Welcome to the my Web site, v. XII. The blog is typically published Monday - Saturday. My primary topics tend to be the Nats, Penn State (esp. football), BeltwayLand, transportation, media, photos and more. The rest of the site gets updated as warranted and is noted on the blog.
Tony's Big Easy not playing by the rules - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Tony's Big Easy not playing by the rules
Police: Bars ignore court order - CDT Since I still get a fair number of searches for Tony's Big Easy which was once a great State College bar, I feel like I should post this link about them ignoring court orders:
But now Tony’s Big Easy has again been cited by the state police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement.
Police said they found on seven different occasions that the bar wasn’t complying with terms Grine put in place in March that allowed the bars to stay open until the appeal is decided.
“It didn’t appear to us that (Sapia) was even making an effort to comply with the provisions of the court order,” said district office commander Sgt. Wayne A. Bush.
I haven't been there in exactly four years, one day and I don't plan on going back. It used to be such a good bar.
By the way, the construction of the northern end of i-99, a high speed interchange with I-80 (CDT) is encountering local resistance. It is not funded yet, so the resistance is not a big deal -- yet.
By the way, the i-99 shields on big green signs were not directly applied, they are on a green panel and look sloppy.
A final look at Penn State's elms? - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
A final look at Penn State's elms?
UNIVERSITY PARK, Penna. -- As reported previously, elm yellows has invaded Penn State's elm population and there is little hope for survival. I wanted to make sure I got a few photographs while I was up there last weekend since I don't know how many other chances I will get before they are all gone.
Hail 2thelion tailgate - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Monday, April 27, 2009
Hail 2thelion tailgate
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- For a few years know, I've been reading PSUGirl's football blog and hearing about the 2thelion tailgate. I've been intrigued, but since I stopped going to Penn State football games other than the Blue White game for the most part, this was my first opportunity to see it for myself.
I counted four canopies, two grills, two stoves, one oven and one turkey fryer. I did not even try to count the number of coolers. Among the offerings were ginger chicken wings, french toast sticks, pierogies, meatballs, pork sandwiches, deep fried turkey (wasn't there for that though), fried shrimp and other stuff I cannot remember two days after the fact. I am probably missing a lot. This was just spring practice for them too.
Thanks for the invitation Maddy, I enjoyed meeting you and the other tailgaters. I'll be back, someday.
Tony's Big Easy still fighting for liquor license - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Tony's Big Easy still fighting for liquor license
No decision in case of local bars - The Collegian Sammark Inc., owners of the once great Tony's Big Easy and two other bars, will continue its battle to retain its liquor license at a Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court hearing in Harrisburg, date to be determined.
CDT wonders where the Thon money comes from, but the bigger question is where it goes - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, February 20, 2009
CDT wonders where the Thon money comes from, but the bigger question is where it goes
Money trail is hard to follow - CDT Many people would probably guess that the biggest sacred cow at Penn State is Joe Paterno. Well, as recent years have shown, he's not completely sacred. The actual sacred cow is Dance Marathon, known as THON. It is an event that raises millions annually for charity but has little public oversight:
But Thon and the Four Diamonds Fund are not independent charitable organizations. Rather, they are part of Penn State and get their tax exempt status from the university. As such, they — and Penn State — are not required to make any part of their finances public.
This has not historically been an issue, but the local newspaper is wondering where all the money comes from. What they should be asking is "where does all of it go?". THON and its beneficiaries would benefit from being forthcoming about where the money is going. I don't see that coming to light or even being pushed for though. It should be.
Gyory went through an application and interview process before his final audition for the mascot position, he said. At the audition, he performed in front of a panel of judges made up of various coaches and administrators involved with Penn State cheerleading, including White and Sheep -- and a crowd of about 150 people.
Dressed as the Nittany Lion, Gyory performed a James Bond skit during which he rescued a Joe Paterno look-a-like and a Penn State cheerleader from the Notre Dame mascot and Notre Dame football coach Charlie Weis. Gyory flipped, danced and roared as he drew laughs and cheers from the audience.
Sounds like he is off to a good start. Let's hope he keeps it up and does not do something stupid like get a DUI the morning of a game, like James Sheep did.
Oh and if you want to follow recruiting, visit Black Shoe Diaries or Nittanydelphia for up to the second coverage of National Letter of Intent Day.
The band and the bar cut ties after sparring last month over payment for a Saturday show at which three Phamly members performed in place of the usual four. According to an e-mail from Hesketh posted on a "Boycott the Phyrst" Facebook group, "As we were gathering our equipment to leave, the owner showed up at the bar, headed straight for [banjo player] Steve [McQuay] and shoved him. It then took two to three bartenders to break them apart."
The fight began after Phyrst management suggested paying the band less because not all of the band's members performed, according to the post.
Phyrst manager Mike Fullington said.
representatives from the Phyrst had no comment by press time Tuesday.
A statement released by the families of former Phyrst owner and band leader Ernie Oelbermann and Phyrst Phamly founder Terry Countermine said Saturday night "Phamly" shows are a Phyrst tradition and will continue with a new lineup. A new Phamly will resume the weekly Saturday sing-along this weekend.
Sounds pretty ugly, but I'd bet a beer at the Phyrst (if I knew when I would be able to complete the wager) that they reunite by fall semester.
I used to go to the first on occasion, in fact it was the first "bar" I went to in Happy Valley after my 21st birthday. Other than table wars (too fratty), I liked the place, but I probably have not been back since 2002 Homecoming.
Don't forget Blue/White 2006! When it was a torrential downpour and the Hammes, Basiles, Yuraskos, and company ended up watching the game at The Phyrst.
# posted by Fritz :
Wednesday, January 14, 2009 8:42:00 AM
Of course -- the Phyrst family wasn't there though.
# posted by WFY :
Wednesday, January 14, 2009 8:50:00 AM
Post a CommentBlue Band in Rose Parade - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Blue Band in Rose Parade
I did not get to see them march in the Rose Parade live, but from what I have seen on Facebook, they apparently handled the sharp turn well. Does anybody know if video of that is online?
Don't buy me this -- Penn State now a perfume - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, December 05, 2008
Don't buy me this -- Penn State now a perfume
PSU scents now available - Venues/The Collegian I missed the news that a Penn State fragence is being released the first time around, but it hit the AP this week and a few people have let me know about it. Thank you.
With her knowledge of Penn State's quintessential elements -- the mascot, colors, traditions and landmarks -- Masich approached renowned perfumers in New York City and asked them to formulate a signature scent for Penn State. She also brought photos of the campus and samples of trees and plants found on walkways that capture the spirit of the University, she said.
Generally when I think of the smell of Penn State, I think of...farms. Penn State is a land grant university and sometimes we are reminded of that very strongly. However, lately Penn State smells like roses :)
By the way there is now a Penn State branded version of every product other than brandy snifters.
Spainer to Dept. of Ed.? - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Spainer to Dept. of Ed.?
Cabinet may add Spanier - The Collegian Penn State president Graham Spanier is rumored to be a candidate for the Secretary of Education in the new presidential administration. We might be seeing G-Span on C-Span.
That might make the football coaching situation a little more interesting.
i-99 finally opened yesterday, but... - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
i-99 finally opened yesterday, but...
I-99 open to all traffic - CDT i-99 is now a continous route between just north of the I-70/76 (Pennsylvania Turnpike) near Bedford and near I-80 north of Bellefonte. The new section, opened yesterday (two days after the last Penn State football game naturally), does not have all four lanes open though.
Former Rep. Bud Shuster, who pushed for i-99 and got the designation written into law (setting precedent and expanding the role of Congress) was at the opening. Apparetly, left unsaid was an apology to drivers and taxpayers for legislating away envirornmental testing. The highway was delayed for years and ran up about $80 million of extra cost due to necessary environmental remediation. It is said he has not been accountable at all for his behavior.
Back when the I-99 pyrite problem was first discovered at Skytop (ca. 2003?), scientists in Penn State's Materials Science Dept. shrugged and said, "We told you so." They had warned that the substance existed in the area of the proposed alignment and, if exposed to the elements, would lead to sulphuric acid runoff problems. Sure enough, nearby residential wells were soon found to be contaminated. But that's no obstacle for Uncle Bud, right? Environmental concerns? Why, we'll just legislate those away! The cost overruns on this project boggle the mind.
# posted by Anonymous :
Saturday, December 27, 2008 9:21:00 PM
Miss Virginia was the Lady Icers goalie - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Miss Virginia was the Lady Icers goalie
The reigning Miss Virginia, Tara Wheeler, is not only a Penn State alumna ('06 Journ), but a former goalie for the Penn State women's hockey team, the Lady Icers. On Frozen Blog has been featuring her recently:
i-99 will apparently be done by Thanksgiving - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Sunday, November 09, 2008
i-99 will apparently be done by Thanksgiving
Planned I-99 opening date announced - CDT PennDot is planning on opening all lanes of i-99 at Skytop two days before Thanksgiving. I will believe it when I drive on it.
Penn State elms in grave danger - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, November 07, 2008
Penn State elms in grave danger
Disease threatens to wipe out Penn State elms - CDT The stately, century-old elm trees on Penn State's campus are in danger of falling victim to elm yellows. The disease, spread by the elm leafhopper insect, has no cure. According to a University Relations, the prospect of losing what is perhaps the nation's largest strand of elms is very real if not likely.
This saddens me tremendously, I really enjoyed the elms on the Allen Street Mall between the University Gate and the Pattee library. I admired them from my favorite spot in front of Carnegie building and really hope they can be saved. Over the years I have given to the Class of 1996 Elm endowment, but I fear it won't be enough.
i-99 northbound now open through Skytop - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, October 31, 2008
i-99 northbound now open through Skytop
Traffic flows over section of Skytop - CDT Another milestone in the poorly executed i-99 project is complete -- northbound is now continuous through Skytop. The road narrows to one lane at one point, but the highway's northbound is now continuous from Bedford County to just south of I-80. Both directions of the highway is supposed to be complete by Thanksgiving, but I'll believe it when I see it.
By the way not a plan for the interchange with I-80 and locals are divided over what would be the best design. It seems like a moot point since there is not any funding though.
D.C. squirrels story reminds me of PSU - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
D.C. squirrels story reminds me of PSU
Critter City - The Post A Century Ago, Squirrels Were Rare in D.C. How Did They Come to Rule the Capital? Around 1900, squirrels were rare in D.C. The Architect of the Capitol introduced them on the grounds of the legislative branch and soon they started showing up all over. The Post even ran a story about it then, but sadly it is not linked online.
This story is similar to what I know of Penn State's squirrel population. They were not indigenous up there either and now they have overrun the place. Some say they are reincarnated alumni while others claim that Cary, the odd graduate student who worked in the computer labs, was using his time machine to bring squirrels from the future or past (I'm not sure which) onto campus. Either way, there are a lot of them up there, so many of them that Penn State was rated 4 out of 5 on the five-squirrel scalein 2001 (The Collegian).
My hat is off to Elizabeth Burke for standing up to district attorney's office with nothing better to do than abuse his power over students for dubious legal reasons. Of all the problems in Centre County and at Penn State, I think the Mifflin Streak falls somewhere below the poorly weeded flower beds by lot 11.
Tony's Big Easy in big trouble with liquor board - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Tony's Big Easy in big trouble with liquor board
Bars fight to regain licenses - The Collegian Three State College bars, including my former favorite Tony's Big Easy, might be losing their liquor licenses.
The future of Tony's Big Easy and two accompanying bars is uncertain after the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) declined to renew their parent company's liquor license last week.
After multiple incidents and violations on the premises -- including a murder in 2006 and a February fight which saw four arrests and a crowd of 200 surge into the street -- the board voted against renewing the license for Sammark Inc., owner of Tony's Big Easy, Lulu's Nightspot and Candy Bar & Lounge, all located at 129 1/2 S. Pugh St.
The Big Easy, circa 1998-99 was one of my favorite bars ever. It had good background music -- jazz, salsa, swing, big band, and great martinis. That Penn State's sweet young things thought the bar was worthy of little black dresses also had something going for it too. However, in the years after I graduated, the bar went downhill. The music was changed the same thing in every other bar in town and the service went downhill. After a lackluster evening their the night before I got married, I decided I would not bother going back, it was merely a shell of the bar it used to be.
This was a Collegian editorial? - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
This was a Collegian editorial?
Suggestions for stellar scene setting - The Collegian I read this editorial, which is the centerpiece of any opinion page, making fun of LaVar Arrington for reopening the old Sports Cafe as the new Linebacker U. bar and wondered what the point was and the overall appropriateness of it in general. It would be one thing if it was just a bad column with a byline, but an editorial?
Well, this is what to expect these days. It's more important to be as crude and unprofessional as you possibly can (take a look at most modern MSM outlets for proof, no matter where you sit along the aisle) than it is to be truly objective and try emphasize a point.
Besides, why be critical of the Animal at all? He's trying to give back to the community as an entrepreneur. But then again, I forgot that there's something wrong with you if you try to create and run your own business. Has to do with that EEEEEEEEVIL corporate mindset.
And we have a family friend on staff at the Commu...er, Collegian. Needless to say, I'm a little disappointed, because she can do so much better.
# posted by Muha :
Thursday, July 17, 2008 5:03:00 AM
I don't get the Daily Collegian = Daily Worker arguments, but this was a pointless editorial.
# posted by WFY :
Thursday, July 17, 2008 8:45:00 AM
Post a CommentBracken farewell column - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Just as for an athlete, the time comes when they can no longer turn on a fastball, throw a tight spiral that leads a receiver just right or hit the fall away jumper; so too for a writer the time comes when the words no longer flow like tap water, the account at the idea bank is overdrawn and the passion has faded . It's a hard thing to admit but even harder to ignore.
i-99 on schedule to open 4 years, $79 million late - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, July 03, 2008
i-99 on schedule to open 4 years, $79 million late
I-99 set to open by year's end - CDT The latest update on i-99 progress -- it is expected to open before the end of the year, but after football season. Parts of the new section may be limited to one lane each way until next spring too.
Don't forget that this delay may have been avoided had standard environmental testing not been exempted by a rider placed by Bud Shuster, then chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, in an omnibus spending bill. By the way, Shuster has not responded to repeated inquiries from CDT reporter Mike Joseph to talk about this situation.
LaVar turning Sports Cafe into Linebacker U. bar - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
LaVar turning Sports Cafe into Linebacker U. bar
LaVar eyes 'Linebacker U' bar - CDT LaVar Arrington is one of the investors in "Linebacker U." the new bar that is coming to the old Sports Cafe location on W. College Ave. in State College.
Actually, I was right about Cereality - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Actually, I was right about Cereality
Downtown cereal spot closes shop - The Collegian I did not need to backtrack from my "not enough for a successful business model" comment about the State College Cereality after all. The store on W. College Ave. has closed.
Ron Bracken retiring - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Ron Bracken retiring
Sharing a career full of memories and personal beliefs - CDT Ron Bracken, who has been at the CDT since 1967 (the year after Joe Paterno became Penn State head coach -- JoePa outlasts another one), is retiring on June 30. The eight Sundays proceeding his retirement will feature "highlights of his career" in the CDT. A farewell tour seems a bit much, but I see something interesting, I'll post it.
Over the last few years, Bracken has struck me as getting pretty grumpy about the state of the Nittany Lions (sound like anyone you know?). He was a lot more enthusiastic about covering the program when he came to Jock Lauterer's community journalism class when I was an undergrad.
Flyers vs. Pens: Hockey blogger looking for correspondent - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Monday, May 05, 2008
Flyers vs. Pens: Hockey blogger looking for correspondent
A noted hockey blogger I know may be looking for a correspondent to collect video, photos and observations of the Happy Valley scene during the Flyers vs. Pengyunz series. Apparently, it was quite something the last time these two teams met in the playoffs; I had already graduated, so I missed it. Actually, I may not have missed it. I do remember what the town was like when the Eagles and Steelers met in the regular season a few years ago though and that was pretty intense. Drop me a line (e-mail link below) if you are interested.
As for the series, I won't be watching it, but I hope that Pittsburgh loses.
In all seriousness, when is finals week in Happy Valley? The series doesn't start till Friday, so the semester outta be winding down before the Pens knock the Flyers out.
# posted by The Maryland Bureau Chief :
Monday, May 05, 2008 1:11:00 PM
On the way to Blue White we drove up the new section between Bald Eagle and Skytop. It was functional, but the Port Matilda interchange had very steep ramps.
On April 4, all dining commons will be serving the famed chicken cosmo sandwich for the last time. A popular menu item for over 26 years at Penn State, the cosmo has been a staple at almost all campuses' dining operations and is a favorite of both students and alumni.
"Students like them. Alumni love them," Director of Residential Dining Lisa Wandel said. "It reminds them of their college days. I think alumni will be more disappointed than anyone."
Penn State Food Services sells approximately 600 to 700 cases of cosmo patties a month, or 274,000 cosmos every academic year. However, it's the chicken vendor that is putting a stop to the cosmo. Pierce Chicken Products said Penn State is the only institution that buys the patties – a fact that can be attributed to the cosmo's legend at the University.
I am ambivalent (living off campus, I never had meal plan) about this development, but I know some will disappointed. It isn't like the 3D burger is going away, right?
There will be a contest as well:
Through its long history, the cosmo has been a part of thousands of lunches, dinners, and late night snacks. Food Services wants to hear some cosmo stories in their Cosmo Essay and Video Contest. Students and alumni are encouraged to send their favorite cosmo stories (100 words or less) to 111 Redifer Commons, University Park, Pa. 16802 or cosmoNOT@psu.edu by April 25, 2008.
Cosmo lovers can also submit a 30 to 60 second video about their favorite cosmo moments. Contestants can post their videos on Youtube.com and send the link to Food Services at cosmoNOT@psu.edu. For more information on the contest, please visit http://www.foodservices.psu.edu/.
The participant with the best story will be awarded his or her very own case of chicken cosmos – the last of their kind.
Oddly, Safeguard Old State has not commented on this decision, but I am sure they will because I can't imagine they are just an elaborate Web site designed only promote a consequence-free environment for mindless binge drinking in Happy Valley.
As founder of Safeguard Old State, I do wish you had taken the opportunity to contact me before making what appear here to be snap judgments about our motives.
We seek to reinvigorate and reawaken the Penn State student spirit of old, and while I was certainly a fan of the Chicken Cosmos when I lived in East Halls as a freshman, the type of change we are working towards is more fundamental.
Thank you for your readership, regardless, and let me again stress that we are always open to any communication.
All the best, Tom Shakely
# posted by Tom Shakely :
Thursday, April 03, 2008 4:37:00 AM
I'd be delighted to speak with you. I'll get in touch over the weekend.
# posted by WFY :
Thursday, April 03, 2008 12:49:00 PM
Seriously... that last paragraph about SOS really made my day! Keep up the good work!
# posted by Anonymous :
Monday, April 07, 2008 2:31:00 AMPost a Comment
Will new "Paterno" COMM class be obsolete soon? - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, March 21, 2008
Will new "Paterno" COMM class be obsolete soon?
Fall COMM schedule includes JoePa class - The Collegian My college is offering a special class called COMM 497G Joe Paterno, Communications & the Media. "The class, which will explore how Paterno's relationship with the media has changed over the years, will be offered in fall 2008 and will be available to juniors and seniors"
I am sure the demand for this class will be quite high. I would want to take it. Hopefully, a student in the class will blog about it. Failing that, getting semester long subscription to Nittany Notes (with shipping included) seems the way to go.
Paterno has been invited to speak to it, but the invitation has not yet been accepted.
Of course, the big question is how long will such a class be timely? There was another article (Post-Gazette) quoting anonymous trustees about Paterno's contract status. Nothing has changed and no real information is available yet.
I think the best case scenario would be a three-year contract extension with Paterno retiring after one or two years. That may not happen though.
Concert at Beaver Stadium on Blue-White Eve - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Concert at Beaver Stadium on Blue-White Eve
On the night before the Blue White Game, something called the Gridiron Bash is bringing Beaver Stadium its first concert ever. Since 1960, Beaver Stadium has been the home to the Nittany Lions, who have won two undisputed nationals championships, had five undefeated seasons, one Heisman Trophy winner and countless epic games. Given the stadium's illustrious history, one would expect the first concert to feature a performer of incredible prestige, so they selected the one, the only:
Fergie
Yes, Fergie, a former meth addict with incontinence (or so I have read, though I can't find the sournsweet.com post -- remember them?). Fergie is not much a singer either, so she must be at least eye candy, right? Um, no that either. She's isn't worthy of tearing up the field with her stage. They ought to move her to Lot 11.
State College's Sports Cafe having problems - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Monday, March 03, 2008
State College's Sports Cafe having problems
Former workers may sue local bar - The Post I did not know that the Sports Cafe & Grill in downtown State College had been closed since last year. I also didn't know that former WR (not tailback, Collegian) Joe Nastasi '99 was one of the owners. Money problems may have shut the place down, but there are apparently new investors coming in to rebuild and reopen it.
The Sports Cafe, originally Sportscenter Cafe (I think, I know Sportscenter was in the name so where), was a wholly unremarkable bar with occasionally good lunch specials and outdoor seating. I typically only went there if the Cafe 210 West was too crowded and haven't been back since I graduated.
I went there for lunch with a buddy several times during my last semester (Spring '01). They had excellent wing specials as I recall, something like 10 or 20 cent wing specials in the afternoon. And of course, they had the trivia games which always made for a good time. Going there on the weekends was a drag because of the large crowds, but I always enjoyed my lunch-time visits. Also, I think by that point the "Sportscenter" name was already removed, though to be honest I don't think that name stuck very long.
# posted by TMBC :
Monday, March 03, 2008 3:24:00 PM
Most of you, I believe, come to class expecting to be spectators. The person standing at the front of the room is going to perform and you are going to watch — or daydream or nap or discretely text message, just as spectators feel free to do at a concert or a play.
This model might make sense in the lecture hall. But it's all wrong for the classroom and the computer lab. In those smaller venues, you, too, are the performers. When you fail to show up, or show up but fail to contribute your energy, your interest or your insight, you hurt the class as surely as an actor or a player who sits out or just goes through the motions hurts the rest of his cast or team.
You also forfeit your right to complain about being bored by a long-winded professor when you are making the prof do all the talking because you are not doing any of the talking.
Had this column been written around 1999, it might have been titled "Students (other than Yurasko), like actors, should perform."
College costs too much to just sit there while the prof lectures; speaking up makes it more interesting and educational. Also, participating in class and going to office hours is a great way to increase your grade and it is fun too.
NHL in Beaver Stadium? - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, December 21, 2007
NHL in Beaver Stadium?
I always through it would be pretty cool if there was a "battle for Pennsylvania" at Penn State's Beaver Stadium between the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers. Now I find out from Eric McErlain of Fanhouse that the Flyers are considering hosting the Pengyunz at Beaver Stadium next season. Michigan State did this in 2001 when they hosted Michigan.
Forgive the pun, but that would very cool, even though I can't stand either team. People still talk about what State College was like during the 2000 playoffs between the two teams, apparently it was quite a scene. I had graduated by then. Hopefully, this could be used as an opportunity to advance the cause of varsity hockey at Penn State. A well-placed source at Penn State told me that the money is there for a new arena, but the administration wants to hold off on building for a few years.
<i>Collegian</i> doc airs tonight... - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Collegian doc airs tonight...
...but not on WETA or WMPT, so Washington area viewers are shutout, at least for now. I'll see if I can find out when The Paper airs on either of those stations.
<i>Collegian</i> Web site redesigned again - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Monday, December 10, 2007
Collegian Web site redesigned again
The Web site for Penn State's student newspaper, The Daily Collegian, has improved upon a redesign that began in 2006 and was fully implemented in July. Drop down menus and an eyepiece with rotating images/stories have brough the Collegian up to speed. It is a little blocky though and I still don't like the serif text. Overall, it is pretty good though -- the CDT could learn a lot from this new design. By the way, I have been meaning to talk about the CDT, Inky/Philly Daily News and Post-Gazette redesigns for a while.
Tonight at 8:00 on most local PBS affiliates, "The Paper," a documentary about a year at the Daily Collegian.
http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/paper/
# posted by DJ in Hbg :
Tuesday, December 11, 2007 8:14:00 AM
I have something saved for my lunchtimes postings about The Paper.
# posted by WFY :
Tuesday, December 11, 2007 8:58:00 AM
Post a CommentPaterno's salary revealed: $512,664 - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, November 30, 2007
Paterno's salary revealed: $512,664
Paterno salary secret revealed - Patriot-News I have never understood why the Patriot-News was so determined to find out Joe Paterno's salary. I say this as a supporter of a vigorous free press in favor of Sunshine Laws too. Is it that important to know how much he makes, especially given that he is paid by the Nittany Lion Club? In a state as dysfunctional as Pennsylvania was going after Paterno's salary the best use of the Patriot-News' resources?
The Collegiancompares his salary with that of Bobby Bowden, Ron Zook and Jim Tressel. I'd like to see a specific breakdown of what he makes compared to all of the Big11Ten. I'll see if I can find that over lunch. According to the CDT, it looks like Paterno is in the bottom third of compensation amongst his conference peers. He could very well make up for this "disparity" with other outside contracts like the one he has with Nike.
Speaking of lunch, I should have the latest Beano Watch done by the end of lunch today.
Just because a reporter at the hometown paper sought to find out the information doesn't mean it is sooooooooo important that we know. Inquiring about this topic seems like a fine use of the reporter's time. As for the money itself, the figure is misleading. For instance, the Wisconsin coach's "base salary" is $400,000, but he gets another $900,000 from "compensation packages and incentives." Basically what I'm saying is: they can make his salary look like just about anything they want.
# posted by dl004d :
Friday, November 30, 2007 10:37:00 AM
This $512,644 figure is not his true income. The salary may be $512,644 but he recieved other monies from Penn State that they haven't disclosed.
Like the CEO who only $1.00 a year salary. We all know no one can live on $1.00 a year.
# posted by Rogers Place :
Sunday, December 02, 2007 12:10:00 AM
Post a Comment<i>Collegian</i> documentary on PBS - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Collegian documentary on PBS
The Paper, a documentary about The Collegian will are on PBS on December 11:
STATE COLLEGE - From gay rights to racial bias, from plummeting circulation to "infotainment," from burnt-out reporters to hard-bitten editors, THE PAPER goes inside the newsroom to reveal the drama of deadline journalism. But this is not some big-city major daily.
It's The Daily Collegian, published by students at Pennsylvania State University who, in the course of one crisis-filled year face crashing deadlines, ethical dilemmas, doubts and disagreements, all the while shouldering courses, homework and exams.
It appears The Paper was filmed around 2004-2005. I'll post broadcast times when they become available. I'll be very interested to learn what Collegian alumni think of this documentary.
It's on the Daily Communi...er, "Collegian". Most sane alums will think the staff there is on something (which probably isn't far from the truth).
# posted by Muha :
Tuesday, November 27, 2007 8:42:00 PM
Very interesting. As a Collegian alum, I will definitely have to check this out.
# posted by Brad Stratton :
Wednesday, November 28, 2007 8:12:00 PM
Post a CommentPaterno's salary will soon be known - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Paterno's salary will soon be known
Paterno's salary is public, Supreme Court rules - Patriot-News The Patriot-News won its five year long quest to make the salaries of certain Penn State executives (for lack of a better term), including Joe Paterno, public. I've blogged about this before so I'll keep my response simple: greater access to government records is good, but there are probably more important battles to fight than knowing what Paterno makes and the backlash from this may set back Sunshine Laws.
What's another $29 million? - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
What's another $29 million?
Costs climb again - CDT The estimated cost for cleaning up acid rock along i-99 near Skytop has risen from $50 million to $79 million.
Don't forget that this may have been avoided had standard environmental testing not been exempted by a rider placed by Bud Shuster, then chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, in an omnibus spending bill. By the way, Shuster has not responded to repeated inquiries from CDT reporter Mike Joseph to talk about this situation.
Serious threat to Penn State elms revealed - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Monday, November 12, 2007
Serious threat to Penn State elms revealed
Nightmare on elm trees - CDT A new threat, worse than Dutch elm disease, has emerged to Penn State's robust collection of elms:
The newcomer, called elm yellows, already has struck a number of central, southern and northern states, including New Jersey, New York and eastern Pennsylvania. In some areas, officials said, the disease has killed all American elms within five years of its arrival.
Experts have identified elm yellows as the culprit in four American elm deaths on the northern edge of the University Park campus, including along Schreyer Lane near the president's mansion.
I really hope they come up with something, because the elms are one of my favorite things about Penn State.
Happy Valley roads update: I-80 & i-99 - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, November 09, 2007
Happy Valley roads update: I-80 & i-99
I-80 toll concerns aired - CDT It turns out that Central Pennsylvanians are not pleased with the hastily passed legislation that seeks to break a 51 year precedent of keeping tolls off of interstate highways built with the highway trust fund.
The opening will allow motorists from the Altoona area heading toward State College to stay on the four-lane, limited-access I-99 to the State College side of Skytop, where they will make the transition to existing U.S. Route 322.
Motorists heading from State College to Altoona can get onto I-99 southbound at the Port Matilda interchange and stay on it until Altoona or beyond.
Of course, this four year delay and the $50 million in cleanup costs probably could have been avoided if Bud Shuster hadn't inserted a rider exempting the construction from environmental testing, but ol' Bud liked playing by his own rules.
# posted by elihu :
Friday, November 09, 2007 11:01:00 AM
Thanks elihu, I corrected it.
# posted by WFY :
Friday, November 09, 2007 12:31:00 PM
Post a CommentPitt student, Pi Kappa Alpha charged - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Friday, November 02, 2007
Pitt student, Pi Kappa Alpha charged
Student, fraternity charged - The Collegian University of Pittsburgh student Richard Eisenberger, Jr., 20, of Easton has been charged with disorderly conduct and harassment based on video clips of him throwing beer at Ohio State fans. He is a Pi Kappa Alpha "brother" who was up for the weekend. One of the OSU fans is also "brother." I wonder how throwing stuff at your "brothers" advances the vision of Pi Kappa Alpha:
Pi Kappa Alpha will set the standard of integrity, intellect, and achievement for our members, host institutions, and the communities in which we live.
The frat was also charged with disorderly conduct. Hopefully the university will go a while before considering allowing Pi Kappa Alpha to have any affiliation with the university.
Pi Kappa Alpha suspended - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Pi Kappa Alpha suspended
Video incites suspension - The Collegian Pi Kappa Alpha, the frat that has cast my alma mater in such a bad light, has been suspended by the university and their national organization for throwing beers at Ohio State fans from point blank range. Apparently, they can't do anything official as a fraternity. Charges are pending against the Pitt student who also a Pi Kappa Alpha "brother." Frat president Brendan Wilson has yet to comment. That is leadership!
Hopefully this suspension will become more severe, these "gentlemen" are a disgrace.
Stupid beer throwing Pi Kappa Alpha frat boys make Penn State look bad - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Stupid beer throwing Pi Kappa Alpha frat boys make Penn State look bad
More is coming to light about an infamous beer throwing incident at Pi Kappa Alpha that has been covered by all sorts of media and blogs. Basically, some Ohio State fans in team jerseys got beers thrown at them by Pi Kappa Alpha "brothers." I've seen the video and you can too if you would like, but I'm not going to embed it. Here is how the Collegian described the attack today:
Days after Penn State's football loss to Ohio State, a YouTube video surfaced featuring several men throwing beer cans and yelling obscenities at two Buckeyes fans.
The rear of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, 417 E. Fairmount Ave., is seen in the video. The fraternity's president, Brendan Wilson (junior-management), said he had no comment when reached by phone last night.
The YouTube account name of the user who uploaded the video was "crazysacc," which is also the AOL Instant Messenger screen name of Pi Kappa Alpha Vice President Gaetano Sacco (junior-film).
Gee, how surprising the president won't speak up. The brothers didn't have any problem speaking up in the video, no? Does Sacco appear to possess the intelligence to attend Penn State or any other university? Uploading video of someone getting assaulted while cheering it on (presumably that is Sacco filming) doesn't sound too bright to me.
But the main person in the video was a visiting student from the University of Pittsburgh, said Bill Mahon, vice president for university relations. Mahon also said the two Ohio State fans in the video were visiting members of the same fraternity, Pi Kappa Alpha, and had stayed at the fraternity the night before without incident.
The 48-second video opens with booing and shouts of "We Are," then turns to show two people in Ohio State jerseys walking away from an outdoor fraternity party while over a dozen objects that appear to be beer cans fly in their direction. A few of the objects hit the fans.
One person appears to push the two fans toward the exit, then later runs toward them and throws an object at one of the fans from a few feet away.
The camera operator then celebrates gleefully.
So, the main antagonist was from Pitt and that needs to be broadcast as much as possible. He will likely be charged according to WJAC. However, just because the biggest jerk of them all is from Pitt does not excuse the bad behavior of everybody else there, including the cameraman. Pi Kappa Alpha has embarrassed the university and should be strongly disciplined by the university and its national organization. If it were up to me, Pi Kappa Alpha would lose all university affiliation. The officers would also be face disciplined from Judicial Affairs. The Pitt jerk should be disciplined by his university as well.
Sure, this happens elsewhere, but that doesn't mean it is okay to act like criminals because of somebody wearing the wrong jersey. Hopefully, Penn State will make examples of these idiots and we'll see less of this kind of behavior.
"For the establishment of friendship on a firmer and more lasting basis, for the promotion of brotherly love and kind feeling; for the mutual benefit and advancement of the interests of those with whom we sympathize and deem worthy of our regard; we have resolved to form a fraternity,believing that, thus we can most successfully accomplish our object."
Pi Kappa Alpha will set the standard of integrity, intellect, and achievement for our members, host institutions, and the communities in which we live.
Now I know why so many people were searching this site for Bobbie Jo yesterday - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Now I know why so many people were searching this site for Bobbie Jo yesterday
From the Football Letter:
The Blue Band's national champion twirler, P.J. Maierhofer, and former national champion Bobbie Jo Solomon (1999-2004) performed a fascinating twirling duet at Tailgreat and at halftime.
Hopefully, there will be video of the two. But wait, there's more:
Solomon was also surprised at the end of the Alumni Band show when her boyfriend appeared in the end zone and offered her an engagement ring.
Note that doesn't say whether she accepted the proposal. Her predecessor was also proposed to on the field, by the Nittany Lion, in 1998 at the Wisconsin game. They didn't last though. Hopefully this will work out for Solomon.
Q&A: P.J. Maierhofer - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Q&A: P.J. Maierhofer
Now in her third season as Blue Sapphire, the featured twirler of the Touch of Blue, Pamela Jo Maierhofer continues the proud legacy of twirling at Penn State. Recently, PJ took the time to answer a few questions, sent during three-a-days, for William World News. WFY: When did you realize that you wanted to be the Blue Sapphire?
PJ: I was in 4th grade and a friend of ours was a Penn State Majorette and so we came to see her at a game… and I remember looking out there and going, "Mom! Mom! Who is THAT??" And I remember her explaining to me that that was the Blue Sapphire. I looked at her and told my Mom that that was going to be me someday (and she laughed) …BUT here I am :)
WFY: Is your routine integrated are your routines with the rest of Touch of Blue?
PJ: The Jettes and I have separate routines obviously, considering there are 12 of them and 1 of me. They synchronize all that they do which is a totally different and impressive skill that was never my forte. I was definitely a much stronger twirler twirling individually… I would have a really hard time doing what they do. From time to time we will twirl together and I really enjoy that.
WFY: How scary is it to twirl burning batons? (nota bene: sadly, the audio is NSFW)
PJ: Fire baton? Ha - It's awesome… it just adds another element to the crazy adrenaline rush I already get. It's not scary, when I was young, my Mom made me try it and as a result I never developed a fear that a first time older athlete would more than likely have. I rather like the challenge it brings.
WFY: What is your favorite part of a football Saturday?
PJ: EVERYTHING! Ha Ha, I think if I had to pick I would say my favorite part of Saturday game day is walking towards the stadium after we perform in BJC at Tail great. As a band we "march" over and sing the Singing Lion…. And as we get closer to the stadium, people up above that are already in the stadium start leaning out over the edges and cheering… and everyone starts coming towards Beaver Stadium…it makes me feel like at Penn State, you don't just go to college and get an education and graduate, you become a Penn Stater and Beaver Stadium is where all the past and present Penn Staters unite….it's kinda like home.
WFY: Is there a rule that Blue Sapphires have to have the middle name "Jo"?
PJ: Very Funny, I actually read your blog on this topic. It is strictly coincidence. My Mom's name is Pam and my Dad's name is Joe…so I was born Pamela Jo…. And the day I left the hospital I became a PJ :)
WFY: Do you know your predecessor, Bobbie Jo Solomon well?
PJ: Bobbie is an amazing girl. I've known her for a long long long long time and she was someone that I will someday owe a great deal of gratitude to because I spent the majority of my twirling career looking up to her. She is an awesome athlete. She twirled on a team with my older sister when I was little and so that's how I met her… and have admired her ever since.
WFY: Why does the Blue Sapphire always wear a white uniform?
PJ: It's just a way for her to stand out a little bit from the rest of the band and auxiliary. This year, my new costume has a little more blue than my last did, but it is still mainly white.
WFY: How do you and the other members of Touch of Blue keep from getting hypothermia during the latter part of the season?
PJ: Hahaha…. The band actually has these awesome cloak kind of coats that we wrap around us until we get ready for halftime and they keep us super warm. Plus, when you love Penn State and twirling as much as we do… you know that you have a job to go do and nothing is going to stop you. We wear lots of layers and when it is show time…we go :)
WFY: Football players often grumble about two-a-days during fall practice. How many times do you practice during the run up to the season?
PJ: We actually just finished our band camp which consisted of three, 3 hour sessions each day for 4 days straight. However, I twirl competitively so I train on average at least 2 hours a day during competition season. Right now, we have practice as a band 2 hours every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and 2½ hours on Tuesday
WFY: The video "Meet the New Blue Sapphire" has been viewed nearly 3,900 times on YouTube. Other than performing, how involved were you in the production of the video?
PJ: Well, Matt Fallabel the videographer for the Blue Band produced that video as part of our end of the year DVD. My transition from 11th grade to college and also my journey to create my own version of Blue Sapphire took some hard work. Matt and I became friends via band practice and he got to know me pretty well. Although a few of the things he targeted in the video were things we talked about, he did all of that on his own… trying to express to people who I was, so needless to say it was pretty effective.
WFY: Does the first song ("Brazil" by Django Reinhardt) in that video get stuck in your head like it does mine?
PJ: Haha I honestly don't watch it that much – that'd be kinda weird.. lol
WFY: Can we look forward to more videos like that in the future?
PJ: Hopefully :)
WFY: Over the years there has been a great deal said about teams playing on artificial turf but I never hear about what the half time performers think. What are your feelings on artificial turf?
PJ: My high school in Altoona had Astro and it was just different. Personally, twirling in Beaver Stadium is like twirling in Heaven and I find it perfect, but a good performer can adjust to any situation.
WFY: Which was a better bowl trip, Miami or Tampa Bay?
PJ: While Miami was really neat, I loved Tampa. We, the Blue Band, were so much more a part of the whole bowl production at the Outback bowl than we were at the Orange…and it just really made for an amazing trip, despite the rain!
WFY: What are the best and worst away games you have been too so far? Do you go to all the road games?
PJ: Michigan in 2005 nearly broke my heart…. Not gonna lie!
WFY: What halftime show was your favorite thus far?
PJ: Last year we did a show from the Broadway show The Wiz… and it was super cool. I got to wear baton shoes that we painted red and glittered to be like Dorothy's red slippers… I was loving it ;)
WFY: In 2005, you and the Blue Band were the toast of the fashion world, but in 2006, there were no appearances at fashion shows or in the glossy magazines. What are you doing to bounce back after a season that included no performances during New York Fashion Week?
PJ: They told us right off the bat that that was a rare occasion… and probably one of the most amazing experiences of my life as well. We took tons of pictures and made lots of memories.
WFY: Please finish this song lyric "When we stood at childhood's gate..."
PJ: I know I know…Shapeless in the hands of fate – not funnnnnyy! :)
WFY: Which Penn State song is your favorite?
PJ: Definitely the singing lion and Lion Special
WFY: Do "Touch of Blue" alumni give you a hard time, "back in my day, we had to practice out in the snow (barefoot) from August through November," for having it so easy now that there is a Blue Band building?
PJ: No they are really cool, I mean, I think I would be jealous, too if I came back and saw what we have now, but they are really nice.
WFY: The Nittany Lion mascot is also a student in the college of communications; do you have any classes with him?
PJ: He is actually a year above me, but he and I are good friends.
WFY: In 2006, you endorsed a ticket for the USG election, but I don't recall you repeating that last year. Did the dissolution of USG have anything to do with your silence?
PJ: I was actually at practice that night and a friend of mine who was helping Nick and Pat's campaign asked if I would be willing to do an endorsement….it was kind of awkward, but I'd do anything to help a friend.
WFY: Which part of your major are you focusing on more, advertising or public relations?
PJ: Definitely PR – with a minor in Business. I love love love people….and so PR is basically communicating to people and reading situations and thinking quick…and so far I love my major.
WFY: One of the most popular searches on William World News is "Les Halles pronunciation." How do you pronounce the name of this popular Washington D.C. restaurant?
PJ: Seriously?
WFY: In my experience, people who choose to use initials for their name are generally mischievous. Would that be an accurate assessment of you?
PJ: I've honestly never heard that connection before, but no I am definitely not really mischievous. I ended with a 3.93 GPA last semester, received an academic scholarship, I take school almost as serious as my twirling.
WFY: Okay, one final question -- what will Penn State's record be this season?
PJ: Well, Michigan should be a very big turning point in our season. Depending on how that goes should have a large influence on the outcome of the rest of the season… I don't like to jinx things – I just say my prayers the night before the game…and remember why the sky is Blue and White. :)
Graham Spainer, who became president of Penn State the week I started freshmen classes, has signed another five year contract worth $590,000 annually.
I figured after several riots in Beaver Canyon in the late 1990s, the "Village" sit-in and the failed merger with Gesinger Medical Center in the early 2000s he was a goner, so I guess I don't know much about academic executives. He has done really well with capital campaigns which is probably why he is sticking around. I guess lionsraum1 will continue, if not immediately2. I suppose the cost of tuition/room and board will continue to increase as well. Did you know a year at Penn State costs $33,000 for out of state residents?
Portions of i-99 may open in late 2007 - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Portions of i-99 may open in late 2007
I-99 project goes on - CDT While I was down the Shore, it was announced sections of the already completed i-99 extension north of Bald Eagle would probably open late this year (CDT). The plan is for the northbound lanes to open between Bald Eagle and a temporary ramp to US 220/322 at Skytop. The southbound lanes would be open from Port Matilda south to Bald Eagle. None of this will happen in time for football season though because the fool's gold needs to be moved first (CDT). The whole project is scheduled to be completed in 2008, but I'll believe it when I drive on it. It is a race between this and the Lewsitown Narrows to get done. After that, don't expect any progress on filling in the Boalsburg to Potters Mills gap on US 322.
From viewing comments on the CDT articles, it appears CNN may have had some reporting on Bud Shuster, the congressman who excluded this section of road from standard environmental testing. He's not in Congress any more, though his son was elected to his seat, so he has escaped a lot of scrutiny. Except from me of course
Some relief on one of the roads to Penn State - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Some relief on one of the roads to Penn State
PSU fans to see traffic jams ease in 2008 - Patriot-News Widening on the stretch of US 22/322 through infamous Lewistown Narrows is still a year away from being completed, but there will be a little relief this football season. Drivers in both directions will use the newly built westbound lanes while the original-and-future-eastbound lanes will be rebuilt. This should provide some improvement over the previous alignment. The project is scheduled to be finished in 2008, resulting in a uninterrupted superhighway along US 322 from Potters Mills to I-81 near Harrisburg.
The only other portion of US 322 between State College and Harrisburg that will not be at least four lanes, Boalsburg to Potters Mills, won't be upgraded any time soon. PennDOT is focusing on catching up on deferred maintenance rather than building new highways. Also, there is already controversy over what route the relocated US 322 will follow, so I don't expect anything to happen for at least five years and probably more.
Of course, the completion of i-99 is also expected in 2008 too. Right?
Highway markers from Shields Up!, a great site despite the fact it doesn't let you save images using Firefox.
Well, since one of the areas they need to plow through is Alan Seiger State Park, and the rather large contingent of McMansions near Boalsburg, yeah, it's going to be mighty controversial.
And like the debate to put I-99 on Bald Eagle Ridge wasn't any less of a controversy, right?
# posted by Muha :
Thursday, August 23, 2007 9:11:00 PM
The problem with the ridge route south of Grays Woods was it took more homes, cost more money (and I'm not including the fool's gold removal) and was above the fog line. The valley route would have been much better. One prof told me that the ridge route was chosen because Bud Shuster owned the land and would get well compensated for it. I cannot verify that claim though.
# posted by WFY :
Friday, August 24, 2007 8:23:00 AM
Post a CommentIt's just about Jackivities time - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
It's just about Jackivities time
Any day now, unsuspecting freshmen at Penn State Halzeton and possibly other commonwealth campuses will likely have the unique experience of Jack Chambers, motivational speaker.
Someday, I hope somebody puts the Flying Wallendas part of the program on YouTube.
State College now a one hot dog stand town - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, July 19, 2007
State College now a one hot dog stand town
STATE COLLEGE, Penna. -- Depending on the season, downtown State College has had as many as 3 hot dog stands operating. For years Johnnie's Hot Dogs at The Corner was the leading purveyor of frankfurters (specifically, tasty Nittany Lion franks), but it has been closed since John Cocolin Sr. died this spring. Dee's Texas Hot Dogs, next to Fetterolf's Barber Shop, has occasionally put a cart out as well. I was a regular at the former and occasionally stopped by the other after a haircut. It wasn't open this time.
Up until last week, I hadn't stopped at the stand by A Got Used Bookstore (nee University Book Centre), the only stand operating this summer. Since I like hot dog stands a whole on general principle, I made sure to offer my support. I was quite pleased to see he had a Sabrett sign up and complimented the vendor on his choice of dogs. He then proceeded to tell me that Sabrett's parent company made it a real hassle to reorder and he almost had to switch brands. Finally, he played some hardball with them and they agreed to sell him hot dogs. I'm glad he stuck it out, hopefully he won't have to fight with Sabrett again. It would be unfortunate if he had to switch to an inferior brand or if he quit selling hot dogs altogether and left Happy Valley without my favorite street food.
Meet me at The Corner - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Meet me at The Corner
STATE COLLEGE, Penna. -- One of the great things about Christopher and Sarah's wedding earlier this month was it brought a lot of great people together. The only problem is with so many good people around, you don't get enough time with any of them. It is was an embarrassment of riches.
Since I had to take care of some best man duties at the end of the reception, I didn't get to say good-bye to all the people I would have liked. Case in point, Mark (a fellow groomsman) and his wife Jen, a great couple Christopher knows for his Penn State days. We went our separate ways without saying farewell.
Sure enough, a couple of days later I was walking down the elm-lined mall towards downtown State College so I could go back to the Atherton Hotel where we were staying. I had stopped to wait for the light to change at the intersection of College and Allen and I catch a glimpse of a familiar looking face on the other side, just before a CATA bus drives passed. As soon the sight line is clear, I confirm that is Jen. I went over said, hello and was quickly joined by Mark. I wasn't surprised to see them because they had told me they were going to stop by Happy Valley on their way back to Ohio. I'm annoyed with myself though, because I missed an excellent photograph since we were standing right at The Corner restaurant. Wouldn't it have been a great to get a shot of them with the "Meet me at The Corner" sign in the background? I even had my camera strap around me neck! I just didn't have my head in the game or something. Anyway, it was great to see Mark and Jen and get to say farewell.
Dining Reivew: Cereality - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Dining Reivew: Cereality
STATE COLLEGE, Penna. -- I recalled reading about Philadelphia's Cereality in USA Todaya few years ago and my first thought was that it was either the stupidest or best idea ever. My second thought was "State College has got to be on their shortlist for one." It turns out it was -- State College has one of seven locations.
The Cereality concept is a coffee shop-like eatery focusing on breakfast cereal. The first one opened near UPenn and while we were in Happy Valley this week, we stopped by the West College Ave. location. Cereality is laid out like a cross between a kitchen in a trendy catalog and a coffee shop. White walls were adorned with posters of cereal branded characters and colorful menus. Lots of cheesy slogans like "chief of grain surgery" also adorn the cafe. I can't remember most of them.
One of Cereality's selling points is being able to mix flavors and add toppings, including chocolate syrup, caramel, fruit, and candies like M&Ms and Reese's Pieces. Pop Rocks are also offered; if you going to market yourself as a novelty, go all the way.
Erica ordered a "Jump Start" which is a combination of Cheerios and Special K mixed with some nuts, peaches and honey. She enjoyed it and agreed that it provided a jump start. It came in at $5.99 I think and was the best value on the menu. Not being one to heave topping onto my breakfast cereal, I opted for Golden Grahams (instead of Frosted Flakes, my daily choice) and caramel that I barely noticed. That set me back $2.99.
Instead of traditional bowls, the packaging comes out in cardboard containers like the ones you get Chinese takeout in. I would have preferred a bowl because the shape of the box makes it easy for the cereal to get soggy.
For someone like me who likes his cereal as it comes out of the box with skim milk in a bowl, the appeal of Cereality is limited; the more adventurous cereal consumer, like Erica, gets value there. The novelty is interesting once (like pop rocks with cereal, I suppose) for someone like me, but that is not enough for a successful business model. By offering lots of combinations, Cereality has a decent niche carved out for itself. I don't think we'll see a lot of Cereality locations outside of college towns, but focusing on that demographic seems to work pretty well for Cluck-U, Jimmy Johns and D.P. Dough. Cereality could probably be successful in some big cities too, but just to be on the safe side, they ought to open next to Urban Outfitters -- I think the clientèle would be the same.
"not enough for a successful business modle" Well, I guess you blew that one! Cereality was just sold!
DBS
# posted by Anonymous :
Thursday, July 12, 2007 2:02:00 PM
I don't think I worded it very well -- what I am trying to say is selling $3 bowls of cereal probably isn't enough to sustain itself, the bigger items are what keeps people coming back.
# posted by WFY :
Thursday, July 12, 2007 2:24:00 PM
Fair enough. I think the boys at Kahala-Cold Stone Creamery agree.
DBS
# posted by Anonymous :
Thursday, July 12, 2007 2:47:00 PM
Cluck-U had some pretty good wings. Damn shame they closed down in State College. Thankfully, Wing Zone picked up the slack, and there's several Cluck-Us around here, even one right across the street from our condo development.
Sorry to hear your experience at Cereality was not so great. Then again, the business model was bred in Philly, so there's no real shock there.
# posted by Muha :
Thursday, July 12, 2007 8:50:00 PMPost a Comment
<i>Collegian</i> returns with completed redesign - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Barney Calame does not endorse Murdoch owning the <i>Journal</i> - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Barney Calame does not endorse Murdoch owning the Journal
Last month I attended the annual Bart Richards Award ceremony at the National Press Club. The College of Communications at Penn State presents the award annually for media criticism. I had intended to blog about it sooner, but I lost my notes. I haven't found them yet, but I figured waiting to find them could be a fruitless enterprise.
In the series of six columns Calame submitted for the award, he examined specific issues with reporting and stories that appeared in the Times. Among his submissions was a Jan. 1, 2006, column that reported that Times executive editor Bill Keller and publisher Arthur Sulzberger Jr. refused to respond to Calame’s questions regarding the content and timing of a Dec. 16, 2005, article about an eavesdropping conducted by the National Security Agency. His columns touched on a variety of topics as he focused on how Times reporters and editors did their jobs.
Prior to his time as The Times public editor, Calame retired as deputy managing editor of the Wall Street Journal. Following his speech, I was surprised that no one mentioned the "elephant in the room" that is Rupert Murdoch's bid for the Journal during the Q&A session. I was able to speak with him for a couple of minutes and naturally I asked him for an opinion. Calame politely indicated he did not favor Murdoch purchasing the paper.
I will try and find my notes from Calame's remarks and blog about them another time.
Erica, William and JoeBa - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Erica, William and JoeBa
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Erica, me and Joe Battista at the Metro Washington Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association 25th Anniversary party last month. The former Icers coach was gracious enough to come down to the party. We really enjoyed speaking with him, specifically reminiscing about the Icers 2002 ACHA championship when I dressed as the Lion for the semi-final game.
Book 'em Lou. One count of being a bear. - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Monday, June 18, 2007
Book 'em Lou. One count of being a bear.
Yesterday, my old former professor Russell Frankblogged about seeing a bearin search of food or perhaps employment, in his State College neighborhood, . Naturally I'm wondering how long until he and other residents march down to borough hall demanding Bear Patrol. Will Mayor Bill Welch then blame illegal immigrants for high taxes after complaints about the cost of Bear Patrol?
This would have been a lot funnier if it had happened in Hazleton.
Also, I wonder if Dr. Frank tried to buy a rock from his daughter.
I can see it now...residents marching down the street, chanting: "We're here, we're queer, we don't want any more bears."
Or there's this:
"Let the bears pay the Bear Tax. I pay the Homer Tax."
# posted by DCSportsChick :
Monday, June 18, 2007 1:40:00 PM
There are so many great lines from that episode, I had trouble deciding on a title.
# posted by WFY :
Monday, June 18, 2007 5:55:00 PM
If he is living in Park Forest, bears are a rather common sight. I remember being kept up by a cub stuck in a tree behind our house one summer in the late '80s, and I encountered one or two at a distance when I did the paper route in my neighborhood.
# posted by Muha :
Monday, June 18, 2007 8:00:00 PMPost a Comment
Creamey manager profiled - William World News - William F. Yurasko's blog
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Creamey manager profiled
Tom Palchak Runs the University Creamery - CDT Check out this profile of Tom Palchak who has managed the Creamery for two decades. He brought the Creamery into the era of "far-out ice cream flavor combinations" and expanded the business by 150% with flavors like Peachy Paterno.
Last week I exchanged some emails with Mike Joseph, the reporter who has been covering the story from the beginning. Apparently, Bud Shuster, the U.S. House representative who added a rider to avoid environmental testing for the road, has not returned any of Joseph's calls. Shuster stepped down before this all happened, though his son won a special election to take his seat. The elder Shuster may have cost taxpayers $50 million because of his recklessness. I also confirmed with Joseph that this part of i-99 wasn't even in Shuster's district.
PATTON TOWNSHIP -- A massive Skytop fill area -- a virtual land bridge constructed to carry Interstate 99 over and between U.S. Route 322 and state Route 550 -- looms as a new problem for road builders because contaminated groundwater underneath it hasn't improved, state officials said Thursday.
I know, I'm shocked too. Good thing Bud Shuster fast-tracked this project by legislating away due process environmental testing. I don't think this section of roadway was in his district either which makes it even worse.
Tony's Big Easy, State College, Penn State, liquor control board
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