:05 p.m. Sunday
Dance party!
Right now the floor of the Bryce Jordan Center is a dance party with over 1,000 people.
Bouncy balls and balloons are flying through the air as energetic dancers are celebrating the last few hours of Thon.
Groups of people are bouncing girls into the air.
The seats are almost full with a crowd that’s as excited as the dancers – doing the wave and jumping up and down.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 2:18 p.m. Sunday
Bouncy balls and balloons are flying through the air as energetic dancers are celebrating the last few hours of Thon.
Groups of people are bouncing girls into the air.
The seats are almost full with a crowd that’s as excited as the dancers – doing the wave and jumping up and down.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 2:18 p.m. Sunday
Angels Among Us
After an extremely touching and moving presentation of Thon children who could not be with us today, the entire stadium has joined in the singing of "Angels Among Us."
This is one of the most emotional things I've ever experienced. The entire stadium is joined together, many groups are holding onto one another for support, rocking back and forth. The overalls have been joined together for a while now. You can really see how passionate people are about Thon and how important of a cause this is.
2 hours, 6 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 1:54 p.m.
This is one of the most emotional things I've ever experienced. The entire stadium is joined together, many groups are holding onto one another for support, rocking back and forth. The overalls have been joined together for a while now. You can really see how passionate people are about Thon and how important of a cause this is.
2 hours, 6 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 1:54 p.m.
Rainbows At The BJC
The entire BJC is one big blur of color.
An orange group, a lime green group, canary yellow...you name it, and chances are, some organization, fraternity or sorority is rocking that color.
They've all seem to congregate together to show unified support for their dancers and Thon children.
A few groups have been a constant fixture here, always with members here to cheer on the dancers. Those groups are seriously awesome. There are no other words to describe them. These groups always have signs and no matter what song is playing, are dancing.
But now, as we're into the final stretch, everyone has showed up. I haven't seen the dancers this energized since Friday night. There are even sections where the curtain was that are almost full!
This is something that you definitely need to be a part of to comprehend the support, love and hope.
Exactly 3 hours until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 1:00 p.m.
An orange group, a lime green group, canary yellow...you name it, and chances are, some organization, fraternity or sorority is rocking that color.
They've all seem to congregate together to show unified support for their dancers and Thon children.
A few groups have been a constant fixture here, always with members here to cheer on the dancers. Those groups are seriously awesome. There are no other words to describe them. These groups always have signs and no matter what song is playing, are dancing.
But now, as we're into the final stretch, everyone has showed up. I haven't seen the dancers this energized since Friday night. There are even sections where the curtain was that are almost full!
This is something that you definitely need to be a part of to comprehend the support, love and hope.
Exactly 3 hours until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 1:00 p.m.
That Purple Sign...
I was lazy last night and caught a Blue Loop from East Halls at 3 a.m. There were some people who were obviously going out somewhere and there were some who were clearly going to Thon to cheer on their friends.
And then there were those who were going out...to Thon.
As I was getting off the bus with a bunch of other people behind me, I heard a kid say, "We wouldn't be drinking if it wasn't for the kids!" A girl laughed and agreed with him.
Why does that need to be said? More importantly, why does it need to be someone's philosophy? Thon has so many activities planned and, for the dancers obviously, those activities are fun without alcohol.
Yet there are people who show up to Thon after drinking or who bring drinks with them. I saw a guy get cited, two beers sitting in front of him. I heard stories about people falling down the stairs drunk.
That's when, I think, the meaning of FTK gets blurry, and that's why some people have told me they have a problem with Thon.
But then, I got back here to the BJC, running on seven hours of sleep total since Friday night, and I saw a poster that I've been staring at since I've been covering Thon. It made me wake up and truly realize what a phenomemon Thon is. It's this huge purple sign, with big block white letters: "For Matthew 1990-2004". That's what For The Kids means. That's why FTK chants are so popular among the people who realize the real meaning of Thon. It's not about the parties, it's not about who can raise the most money...it's about preventing signs like the purple one hanging on the railing. There has always been a few people right behind it. I hope to see less signs like that next year, and more signs with just kids' names on them, showing that Thon really is FOR THE KIDS.
3 hours, 46 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 12:14 p.m.
And then there were those who were going out...to Thon.
As I was getting off the bus with a bunch of other people behind me, I heard a kid say, "We wouldn't be drinking if it wasn't for the kids!" A girl laughed and agreed with him.
Why does that need to be said? More importantly, why does it need to be someone's philosophy? Thon has so many activities planned and, for the dancers obviously, those activities are fun without alcohol.
Yet there are people who show up to Thon after drinking or who bring drinks with them. I saw a guy get cited, two beers sitting in front of him. I heard stories about people falling down the stairs drunk.
That's when, I think, the meaning of FTK gets blurry, and that's why some people have told me they have a problem with Thon.
But then, I got back here to the BJC, running on seven hours of sleep total since Friday night, and I saw a poster that I've been staring at since I've been covering Thon. It made me wake up and truly realize what a phenomemon Thon is. It's this huge purple sign, with big block white letters: "For Matthew 1990-2004". That's what For The Kids means. That's why FTK chants are so popular among the people who realize the real meaning of Thon. It's not about the parties, it's not about who can raise the most money...it's about preventing signs like the purple one hanging on the railing. There has always been a few people right behind it. I hope to see less signs like that next year, and more signs with just kids' names on them, showing that Thon really is FOR THE KIDS.
3 hours, 46 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 12:14 p.m.
BJC filling up
As the last four hours of thon are about to begin, the Bryce Jordan Center is getting full.
The bottom level of the BJC, which holds about 4,000 people, is almost entirely full, and the curtains surrounding the upper level have been raised.
Right now there’s a constant flow of spectators into the BJC. When I was in the main level, I overheard a captain telling someone that they will have to close the doors.
The BJC can accommodate more than 13,000 people.
My advice: if you want to see the last four hours, get here as soon as possible.
Read http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2007/02/02-16-07tdc/02-16-07dnews-07.asp to learn more about Raise the Curtain.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 11:53 a.m. Sunday
The bottom level of the BJC, which holds about 4,000 people, is almost entirely full, and the curtains surrounding the upper level have been raised.
Right now there’s a constant flow of spectators into the BJC. When I was in the main level, I overheard a captain telling someone that they will have to close the doors.
The BJC can accommodate more than 13,000 people.
My advice: if you want to see the last four hours, get here as soon as possible.
Read http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2007/02/02-16-07tdc/02-16-07dnews-07.asp to learn more about Raise the Curtain.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 11:53 a.m. Sunday
No perfume at the BJC
The pungent scent of pickles and sweat is hanging in the air over the floor of the Bryce Jordan Center.
Dancers just finished a lunch of Subway, so the stench of pickles is noticeable at the back of the floor near the hospitality tables.
With just over four hours left, dancers have been on their feet – without showers – for nearly two full days.
The climate-controlled BJC isn’t too hot, but the reek of perspiration is unavoidable.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 11:42 a.m. Sunday
Dancers just finished a lunch of Subway, so the stench of pickles is noticeable at the back of the floor near the hospitality tables.
With just over four hours left, dancers have been on their feet – without showers – for nearly two full days.
The climate-controlled BJC isn’t too hot, but the reek of perspiration is unavoidable.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 11:42 a.m. Sunday
Ti -- double gg -- er!
Tigger and Winnie the Pooh are posing for pictures on the floor.
“The kids really like it,” Lion Ambassador Jordan Ford (Pooh) said.
Tigger and Pooh wore their costumes during the Thon 5K in October.
Ford said he hopes the costumes will energize the dancers.
Right now, Tigger is waving a bubble wand and playing with some kids.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 11:29 a.m. Sunday
“The kids really like it,” Lion Ambassador Jordan Ford (Pooh) said.
Tigger and Pooh wore their costumes during the Thon 5K in October.
Ford said he hopes the costumes will energize the dancers.
Right now, Tigger is waving a bubble wand and playing with some kids.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 11:29 a.m. Sunday
Just A Quick Update
The guy who is trying to find dates by donating money to Thon has 30 numbers currently. That means there's another potential $20 that can go to Thon if any single girls are interested!
10 hours, 33 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 5:27 a.m.
10 hours, 33 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 5:27 a.m.
Crime Low at the BJC
Lt. Stewart Neff reports that arrests and citations at the BJC are low as of this point in the night. However, he said that all the crimes reported have been alcohol-related.
"We have zero tolerance for alcohol or drunkenness, " he said. The police force is being "proactive instead of reactive," he added.
The University Police log reported that a student was caught last night with "property which he was not authorized to possess." Lt. Neff confirmed that this property was... a floor pass. I guess some people will do anything to get into Thon.
-Andrew, 2:34 am
"We have zero tolerance for alcohol or drunkenness, " he said. The police force is being "proactive instead of reactive," he added.
The University Police log reported that a student was caught last night with "property which he was not authorized to possess." Lt. Neff confirmed that this property was... a floor pass. I guess some people will do anything to get into Thon.
-Andrew, 2:34 am
An Apartment Party at the BJC
Down on the dance floor, a "college night out" is in full swing. Dancers are playing Quarters, High-Low and Flip Cup (with water, of course), as well as "Pin the Glasses on the Blind Ref." Oddly enough, they're also playing horseshoes. I wasn't aware that horseshoes was a drinking game, or even a regular part of a college student's night out, but hey, you learn new things every day.
Dancers look like they're getting tired... I see more and more leaning against the activity tables or resting a leg on one of the many beach balls that are floating around. One moraler was even giving a piggyback ride to his dancer. But the moralers are clearly doing their best to keep the Thon spirit high.
-Andrew, 1:20 am
Dancers look like they're getting tired... I see more and more leaning against the activity tables or resting a leg on one of the many beach balls that are floating around. One moraler was even giving a piggyback ride to his dancer. But the moralers are clearly doing their best to keep the Thon spirit high.
-Andrew, 1:20 am
Saturday, February 17, 2007
Line Dance Lyrics
It's easy to miss a lot of the allusions in the line dance song. Here are the lyrics so you can take a closer look and fully understand it if you'd like to:
Thon is the place for me
Welcome to the BJC
Dancing strong for 46
Hey DJ, spin that mix
F to the T-K
For the kids is what we say
D, to the A
To the NCERS, go dancers
Globo gym, in Rec Hall
Watch TV, just don't fall
Creamery down the block
Nathan's lights, what a shock
Webmail2 drops the ball
Creepy feed tells it all
Penn State, super fans
Zombie Nation breaks the stands
Roar Lions roar
T-H-O-N
Thon 2007
For the kids
Loyal to white and blue
Anything is possible
Dreams come true
Freshmen class, all time high
Football tickets, hard to buy
Puz breaks record, with no fear
Conner stays for one more year
Outback Bowl's the place to be
State's the only 10 I see
Women's soccer wins again
You can't touch our Lion's den
World Cup takes the stage
Head butt hits front page
Beckham comes to Galaxy
J-Mac can shoot the three
L-T scores with power
Say farewell to Coach Cowher
Saints march into town
Gators wear a double crown
Diamonds in the stands
Di-diamonds on the floor
Diamonds are for Hershey
And we've got four
J.T. brings it back
So do Bond and Captain Jack
Samuel L. flies with snakes
Ricky Bobby shakes and bakes
Cars cruise the street
Dancers move those Happy Feet
Roar Lions roar
T-H-O-N
Thon 2007
For the kids
Loyal to white and blue
Anything is possible
Dreams come true
Katie Couric, nightly news
Who will fill Bob Barker's shoes
Bindi Irwin follows dad
Crikey, he'd be so glad
Democrats paint house blue
First female speaker too
Science led us down wrong route
Planet Pluto gets the boot
Everybody grab your can
*7 claps*
And shake your moneymaker
Roar Lions roar
T-H-O-N
Thon 2007
For the kids
Loyal to white and blue
Anything is possible
Dreams come true
Dancin' all on the floor
Until we find a cure
Jersey Boys, Broadway fame
Gotta getcha head in the game
Trump and Rosie fight some more
Brittney shows K-Fed the door
Stretch pants, skinny jeans
Don't get mad, don't be mean
We stand behind their courage
And wisdom at great length
We learn from their honesty
And celebrate their strength
Many hearts
F-T-K
One home
Here to stay
Thon '07 rockin' out
On our feet, dance and shout
Our diamonds are forever
With pride we stand together
Fight on State!
- Ian
Posted at 11:21 p.m. Saturday
Thon is the place for me
Welcome to the BJC
Dancing strong for 46
Hey DJ, spin that mix
F to the T-K
For the kids is what we say
D, to the A
To the NCERS, go dancers
Globo gym, in Rec Hall
Watch TV, just don't fall
Creamery down the block
Nathan's lights, what a shock
Webmail2 drops the ball
Creepy feed tells it all
Penn State, super fans
Zombie Nation breaks the stands
Roar Lions roar
T-H-O-N
Thon 2007
For the kids
Loyal to white and blue
Anything is possible
Dreams come true
Freshmen class, all time high
Football tickets, hard to buy
Puz breaks record, with no fear
Conner stays for one more year
Outback Bowl's the place to be
State's the only 10 I see
Women's soccer wins again
You can't touch our Lion's den
World Cup takes the stage
Head butt hits front page
Beckham comes to Galaxy
J-Mac can shoot the three
L-T scores with power
Say farewell to Coach Cowher
Saints march into town
Gators wear a double crown
Diamonds in the stands
Di-diamonds on the floor
Diamonds are for Hershey
And we've got four
J.T. brings it back
So do Bond and Captain Jack
Samuel L. flies with snakes
Ricky Bobby shakes and bakes
Cars cruise the street
Dancers move those Happy Feet
Roar Lions roar
T-H-O-N
Thon 2007
For the kids
Loyal to white and blue
Anything is possible
Dreams come true
Katie Couric, nightly news
Who will fill Bob Barker's shoes
Bindi Irwin follows dad
Crikey, he'd be so glad
Democrats paint house blue
First female speaker too
Science led us down wrong route
Planet Pluto gets the boot
Everybody grab your can
*7 claps*
And shake your moneymaker
Roar Lions roar
T-H-O-N
Thon 2007
For the kids
Loyal to white and blue
Anything is possible
Dreams come true
Dancin' all on the floor
Until we find a cure
Jersey Boys, Broadway fame
Gotta getcha head in the game
Trump and Rosie fight some more
Brittney shows K-Fed the door
Stretch pants, skinny jeans
Don't get mad, don't be mean
We stand behind their courage
And wisdom at great length
We learn from their honesty
And celebrate their strength
Many hearts
F-T-K
One home
Here to stay
Thon '07 rockin' out
On our feet, dance and shout
Our diamonds are forever
With pride we stand together
Fight on State!
- Ian
Posted at 11:21 p.m. Saturday
BJC starting to fill up
The BJC is really starting to fill up now. The lower ring of seats is pretty much full and they've lifted part of the black curtain hiding the top ring of seats.
The Blue Band is performing now, so the energy in this building is fantastic. The crowd is really getting into it and participating in the chants led by the cheerleaders.
- Ian
Posted at 10:10 p.m. Saturday
The Blue Band is performing now, so the energy in this building is fantastic. The crowd is really getting into it and participating in the chants led by the cheerleaders.
- Ian
Posted at 10:10 p.m. Saturday
Thon Parent, soon to be Penn State student
I was just down on the floor and I talked to a woman, Lisa Swope, who told me one of the more interesting stories I have heard so far.
Her son, Jason, is a Thon kid, and she was just accepted into
"It's exciting to be a Four Diamonds member and a student," she said.
She said she isn't planning on pursuing any involvement in Thon on the student side of things, but has a lot of respect for those who do.
"It is an honor to be here with all these kids," she said.
Jason's cancer is in remission, and Lisa said she is really looking forward to Thon 2010. By then Jason will have been in remission long enough to be considered cured, since the anniversary of his going into remission always falls a few weeks before Thon.
"We always get that good news right before Thon," Lisa said.
While we were talking, Jason was looking through his Thon mail, a pile of multi-colored construction paper covered with crayon messages and drawings. I'm not sure if he could read the words or not, but from what I saw he was really enjoying it.
- IanPosted at 10:24 p.m. on Saturday
Riding on the Loop
Candidate reporter Leslie Finlay rode the Blue Loop for two hours tonight, scouring for stories amongst Thon attendees.
"I'm on [Rules and Regulations], so I'm stationed at different locations throughout my shift," Stephen Eaglen (freshman-chemical engineering) said. "Today I was by the massage tables and watched as the dancers lined up to get their feet massaged."
"I just want to go to see the people standing," Ashley Gromis(freshman- information, science and technology and telecommunications) said. "It amazes me that people have that kind of endurance."
"My high school had a mini-thon that raised money for Penn State's Thon," Kala Burke (freshman-advertising) said. "It was only 12 hours long, but we had bands and other activities -- even a swimming pool."
"Last year I danced, and it was the most surreal and amazing thing I've done in my life," Kim Cicconi (senior-journalism) said. "At seven in the morning, I started hallucinating, and I could have sworn they were doing the Line Dance in Swedish. I remember being really angry that they would change the language of the Line Dance without telling me."
"I'm on Morale, and a few of my dancers asked for a specific food," Cicconi continued."So I went to get it for them. I'm on my way back to give it to them now. To each, two slices of Brothers' Pizza, and one wanted a chicken burrito from Qdoba."
"I remember my first Thon, just thinking... this is cool," Lizzie Loftus (senior-psychology) said. "[My friend] didn't go last year, and when she told me, I was completely appalled. So I had to bring her -- it was so amazing, it's my duty."
"I'm on [Rules and Regulations], so I'm stationed at different locations throughout my shift," Stephen Eaglen (freshman-chemical engineering) said. "Today I was by the massage tables and watched as the dancers lined up to get their feet massaged."
"I just want to go to see the people standing," Ashley Gromis(freshman- information, science and technology and telecommunications) said. "It amazes me that people have that kind of endurance."
"My high school had a mini-thon that raised money for Penn State's Thon," Kala Burke (freshman-advertising) said. "It was only 12 hours long, but we had bands and other activities -- even a swimming pool."
"Last year I danced, and it was the most surreal and amazing thing I've done in my life," Kim Cicconi (senior-journalism) said. "At seven in the morning, I started hallucinating, and I could have sworn they were doing the Line Dance in Swedish. I remember being really angry that they would change the language of the Line Dance without telling me."
"I'm on Morale, and a few of my dancers asked for a specific food," Cicconi continued."So I went to get it for them. I'm on my way back to give it to them now. To each, two slices of Brothers' Pizza, and one wanted a chicken burrito from Qdoba."
"I remember my first Thon, just thinking... this is cool," Lizzie Loftus (senior-psychology) said. "[My friend] didn't go last year, and when she told me, I was completely appalled. So I had to bring her -- it was so amazing, it's my duty."
Who Wants To Go On A Date For Thon?
There's a guy standing in the stands with a big blue sign. We saw him on the jumbotron.
On his sign, in black letters, it reads, "For every girl who gives me her number, I will donate $1.00 to Thon. (Serious takers only)"
Richard Shermanski (sophomore-political science and history) told me that he hopes to get a girlfriend from the Thon crowd.
He told me the greatest part about Thon is "all the ladies." He was inspired to try this after he asked out a girl here and she shot him down. So far, after 10 minutes with the sign, he's gotten a lot of pictures taken, but only two numbers. He said he'll donate a maximum number of $50.00 to Thon. He also told me that he plans to take all of the girls out on their own individual date, and he'll probably take them each for a walk in the park -- he said he hopes it'll help in trying to get to know the person.
48 single females needed!
19 hours, 37 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 8:23 p.m.
On his sign, in black letters, it reads, "For every girl who gives me her number, I will donate $1.00 to Thon. (Serious takers only)"
Richard Shermanski (sophomore-political science and history) told me that he hopes to get a girlfriend from the Thon crowd.
He told me the greatest part about Thon is "all the ladies." He was inspired to try this after he asked out a girl here and she shot him down. So far, after 10 minutes with the sign, he's gotten a lot of pictures taken, but only two numbers. He said he'll donate a maximum number of $50.00 to Thon. He also told me that he plans to take all of the girls out on their own individual date, and he'll probably take them each for a walk in the park -- he said he hopes it'll help in trying to get to know the person.
48 single females needed!
19 hours, 37 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 8:23 p.m.
It's Grrrrrreat!
There’s a tiger walking through the Bryce Jordan Center: Tony the Tiger.
“Tony the Tiger wants to support Thon – the dancers, the kids,” Wendy Anderson of Kellog said.
Tony is here for the Family Dinner, and later he’ll be on the floor.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 7:38 p.m. Saturday
“Tony the Tiger wants to support Thon – the dancers, the kids,” Wendy Anderson of Kellog said.
Tony is here for the Family Dinner, and later he’ll be on the floor.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 7:38 p.m. Saturday
Hawaiian Thon
I see boys in skirts.
And not just any kind of skirt -- not a kilt, not a toga, not even a mini skirt. They're in royal blue grass skirts.
Oh, yeah.
Actually, they're members of PSIDE, a performing international dance group that has graced Thon with its presence.
And for you boys out there interested in seeing some hula-ing by females, there are girls dancing too. The girls are wearing hula skirts too, naturally. They're actually really pretty. Their bottom skirts match the boys', and their tops are like a granny apple green, and they have these really cool things hanging from their wrists. One of them is even wearing a traditional coconut bra.
Both the boys and girls are really good. There are, in total, seven dancers: three guys and four girls.
Oh they're back. And they're in different outfits. But those cool things on their wrists are still there.
In other news, the cow is back.
And from where we're sitting, it seems like the floor is a lot more crowded than it has been in a while. The stands are also starting to fill up, and the crowd seems really enthusiastic. It should be a good burst of energy for the dancers. So if you're thinking about coming to Thon, I'd come now. It seems like there's a lot going on and a lot of people here to hang out with.
20 hours, 17 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 7:43 p.m.
And not just any kind of skirt -- not a kilt, not a toga, not even a mini skirt. They're in royal blue grass skirts.
Oh, yeah.
Actually, they're members of PSIDE, a performing international dance group that has graced Thon with its presence.
And for you boys out there interested in seeing some hula-ing by females, there are girls dancing too. The girls are wearing hula skirts too, naturally. They're actually really pretty. Their bottom skirts match the boys', and their tops are like a granny apple green, and they have these really cool things hanging from their wrists. One of them is even wearing a traditional coconut bra.
Both the boys and girls are really good. There are, in total, seven dancers: three guys and four girls.
Oh they're back. And they're in different outfits. But those cool things on their wrists are still there.
In other news, the cow is back.
And from where we're sitting, it seems like the floor is a lot more crowded than it has been in a while. The stands are also starting to fill up, and the crowd seems really enthusiastic. It should be a good burst of energy for the dancers. So if you're thinking about coming to Thon, I'd come now. It seems like there's a lot going on and a lot of people here to hang out with.
20 hours, 17 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 7:43 p.m.
Confessions of a Thon Virgin
Until about an hour ago I was a Thon virgin. Clearly, I wasn’t ready for the chaos.
I thought avoiding slippery ice on the walk from my apartment would be the most dangerous part of my Thon experience.
I was wrong.
Within five minutes of roaming the floor, I was hit in the back of the head with a sponge football, splashed with water by some hyper supporters in the stands, and attacked by a kid in a Campbell’s Tomato Soup costume.
At least I knew the kid in the soup costume.
Despite my injuries, I am very impressed with the structure of the event. Somehow all this chaos seems organized. Each color knows its role and acts accordingly. While everyone is acting a little crazy, they’re still doing their job.
I suppose you have to act a little insane to stay sane for 46 hours.
~Alyssa 7:23 p.m.
I thought avoiding slippery ice on the walk from my apartment would be the most dangerous part of my Thon experience.
I was wrong.
Within five minutes of roaming the floor, I was hit in the back of the head with a sponge football, splashed with water by some hyper supporters in the stands, and attacked by a kid in a Campbell’s Tomato Soup costume.
At least I knew the kid in the soup costume.
Despite my injuries, I am very impressed with the structure of the event. Somehow all this chaos seems organized. Each color knows its role and acts accordingly. While everyone is acting a little crazy, they’re still doing their job.
I suppose you have to act a little insane to stay sane for 46 hours.
~Alyssa 7:23 p.m.
Getting on the floor
I have just returned from a journey.
I went to the pass table to pick up a press pass and go to the floor -- simple enough, right? Wrong.
A Rules and Regulations member swiped my ID. The computer came up with my account and said that “Rossilynne is on the floor.” Rules and Regs girl told me “You’re on the floor.” I answered with, “I’m obviously not on the floor. I’m right here.”
At that point, a 65-minute long adventure began. I handed my ID to a captain who said she’d consult a technology committee member and fix the problem.
After about 20 minutes I realized this would be no quick fix. So there I stood watching everyone else’s problems unfold in front of me.
One woman wanted to check off the floor and received an ID that wasn’t hers. Another girl couldn’t get on the floor because someone from her organization already had the pass.
Let me explain – in vivid detail – how the pass table works. Rules and Regs members in bright red shirts hold a long string of yellow caution tape to form a human barrier which is supposed to corral people who want floor passes. Other Rules and Regs members stand behind a table of computers where they swipe IDs and check people on and off the floor. It seems like a relatively easy process, but the line – both for check on and for check off – is long.
Waiting in line to get off the floor I met Shayne Brown who’s here from Penn State New Kensington.
“They could probably get [the line] faster somehow [with] more people checking people out.”
Anyway, after over an hour of media coverage past, I got on the floor and off the floor and got my ID back.
Once on the floor, though, the time spent waiting is worth it.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 6:53 p.m. Saturday
I went to the pass table to pick up a press pass and go to the floor -- simple enough, right? Wrong.
A Rules and Regulations member swiped my ID. The computer came up with my account and said that “Rossilynne is on the floor.” Rules and Regs girl told me “You’re on the floor.” I answered with, “I’m obviously not on the floor. I’m right here.”
At that point, a 65-minute long adventure began. I handed my ID to a captain who said she’d consult a technology committee member and fix the problem.
After about 20 minutes I realized this would be no quick fix. So there I stood watching everyone else’s problems unfold in front of me.
One woman wanted to check off the floor and received an ID that wasn’t hers. Another girl couldn’t get on the floor because someone from her organization already had the pass.
Let me explain – in vivid detail – how the pass table works. Rules and Regs members in bright red shirts hold a long string of yellow caution tape to form a human barrier which is supposed to corral people who want floor passes. Other Rules and Regs members stand behind a table of computers where they swipe IDs and check people on and off the floor. It seems like a relatively easy process, but the line – both for check on and for check off – is long.
Waiting in line to get off the floor I met Shayne Brown who’s here from Penn State New Kensington.
“They could probably get [the line] faster somehow [with] more people checking people out.”
Anyway, after over an hour of media coverage past, I got on the floor and off the floor and got my ID back.
Once on the floor, though, the time spent waiting is worth it.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 6:53 p.m. Saturday
In the Public's Eye
For some reason, Thon staff have had the Jumbotron focused on this one little girl in the stands for the past five minutes. She knows that we're all watching her, and she had not stopped dancing-- I have the feeling she won't until the Jumbotron moves on, and maybe not even then. A future Thon dancer, perhaps? But for now, I say, let this girl have a break.
- Andrew, 5:55
- Andrew, 5:55
Someone Tell Paris Hilton...Fannypacks Are Back In Style
Navy blue fannypacks, attached to dancers' and moralers' hips, are everywhere on the floor.
Maybe they're not the coolest style outside of the Bryce Jordan Center, but inside, it seems everyone has jumped on the fannypack bandwagon.
"I know they're dorky, they're not fashionable," Meghan Zagari (senior-elementary education) said. "But this time of year, they are fashionable."
Zagari said inside her hip-buddy is her chapstick, camera, gum, cell phone and....play-doh?
"My moraler gave it to me," she said, laughing, after she told me that no, the play-doh was actually not for the kids.
Still, seriously, fannypacks?
"I'd never wear it anywhere else," Andrew Savitz (senior-science) said. "I guess it's okay if it's for this."
Thon is changing the world one cancer-stricken child at a time. Who knows, maybe Thon will also soon be changing fashion week and the styles in Vogue magazine...or not.
22 hours, 18 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 5:42 p.m.
Maybe they're not the coolest style outside of the Bryce Jordan Center, but inside, it seems everyone has jumped on the fannypack bandwagon.
"I know they're dorky, they're not fashionable," Meghan Zagari (senior-elementary education) said. "But this time of year, they are fashionable."
Zagari said inside her hip-buddy is her chapstick, camera, gum, cell phone and....play-doh?
"My moraler gave it to me," she said, laughing, after she told me that no, the play-doh was actually not for the kids.
Still, seriously, fannypacks?
"I'd never wear it anywhere else," Andrew Savitz (senior-science) said. "I guess it's okay if it's for this."
Thon is changing the world one cancer-stricken child at a time. Who knows, maybe Thon will also soon be changing fashion week and the styles in Vogue magazine...or not.
22 hours, 18 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 5:42 p.m.
Shake Your Money Maker
I never thought I'd see Penn State faculty and staff "shaking their money makers" or saying "ballin,'" so when they helped lead the line dance a few minutes ago it was a sight to see.
Their moves weren't as well choreographed as the moralers who have had a lot of practice. Sometimes the staff was moving to the beat of their own drummers, but the humor seemed to raise morale a bit.
Professors grooving is something I'd never have expected to see, but as the line dance song says, "anything is possible."
--Rossilynne
Posted at 4:35 p.m. Saturday
Their moves weren't as well choreographed as the moralers who have had a lot of practice. Sometimes the staff was moving to the beat of their own drummers, but the humor seemed to raise morale a bit.
Professors grooving is something I'd never have expected to see, but as the line dance song says, "anything is possible."
--Rossilynne
Posted at 4:35 p.m. Saturday
That Was Kinda Really Cool
So, I just got to accompany a Thon tour.
With members of the football team.
In the Lasch football building.
A photographer and I accompanied the Schweitzer family on a guided tour of the building for Thon Wish Hour. Two football players, Jason Ganter and Patrick Weber, led the family around and explained what certain rooms are used for and even let Robby try on Paul Posluszny's helmet. Robby, 8, is a Thon child who had leukemia and is now in remission.
Robby's favorite part was playing foosball and pool with the players.
We were in the locker room, which, by the way, is unbelievable, and the players have this tradition in there. They have this gorgeous blue carpeting, and in the middle there is a huge white "S." Well, no one is allowed to step on the "S" or else they have to do push-ups. Not sure how many, but it's a big deal. Well, we were in there looking around, or gasping in my case (it was beautiful!) and this little girl stepped on the "S." Penn State Linebacker Sean Lee saw her and almost had a heart attack and grabbed her and pulled her off of the "S." Robby asked if she had to do push-ups. But she didn't have to, considering she was like 3-years-old. It was really funny.
24 hours, 5 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 3:55 p.m.
With members of the football team.
In the Lasch football building.
A photographer and I accompanied the Schweitzer family on a guided tour of the building for Thon Wish Hour. Two football players, Jason Ganter and Patrick Weber, led the family around and explained what certain rooms are used for and even let Robby try on Paul Posluszny's helmet. Robby, 8, is a Thon child who had leukemia and is now in remission.
Robby's favorite part was playing foosball and pool with the players.
We were in the locker room, which, by the way, is unbelievable, and the players have this tradition in there. They have this gorgeous blue carpeting, and in the middle there is a huge white "S." Well, no one is allowed to step on the "S" or else they have to do push-ups. Not sure how many, but it's a big deal. Well, we were in there looking around, or gasping in my case (it was beautiful!) and this little girl stepped on the "S." Penn State Linebacker Sean Lee saw her and almost had a heart attack and grabbed her and pulled her off of the "S." Robby asked if she had to do push-ups. But she didn't have to, considering she was like 3-years-old. It was really funny.
24 hours, 5 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 3:55 p.m.
Dancing King
Thon child Dylan is stealing the stage in the “So You Think You Can Dance” Color Wars competition with his zany dance moves.
He crawls along the stage, he jumps up and down and he even tries out some break dancing moves. A crowd of moralers seems captivated by his dance to “Who Let the Dogs Out.”
Now as committee members take the stage to lead the line dance, Dylan’s the one who’s fascinated.
The orange team won the “So You Think You Can Dance” dance-off with their moves to “Cotton Eyed Joe,” though Dylan seemed to win the crowd's attention.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 2:23 p.m. Saturday
He crawls along the stage, he jumps up and down and he even tries out some break dancing moves. A crowd of moralers seems captivated by his dance to “Who Let the Dogs Out.”
Now as committee members take the stage to lead the line dance, Dylan’s the one who’s fascinated.
The orange team won the “So You Think You Can Dance” dance-off with their moves to “Cotton Eyed Joe,” though Dylan seemed to win the crowd's attention.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 2:23 p.m. Saturday
You're out!
A blue rubber ball with red, yellow and light blue polka dots bounces across the floor. Dancers are in rigid, competitive stances. Moralers stand on the sidelines acting as referees shouting things like “You're out!” or “Too long!”
Engrossed in a four-square competition, dancers and moralers are passing the time on Saturday afternoon.
“This is the first year we’ve done four-square,” moraler Emily Curran said. “We try to add new random events in with the old ones.”
The game is a part of a color wars event, four-square referee and moraler Andrew Kopping said.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 1:25 p.m. Saturday
Engrossed in a four-square competition, dancers and moralers are passing the time on Saturday afternoon.
“This is the first year we’ve done four-square,” moraler Emily Curran said. “We try to add new random events in with the old ones.”
The game is a part of a color wars event, four-square referee and moraler Andrew Kopping said.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 1:25 p.m. Saturday
What's Black and White and Red and Blue and Green and Yellow and Purple and Orange all over?
One of the first things you'll notice when you see the Thon floor is the array of colors. It's like a Crayola box down there.
For committee members, different colored shirts designate what Thon committee they're on. For dancers the colored shirts they wear are chosen by their organization.
One of the most prevalent colors is yellow, which Morale committee members wear. The moralers are divided into four teams - red, green, blue, and orange - and wear shorts, socks and headbands corresponding to their team's color. These teams compete in different events to earn points and one of the events is a Mario Kart race. You know that any fundraiser that combines Mario Kart and helping families is going to be successful.
--Bill
For committee members, different colored shirts designate what Thon committee they're on. For dancers the colored shirts they wear are chosen by their organization.
One of the most prevalent colors is yellow, which Morale committee members wear. The moralers are divided into four teams - red, green, blue, and orange - and wear shorts, socks and headbands corresponding to their team's color. These teams compete in different events to earn points and one of the events is a Mario Kart race. You know that any fundraiser that combines Mario Kart and helping families is going to be successful.
--Bill
Some Celebrity Sightings At Thon...
I just got back from the floor. It's absolutely crazy. Bouncy balls, footballs, people...everywhere. I even talked to a group of girls and a Thon child playing Clue! People are finding the most interesting ways to amuse themselves.
While down there, I ran into Penn State President Graham Spanier, who told me this year's Thon is "marvelous" and called it the "best yet." He said that the BJC is a good fit for Thon because of the space, climate control and support facilities.
I also talked to Chairman of the Board of Trustees Jim Broadhurst who said he's "really excited to walk around."
Then I got to interview to Project Runway alum Angela Keslar and Jennifer Togart, a junior here who is Miss Delaware American Co-ed 2006. Both hosted the kids' fashion show.
"[Thon] reminds you of what it means to be human," Keslar said.
For more on Keslar's ties to Penn State, check out The Collegian archives: http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2007/02/02-15-07tdc/02-15-07dnews-07.asp
27 hours, 12 minutes until the total is revealed!!
- Lauren, 12:48 p.m.
While down there, I ran into Penn State President Graham Spanier, who told me this year's Thon is "marvelous" and called it the "best yet." He said that the BJC is a good fit for Thon because of the space, climate control and support facilities.
I also talked to Chairman of the Board of Trustees Jim Broadhurst who said he's "really excited to walk around."
Then I got to interview to Project Runway alum Angela Keslar and Jennifer Togart, a junior here who is Miss Delaware American Co-ed 2006. Both hosted the kids' fashion show.
"[Thon] reminds you of what it means to be human," Keslar said.
For more on Keslar's ties to Penn State, check out The Collegian archives: http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2007/02/02-15-07tdc/02-15-07dnews-07.asp
27 hours, 12 minutes until the total is revealed!!
- Lauren, 12:48 p.m.
The kids have broken out the water pistols
Walking across the floor, I found myself under heavy fire from multiple assailants... Thon kids with water pistols. Some have small ones, some have big ones (one kid, sporting a giant Super-Soaker, gleefully sprayed water into the air and then directed the blast at me), but they're all having fun, and I definitely was not the only one who was soaked.
Meanwhile, dancers Raquel Jones and Jonathan Cox are taking a break from the hubbub to work on a few word-search puzzles together. "I've got everything here," Jones, who is dancing for the Latino Caucus, said, pointing at her fanny-pack.
-Andrew, 12:35 pm Saturday
Meanwhile, dancers Raquel Jones and Jonathan Cox are taking a break from the hubbub to work on a few word-search puzzles together. "I've got everything here," Jones, who is dancing for the Latino Caucus, said, pointing at her fanny-pack.
-Andrew, 12:35 pm Saturday
Rock on, Thon!
As befits a dance marathon, there's always music playing at Thon. Live acts, DJ mixes and the line dance all help entertain the crowd.
"We play everything. They [the DJs] take requests from dancers and kids," Lindsay Jenkins, the Entertainment Overall said. Jenkins said she tries to play "upbeat, fast tempo music to keep the dancers moving" and that the strangest request she's received so far has been for the "Pennsylvania Polka."
There have been a few live acts so far, but my favorite has been the band Lemonsoul. They played some Simon and Garfunkel covers and the crowd seemed to like them. Greg Johnson, a freshman at Penn State who's studying saxophone performance and plays for the band, said he first got involved in Thon while attending State College Area High School.
"The guy who started Thon was a singer and he was recruiting people for singing," Johnson said. "His son was about the same age as me and he had cancer and died when he was around 13 or 14 [years old]."
Another performer, guitarist Ernie Halter, said he planned his 2 weeks tour around Thon and that he'd "like to be known as the only guy who sang the Thon song. Thon, Th-Thon, Thon Thon." Apparently it's a parody of Sisqo's hit.
Whatever is playing, if you're on the floor it's pretty loud. "It's a little hard to talk sometime," Noris Pasic (sophomore-economics) yelled over the music, "but it keeps us upbeat."
Although some dancers prefer the DJ and others enjoy the live acts more, the most popular song is probably the line dance.
"Every time we hear them say 'Morale captains to the stage,' we get really excited and run to the front," dancer Gillian MacDonald said.
On another note, there's a big green parrot walking around the floor. I think he's from Pittsburgh.
--Bill
"We play everything. They [the DJs] take requests from dancers and kids," Lindsay Jenkins, the Entertainment Overall said. Jenkins said she tries to play "upbeat, fast tempo music to keep the dancers moving" and that the strangest request she's received so far has been for the "Pennsylvania Polka."
There have been a few live acts so far, but my favorite has been the band Lemonsoul. They played some Simon and Garfunkel covers and the crowd seemed to like them. Greg Johnson, a freshman at Penn State who's studying saxophone performance and plays for the band, said he first got involved in Thon while attending State College Area High School.
"The guy who started Thon was a singer and he was recruiting people for singing," Johnson said. "His son was about the same age as me and he had cancer and died when he was around 13 or 14 [years old]."
Another performer, guitarist Ernie Halter, said he planned his 2 weeks tour around Thon and that he'd "like to be known as the only guy who sang the Thon song. Thon, Th-Thon, Thon Thon." Apparently it's a parody of Sisqo's hit.
Whatever is playing, if you're on the floor it's pretty loud. "It's a little hard to talk sometime," Noris Pasic (sophomore-economics) yelled over the music, "but it keeps us upbeat."
Although some dancers prefer the DJ and others enjoy the live acts more, the most popular song is probably the line dance.
"Every time we hear them say 'Morale captains to the stage,' we get really excited and run to the front," dancer Gillian MacDonald said.
On another note, there's a big green parrot walking around the floor. I think he's from Pittsburgh.
--Bill
Dancing Shoes?
Dancers here have on the most comfortable shoes they can find, so I was surprised to see a pair of heels on the BJC floor.
"We went out, now we're here to support our dancers," said Kayla DePuy, a member of the sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma, who came to Thon this morning with her fellow sorority member Elizabeth Shirley.
Shirley said they brought "spirit and soda" to their dancers, but they made sure the soda was caffeine-free. "They're not allowed caffeine because they'll crash later," she said.
-- Bill
"We went out, now we're here to support our dancers," said Kayla DePuy, a member of the sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma, who came to Thon this morning with her fellow sorority member Elizabeth Shirley.
Shirley said they brought "spirit and soda" to their dancers, but they made sure the soda was caffeine-free. "They're not allowed caffeine because they'll crash later," she said.
-- Bill
Thon benefits from tech donors
One of the things I noticed walking around the Bryce Jordan Center is that all the computers being used here are Macs. Brian Ghigiarelli, the technology chair, said all the computers were on loan from Apple.
"Apple lent us the computers for the weekend," he said. "One of the huge problems we've had in the past was tracking down enough computers. We were fortunate enough to have a good donor in them."
Ghigiarelli said that Apple donated twice as many computers this year compared to last year, since the event is in the BJC.
Apple is not the only company to donate equipment to Thon this year, though, as Ghigiarelli said Hewlett-Packard has also donated enough printers and photo paper for, "anyone coming to Thon with digital cameras," to print the pictures they take virtually on the spot. Ghigiarelli said there were enough supplies for 24,000 4x6 prints.
- Ian
Posted at 4:53 a.m. Saturday
"Apple lent us the computers for the weekend," he said. "One of the huge problems we've had in the past was tracking down enough computers. We were fortunate enough to have a good donor in them."
Ghigiarelli said that Apple donated twice as many computers this year compared to last year, since the event is in the BJC.
Apple is not the only company to donate equipment to Thon this year, though, as Ghigiarelli said Hewlett-Packard has also donated enough printers and photo paper for, "anyone coming to Thon with digital cameras," to print the pictures they take virtually on the spot. Ghigiarelli said there were enough supplies for 24,000 4x6 prints.
- Ian
Posted at 4:53 a.m. Saturday
When pigs fly
Dancers, moralers and committee members are topping off their outfits with hats of all varieties.
One OPPerations committee is sporting pink pig hats with wings that fly when a string is pulled. “They’re the most flamboyant hats we could find,” committee member Katie Smelas said. “[They’re] something the kids can play with."
Purple dinosaur hats are the choice for another OPP committee. With iridescent toes, purple feet, a tail and ears, the dino hats are a hit with kids. Like the pig hats, the dino hats have wings that fly. “Everybody stops and asks us to pull on [the string],” committee member Alyssa Lerew said.
Some headgear is a little more practical. Moraler Cara Laeng is wearing red and green reindeer antlers because, “I’m short so my dancers wanted to spot me if they need me,” she said.
A sombrero, foam tiaras and even a stovepipe hat with license plates printed all over it have been spotted.
Even in a crowd of 702 dancers, 702 moralers and countless supporters cheering on their dancers, these crazy hats set their wearers apart with style.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 2:36 a.m. Saturday
One OPPerations committee is sporting pink pig hats with wings that fly when a string is pulled. “They’re the most flamboyant hats we could find,” committee member Katie Smelas said. “[They’re] something the kids can play with."
Purple dinosaur hats are the choice for another OPP committee. With iridescent toes, purple feet, a tail and ears, the dino hats are a hit with kids. Like the pig hats, the dino hats have wings that fly. “Everybody stops and asks us to pull on [the string],” committee member Alyssa Lerew said.
Some headgear is a little more practical. Moraler Cara Laeng is wearing red and green reindeer antlers because, “I’m short so my dancers wanted to spot me if they need me,” she said.
A sombrero, foam tiaras and even a stovepipe hat with license plates printed all over it have been spotted.
Even in a crowd of 702 dancers, 702 moralers and countless supporters cheering on their dancers, these crazy hats set their wearers apart with style.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 2:36 a.m. Saturday
Crowd behaving itself for the most part
Right now there isn’t too much of a crowd in the Bryce Jordan Center and the crowd that is here isn’t rowdy.
Still, two alcohol related issues have been reported so far at Thon, University Police Lieutenant Stewart Neff said.
“We’ve had some alcohol related issues. Nothing requiring arrest,” Neff said.
Both people were of age so they were released to friends and asked to leave the facility.
Looking ahead, Neff said, “It’s only 12:30. We expect an increase of attendance probably around 2:00.” However, he said police do not anticipate an increase in any type of criminal activity.
“So far so good,” he said.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 1:30 a.m. Saturday
Still, two alcohol related issues have been reported so far at Thon, University Police Lieutenant Stewart Neff said.
“We’ve had some alcohol related issues. Nothing requiring arrest,” Neff said.
Both people were of age so they were released to friends and asked to leave the facility.
Looking ahead, Neff said, “It’s only 12:30. We expect an increase of attendance probably around 2:00.” However, he said police do not anticipate an increase in any type of criminal activity.
“So far so good,” he said.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 1:30 a.m. Saturday
Presidential sighting
I just ran into UPUA President Jay Chamberlin on the floor. He said he was here to support 17 of his friends who are dancing through various organizations and had just finished the Slide of Strength. Chamberlin said that THON was amazing with more space in the BJC.
He added that UPUA sent mail to all the dancers thanking them for participating and included an inspirational quote by Benjamin Franklin.
Chamberlin told me he would visit THON again tomorrow and again during the last few hours on Sunday.
- Adrienne, 12:30am
He added that UPUA sent mail to all the dancers thanking them for participating and included an inspirational quote by Benjamin Franklin.
Chamberlin told me he would visit THON again tomorrow and again during the last few hours on Sunday.
- Adrienne, 12:30am
Friday, February 16, 2007
It's A Bird! It's A Plane! It's...Thon Superhero Hour!
I made my way through the mass of blues, greens, pinks and every other color under the sun to investigate Superhero Hour - one of a few themed hours that will be held throughout the weekend. After almost getting hit not once, but twice, by a giant sky blue bouncy ball, and testing my reflexes after a rogue football almost nailed me in the head, I talked to a few enthusiastic people about Superhero Hour.
One guy I met, Jeff Reyes (freshman-security and risk analysis) actually drew the comic books that kids and dancers were coloring in. I thought that was so cool.
"Basically, my morale captain said, 'Hey, do we have a really good artist [to make a comic book] for kids to color in'," Reyes said. "I knew how to draw like Mario and Superman and I created my own comic."
Another activity that I thought was pretty cool was Thonville. People over there were creating superhero buttons and then got assigned "missions." Mike Diehl '06 had a button on his back that said "rub here." His mission was to find someone who knew the alma mater.
"I'm going to try to find the people with the Lion Ambassador shirts on," he said.
Smart man.
39 hours, 52 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 12:08 a.m.
One guy I met, Jeff Reyes (freshman-security and risk analysis) actually drew the comic books that kids and dancers were coloring in. I thought that was so cool.
"Basically, my morale captain said, 'Hey, do we have a really good artist [to make a comic book] for kids to color in'," Reyes said. "I knew how to draw like Mario and Superman and I created my own comic."
Another activity that I thought was pretty cool was Thonville. People over there were creating superhero buttons and then got assigned "missions." Mike Diehl '06 had a button on his back that said "rub here." His mission was to find someone who knew the alma mater.
"I'm going to try to find the people with the Lion Ambassador shirts on," he said.
Smart man.
39 hours, 52 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 12:08 a.m.
Costumes for a cause
Several people wearing costumes are now wandering on the floor. Two guys dressed as Batman and Robin just made their way through the crowd. No doubt that they are preparing for the super heroes theme hour, which is coming up soon.
- Adrienne, 11:20pm
- Adrienne, 11:20pm
Dancing and Sliding
After only spending a hour and a half on the floor, I am already amazed at the spirit and enthusiasm the dancers are showing.
In fact, people in the stands are forming congo lines and dancing to the music as I type this.
The Slide of Strength is still continuing. One dancer told me that it was "awesome" and said it helped build up his strength. Many dancers enjoyed it so much that they got back in line for a second or third trip down the mat, which is covered in baby powder.
- Adrienne, 11:08pm
In fact, people in the stands are forming congo lines and dancing to the music as I type this.
The Slide of Strength is still continuing. One dancer told me that it was "awesome" and said it helped build up his strength. Many dancers enjoyed it so much that they got back in line for a second or third trip down the mat, which is covered in baby powder.
- Adrienne, 11:08pm
Let's Get Funky!
Moralers are on the stage dancing to the Cha Cha Slide.
Someone just pointed out to me that some people in the DJ booth are dancing along to the Cha Cha Slide. One of them is really getting into it.
Wow the moralers really can go low.
Bathroom break!
At the north annex (I think), a large mat/tarp is being set up so that the dancers can get a "break" from dancing and being on their feet. The dancers who are in need of a bathroom break slide on it to get to the outside of the gym. Lots and lots and lots of OPPerations committee members are lining up on both sides of the mat to cheer on the dancers. I think it's pretty cool. And especially because "THON" is written on the tarp.
It looks like they're putting something on the mat to make it easier to slide on From the smell, I'm thinking it's baby powder. It's like the Thon version of the slip-n-slide. Looks like fun. Everyone's cheering and laughing.
Slides of Strength is playing on the jumbotron. Pictures of last year's slide to the lavatory are being played to some music that I know, but can't quite name. Star Wars, maybe?
41 hours, 16 minutes until the total is revealed.
- Lauren, 10:44 p.m.
Someone just pointed out to me that some people in the DJ booth are dancing along to the Cha Cha Slide. One of them is really getting into it.
Wow the moralers really can go low.
Bathroom break!
At the north annex (I think), a large mat/tarp is being set up so that the dancers can get a "break" from dancing and being on their feet. The dancers who are in need of a bathroom break slide on it to get to the outside of the gym. Lots and lots and lots of OPPerations committee members are lining up on both sides of the mat to cheer on the dancers. I think it's pretty cool. And especially because "THON" is written on the tarp.
It looks like they're putting something on the mat to make it easier to slide on From the smell, I'm thinking it's baby powder. It's like the Thon version of the slip-n-slide. Looks like fun. Everyone's cheering and laughing.
Slides of Strength is playing on the jumbotron. Pictures of last year's slide to the lavatory are being played to some music that I know, but can't quite name. Star Wars, maybe?
41 hours, 16 minutes until the total is revealed.
- Lauren, 10:44 p.m.
See it to Believe it
Of all the things I've heard people say about Thon, two things come up the most: "It's the largest student-run philanthropy in the nation" and "You have to see it to really understand it."
So I did, and I have to say this: The Thon floor is awesome. Maybe not I'd-love-to-spend-46-hours-here awesome, but pretty cool. Some people are playing pong with water and Gatorade and it makes me think of Thon as a very colorful and festive frat party, but less crowded and with cute little kids. I saw one little girl on her dad's shoulders and gave her a high-five!
A conga line was snaking through the stands and I'm waiting for someone to break out the cowbell again.
--Bill
So I did, and I have to say this: The Thon floor is awesome. Maybe not I'd-love-to-spend-46-hours-here awesome, but pretty cool. Some people are playing pong with water and Gatorade and it makes me think of Thon as a very colorful and festive frat party, but less crowded and with cute little kids. I saw one little girl on her dad's shoulders and gave her a high-five!
A conga line was snaking through the stands and I'm waiting for someone to break out the cowbell again.
--Bill
I Say 'Of' You Say 'A'.....
OAR was just on the jumbotron with a special message for everyone saying how proud they are of everyone.
Very cool!
Only 42 hours, 42 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 9:18 p.m.
Very cool!
Only 42 hours, 42 minutes until the total is revealed!
- Lauren, 9:18 p.m.
Cluckin' around at THON
A group of moralers entertained the crowds by leading in the chicken dance. The floor turned into a mass of people clapping and smiling as they joined the group in the familiar dance.
- Adrienne, 9:12pm
- Adrienne, 9:12pm
Moo for Thon!
There’s a cow roaming the floor.
Scott Pringle, a moraler, is covered head to toe in a white cow outfit complete with black blotches, ears and even a set of udders.
Little kids are squeezing his udders and giggling.
“All the little kids love it,” he said.
Pringle is a part of The Walk who told me he decided to come to the floor to get a reaction -- he certainly did.
He's currently on all fours in the middle of the circle of moralers and kids bouncing huge beach balls.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 8:44 p.m. Friday
Scott Pringle, a moraler, is covered head to toe in a white cow outfit complete with black blotches, ears and even a set of udders.
Little kids are squeezing his udders and giggling.
“All the little kids love it,” he said.
Pringle is a part of The Walk who told me he decided to come to the floor to get a reaction -- he certainly did.
He's currently on all fours in the middle of the circle of moralers and kids bouncing huge beach balls.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 8:44 p.m. Friday
Fun From the Floor
I just got back from the floor. Seriously, there is so much energy down there, I was almost shaking! It's nuts!
I talked to some interesting people. I tried to find people who stood out among the crowd, which wasn't hard to find.
Dave Fortna (senior-political science) is dancing for Council of Commonwealth Student Governments (CCSG). I noticed him because his hair is blue. Well, half blue and half white. On the blue side, in white letters, he has "FTK." I thought that was interesting. It's literally white. He said he started bleaching his head a month ago and dyed it blue two days ago. He told me his natural hair color is "dark, dark brown."
"I love it. I think it looks great," he said, referring to his current Thon-themed hairstyle. I dig it.
PS - There is a band covering Baby Got Back right now. They've also played Dance, Dance by Fallout Boy and one of my personal favorites, Ice Ice Baby.
...And we are having a dance party up on press row. Come find us.
Only 43 hours, 29 minutes until the total is revealed!
-Lauren, 8:31 PM
I talked to some interesting people. I tried to find people who stood out among the crowd, which wasn't hard to find.
Dave Fortna (senior-political science) is dancing for Council of Commonwealth Student Governments (CCSG). I noticed him because his hair is blue. Well, half blue and half white. On the blue side, in white letters, he has "FTK." I thought that was interesting. It's literally white. He said he started bleaching his head a month ago and dyed it blue two days ago. He told me his natural hair color is "dark, dark brown."
"I love it. I think it looks great," he said, referring to his current Thon-themed hairstyle. I dig it.
PS - There is a band covering Baby Got Back right now. They've also played Dance, Dance by Fallout Boy and one of my personal favorites, Ice Ice Baby.
...And we are having a dance party up on press row. Come find us.
Only 43 hours, 29 minutes until the total is revealed!
-Lauren, 8:31 PM
In the long run: Thon Express
After a 24 hour long trek from Hershey Medical Center to the Bryce Jordan Center runners with Thon Express were still running.
As they ran into the BJC about five minutes ago, group of dancers and moralers crowded around them on the floor to give high fives.
Last night the first ever Thon Express began at 6 p.m. at Hershey Medical Center.
Click http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2007/02/02-15-07tdc/02-15-07dnews-11.asp to read more about their journey.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 8:07 p.m. Friday
As they ran into the BJC about five minutes ago, group of dancers and moralers crowded around them on the floor to give high fives.
Last night the first ever Thon Express began at 6 p.m. at Hershey Medical Center.
Click http://www.collegian.psu.edu/archive/2007/02/02-15-07tdc/02-15-07dnews-11.asp to read more about their journey.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 8:07 p.m. Friday
Dancing Strong for 46: Dancers, moralers, crowd learn line dance
The floor of the Bryce Jordan Center is a sea of yellow, green, red, orange and blue waves as 702 dancers and 702 moralers jump, twist and stretch learning the line dance.
Even the crowd is joining in with the moves.
The line dance includes Penn State, political and pop culture allusions.
Check back soon for a full web update.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 6:45 p.m. Friday
Even the crowd is joining in with the moves.
The line dance includes Penn State, political and pop culture allusions.
Check back soon for a full web update.
--Rossilynne
Posted at 6:45 p.m. Friday
3,2,1...And We Have Kickoff!
Thon 2007 has officially begun! A formal welcome to everyone reading the Collegian Thon blog!
I'll introduce this weekend's bloggers...
Rossilynne Skena is a freshman majoring in journalism. She is a Greeks reporter.
Billy Wellock is a freshman majoring in DUS. He is an administration reporter.
Alyssa Owens is a sophomore majoring in journalism and political science. She is a diversity reporter.
Andrew McGill is a freshman majoring in journalism. He is an administration reporter.
Adrienne Fedyna is a sophomore majoring in advertising/public relations. She is a student government reporter.
Ian Brown is a freshman majoring in journalism and information sciences and technology. He is a student government reporter.
And lastly....I'm Lauren McCormack and I'm a freshman majoring in journalism. I am the other Greeks reporter.
Only 45 hours and 52 minutes until the total is revealed. Who's excited?!
I'll introduce this weekend's bloggers...
Rossilynne Skena is a freshman majoring in journalism. She is a Greeks reporter.
Billy Wellock is a freshman majoring in DUS. He is an administration reporter.
Alyssa Owens is a sophomore majoring in journalism and political science. She is a diversity reporter.
Andrew McGill is a freshman majoring in journalism. He is an administration reporter.
Adrienne Fedyna is a sophomore majoring in advertising/public relations. She is a student government reporter.
Ian Brown is a freshman majoring in journalism and information sciences and technology. He is a student government reporter.
And lastly....I'm Lauren McCormack and I'm a freshman majoring in journalism. I am the other Greeks reporter.
Only 45 hours and 52 minutes until the total is revealed. Who's excited?!
- Lauren, 6:09 PM
Waiting patiently....
10 minutes until Thon!
Whiplash is on the stage right now, performing. We just had a little narrated show that involved the Nittany Lion. On the jumbotron, clips from Risky Business, Flashdance, American Pie 2, and other movies played as the Lion thought about moving to the BJC and was dreaming about the dancers.
Oops, 9 minutes.
Before the Lion show, former hockey Coach Battista talked for a bit and introduced a Thon child named Matt who was sponsored by the hockey team. Matt gave Coach a note for the dancers that said something like, "Be tough. You have to encourage each other. And don't sit down." After that, a stadium-wide FTK cheer started.
7 minutes! See you when Thon 07 officially begins!
Whiplash is on the stage right now, performing. We just had a little narrated show that involved the Nittany Lion. On the jumbotron, clips from Risky Business, Flashdance, American Pie 2, and other movies played as the Lion thought about moving to the BJC and was dreaming about the dancers.
Oops, 9 minutes.
Before the Lion show, former hockey Coach Battista talked for a bit and introduced a Thon child named Matt who was sponsored by the hockey team. Matt gave Coach a note for the dancers that said something like, "Be tough. You have to encourage each other. And don't sit down." After that, a stadium-wide FTK cheer started.
7 minutes! See you when Thon 07 officially begins!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Thlogging begins; Send us your stuff
Welcome to the Collegian's first ever Thon blog. As we venture into new Web waters, we wanted to cover this year's Thon in a new way. If you've seen our newspaper the last few days, you've probably seen announcements touting 46 hours of coverage. We've always had reporters on assignment at Thon throughout the event, but in the past you wouldn't see any of that hard work until Monday morning. This year our reporters and photographers will be sending us stories and photos throughout the weekend for the Web site. And when they're not talking to people or writing stories, they'll be telling you what they see as it unfolds on this blog. Our news adviser, John Harvey, mentioned that we're making some pretty bold promises, but its one we're all very excited to live up to.
We have one more trick up our sleeves. Thon is an experience that touches nearly everyone on this campus and the surrounding community. So we're asking our readers to share their own memories and photos with us. Just e-mail them to us at collegianthon@gmail.com. Give us your best, because we'll be posting the best ones on this blog. In the next couple hours you'll see some introductions from our bloggers (nicknamed "Thloggers") and see some news on the Thon kickoff. So sit back, bookmark our home page, and watch as the event unfolds.
We have one more trick up our sleeves. Thon is an experience that touches nearly everyone on this campus and the surrounding community. So we're asking our readers to share their own memories and photos with us. Just e-mail them to us at collegianthon@gmail.com. Give us your best, because we'll be posting the best ones on this blog. In the next couple hours you'll see some introductions from our bloggers (nicknamed "Thloggers") and see some news on the Thon kickoff. So sit back, bookmark our home page, and watch as the event unfolds.
- Steve Clancy, Web chief
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