The Results Are In!

On Saturday I went to the Marion Square farmer's market. One of my favorite things the Charleston community offers, the market takes place every Saturday and highlights some of the regions best produce, art, photography, jewelry, and furniture.

When people go to the farmer's market they are in "weekend mood". No one wants to talk politics or business. People want to keep it "light and bright".

I was curious, however, to hear what people thought about the election results, and the farmer's market offers the perfect forum to ask such a question. The farmer's market brings together the conservative and liberal, the young and the old, and the rich and the poor.

Additionally, while I started out limiting myself to interviewing students on campus, I found that my answers were all the same. Thus, I realigned myself, and starting branching out to other outlets. What I found was that most people are tired of talking about the election results---they want to move forward. Social media has also ringed out all the opinions, and "its gets overwhelming", as Michael Khors employee Janie Sizemore says (right).

While some felt that the aftermath of the election being expressed on social media was overwhelming, others said that social media played and impact in getting them to vote.

"So many people posted 'go vote' messages on their facebook walls that it reminded me of the importance to vote", says Jeremy Jones, a medical student at MUSC (left).

People proved and reinforced that social media is important. There were some people that I talked with that were very blunt in saying that they were frustrated by the results.

This was surprising to me, as the spirit of the farmer's market was so "peaches and cream, we live in the south, and the weather is so amazing"...if that makes sense.

Jono Lucas, a foreign exchange student from Australia was very upset by the results only because "Romney's health plan was so incredible, and as a student of medicine it is hard for me to see where medicine is going in the United States"(right).

The foreign view of American politics is always fascinating, especially as there is such a strong international interest. Are we as interested in foreign politics and as the rest of the world?

"The world is always interested in American politics because your economy affects ours so much", says Lucas.

Meanwhile, there were still some that did not pay a whole lot of attention to the political results---not because they were not interested, but because they were too overwhelmed with their own lives.

Holly Olsen, a freshman at the College asserts that as a freshman she has been so focused on adjusting to life away from home that she "was immune to the political decision" (left).

While it was difficult to approach so many individuals with such a sensitive topic, everyone I spoke with went along with their morning. That is the thing about Charleston, we can be asked about controversial and political topics, yet we are able to go on when our day and have fun!

AC in the House!

Last January the spotlight was on Charleston for the Republican Presidential Debate.

This political wave not only brought in the presidential candidates, but it also forced the stars of CNN to call Charleston their main stage.

I still remember thinking whether or not I should go. Anderson Cooper was going to broadcast his show, Anderson Cooper 360—live—from the Cistern Yard.

It seemed surreal, like it was not going to actually come into fruition. After grabbing an early dinner and convincing a friend to join, I headed out to the Cistern.

We arrived early, and were surprised to find that we were the only ones there. Despite this, there was already a tent, video equipment and chairs set up.

Masking tape marked huge X’s in the grass—presumably for the talent.

It started to rain and so my friend went to grab an umbrella. While gone, people slowly started to trickle in.

When my friend returned, we were glad that we had gotten there so early—it was packed, and we had the best seats in the house. Front row.

Soon the producers, camera crew, and, finally, Mr. Anderson Cooper himself had arrived--the show was actually going to start.

By then the energy and excitement was contagious. The camera glided through the air to showcase B-roll of cheering students.

I got lucky; before the show started Dr. Goodier asked if her daughter could stand with me upfront to watch the show.

Her daughter, around 9-years-old at the time, blonde, and decked out in her catholic school uniform was super excited to watch the show and not the least bit nervous by the “TV people” surrounding her.

Anderson even asked if she wanted to read off the teleprompter, which she did brilliantly.

During the commercial break, I also got to meet Anderson. I told him of my career goals and he offered me sound advice. “Learn how to write, and be willing to work harder than anyone else,” Anderson said.

Following the show, Anderson stuck around the Cistern and took photos with as many people as he could…and there were a lot of people being bold about their fanfare.

I remember standing back on top of the Cistern and just taking it all in. It was such a wonderful moment for the College of Charleston. It was also a moment that I will never forget, and one that helped spark my career goals.

She briskly walks beneath the canopy of Spanish moss; her sandals slap against her feet. By most accounts she appears to be just another College of Charleston student: crisp, white jeans, gleaming white smile, tan, eyes—which are shaded by ray bans—focused on her blackberry. Her school bag is resting on one shoulder…and on the other? A F3 Nikon professional camera.

For Junior Kate Majike, everything was in place. Her camera, which sometimes feels like her “second shadow” as she so calls it, has become a part of her life. While she may appear to be just another student, Kate is actually one of the few students on campus who owns their own business.

One of Kate's photographic pieces

During Christmas of 2008, Kate decided to do something creative for her friends and family. Taking photos of lone pine trees blanketed in snow and angelic statues near holly bushes, Kate created a unique line of greeting cards.

By mounting the photos on the front of cream-colored cards and adding some sparkles with glue, Kate created an innovative gift. But, what started out as a simple gift idea, soon turned into a full on business.

With positive feed back from friends and the support of her parents, “KATE’S MAGIC” was founded.

“We were honestly so impressed that this girl had created such beautiful card…and so unique!” Says Iris Macintosh, a family friend. “We wanted to know how we could get more!”

Growing up on Massachusetts Cape Cod, Kate has always had an affinity for water. This love for the coast inspired her first collection, which came out in the summer of 2009. Colorful sailboats, beach balls, images of fishing nets caught on docks, crabs and sea shells were all digitally enhanced to bring out the colors for a fresh summer themed line.

“KATE’S MAGIC”was first picked up by a small boutique in Andover, Mass. Her cards can now be found in six stores along the East Coast.

“Everyone who comes in the store immediately comments on the cards…and they are even more impressed when they discover that the creator is someone so young.” Says George Madison, owner of “Cards and Things” in South Hampton, NY.

Last May Kate participated in the annual stationary convention, and she received positive feedback from several big buyers.

“I was very nervous, and excited at the same time. I did not really know what I was getting into, but I think that it just kind of hit me that “KATE’S MAGIC” was actually a business that is competitive.” Says Kate.“We were in New York for three days, and it went by so fact.”

The convention helped Kate realize that she could expand her company. She now has a website, and carries paper weights and glassware that display her images.

While most might make known these accomplishments, Kate is quiet about her recent success. Instead she chooses to let others find out on their own.

“I do not know if this is something I want to turn into a career. It is something I do because I love it.” She explained.

So what does this talented student want to do? As an arts management major, Kate is on track to attend Sotheby’s Graduate school in London. This is something that has been a dream of hers for many years. She has the talent and the drive to make this dream become a reality.

Her talent certainly speaks for itself. This past week she was awarded “best in show” for the young contemporary art competition. With 650 applicants, and only 70 asked to show, her winning proves that she is truly a talent. It also proves that she may one day do something more with her talent than just greeting cards. For now, Kate continues to walk beneath the Spanish moss and be inspired by the beauty of Charleston.

Kate's Magic!

 

She briskly walks beneath the canopy of Spanish moss; her sandals slap against her feet. By most accounts she appears to be just another College of Charleston student: crisp, white jeans, gleaming white smile, tan, eyes—which are shaded by ray bans—focused on her blackberry. Her school bag is resting on one shoulder…and on the other? A F3 Nikon professional camera.

For Junior Kate Majike, everything was in place. Her camera, which sometimes feels like her “second shadow” as she so calls it, has become a part of her life. While she may appear to be just another student, Kate is actually one of the few students on campus who owns their own business. 

One of Kate's photographic pieces

During Christmas of 2008, Kate decided to do something creative for her friends and family. Taking photos of lone pine trees blanketed in snow and angelic statues near holly bushes, Kate created a unique line of greeting cards.

By mounting the photos on the front of cream-colored cards and adding some sparkles with glue, Kate created an innovative gift. But, what started out as a simple gift idea, soon turned into a full on business.

With positive feed back from friends and the support of her parents, “KATE’S MAGIC” was founded.

“We were honestly so impressed that this girl had created such beautiful card…and so unique!” Says Iris Macintosh, a family friend. “We wanted to know how we could get more!”

Growing up on Massachusetts Cape Cod, Kate has always had an affinity for water. This love for the coast inspired her first collection, which came out in the summer of 2009. Colorful sailboats, beach balls, images of fishing nets caught on docks, crabs and sea shells were all digitally enhanced to bring out the colors for a fresh summer themed line. 

“KATE’S MAGIC” was first picked up by a small boutique in Andover, Mass. Her cards can now be found in six stores along the East Coast.

“Everyone who comes in the store immediately comments on the cards…and they are even more impressed when they discover that the creator is someone so young.” Says George Madison, owner of “Cards and Things” in South Hampton, NY.

Last May Kate participated in the annual stationary convention, and she received positive feedback from several big buyers.

“I was very nervous, and excited at the same time. I did not really know what I was getting into, but I think that it just kind of hit me that “KATE’S MAGIC” was actually a business that is competitive.” Says Kate. “We were in New York for three days, and it went by so fact.”

The convention helped Kate realize that she could expand her company. She now has a website, and carries paper weights and glassware that display her images. 

While most might make known these accomplishments, Kate is quiet about her recent success. Instead she chooses to let others find out on their own.

“I do not know if this is something I want to turn into a career. It is something I do because I love it.” She explained.

So what does this talented student want to do? As an arts management major, Kate is on track to attend Sotheby’s Graduate school in London. This is something that has been a dream of hers for many years. She has the talent and the drive to make this dream become a reality.

Her talent certainly speaks for itself. This past week she was awarded “best in show” for the young contemporary art competition. With 650 applicants, and only 70 asked to show, her winning proves that she is truly a talent. It also proves that she may one day do something more with her talent than just greeting cards. For now, Kate continues to walk beneath the Spanish moss and be inspired by the beauty of Charleston.

Remembering when Charleston was the center of the political world

Last January the spotlight was on Charleston for the Republican Presidential Debate.

This political wave not only brought in the presidential candidates, but it also forced the stars of CNN to call Charleston their main stage.

I still remember thinking whether or not I should go. Anderson Cooper was going to broadcast his show, Anderson Cooper 360—live—from the Cistern Yard.

It seemed surreal, like it was not going to actually come into fruition. After grabbing an early dinner and convincing a friend to join, I headed out to the Cistern.

We arrived early, and were surprised to find that we were the only ones there. Despite this, there was already a tent, video equipment and chairs set up.

Masking tape marked huge X’s in the grass—presumably for the talent.

It started to rain and so my friend went to grab an umbrella. While gone, people slowly started to trickle in.

When my friend returned, we were glad that we had gotten there so early—it was packed, and we had the best seats in the house. Front row.

Soon the producers, camera crew, and, finally, Mr. Anderson Cooper himself had arrived--the show was actually going to start.

By then the energy and excitement was contagious. The camera glided through the air to showcase B-roll of cheering students.

I got lucky; before the show started Dr. Goodier asked if her daughter could stand with me upfront to watch the show.

Her daughter, around 9-years-old at the time, blonde, and decked out in her catholic school uniform was super excited to watch the show and not the least bit nervous by the “TV people” surrounding her.

Anderson even asked if she wanted to read off the teleprompter, which she did brilliantly.

During the commercial break, I also got to meet Anderson. I told him of my career goals and he offered me sound advice. “Learn how to write, and be willing to work harder than anyone else,” Anderson said.

Following the show, Anderson stuck around the Cistern and took photos with as many people as he could…and there were a lot of people being bold about their fanfare.

I remember standing back on top of the Cistern and just taking it all in. It was such a wonderful moment for the College of Charleston. It was also a moment that I will never forget, and one that helped spark my career goals.

Get Professional

This past Friday, our communication class got a visit from one of the leading public relations executives in the Charleston region—MikeTouhill. The College of Charleston is fortunate to have a plethora of resources in terms of guest speakers, internship opportunities, and events. 

 Touhill serves at the director of public relations for Kiawah Partners, a real estate company located on nearby Kiawah Island. 

The Island was most recently prominently featured during the 2012 PGA coverage.

While we do learn useful material on a daily basis in Professor Harwood’s multimedia reporting class, it was refreshing to hear from a professional in journalism and public relations.

Touhill offered extensive advice, from figuring out your vocation to landing your first job. Touhill also shared stories from his own experience.

Although he started out looking for a career in journalism (he was editor of his college newspaper in Virginia), he soon rerouted towards a career in public relations. 

Since college, he has worked in Richmond, Va. where he helped to develop campaigns for Geico, and Washington D.C. at a global PR firm.

After getting laid off at the height of the economic collapse, he and his wife were intrigued by the Lowcountry lifestyle, and decided to pursue a job in the area. 

Touhill visiting the Doonbeg Lodge in Ireland

Touhill encouraged students to take advantage of the resources available, namely the advisory council.

The CofC Communication Departments advisory council is composed of executives within communications, public relations, and journalism.

“Take advantage of the advisory council, it can help you get employed”, said Touhill.

Touhill also encouraged students to have a social media presence.

"Clean-up, the Facebook and Twitter pages, and administer these tools to your advantage. It is important to brand yourself" , he said.

This idea is something that I myself have been working towards---creating a personal brand that resonates with the industry that I am trying to break into. It was refreshing to have a professional in the area reinforce so many concepts that our professors have been advocating in our classes. 

New Dining Options Available on Campus

The College of Charleston offers several student dining options for students. Considering all CofC freshman are required to have an on campus meal plan, the variety of places is helpful. Recently The College opened yet another option, a second on-campus Chik-Fil-A. 

While usually many students, most who grew up on Chik-Fil-A, would usually welcome such an addition, the decision sparked debate over the summer. Many students felt that Chik-Fil-A's company support of anti-gay organizations went against the College of Charleston's goal to increase campus diversity. 

Although now open for business, many students tried to stop Chick-Fil-A serving its food at another location. One student even created a petition on "Change.org"--the site that led to the reinvestigation of the Trayvon Martin case this past spring.  

Change.org, which was founded in 2007, gives people the chance to start an online petition. Today, the website is growing faster everyday. According to an online article by UK’s The Guardian the website attracts one million new users and 15,000 new petitions each month.

 An interesting aspect to the site is that, much like as in facebook, users can “like” reasons for why people signed.  Change.org will soon be operating in 20 countries, and currently there are petitions—started in the United States—which reveal international injustices that “creators” witnessed while abroad. Change.org believes that “building momentum for social change globally means empowering citizen activists locally” (Change.org website). 

Change starts small—by exposing a specific local issue, national laws can be created to stop such things from happening again. Change.org goes on to say that “anyone, anywhere—from Chicago to Cape Town—can start their grassroots campaign for change using our organizing platform” (Change.org website). 

The online petition showed just how strongly many students felt about the issue. One student, who wished not to be named, said that the issue was about hate, but rather that the restaurant chains views clashed with the those of the College of Charlestons. 

"The focus should be on how the leader of this company's stance is maligned with that of the College's," he said. "Its easy to get caught up in the emotions of situations like this by saying things like 'they hate.' Isn't it as simple as this core value clashes with ours?" 

Regardless of persistence and strong opinions, the College continued to allow the opening of the new Chick-Fil-A location. The heat and intensity ensued over the issue seems to have subsided and students appear to be enjoying the new location. 

"Its just as busy as the other location", says Deja Johnson, an employee at new location which is located next to the Barry Residence Hall. 

People seem to be adjusting and are going against the mantra of fighting fire with fire.  

Walking through Memory Lane

Cougar Mall was ablaze with tables and booths promoting travel and study abroad. Eager students, some with hemp bracelets and some with t-shirts emboldened with greek letters, were spilling out questions to study abroad representatives. Students were seen flipping through colorful look books depicting fresh-faced groups in front of exotic vistas.

Rebecca Meyer, a CEA Study Abroad representative said, “Often times students may have yet to decide on a study abroad location. These brochures help students begin the process of reflecting on what kind of experience they want.”

Walking though the sea of excitement, I was reminded about my own anticipation of my study abroad experience. In agreement with Meyer’s observation, I knew I wanted to go to a Spanish speaking country, but I did not know where exactly that was. Through gleaning across the glossy brochures, I realized that I wanted a different type of experience. Although they provided a different type of impression, these advertisements did have an effect in my decision-making.

My study abroad experience was incredible. Going away from Charleston also offered me perspective—it gave me new insight into how special the “Holy City” really is.

Walking Through History

Historic Charleston, SC offers a plethora of activities—-plantations, restaurants, museums, beaches, lighthouses…the list goes on. However, take a moment to stroll down some of its quieter streets, and one may find that it’s the simpler charms that enhance the city’s elegance.

Charleston Magazine describes these brick alleyways as ” a mere breath, a tiny gasp between two dense walls…” While these relics of history, which predate the automobile, may be considered minute pedestrian streets, one rarely encounters another person walking through them…it is as if, for a moment, the city belongs to the one person passing through.

Erica Mason, store manager of Bake House says that these alleys are often overlooked, but they "are what makes Charleston so special--they add to the history and the charm. When I myself discovered these alleys I felt that I had discovered something secret, something that is reserved for locals. Now, having realized that they are more well known that they appear, my appreciation for them is different. I can appreciate their history. Some of these alleys were where pistol duels took place...when the times were more lawless.

Its solitude could lead to its charm. One will not find Atlantic or Stoll’s Alley listed on a tourist brochure. These tree-vaulted lanes are local treasure’s that speak to the city’s aesthetically pleasing eye, and its love of secrets. These vantage points also offer a different perspective of the city. Within these walkways one can allow their imagination to listen to history—carriage wheels circling over cobblestone streets, vendors selling their goods…

History surrounds the city of Charleston—it is a walking museum. Whether real or imagined, the history of these alley’s offers a chance to adventure from reality…if even for a short walk.

If the above description does not spark interest--because lets face it, sometimes words fail--then take a look at some more images captured below....

9/11 Remembered

Washington D.C. flags continue to flicker in the wind, (photo taken on the 4th of July of this year).

Reporting and writing about September 11th is becoming something of a misty question—do we always comment and discuss the attacks during the anniversary? Of course, we can never forget those who lost their lives and where we were when we heard about the attacks…yet, how do we move forward?

During the 10th anniversary of 9/11, it seemed that every newspaper was covering the anniversary and telling a story from a different angle, with a unique cover page to depict the day.

I still remember where I was on that morning. Sitting in Mrs. Cromartie’s 5^th grade class, I was just easing into a transition point in my life. I think most people can agree that everything changes in the 5^th grade. Cliques start to form. Bodies start to change. Boy/girl dynamics are in flux. The once 4^th grade boys become the 5^th grade guys. I was in the initial stages of this transition. Then…boom—things changed. In 5^th grade the world became a scary place. The days that followed brought the restriction of drinking from the water fountain; outside recess was replaced by indoor recess (which was usually reserved for rainy days).

Growing up in Washington DC has de-sensitezed me, in some ways, since then. Since, for most of the year, I call Charleston home, I decided to explore Charleston and find different people, of all ages, going about their daily lives to hear their thoughts on 9/11.

Johana and David, juniors at CofC I met out near Folly Beach. While sipping "American Red" pitcher drinks, I asked them what they were thinking in regards to the anniversary of September 11th. They both said that it was a time to celebrate America...and boy they were celebrating. Hope they took caution

By the end of the day, I found students and young people at Waterfront Park, Folly Beach, and in shops, WHO all were excited to share their thoughts on 9/11. In some ways, it seems like this event has weaved itself into American culture, making its way into films and books. The most interesting was talking with Spencer, a student at Porter Guad who does not remember the attacks, and yet he has learned about it through American culture and in school. I hope that, regardless, we continue to remember 9/11 and the impact it has had.

Mariana, 26, said “today is a day to remember those that have lost loved ones, and those that fought for America. But, it is also a day to remember the importance of freedom and how powerful and important it is.”

 Johann and Nathan, Juniors, were found outside a bar near follow beach. They were not shy to speak about their opinions, nor about their drinks. Each sat sipping from a pitcher filled with some "American Red" substance. They said that, while today is a time to reflect, it is not a time to be sad. For Johann, it is a day to "celebrate America." 

Spencer,12, said “we talked about it in school today, I cannot imagine being alive when that happened. Its weird. All my older siblings remember it, except for me.”

One of things that struck me in meeting this kid was the realization that many kids do not remember 9/11...it is a history topic.  

Janie and Blake, seniors at CofC, both agreed that its important to have a moment of thought and reflection for 9/11 and what it means.