Fetch a Cure at R-MC
by Laura Wilson ‘10
Staff Writer
··································
Randolph-Macon is gaining a colorful new member of the community this year. He's not human or even living, but rather a canine sculpture decorated by the Art Department as part of the Pups on Parade program sponsored by Fetch a Cure.
Man's best friend is a common inhabitant in millions of American homes, and for most, Buddy or Lady or Max or Princess becomes a cherished member of the family. Unfortunately, the average dog lifespan is only about 10-12 years, and almost half of those reaching this ripe age fall victim to cancer. The dog cancer rate is actually quite similar to that of humans.
Fetch a Cure is a nonprofit grassroots organization founded by people who have witnessed such aging and cancer in their loved pets. Donations to the organization help to support education on senior dog care, treatment for aging pets of low income families, and the development of a canine cancer and aging center.
The recent Pups on Parade initiative was based on the success of Richmond's 2001 Go Fish exhibit, in which almost 200 vibrantly decorated fish were displayed throughout the city to support public art appreciation. Originally, that idea was inspired by Chicago's 300 Cows on Parade in 1999. Pups on Parade, however, will have a different focus as a fundraiser to benefit the goals of Fetch a Cure.
The 25 dogs in the Pups display were molded with sheet metal panels into a flat 3D structure by sculptor Bruce Mickelson who worked approximately 30 hours per pup. They are sponsored by different individuals and organizations either in foster care or permanent adoptions. Benefits of sponsorship include marketing recognition, a name featured on the dog’s bowl, a VIP pass to the Easter on Parade event, and tickets to the reception and auction. Sponsors and artists are matched to complete each dog’s design.
Randolph-Macon’s pup was sponsored by alumnus Pepper Laughon, a member of the Class of 1959. Its decoration is being carried out by the campus’ own artists, including Katie Shaw and the students of the Art Department. The painting process is still underway and will involve the use of stencils in a leafy design.
For more information on the program or to make a donation, visit www.fetchacure.com. At the end of April, you can also begin voting for Randolph-Macon’s pup in a contest to determine the top 5 best decorated pups!
Back to Top
Cheerleaders Take Second in Nationals
by Brittany Bryan
Staff Writer··································
“It was a big rush- the fastest two and a half minutes ever! More people should try to experience that!” said senior cheerleader Jerry Kelly. The thing that most people should experience? Competition Cheerleading! Although most people only know the cheerleading team for their peppy cheers on the sidelines at football games, the cheerleading team actually cheers all year. Although not as visible during the spring semester, the cheerleading squad works hard, preparing for the competitions in which they participate.
Danielle Nogle and Jerry Kelly, the co-captains of the cheerleading squad, led the nine person competition squad to Williamsburg for a competition March 14-16. With over 90 teams, ranging from six year olds to college level teams, the competition in William and Mary Hall was a national competition for all ages. The teams had to participate in two rounds. During the preliminary round, a team must perform its routine for half of its overall score. The judges are allowed to give them feedback at the end of the round. The team must perform the routine again in the final round, after which the places are awarded.
Randolph-Macon’s team was awarded 2nd place for the college division. As first year participants, the team came out strong. With a musical composition by Joel Boston, the routine was an interesting mixture of lifts and upbeat choreography. With good leadership and a strong showing from the other team members, Tim Marconi, Cara Copeman, Saskia Alemar, Denise Mosley, Jordan Turner, Bethany Floyd, Rachel Jeter, the Randolph-Macon cheerleading squad has a promising future, whether they are at a competition or on the sidelines.
Back to Top