2008 Woodie Awards
Apple Day to uphold 102-year tradition
Cortney Wimsatt
Issue date: 3/6/08 Section: Front Page
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The tradition is rooted in 1907 when Pittsburg students skipped class to commemorate Mayor Clarence Price's breaking of the rules during a legislative session. At the session, Price and other Pittsburg representatives lobbied for money to build the first building at what is now PSU.
Price was fined a barrel of apples, and a tradition of skipping class and celebrating PSU receiving funding was soon established.
This year, the convocation will feature 2001 PSU graduate Maggie Fleming, who worked with the Peace Corps as a community health and AIDS prevention volunteer.
Fleming will speak of her journey from Pittsburg to Africa and Europe, correlating with the convocation theme, "Every Gorilla Makes a Difference."
"Pitt State is unique because we know our history and Apple Day is the oldest running tradition," said Edie McCracken, program coordinator for campus activities. "It's a time we can recognize students and faculty and honor them. Plus you get a free apple at the end."
The presentation of the Robert K. Ratzlaff Outstanding Faculty Awards will be handed out to three faculty members. The nominees submitted what they teach in classes and were then chosen from those applications.
All the nominees will be recognized along with the winners.
"It's a big deal to even be nominated because they are nominated by their students," said Jonathan Eastman, legislative director for SGA.
The Dr. Ralf J. Thomas Distinguished Service Award Winners will also be recognized. The awards are given annually to recipients who are identified as being significant supporters of the university and its programs, projects and services. This year's recipients are Tom E. Beal, who owns a real estate investment company in Kansas City, and Ken and Debbie Brock, owners of Names and Numbers.
The Gorilla Award winners will also be announced. This award is given to students based on academics, involvement on campus and service to the community.
This year, 220 students were nominated for the award, 82 filled out the second application, and 20 students will be recognized at Apple Day.
"It's always a hard process from that 82 down to the 20 because everyone is so qualified," said Ed Wirthwein, assistant director of campus activities.
PSU's Chorale, Women's Choir and Jazz Choir will also be featured to commemorate Apple Day. In addition, scholarships will be raffled off, with every student in attendance having a chance to win.
"For the past few years we've given out scholarships and I think that helps (get) students to come," said McCracken.
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Pat Morgan
posted 3/06/08 @ 8:42 PM CST
If you will contact one of your former graduates, she will set you straight on the history of Apple Day and how Professor Russ was responsible not the mayor. (Continued…)
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