A Wonderful Life 

Main Room (Adult Cats) 

                                           

 

   

Edward and Sunny 

As you walk down Main Street in Bloomsburg there is business after business, the corner of Market and Main is different. There is a non-profit that has been the home to almost a thousand cats and kittens, Cats in Bloom! Cats in Bloom opened in November of 2019, and has been giving cats a wonderful life that may have never happened without the safety of the cafe. You can see many trees, toys, cats and people in the cafe just from the sidewalk, imagine what you'd experience actually being inside! If you walk in the front door of the cafe you're greeted by a bright- eyed and smiling volunteer asking if you've been there before. The sounds of bells, chirps and music being played over the radio fills the rooms.  After you sign in and give a $5 donation, all the cats are yours to enjoy for an hour. 

Downstairs Kitten Room 

   
Sue Ball, Anna Beaver, DiAnne Leonard and Michelle Yefko who met while volunteering in rescue, are the four 'founding women' of Cats in Bloom. They came up with the idea in March/April of 2019 and made it come to life that November. These four women, many volunteers and donations are what make the cafe run. They believed Bloomsburg needed a non-profit like this to help cats and kittens get the best homes they could possibly have. I spoke to Sue Ball and she proudly relayed to me that they do everything they can to get these cats the best vet care and homes. These precious cats have such a spectacular home at the cafe but ultimately, they don't want to stay there forever. We all know that a non-profit relies soley on donations and volunteer work, but I asked Sue if there are ways they raise money through fundraisers. She seemed very excited to talk about this! "We do many fundraisers ourselves, including wine and paint with the cats, Giving Tuesday, Raise the Region on Facebook and we receive donations through the #BettyWhiteChallenge . We also do a Meowentine's Day King and Queen fundraiser! Each vote is $5 for a male/female pair that they think should be the cafe's Valentine's Day King and Queen." That contest is very fitting considering the cafe is decked out head to toe in decorations. The cats will never be confused as to what holiday is next!

King Dorado 

I continued my conversation with Sue and asked her what the best part was about being a large part of this non-profit is. Her face gleamed with pride as she said "It's always amazing to see a cat come into the cafe and find their person! Our end goal is for all our cats to find the best forever home. We always go through an extensive adoption application to make sure the adopters are fitting for our cats." It is obvious the founders and every volunteer cares greatly about each and every one of these cats. I followed the benefits, asking what the struggles were. " Getting donations and volunteers is sometimes difficult and not having enough room for incoming fosters. We only have so many foster families and sometimes not enough for how many come into our care." Sue and I also talked about how hard it is to lose a cat while in their care or even after they're adopted. The founders, volunteers and the majority of visitors tend to connect with at least one of the cats in a special way. One cat that connected with a large majority of people was Dorado. A large orange and white cat who was spicy but very sweet at some times. This hunk of a boy managed to steal the hearts of everyone last February as he was crowned 'Meowentines Day King 2022'! He was adopted a few months later but unfortunately passed away soon after. This was a hard hit on everyone that was involved or followed the cafe. If you walk in the cafe there is a beautiful picture of him fastened to the wall above the desk. He will always be a large part of the cafes history and greatly missed.

Ember 

Our conversation continued with talking about the more business and day to day aspects of running the cafe. Volunteers sign up on a calendar for when they want to do chores. 1-2 people are in charge of morning chores which include vacuuming, mopping, feeding wet food to both kitten rooms, filling food/water bowls and scooping litter boxes. "Usually Thom is sleeping during open hours because he is such big help with morning chores!", Sue exclaimed.  On days when the cafe is not open to the public, there are a few hours dedicated to socialization.  This is where a group of volunteers come in and spend time with the cats! On open days there is a board member and an escort that moves people throughout the rooms. This ensures that everyone gets to meet all the cats and spend quality time with them. Evening chores consist of feeding wet food to all rooms, filling food/water bowls and scooping boxes. There is only a fraction of the cats in the cafe, many many more are cared for in foster homes by volunteers or board members. According to Sue, "This place runs off of our foster families, volunteers and our community. We would not have room for all of these cats without fosters and we wouldn't have achieved this much success without the support of our amazing community." Although being as involved with the cafe as Sue is and it being as much, if not more work than a full time job, it makes it worth it when you see the cats go to amazing homes and get to live out a better life than they would out on the street. To date, there is over 900 adoptions and many more cats waiting to be adopted. I'm sure if these cats could talk, they would say thank you to everyone that has either saved them or cares for them. 

What it's Like Living at Work

    If you ever lived in a college dorm before you will know the importance that your CA has in your living experience. To most people being a CA seems like such an easy job that anyone can do. All you have to do is sit at a desk at nighttime, watching people come in and out of the building, and get paid for doing their homework. Though people do not realize that the job is a dedication. Just like any job it gets very tedious and unenjoyable at times. Personally, as a resident of Elwell Hall I did not know any details of what CA does until I met my CA. CA Regi a sophomore in college with a goal of someday taking on a career in the business world. A person that I grew to recognize as hardworking, dedicated and honest. 

    Wanting to learn more about what a CA does I knocked on Regi's door with curiosity on what she really does. Regi opens the door and the first thing I notice is the long light-colored straight ginger hair. With a strong smell of chicken salad emanating from her room as I walk in. Noticing a large bed twice the size of mine and a tremendous amount of room that seems like you can fit an entire couch and then some more. Being a CA allows you to combine the two beds in the room making a large comfortable bed for yourself and creating so much room to add anything else that you want. Regi starts off by exclaiming how this job is and how enjoyable it can be at times. She originally took the job because of the incentive that she gets free room and board with an additional $7.50 an hour whenever she is working. Not only that but she views this a small steppingstone to her business career, having to take care of people and being responsible is building up her knowledge to when she really needs it. Regi exclaims to me with confidence " But if you do not like to socialize or you are a little shy do not take this job because you're going to have to interact with your residents and if you cannot do that this job is not fit for you." So, this job is not for everyone; you have to know how to talk to people and really enjoy doing it like Regi has been.

    " What does your day consist of having to work as a CA?" I ask enthusiastically as Regi looks up from her phone. She explains that her day is no different than mine having to wake up go to force herself to wake and go to the gym in the morning. Then going to class like everyone else. The real job starts at night one time a week to be on desk and that could be either at eight, ten or twelve at night. The only paperwork she does is writing a rounds report which happens after sitting on desk. Every CA has to go to each floor to check the lounges, bathrooms, sprinkler caps, and fire extinguishers that nothing is broken or missing. 

    As our discussion went on, we started to hear loud noises coming from the hallway as a group of girls were moving out of one of the dorms. The group of girls being very loud and irritating caused Regi to start getting annoyed as I saw her smile turn into a frown and with her eyes constantly looking at her door almost as if she wanted to go outside and yell at them. 

    With me nearing my final last few questions I asked Regi " What do you enjoy about being a CA and what are some of the struggles that you go through?" Regi's eyes glowed up as I could see her braces from the big smile that she gave me when I asked her that question. She exclaimed how she loves this job because of how many new people she got to meet and create connections with. Not only that but it helps build her people's skills since it requires her to talk to other people.

    Before answering the second part of that question Regi pauses to check her phone notification. Her smile quickly fades away as she stands up and walks out the door and knocks on the door with the group of girls that have been making an immense amount of noise. " Hey girls I have gotten a complaint from two people saying that you guys are being too loud. Can you please move out quietly." Regi said angrily. As Regi left the girls said nothing and that was the last time the girls were loud. 

    "That right there is probably the biggest struggle about being a CA having to deal with noise complaints and people being disrespectful." Regi taking deep breaths as she calms down on her bed. Though Regi then explained that sometimes it isn't as bad as it seems because CA's work in twos. With the help of CA Mike who is much more experienced than Regi it has been much easier for her to deal with hard situations. " Mike always helps me out when I need help or if there is something new that I do not know he offers to show me how to do it" Regi elaborated. So, the CAs are never alone when it comes to dealing with challenging situations.  

    All in all, this job is not for everyone. If you enjoy talking to people and being able to be there if your resident needs help, then this job could be for you. It just all depends on the type of person that you are. Of course, not all CAs like the interaction. Regi is one of those people that were born for this job. The person that builds trust with all of her residents. 

 

    

The food & face of the Commons

When approaching the mint-green doors I hear student voices and chattering. I touch the door handle and gradually open the door. I look around, wondering if I'll be able to find a table to eat at given how crowded the commons are. As soon as I enter, I am immediately struck by the smell of various foods. People are standing in line to swipe their student ID cards. Every time I approach those doors in the morning, Chip is the first person I see. A black chef's hat, all-black button-down shirt, pants, and shoes complete Chip's outfit.

Chip checks that everyone swipes their cards correctly while sitting at the black desk chair, and her contagious smile never fails to brighten every student's day. Chip has been the face of the commons for the past 27 years! That's true, Chip has spent her entire 27-year life working at the commons. The love she has for every student is unbelievable. Chip happily responded by saying, "This is the best part of my day because I am here with you students, my family, you guys are my life." Every time a student entered the room, even when I was interviewing Chip, she cheerfully greeted them with a smile and the words "Enjoy, lunch is ready!"

"I like your tan, brown shoes, they look so comfortable!" she said observantly.

The student answered with a small smile, "Thank you, I just got them and wasn't sure how I felt about them."

"That pair of slippers is what I'm looking for. Have a good day and enjoy the food while it's still hot!" she said.

Chip never fails to cheer up her students, whether it's with a smile or a simple compliment! As she spoke passionately about her job, Chip had the biggest smile on her face. "While I'm at home, I'm lonely and depressed, but when I'm working here, I'm happy," Chip remarked gently as she gave me the warmest smile. In addition to becoming the face of the commons, Chip began her career in the kitchen before moving on to the front desk.

After Chip gives me a friendly smile as I enter the dining hall, I turn to my left and my mouth starts to water. I then ask myself, "What do I want?" as I quickly scan the room. I turn to face it and notice a salad bar with a huge variety of toppings and dressings. Behind the salad bar, the Ignite grill serves piping-hot fries, delicious chicken sandwiches, and just-baked hamburgers.

I can see the Local Harvest just behind her from where Chip is seated. Entrees are available for lunch and dinner at The Local Harvest. The freshly made mashed potatoes are steaming. There is roasted bone-in chicken with paprika, onion, garlic, and salt as seasonings (Maria Bauman, Scranton Commons Dining Hall 2023).

On the tan and brown tiled floor, keep going straight until you reach the desert station, which is my favorite. Cake Batter, Cappuccino, Strawberry, and Mint Chocolate Chip are just a few of the various kinds of ice cream that are available.  

“Scranton Commons Dining Hall.” Scranton Commons Dining Hall - Bloomsburg University, https://bloomu.campusdish.com/en/locationsandmenus/scrantoncommonsdininghall/.

 Sippin' and Sniffin' 

"You're going to go to the candle wall behind you and smell 160-170 different scents. Obviously don't smell them all because that would be a lot. On your clipboard you are going to write your favorite 8-10 scents," stated Brianna as you walked through the doors of Scent & Sip. Walking into the doors you get a rush of every different scent you can think of. 

    Brianna explains, "A day in my life is repetitive I would say. There is always people coming in and out of the store interested in what it is. Typically Friday's and Saturday's are our busies day but it all depends on who has made reservations for that day. It starts off with greeting customers and taking them to their seats. Then giving them the spiel on how the process works which basically says - “ first you’re going to start by taking your clipboards and going to the candle wall to smell a bunch of smells and write down your favorite 6 to 8 then once you are done, you are going to take a seat and we will pull out those scents in the bottle form and you’re going to play around until you find the blend of your choice that we will then put into the product of your choosing. After that I help the customers build their blend and products and send them on your way. There are also chores I have to do but it’s not too bad." 

Candle Wall

    The candle wall has about any scent that you can think of. You can tell the scent ologist what smell you are looking for and they will help you pick the right scents to help make your special scent.

   

  Next thing you know a party of 15, 7 year old girls come running into the store screaming and laughing ready to make their products. Brianna tells them to go into the back room through the rusty barn doors that say SCENT AND SIP on them. They all run back into the room and quietly sit in the black chairs ready to get started. You look over and all 15 of the girls have their little brown clipboard in their hands and are scribbling to write down their favorite 5 scents from the candle wall. One girl who had long blond hair down to her hips was down at the far end of the candle wall by herself smelling each and every candle. She had the biggest smile on her face when she finally found her favorite two scent that she is gonna mix together. As I look over in her hands are the candles “Monkey Farts” and “Bubble Gum” in her hand, and next thing you know she is running over to the purple chairs to get ready to start whatever product she is gonna make. 

    "What are we making with these scents," asked Brianna as she handed Chloe a pair of glasses to keep the oils out of her eyes. 

    "I want to make a lather poof!" yelled Chloe, so excited that she almost fell off her chair. 

    "Well I want to make a sugar scrub that has bubblegum and strawberry in it!" shouted the birthday girl from across the other side of the table. 

Front of the Store

   As people walk down the main street of Lansdale they look to their right and see a little shop with decorations in the windows and a sign that reads SCENT & SIP FRAGRANCE LAB. People are wondering what this store involves and what it is all about. There are customers walking in and out of the doors very intrigued on what it is and how it came about. "The history of the place is my mothers high school best friend. He has a wife named Jen. She is the owner of scent and sip. She started this business because she originally worked at QVC but left that because she wanted to do something with healing and scent therapy. Basically, her business is a mix of Bath and Body Works and Painting With a Twist. It's a fun and unique idea that is very creative for everyone. It’s a great concept that has been around for six years now," Brianna exclaimed. Coming into Scent & Sip you can be as creative as you want and everyone has their own favorite smells that makes this process much more meaningful. "I can’t pinpoint one favorite customer, but I can pinpoint all the people that have come to the store over the years and have now become regulars. It’s so nice to see how people have lives outside of this place and they come together with us to make their products, you see all kinds of people and make all new types of friends, so it really is such a great place to work," stated Brianna as she got ready to help out other customers. 

    "I can’t pinpoint one favorite customer, but I can pinpoint all the people that have come to the store over the years and have now become regulars. It’s so nice to see how people have lives outside of this place and they come together with us to make their products. You see all kinds of people and make all new types of friends, so it really is such a great place to work," Brianna stated. Everyday is a new day when it comes to working here. Every customer is different and has their favorite scents that they like. 

Bottles of Scents 

    A family of 6 people enter the store, laughing and carrying on. They come up to the bar and tell the manager- Brianna, who has long thick black hair wearing black leggings and a red sweatshirt that they are here for their reservation. She seats them right at the front of the store on the purple high top chairs with a silver tray in front of them where they will be making their products. Brianna and Payton (another coworker) come walking over quickly to help the family grab their scents. They both walk over to the shelf full of hundreds of brown bottles containing the liquid forms of all the scents in alphabetical order. 

    "Here are all your scents, go back and smell them again and remind yourself of the scents because they are a lot stronger in the bottle forms. You can take one, take two and smell them together to get your unique scent," explained Payton as she held the rest of their bottles in her hands. 

    

    "What if I like all four of these scents together, can I mix that many," laughed Kim, sighing because she wasn't sure if she was on the right track.

    "You can use anywhere from one scent to five scents in any product, it's just up to your preference," Payton elaborated. 

    Scent & Sip offers so many different products and a variety of scents that you can choose from. It is a great place to be yourself and let the creative juices flow. Everyone is very friendly and we allow to have fun with everything that you do. A great place to have birthday parties, bachelorette parties, or get a group together and go and have fun. 

    

Burgers, Ice Cream, Sushi, and more! Welcome to Scranton Commons.

commons itself

Let's say you want to relax with friends in a cozy environment, or catch up before class. You quickly walk to Scranton Commons (commonly called "Commons" by students), Bloomsburg University’s only all you can eat dining hall. You see grey chairs, black tables, buffet-style tables, lamp lights, light brown wooden floors, plus red or orange chairs, instantly makes you feel comfortable. You use your student ID to swipe in and, look around. "Hello, Honey," A short elderly woman who has a black shirt, black pants, a round black hat says as she smiles. This is Chip, and she greets people who leave and enters. She smiles at you. You aren't sure where to go, as you count over twelve “stations” with options such as salads, ice cream, sushi, burgers. It's a popular location for students, "I love being here because of all the people and students I get to serve, and we have great coworkers" a short staff member with black hair says, grinning. Staff members, with their black hats, black aprons, and characteristic gold name tags serve over five hundred students each day, depending on the day and time. "Sometimes it's three hundred, sometimes it's over seven hundred! Especially during welcome week, open houses, homecoming week, or campus tours" a tall manager with short light grey hair and a red shirt states, shaking his head. Scranton Commons was founded in 1970, and it was first renovated in 1992 to allow for seven hundred more students and continues to be renovated each day. In 1991, it partnered with Aramark.

the main dining area

Commons has opened for lunch and dinner a few minutes ago, and you look to your right. You see workers wiping down counters and spraying windows. "We spray windows with window cleaner and wipe down counters with sanitizer every time we close and open," A taller staff member with brown eyes and short black hair says, smiling, "Custodians sanitize tables, sweep, vacuum, change trash bags when we close. We close twice, once after breakfast and lunch, which is 7:30am to 2pm. And once after dinner, which is 4-8pm. On weekends, we open at 10am-2pm for brunch and 4-7pm for dinner." Common's is usually busy around lunch & dinner on weekdays, and less busy during breakfast.

a waffle from the waffle bar

You walk forward and see a line of people in front of a counter with a Local Harvest sign, and decide to check it out. You take a quick glance and instantly feel at home. Savory meatloaf, hot brown gravy, seasoned corn and green beans, buttered roasted potatoes, and sometimes specials like cheese-and-onion pierogis ( There's also a waffle bar, pancakes/french toast, eggs, bacon, and sausages during breakfast.).  You watch someone take the last slice of meatloaf,  and shortly after you see a staff member open a warmer. He pulls out a brand new pan of meatloaf, and before he closes it, you take a glance of the other foods stored in the there, like potatoes and pierogis. You think for a few seconds, and decide not to get anything from here, so you leave the line and look around. Workers can use over fifteen pans of a single dish (pancakes, for examples), in four hours, depending on popularity of the dish. "We order thousands of products and ingredients each week for our chefs to make the all of the different dishes they do." The marketing manager says as he looks at local harvest.

 You decide not to get anything from here, so you leave the line and look around. A brown sign with fire and IGNITE in white text catches your eye. You hear sizzling and a beeping noise coming from one of the fryers.  You see bright orange and blue flames erupt from a grill. The smell of fire and hot vegetable oil fills the area. Behind the counter, you see small metal containers filled with crispy chicken patties, grill-cooked burgers, juicy turkey burgers, hotdogs, and veggie burgers (and gluten free buns & waffles stored in the fridge). "I love ignite because while food at commons isn't bad, it's seriously hit or miss. When I order a burger or chicken sandwich, I know what to expect. Every. Single. Time," a short student with short brown hair says, and smiles and laughs shortly after. You want to explore a little more, so you walk over to a place that has a paper sign stating that they don't serve eight common allergens: eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. You see a TRUE BALANCE sign above the station, and you notice steaming hot rotisserie chicken, baked & seasoned cauliflowers, baked potatoes, and corn. To the left of true balance, you see a brown sign that says PIAZZA, and the scent of cheese, garlic, and pepperoni fills your nose. You see slices of pepperoni pizza and cheese pizza on a cutting-board, with cut garlic bread, cornbread squares, cheddar biscuits, and buttery garlic rolls next to it in silver, round bowls. The food in these stations is usually cooked behind the counter or in commons very own kitchen. Some stations, such as the ones mentioned (Local Harvest, True Balance, PIAZZA, IGNITE), have fryers or mini ovens behind the counter.

        A tall girl with long blond hair and bright pink lipstick walks with a three friends to the Uncommon Scoop. She looks over the ice cream counter,  analyzing the choices and trying to make a decision. There were lots of good flavors today, including pumpkin spice latte, cookie dough, marshmallow mud, & the classic vanilla.

“Hey, can I have pumpkin spice latte in a cone? Thank you,” the girl says, smiling.

The worker behind the counter has short grey hair and is much older than the older staff members. picks up a cone and frowns, “We’re out of pumpkin spice latte,” the worker looks down at the ice cream counter, "We have other options, however."

“I swore there was some here earlier,” The girl sighed as she looked over the other flavors. Her face took on a sad expression.

The worker smiles, “It’s a very popular flavor, and it’s limited edition,”

“It’s alright,” The girl and her friends walk to the soft serve machine, filling up their cones with chocolate and vanilla swirl, and adding sprinkles. They leave commons, laughing and eating soft serve. 

You're in the mood for dessert, and you have a sweet tooth, so you run over to Keystone Baking Co. and Uncommon Scoop.  You smell warm chocolate chip cookies . You see two parts, an area filled with various cake slices, cookies, cupcakes, and other small desserts and a ice cream counter, with flavors such as chocolate chip, vanilla, cherry vanilla swirl, your mouth waters as you look over the flavors, wondering what you should choose.  "All of our desserts are made in a bakery underneath commons, and we have a woman who makes all of our eye ice cream by hand. All her," The older staff member with short grey hair says, "All I do is get it from the freezer and scoop it," He laughs. To your left you hear a soft rumbling sound, and you see soft serve, with chocolate, vanilla, and chocolate-vanilla swirl. You poke your head before the machine and you see a sundae bar, featuring toppings like whipped cream, chocolate syrup, oreo pieces, chocolate chips and sprinkles. Many students go to Keystone. Backing Co. and Uncommon Scoop when they finish their meals, and you'll often see people walk out of commons with either ice cream or soft serve ice cream. 

You walk down and to the left and peek over the counter, watching a short woman roll the sushi by hand. You see four types of sushi, tuna, spicy crab, vegetable, and California. You see a bright bottle of orange sauce (spicy mayo), wasabi, and small soy sauce packets in a black container filled with ice next to the sushi. A sign above it says SABI. You grab a few spicy crab rolls and turn around. You see some sort of salad bar with glass windows and white lights around the rims of the glass. There is a large brown sign above it that says GRAZE.  You see large containers of greens with black spoons, such as spinach, iceberg lettuce, and spring mix. To the left you see toppings such as shredded carrots, tomatoes, ham, chicken, croutons, so much more. Next to these toppings are bottles with different types of salad dressing. Italian, Ranch, Balsamic vinegar, Thousand Island, etc. You even see potato salad! A staff member with bright red hair and glasses is pushing a steel cart that has grey containers filled with spring mix and lettuce, "we store all the greens and toppings in a specialized salad fridge located in our kitchen," she says as she refills the croutons, "We also stock up on things during the day, such as these croutons," she chuckles. There’s also fresh fruit and granola, and yogurt available during breakfast on weekdays and brunch on weekends. 

Commons also has many types of "specials". They have specials for valentine's day, finals week, Halloween, and more. During these specials, they serve certain foods, such as red valentines day cookies, cheesecake, or cake slices at Keystone Baking Co. These specials are also popular with non-students.  "Our team just recently heard about a group of friends who come back to enjoy Late Night at the Commons every semester, even if they no longer have a meal plan," the marketing manager says, with his eyes widened, and he grinned, "Our favorite part of providing the dining program, which includes Chick-Fil-A, Qdoba, and the Husky Lounge, is the enhancement of the student experience and campus culture. From Late Night at the Commons, to Family-Style Thanksgiving, and everything in between, we love creating memories that Huskies will cherish for years to come."

 CA [see-ayy] / noun / a safety patrol, a life counselor, a friend.

CA Micaleya Otto

    "You can come to your CA for roommate problems, mental health problems, academic problems, honestly almost anything," says CA Micaleya Otto. Mica, as she prefers to go by, is experiencing the life of a CA for the first time this year. "Me and my CA last year got along really well, and most of the time I can be a very social people person, so I wanted to try it and see how it goes, and I ended up really liking it a lot." Everyone who lives on the fourth floor of Elwell west know Mica for her affable, outward demeanor. Whether its in the hallway, the lobby, or even the bathroom, she greets everyone with her bubbly bright eyes, friendly smile, and warm welcoming wave. Her favorite part about being a CA? Getting to interact with the her residents. "Each one of you guys are different," she notes, "I have track girls so I get to talk to you guys about track, I also have a basketball player so I can go to his games, and I have a football player so I'll go to his games as well." 

Not only does she enjoy having casual conversations with her residents, she's also more than willing to make time to sit down and have conversations regarding more serious matters. Sarah Hessler was a former fourth floor Elwell resident who recently made the decision to transfer to a different school. During her time at Bloomsburg, she had frequent interactions with Mica. Sarah was having difficulties adjusting to college life, as many freshman do, and sought advice from Mica on several conflicting topics. "Mica was one of the first people I told I wanted to transfer, she was so kind and caring about it. She just helped me through the entire list of pros and cons to what I would chose. And then later when I was having issues with a friend, she got involved and helped talk me through how to safely and effectively confront her and how to make it the best for all parties involved."

Although addressing the mental well being of residents is a large part of being a CA, they are also obligated to ensure the physical safety of every person in the building. This includes sitting at the lobby desk in the evenings and doing multiple safety checks throughout the night to assure that everyone is alive and well. "CA's are required to work desk once a week between Monday and Thursday," Mica states, "the shifts are either 7-9, 9-11, or 11-1." CA's are also required to work every other weekend. They can choose to work both Friday and Sunday or just Saturday. After each shift that a CA works, they are required to do a safety check. This includes checking all bathrooms and lounges, fire extinguishers and alarms, and even the trashcans. Although these shifts may be inconvenient, you're constantly around the same people. While you're "working" in the lobby,  you get to socialize with the other CA's who are also working. Mica remarks, "I've met some lifetime friends that I know I'll always have."

Every CA has dealt with some sort of challenging, funny, or memorable experience. Mica recalls an experience she had recently, "Just the other day," she sighs, "there was man with no pants, in the lobby. No underwear, he just had on a hoodie and socks." She acknowledges that dealing with residents and their "weekend festivities" can be difficult at times. When people return to the building late at night, "That can always be a roller coaster too because you don't know if they're OK."

Upon walking into Elwell, a tall boy in jeans and a black t-shirt, is immediately greeted by the large front desk of the lobby, spanning across all 4 doors. At the desk, Mica sits and watches the two other female CA's on duty quiz each other on organic chemistry. They pause the studying as they see the boy come in.

    "Welcome back!" one of them says in a friendly tone.

A few seconds after the boy walks in, two girls both wearing tiny tops cropped at the midsection and ripped jeans come out of the elevator and make their way into the lobby smiling and whispering amongst themselves. The dark haired girl has a gallon jug of some unknown mixed drink in her left hand. They walk up to the door and begin to push it open.

    "Have a good night!" Mica says as she waves to them.

    "Thank you!" they say in a conjoined response.

    "Be safe, have fun!" she adds as they pass through the doors.

The lobby desk and rooms are used for more than just the CA's to sit and talk with one another. One of the best parts for not just the CA's, but also the residents, is all the different types of events that are hosted in the lobby throughout the week. As a more enjoyable obligation, CA's get to plan and host these optional events for the residents to participate in. These events can help give them something fun to do on days where they may be bored, or just need a break from the busy life of a college student. The activities can include game nights, crafts, free food, and more, and are available to anyone in the building. Typically, these events are also a great way for the CA's and residents to have fun with each other and build long lasting friendships.

There are several pros to becoming a CA besides making lifetime friends. One of the top benefits, BU will pay for your room and board. Mica notes one aspect that can be fairly annoying at times, "Definitely lockouts" she nods "When it's like 3:00 in the morning and I'm dead asleep and I get a knock on my door like 'hey I locked myself out'. We have to go down and get the key, come back, unlock it and then take the key back down because we can't keep it on us." It's important to remember that CA's are also students. They are taking the time to check up on all the residents on top of all the school work and personal problems they may be dealing with as well. "The hardest parts are finding a balance between social life, school life and CA life because they all tie together." she adds that sometimes it requires them to make sacrifices. "Let's say if my friends want to go out to eat or something on a day when I work and I'm on call, so I can't go." It's also important for CA's to keep some aspects of their social life private. "As they put it, we live in a fishbowl. All of the residents see what we do. We have to be careful with what we do in regards to our extra activities." 

Regardless of the cons, Mica highly recommends becoming a CA to all of her residents. Even the people who think they are too shy. She indicates once you get into the job, It forces you to break out of your comfort zone whether you want to or not. "It can be a lot, but it's a good experience." Her message to everyone, "College is a lot, have fun with it. Stay on top of your work but don't let it consume you."

 

 The Student Babysitters 

By: Victoria Ruth

A Photo of Schuylkill Halls Lobby

    One of the oldest buildings at Bloomsburg. Built in September of 1964 at the bottom of the hilly campus. As you pull on the first set of gold weighted handles of the doubled doors, to go through yet another set of doubled doors you scan your Bloomsburg University burgundy keycard on black scanner waist length on the wall. Within a few seconds you hear discreet beep, with a flash bar of kelly green. You find yourself in Schuylkill Hall. A hug of warm air surrounds your body, accompanying your first steps onto a rust colored semi-circled rug. When you walk in you direct your eyes to the back array of windows. Your eyes are met with a warm smile of a CA sitting in a green spinning chair. You continue to walk on the multi- shaded color brown tiles arriving at the foot of a fake wood design desk with a variety different colored stickers of vinyls and kasets. Depending on the day you'll either get a "hey how's it going?" or nothing at all, but the job of the CA is to make sure our lives as students is a tad easier while adjusting to college. 

    How did they get here though? CA's go through a process of signing up through flyers and essentially picked by the hall directors. The director for Schuylkill is AD Hannah, and CA's don't know where they're placed until we all come back in August. You can find these flyers hung up on the white popcorn textured walls. The paper has bold lettering in a yellow banner design with the words all capitalized "WE ARE HIRING." Under the banner are the payment package information in a listing bullet point presentation. Along with eligibility following below it in the same format. Lastly, on the bottom of the page a link for interested students willing to take up the challenge.

     Mainly the appeal to students is the free housing. Students will do anything while in college to make money even through the strenuous workload, but what if I told you could make money this whole time by just existing. Essentially that's what a CA is, according to someone like me that's what I thought until I uncovered more information with the true task. Also, with the general anxiety everyone has about paying off their student loans someday. It sounds like a fantastic idea. 

    Other reasons why the job is desirable. So I went to my source, Bekah. I walk swiftly into the CA's lounge. Catching her off guard I find Bekah hunched over on the blue couch pressed against the largest wall in the white room. Bekah has only been a CA since August; she is a brunette with her hair in a tall ponytail with some fallen pieces resting on the cheeks of her face. With a winter black winter coat snuggled around her, as she sets her hands on the light wood table. Once in the bright colorful room I take in the varieties of seating places, I glance at a big gray bean bag chair and plop myself down. 

    "Hey, how are, is it okay if I ask you a few questions for a paper I'm writing?" I asked awkwardly.

    "No problem go ahead." Intrigued with the question.

    "So why did you become a CA?"I confidently voice.

    “Partially for the experience, partially for the money, partially so that it looks good on the résumé.” My CA Bekah elaborated.

    Behind the scenes, the average pay for being a CA is $233 weekly, but there's so many other objectives. Such as making name tags, desk hours, forgotten key cards, students accidentally locking themselves out of their room, a job while being a full-time student, weekend shifts, the list goes on. So, do CA's love their jobs? “No, it’s just a job and I’ve learned a lot from it, but I can’t say I love my job” sighed Bekah.

    A day in the life of a CA, "So what's your daily routine?" sitting in the bean bag I looked up to Bekah putting shapes together for a class. Silence lingered for a little bit while she looks up to the right side of her face trying to muster up an answer.

    Bekah slowly refocused her eyes onto me. “Get up at a decent time, make sure I’m available, go to class come back, make sure I’m getting things done for my job.” She progressed.

    Her answer is short, to the point, I'm taking notes as a different thought slipped into my mind. "Do you enjoy being here?"

Schuylkill Lobby CA in and 
out chart

    She giggles "wow you really got me thinking about my job." she remarked, but continues “like my room should be a place where I should be able to relax but when I walk into the building It’s work.” With tenseness in her voice.

    Being a CA isn't all sunshine and rainbows, or just free housing. It takes a lot of work to be a CA especially when you're on call 24/7 upon entering the building. Even some CA's have regrets taking the job or feel misinformed by Bloomsburg about what it really entails. Some don't feel appreciated. “I wish they would explain more detail of the job, or how thankless they are since the job deals with massive drama”. Exclaimed one.

    You also deal with unwanted situations and can make being a CA uncomfortable. Such as bad students, judgmental glares, or just very random events at any hour. “Deal with conflict being a leader potentially dealing with undesirable situations like drugs and alcohol.” Bekah elaborated. Thankfully though despite the unfortunate situations, the CA's are never in this alone. Bekah expresses that the job is bringing her closer with the other CA friends that she didn't know before coming into the job and finds she can be open with them. Though she knows they're there for work. "I can comfortably say we are co-workers by the end of the day.”

    So, in conclusion being a CA can have its ups and downs but also really depends on the person.

    "Would you ever recommend becoming one?" As I glanced over and question inquiry.

     With no hesitation she answered. “With caution, I wouldn’t want to lie to a resident saying it’s the best thing ever.” She proceeds on. “You gain experience and how to deal with conflict, and communication”.

    With a high pitch in my voice, I confirm "so it's a good lesson?"

    "Yes." Shortly answered.

    So, if you're thinking about becoming CA do so at your own risk and know that everyone will have a different experience. Others may be better for the job than the few that are already ones. Potentially experience some interesting circumstances, “I had to help a resident get an ambulance and the process of getting her there and had to take care of her dog for the day." With shock in Bekah's voice. Thirdly, the fact that you're CA doesn't automatically assume that everyone will respect you, and the fact you're responsible for many faces you see walking through the doors. Lastly, making sure you're mentally strong so students can rely on you as a friend, or to still get the best possible grades despite the extra load this job requires. Everyone has a different experience whether it be negative or positive.

    

The Pop of the Corn  

Outside view of Incredible Popcorn

Did you know Incredible Popcorn has roughly 100 different flavors of popcorn? This fine little gem of Bloomsburg, PA is not only home to popcorn but several different items to choose from. The appearance of the outside deceives compared to the inside. Driving into the parking lot, it's close to impossible to miss the bright luminating rainbow sign reading "Incredible Popcorn and Candy Shop". Examining the outside, you'll see nothing more than a white building with popcorn style painting, and brown wooden pillars wrapped in wire lights. Approaching the door of Incredible Popcorn presents three key features: a convenient window for ordering, a radiant red LED "OPEN" sign, and a subtle teal entrance door.  

    Inside view of Incredible Popcorn

    Walking through the teal door brings to mind opening the closet from "The Chronicles of Narnia". The transition from the dreary exterior to the lively interior, overflowing with an array of products, is remarkable. Creeping up to the front desk brings a warm and kind greeting from a women named Betty. Betty has grey chin length hair, jet black square shaped glasses, and sky-blue eyes complimented by the magnification of her glasses. The store's layout showcases a square border filled with a wide range of popcorn, candy, and chocolate, with a center piece of even more sugar packed candies. The sweets mainly consist of old-fashioned favorites such as Zots, sugar peel dots, Turkish Taffy, candy cigarettes, Charleston Chew, wax bottles, and Jujubes.

    The deep and vast variety of popcorn will make for questions due to the weird long list of flavors. Some of the unique names that could catch an eye consist of PB cup, Apple Pie, PB + Jelly, Cherry Vanilla, Cookie Monster, Pina Colada, Dill Pickle, Mac and Cheese, and so many more. 

    In the small store, business is always steady but in a 45-minute window, interactions with not only customers but employees can be noted. One conversation in particular was personal and family related so it's interesting to see that some customers have a bond with the workers. The atmosphere in the workplace holds a friendly and inviting environment in which employees get along well.

Betty displaying her kindness, approaches a customer with a tray of rich, chocolate covered strawberries. 

"Would you like one?"

"Ohh yes please"

Betty then finishes with "Best time of the year!!" to imply that the strawberries are at their ripest.  

    To summarize, Incredible popcorn is a matchless and one-of-a-kind business that can be found at 1009 Old Berwick Rd, Bloomsburg, PA 17815. This location has been open for a decade but has been running at fairs and etc. for 25 years. Their time in service alone stands out from other competitors not mentioning the 100 different kinds of popcorn. Incredible Popcorn offers an incomparable experience that's well worth the visit. Make sure to stop in a see for yourself what makes this shop truly incredible. 

Incredible Popcorn | Bloomsburg, PA Call 570-762-7805

• Above is a link to Incredible Popcorn's website!!

The Smiling Faces of Columbia Hall

When approaching Columbia Hall, it can seem very intimidating by the size of it. When standing at the front entrance, the hall feels like it is towering over you on either side. The front of the building has too many windows to count with a glimpse of the different scenery in each dorm room. The feeling of fear and worry leaves your body as soon as you walk through the glass, front door, as you are immediately greeted by the CA's sitting at the front desk. Sitting at the large desk on the left of the entrance, they are smiling, waving, and welcoming you with a friendly, "Hi! How are you today?" Also when leaving the building The CA's make sure to remind you to be safe and exclaim, "Have a goodnight!"

Columbia Hall is the tallest and most elevated dorm on campus. Inside the lobby, the ceilings are high, making the room seem more spacious than it actually is. As you walk through the lobby to the elevator, there are colorful and bright posters hanging up on the wall above you. The posters are made by the CA's and correlated with the theme of the lobby. The CA's are artistic and creative, and they work as a team to make interesting scenery for the residents. This semester's theme is fast food, so there are McDonald's, Burger King, Dunkin' logos, and many more taped up on the walls. You hear the two elevators going up and down, beeping, and many residents going in and out. 

On Tuesday night CA Luke and Claudia were working the desk. A group of girls walked out of the elevator and passed the desk, one girl with brown hair, wearing a green sweatshirt and black leggings yawned, "Hey Luke, hey Claudia."

Questioning the yawn, Luke asks, "Long day today?"                          

"Yea I had lab today," she sighs, "It was at eight A.M."

Claudia adds, "Oh wow, that's a long day."

"It was a long day, I am ready for bed."

As the group pushes the doors to walk out, Luke exclaims, "Have a good night."

The girl at the back of the group with long, blonde hair turns to the desks and says, "We will be right back, we are just going to get late night at the Husky Lounge."

Sitting at the desk you can sometimes find CA Luke. With his blonde hair, shorter stature, and clear glasses, he is either chatting with his desk-mate, or watching his favorite show. He often is talking with or assisting residents that may need his help, showing his bubbly and helpful personality. Luke works hard as a CA, and says his main responsibilities are, "ensuring the safety of students and aiding in educational attainment."

Walking through the halls from boys side to girls sides, the themes go through out the whole building, each hallway is decorated with a certain theme that the CA's come up with. The CA's decorations in the hallway make the dorms feel more like homes to the residents. You can hear the students on each floor talking and laughing to each other from each dorm. Being a resident it is easy to maintain a social life because you live so close to your friends. Though, the CA's have a different experience. Luke says, "Being a CA definitely affects my social life," he pauses, "for sure," he confirms sternly. "Being on call means I have to be in Columbia, and when I work the desk at night I can not leave," Luke says while letting out a sigh. Luke also adds that it is a struggle to see his off-campus friends because he lives in a dorm on lower campus. 

Luke became a CA his sophomore year. He reminisces, "My CA was amazing my freshman year, he helped me through the toughest times," he adds, "I wanted to fill my old CA's shoes to be there for my residents and to help them with whatever they need." Even though the CA's have many duties and responsibilities, Luke loves his job and wouldn't trade it for anything. He states, "Yes, I do genuinely love it, even though it comes with many rules and struggles." Luke adds, "The hardest part for me is being told to handle every situation like it is your first, even if I have already dealt with similar situations that week, or even that night." 

As you walk through the hallways of the dorm, the janitors are always in and out of the bathrooms, leaving a clean scent in the air. Each hallway smells of popcorn, mac and cheese, or whatever else the residents are making to eat that day. You may also hear noise of the students chatting. When the dorm gets too loud, it is the CA's job to ensure that all the students are being safe and not doing anything they aren't supposed to be doing. Also, during quiet hours, from nine pm to nine am, the CA's make sure that each resident is getting the respect they deserve, and that the volume coming from each room is kept at a minimum. 

All in all, Luke and his fellow workers are the selfless miracles who always throw a smile across the room, keeping everyone happy and healthy while their own status is always underground. 

A World Of Exercise With Dr. Haile

 A World Of Exercise With Dr. Haile

Exercise Science Bulletin Board (Centennial Hall)

    In our day and age exercise and physical activity are often overlooked and barely taken seriously. Most have grown to not exercise or participate in any physical activity, especially nowadays after corona. Preventable diseases such as diabetes and heart disease run rampant throughout the United States. According to the CDC, every 34 seconds someone dies from heart disease. For more information check out the CDC's website. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/statistics_maps.htm. "Exercise Science is not just a study of how we move but how we live a healthier quality of life." Dr. Haile proudly stated, sitting in his leather chair with his giant Yeti water bottle looming over his notebook. Exercise science is such a complex field for those who start out but when you really get into it and pay attention you can find so many opportunities with it and can find careers you least expect to be related to the major, marked Dr. Haile.

Dr. Luke Haile Teaching Health and Wellness

    Exercise Science can lead to vast planes of study based on what you are into. Jobs vary between either physical therapy, gym teacher, high-school coach, professional team coach, or even a chiropractor. All are related to one another in a similar way. For more information on the degree visit https://www.bloomu.edu/exercise_science. When it comes to exercise science as a whole for Dr. Haile. He primarily leans toward the teaching side rather than being an actual practitioner within the field. Dr. Haile states, "I really like to teach but I also really like to learn while I teach" Being a teacher is one thing but learning Is my favorite part. The field constantly changes so when I present information to students, I am also learning alongside them, answered Dr. Haile. I personally was in one of Dr. Haile's classes and have learned along side him in the introductory class, "Intro to Exercise Science" where we went over the basic fields and what they involve regarding exercise science, and it is a true eye opener when you pay attention. 

Bloomsburg Student Recreational Center

    Outside of being a professor for the Exercise Science department, Dr. Haile lives in a very involved way of life. I say this because he is probably one of the biggest people persons I've ever met. He strives to connect with those outside of his job by selling vintage clothing, participating in conferences about the health and wellness field, playing basketball and working out here at the recreational center at Bloom all while having a family of three. When I asked why he participates in so much outside of work. Dr. Haile simply states, "It is good to find hobbies outside of your work that relate to what you do in a way even if they seem a little different." In the field of exercise science, you connect and meet with others to learn and find solutions to complex problems or even simple ones and since it's such an extroverted field it's paramount to develop good people skills and that is what Dr. Haile is exactly doing by attending conferences, selling conferences, and participating in recreational activity.   

    Returning to the field, I asked Dr. Haile a "what if" question asking "if everyone followed the principles of exercise science what would that world look like?" "Oh well this would be fantastic, if we applied exercise science to our daily lives we would lose stress and have a better mood at almost all times because we would feel good about ourselves.  Overall, it would be a higher quality of life and would prevent the preventable diseases that plague our country." Explained Dr. Haile. It is true when he says we would have a higher quality of life. Ever since I started to be an athlete and trained everyday back In high-school my moral has significantly boosted.

    To wrap this up I asked one more question "where did you find your passion for exercise science?" “I played soccer for bloom awhile back and I love science at the same time as I really liked to stay fit. So, I chose exercise science as my primary focus when I went to school here, I also went to a grad program at PITT and learned to teach the major which gave me more knowledge of the field.” What I learned about Dr. Haile is he doesn't just do exercise science because it makes him money, but he truly has a passion for the field, and he tries his hardest to be involved and learn along the way. Out of all the candidates for this blog Dr. Haile was an easy choice because he is a very interesting person as a teacher. student, and an athlete.

 The Bridge Between STEM

Dr. Polinski of Bloomsburg University     

    Its nearly 7 am, Dr. Polinski unlocks the door to Hartline Science Centers room 222 at Bloomsburg University. When not teaching his vast array of lectures and labs such as Chemistry for the Sciences I and II, Inorganic Chemistry, and Chemical research I and II, he can be found in his office. Prior to the start of the 2023 spring semester, Dr. Polinski sits in front of his computer with his new student rosters facing him determined to learn names before the class is even in session. His desire to learn about his students is what makes him one of the best here at BU.

  After attending Washington & Jefferson College for a B.A in Chemistry, Dr. Polinski admits that " I never wanted to be a number in a classroom. I want to know things about my students, their strengths and weaknesses,  because that's what worked for me as an undergrad." He makes it clear to his students that he wants nothing but the best for them, with his numerous office hours and open door policy allowing for anyone to stop by when his door is open. With this                                                               policy he elaborates " I just want you all to feel                                                                          invited, that you are not a number to me."

    Dr. Polinski's love for the sciences is evident, especially through his research.  As an undergrad, Dr. Polinski had the privilege to be apart of a few research projects. Once graduated, he went on to pursue a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry at the University of Notre Dame. Here his thesis was titled "Synthesis, Characterization, and fundamental studies of Novel Trivalent Lanthanide and actinide Borates."

    After being questioned upon his research, he was quick to talk. His research revolves around the areas of nuclear and synthetic solid-state inorganic chemistry. In his current research group, their focus is on synthetic inorganic chemistry. Many may not know what exactly this means, but Dr. Polinski describes it as the "bridge between inorganic, physical, engineering and materials science." Here at Bloomsburg Dr. Polinski is leading and also contributing to a plethora of research project. One of his more recent and favorite research projects was the accidentally discovery of the ionic radius of Californium 3+. The original goal was to make F elements square eights but "after what started out as one thing actually morphed into something else and that's the beauty of science" Dr. Polinski proudly stated.

Dr. Polinski's chem 115 lecture

    After being asked what makes a "good" school day for you, Dr. Polinski is eager to answer. In an heartfelt tone he replies "any day i get to talk science with you all makes my day, that's what makes the job fullfilling. Seeing those lightbulbs go off... that genuinely makes my day." Dr Polinski uses his sense of humor and witty remarks to keep chemistry fun and engaging. Upon entering the lecture room you can hear his joyous voice chatting away with students before the class begins at 1:00 pm in Hartline Science Center.  While attending one of his Chemistry for the sciences II lectures, I noticed that nearly all of his students eyes were directed on him and not an external source which I feel is a rare circumstance in this day and age. After lecture ends Dr. Polinski heads back to his office to plan for the weeks ahead.

      

    A head pops into the room, "Hey Dr P!"  How's it going?" Tori says with a grin. Dr. Polinski checks his watch it reads 6:37 PM. He exhales loud enough for her to hear, and joking states, "I'll be much better once i'm at home with my feet up watching some hockey."

     In his spare time, Dr. Polinski enjoys watching the Pittsburg Penguins take on their opponents at PPG Paints Arena. The science is also not left at the University as another hobby Dr. Polinski also enjoys brewing his own beer which he has been doing for the past 15 years. He explains "I enjoy making my own stuff, coming up with my new own recipes, trying things out, tweaking things, its all experimentation." 

    Dr. Polinski's hard work and dedication to his students does not get missed. When speaking to a former student of his, Vittoria LaBlanca, preached "Dr. Polinski made me understand chem II. It was a difficulty class, but he was always willing to help." When informing Dr.Polinski that his students are appreciative of his efforts made to enhance their learning, he simply smiles and responded with " I really just enjoy getting people hooked on science."