Sparty ...

Jeffrey R. Plum
HST 480
Jan. 12, 2010

The statue of Sparty located on W. Circle Drive.

What questions would any visitor ask about this site?
1. Who is Sparty?
2. Why is the statue located at W. Circle Drive?
3. Why is Sparty so tall?
4. What does the statue represent someone?
5. Who built the statue of Sparty?

What questions would an historian ask about this site?
1. What is the significance of Sparty to Michigan State University?
2. Who invested the time to create the statue of Sparty and why?
3. Why is the statue important to those who attend or attended MSU?
4. What does the statue represent to those who attended and currently attend MSU?
5. As a rallying point, how can a statue bring people together during tough times?

The String Doctors

I happened to catch the final 20 minutes of Backstage Pass Thursday with Dr. K's group: The String Doctors. I was very impressed with each member of the group. Dr. K plays a mean fiddle! No joke! The bass player did a great job, too. Of the music I heard, I thought the group performed well, and the backstage conversations were hilarious! ... I am making strides to catch up and be on par with everyone by Tuesday. I hope to have more up soon!

Stan Abrahams's Walk Through District Six

Stan Abrahams’s Walk Through District Six is a riveting tale. How he was able to go through a neighborhood no longer there and recall the people, the buildings, the events; the significance of District Six is truly amazing. How other human beings could be so cold and callous to others is beyond me, but Abrahams is able to share with people of the world the history of his neighborhood which I found truly heroic. I may have to go through the steps again to watch his walk. I know there is more to talk about, but I was intrigued how he and the others were able to piece together their lost neighborhood through photographs, written words and memories. A remarkable effort from all of those involved in their cherished neighborhood.