Welcome to The Daily Collegian's official Thon 2009 blog!

Feel free to stop in throughout the weekend to check up on the goings on here at the Bryce Jordan Center. We'll be updating regularly to bring you all the ins and outs of this 46 hour philanthropic extravaganza-- everything from the 4 a.m. doldrums to the climactic revelation of that grand total pledged to combat pediatric cancer.

Of course, our Web site, psucollegian.com, will be chock-full of the expansive event coverage you're used to getting from us--photo galleries, sound slides, video and text-- so we encourage you to check up frequently. Thanks for checking in. We'll catch you in a few minutes.

Thon has officially begun! The Ting Tings is blaring through the speakers, and the dancers are moving!

Orchesis, None of the Above (NOTA) and the Lion performed dances and sang songs to represent the evolution of Thon's history during the Pre-Thon show. Kudos to the Nittany Lion for an especially memorable performance of Beyonce's Singe Ladies dance.

The Overall Committee was introduced one by one, running onto the stage supported by a roar of cheers from the floor and stands. Inspirational videos of past Thons seem to have sufficiently motivated the dancers and committee members, who seem to be having a blast!

~Kelsey

During the first songs of Thon, the overall committee was joined by Four Diamonds kids who jumped around and danced to music on stage. Two little boys showed off their breakdancing moves. Meanwhile, dancers began to throw beach balls in the air. Some began to dance to the music, while others preferred to save their energy for later.

Sorority and fraternity members in the stands serve as extra moralers for their dancers, holding up signs with their greek letters and the names of their dancers.

Right now, it seems like everyone's spirits are high.

--Kelsey

At 6:30, Larry Moore, Thon's DJ, yelled, "Do you want to see the line dance?" Morale captains then gathered on the stage to perform the dance for the first time.

The first part of the dance is intended to stretch the dancers out. After that, some lyrics make references to pop culture people and events from the past year -- Michael Phelps, the Steelers, and President Obama -- while others reference Thon and the story that influenced the Four Diamonds Fund.

The dance ends with everyone replicating the knight in the Thon 2009 "Dream forward" logo, with one foot up and their finger pointing towards the sky.

Three moralers are now going through the line dance step-by-step to teach all the dancers the dance they will perform every hour for the rest of Thon.

--Kelsey

It's about 7:50 and the line dance is renting space in everyone's mind. Touching on everything from the world champion Steelers to the Jonas Brothers, the infectious lyrics, cadence and movements to that dance won't be forgotten any time soon.

The floor is clearing out a bit now, and OPP is at work transitioning the floor. The music has resumed following some announcements from the stage. I'm still singing the lyrics to the line dance in my head. It goes something like this:

BJC, on our feet
Hear the music, feel the beat
Diamonds, stars, they both shine
For the kids 2009

Sir Millard, he's our knight,
Guiding us to win this fight
Valley's happy, no debate
JoePa says, "Come to State."

Flood the streets to celebrate
(Clap clap) Pryor
Winning in the Buckeye State
(Clap clap) Crier

Roses red, Penn State blue
White Out on the West Coast, too
Fast wave, slow wave in the stands
Big Ten champs, clap your hands

Blue, white, raise it up
Go kids, go dancers
In heroes we believe
D-A-N-C-I-N-G

Throw those diamonds to the sky
Go Thon, beat cancer
Go all out, don't hold back
Dare to dream

New health center, law school, too
Simmons says, "No junk for you"
Love ya lion volleyball
Men and women win them all

Philly storms to victory
End the drought since '83
Steelers in the Superbowl
PA teams are on a roll

Brett Favre has regrets
Buh-bye Packers, hello Jets

Michael Phelps wins 8 gold
Can't beat China's 12-year-olds
Stock market takes a dive
That's okay, footlongs for five

Smart phones are the craze
Say goodbye to flip phone days
Speaking of technology
Thon.org, the site to see

Wii fit, lose your gut
Surprise, it's from Pizza Hut
My best friend Larry says,
"She's just being Miley."

Blue, white, raise it up
Go kids, go dancers
In heroes we believe
D-A-N-C-I-N-G

Throw those diamonds to the sky
Go Thon, beat cancer
Go all out, don't hold back
Dare to dream

Twilight, all around
Dark knight, box office crown
Ledger leaves a legacy
Joker in our memory

Superhero ticket race
Wall-e flies in outer space
Just dance, gonna be okay
46, here to stay

Sarah Palin, Tina Fey
What's the difference anyway?
Obama, yes we can
Voters say "He's our man"

Last lecture, childhood dreams
Randy Pausch, we believe
Nittany Lions, let's get loud
For the kids. Make them proud

Blue, white, raise it up
Go kids, go dancers
In heroes we believe
D-A-N-C-I-N-G

Throw those diamonds to the sky
Go Thon, beat cancer
Go all out, don't hold back
Dare to dream

Katy Perry, hot and cold
Isn't Idol getting old?
Britney cleans up her act
Says Perez, that's a fact

Let me see your hips swing

Gossip girl, XOXO
Who's your favorite Jonas bro?
ShamWow cleans up spill
Snuggie warms you from the chill

Hershey research paves the way
Bringing hope FTK

Penn State, here we go
Shout the diamonds we all know
Courage will inspire
Honesty so true

Strength will never tire
Wisdom shining through
Seize your heart, now's the time
Dream forward, Thon '09

--MC

I just got back from the floor and so much is going on! Dancers are meeting their families and playing with the kids. Squirt guns, piggy back rides and beach balls help them get to know each other.
The line dance just started for the first time after the dancers learned it about an hour ago. Everyone seems to know the dance already -- pretty impressive. The people in the stands are dancing along, too. Not too many people know all the words yet, but I'm sure they will by the end of the night.
Three hours down, Forty one to go!
--Kelsey

At 8:40 p.m., the first event of Color Wars, the Human Spelling Bee, consisted of 13 trivia questions pertaining to the Olympics. The teams had to spell out the answers on the floor. A few of the questions were "What American city hosted the summer Olympics in 1996?" and "What country held the very first Olympic games?" The red team came in fourth place, the green team came in third place, the blue team came in second place, and the orange team came in first place.

--Kristin

Thon dancers broke bread for the first time just minutes ago. Tables lined the back of the BJC and were covered with pasta, salad and vegetables.

"You want to eat carbs for energy," Thon dancer Julianne Moon (senior-biobehavioral health) said. "It's not my momma's but it'll work."

The dancers each received a survival packet before the event, which listed health tips and instructions for the weekend, Moon said.

The meal was particularly appetizing for Thon dancer Allen Pao (senior-supply chain information systems).

Pao dug right in to his platter, standing against a table to be sure not to sit down.

"I didn't eat lunch, so I was definitely ready for food," Pao said.

Minutes ago, dancers sung along to a mix of the greatest hits of the 1990s.

For some Thon dancers, the music brought back some fond childhood memories.

Nick Rivadeneira (senior-mechanical engineering) sung to his friend, waving his green bandana in the air as the Backstreet Boy hit "I Want It That Way" blared out the speakers.

"Me and my buddies were singing to each other," Riadeneira said. "Thon's the only time we can get away with it."

But Kate Greim (senior-art history) wasn't that impressed with the once chart-topping boy band.

"I'm over them," Greim said.

Instead, Greim said she rocked out to the Smashmouth's Shrek theme song, "All Star."

Another crowd favorite was Spice Girls' "Wannabe" and Hanson's "Mmmbop."

"I loved Mmmbop. I'm not going to lie," Kelly Wenzel (junior health policy and administration) said, twirling her hips to the music. "It was great - throwback. It was fabulous."

--Cirilli and Pete

We're hearing reports of Thon dancers being squirted with water guns by unidentified children.

"I was afraid for my life at first," Tory Joseph (sophomore-kinesiology) said, laughing. "Then I realized it was just a squirt gun."

Joseph said two unidentified males, whom she estimated to be five years old, squirted her in the forehead and then "all over." The boys were hiding under a table and would pop out to squirt her, she said.

Austin Miller (junior-journalism) said one boy hit him with inflatable beach volleyball.

"He was having a good time," Miller said, shrugging his shoulders. "Kids with water guns shoot at me."

-- Cirilli and Pete

The "Cha Cha Slide" kept some Thon dancers busy, as others played card games during the Viva Las Vegas hour, facing off against opposing dancers.

Amber Henry (sophomore-secondary education) said she was playing blackjack to win tickets for the blue team but wasn't much of a help.

"I'm losing," Henry said. "Half the time I don't know if I'm winning or losing."

Other dancers were more helpful.

Scott Schwartz (senior-life science) was playing high/low and said he was beating every challenger that came to his table and was confident the green team would win the Color Wars.

Other dancers played just to have fun.

Emaleia Levey (senior-integrative arts) said she wasn't doing well, but she enjoyed playing either way.

"I had beginner's luck, and then I wasn't doing so well for a while," Levey said." Then I finally won another hand so I figured I'd quit while I was ahead."

--Pete

A little boy ran around sprinkling baby powder on a mat as dancers lined up to get massages during the first Slides of Strength of the weekend. The same little boy led the dancers as they ran onto the mat and collapsed to the ground for the only time they are allowed off their feet the entire weekend.

As the dancers ran out, OPPerations committee (OPP) members clapped and cheered, and when the dancers laid down, they instantly began to massage the dancers' bodies. The dancers are only allowed to be massaged for 10 seconds, and as time began to run out, OPP and the people surrounding the mat started to count down the remaining seconds.

"It was awesome because people were giving me massages. Even though it was only 10 seconds, it was good to get off my feet," Laura Schaaf (freshman-broadcast journalism) said. "It was just another reminder that people are here for us."

--Caitlin

The independent Thon organizations' growing financial contributions to Thon are only rivaled by their presence here at the Bryce Jordan Center tonight. Among the various Lambdas and Gammas are the red and green shirts of Atlas and Springfield Thon, two of the top independent groups (Atlas was among the top five overall in contributions last year).

Jon Tidd, former president of Springfield, said he's excited about the growth of independent groups at Thon.

"The sky's the limit for independents," he said. "We aren't bound by any expectations."

Fellow independent Atlas Thon made its mark on Thon history last year, breaking into the top five, but raising money isn't everything the team is about.

Alexandra Caraballo and Sara Leader, co-chairwomen of Atlas' weekend committee, are working hard to make sure a healthy contingent of team members is at the BJC to support the team's dancers.

"We're having events all weekend," Alexandra said. "Sunday morning we're having a 'Happy Hour' to encourage people to come out at an otherwise down time."

But whether they're independent or greek, every team is here at the BJC for one reason: "For the Kids."

- Nick

Thon dancers have the chance to travel the world, without ever leaving the Bryce Jordan Center.

As part of the Color Wars competition, dancers pick up their color's "passport" from U.S. Customs in the middle of the floor. From there, dancers are encouraged to travel to different "countries" set up on the floor, participate in an activity and have their passport stamped. The color with the most stamps wins the "Around the World" event.

Most dancers seem excited by the Japan booth, where they pick up gummy bears with chopsticks.

Kimberly Frank (junior-historical preservation) said she like it because "you get to eat the gummy bears, and the chopsticks were fun."

At the Antarctica booth, students were able to fish for blue and silver beads, although a morale committee member was under the table making sure every dancer got a few beads so no dancer went without.

It seems like the dancers really enjoy events like this, which will help keep them motivated as the weekend progresses.

--Caitlin

As I've been walking around Thon I've noticed committee members wearing a rainbow of colors. This left me wondering what these colors mean, and maybe you are too.

Green - Communications
Orange - Entertainment
Dark green - Finance
Light pink - Merchandise
Blue - OPPerations
Red - Rules and regulations
Charcoal - Supply logistics
Royal blue - Donor relations
Light blue - Family relations
Pink - Hospitality
Yellow - Morale
Purple - Public relations
Maroon - Special events
Safety green - Technology

--Caitlin

Second performer of the night, Lowjack, has started off strong, including "Have You Ever Seen the Rain?" by CCR and Dave Matthews Band's "Ants Marching".

Fiddle player Dan Collins is showing how multi-talented he is, playing fiddle and singing a rather upbeat version of "Folsom Prison Blues", part of a larger Johnny Cash medley.

Fans of Reservoir Dogs will recognize the band's next song, "Stuck in the Middle With You" by Stealers Wheel.

The band moves into the '90s with "Sixth Avenue Heartache" by The Wallflowers.

Next is a spot-on cover of Violent Femmes' "Blister in the Sun."

The band has an interesting interpretation of Jack Johnson's "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing". I don't remember a fiddle or sax solo in the album version...

We're back to the southern rock with Old Crow Medicine Wheel's "Wagon Wheel."

Once again, we have an interesting southern take on "Wonderwall" by Oasis.

Lowjack's just started into "Hard to Handle", originally by Otis Redding, covered by bands such as The Grateful Dead and The Doors.

The band's now playing one "for the ladies", Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl".

Finishing out their set, the band dedicates "Soulshine" by The Allman Brothers Band to all the dancers.

We'll be back with the next band later this weekend.

- Nick

Despite the bustling and busy floor, some students took time to remember what they're really there for.

Posters with letters and pictures of smiling children hang around the Bryce-Jordan Center, and those participating in THON lined up to read the children's letters for inspiration. Stickers and parents' notes also cover the posters, thanking members of Thon and everyone who contributed.

"It's motivation for everyone," said Josh Verbano (senior-biology). "Everyone's a little tired right now, but it's for the kids, so I can't complain."

Maegan Capuano (sophomore-supply chain and information systems), who participated in THON last year, said she likes to read the letters to remember why she's here.
"It helps you have a different perspective," she said.

Capuano added that with all the students dancing for a good cause, the posters help create an amazing atmosphere.

--Samantha Kramer

Despite wearing a thick hat and blinking glasses for the past three hours, Andrew Bonifante doesn't feel weighed down.

Bonifante (sophomore-political science) is part of Maegan's Magicians, an OPP group. All 25 members, are sporting "wizard" outfits. Bonifante said that the group and he have remained in costume, despite the slight annoyance of his blinking light-up glasses.

"I love it. It's amazing," he said about his experience at THON so far.

The crew decided they wanted to create a group dealing with magic, and the first thing they thought of were costumes resembling Mickey Mouse or Harry Potter, said Bonifante. To keep their minds off their burdensome costumes, the group has been keeping busy by playing games and throwing tennis balls around.

"It's crazy here, and I didn't know what to expect," said Collin Clark (sophomore-nuclear and mechanical engineering). "But I love it."

--Samantha Kramer

When I asked Thon attendees "What song makes you dance?" I was surprised at the variety of answers. Here's a sampling of those answers (including links to the videos if you're in a dancing mood yourself):

"Just Dance" by Lady Ga Ga

- Scott Cicero (freshman-architectural engineering)

"Take Me Home Tonight" by Eddie Money

- Lisa Resnick (senior-business management)

"Don't Stop Believing" by Journey

- Vanessa Miller (sophomore-public relations)

"Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)" by Beyonce

- Alex Cadmus (freshman-biology)

"Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)" by the Eurythmics

- Michelle Todd (sophomore-anthropology)

"Move" by MIMS

- Allison Esslinger (sophomore-health policy and administration)

"Brooklyn Girls" by Charles Hamilton http

- Jenn Sague (sophomore-marketing)

"Ice Ice Baby" by Vanilla Ice

- Jesse Zahoran (sophomore-finance)

"Yeah" by Usher

- Sarah Ellis (freshman-music theatre)

"Getting Jiggy With It" by Will Smith

- Jeremy Greenbaum (sophomore-music theatre)

- Nick

About 10 hours in, and the floor is still bouncing. Around 4 a.m. Saturday, giant jenga pieces and connect four boards were brought on to the floor. The jenga looks to be already about 12 feet high, and each additional piece that gets thrown on top causes a roar of excitement from those on the floor.

Larry Moore just started playing 'N Sync's "Bye Bye Bye" which immediately got everyone dancing and imitating the dance moves in the infamous music video. I don't think sleeping's on anyone's mind quite yet.

The crowd is pretty steady for the middle of the night. However, those checking off the floor are forced to wait in the line that wraps from the Merchandise booth all the way past Gate B. Good thing they probably don't have anywhere to be at this hour.

--Alison

I just spent the last hour on the floor. A little before 5 a.m., moralers introduced the Cereal Celebration theme hour. Dancers were able to make cheerio or fruit loop necklaces, create Captain Crunch newspaper hats, and get their picture taken on a lifesize Wheaties box.

Then came another line dance. A few dancers moved to the outskirts of the floor, eating peanut-butter and jelly sandwiches instead of dancing. However, they did bob their heads with the music.

Samantha Howsare (junior-public relations) said her favorite pop culture reference in the line dance was to President Obama.

"Barack Obama - I waited a very long time to hear that in the line dance," she said.

Tessa Covington (senior-public relations) liked the references to Michael Phelps and the 2008 Olympic games.

As for Phelps' current controversy, she wasn't surprised it was left out.

"That's not very FTK," she said with a laugh.

Both said they weren't tired yet, but their feet were starting to hurt.

"The feet are the only problem," Howsare said. "I'm not tired. I'm not delirious. My feet just hurt."

Luckily for the dancers, piggyback rides are being offered by committee members and others visitors to the floor.

I saw one dancer that was receiving a foot massage from his mom.

Another dancer was being carried by two committee members, and as I walked by he shouted, "My co-captains are the best!"

Brian Samson (junior-finance) said he's been slacking on the morale activities, but it's not because he's sleepy.

"Mentally, I'm not tired. But maybe physically," he said of his aching legs and feet.

Samson is looking forward to another "Slide of Strength," where dancers can slide down to the ground for 10 seconds and get a massage from committee members.

--Alison

I visited a few friends at Mad Mex, 240 S. Pugh St., last night, and the atmosphere was decidedly calmer than a usual weekend night. It looks like the crowds chose to come out to the BJC instead of the bars.

Campus was quiet as I walked over here at 6 a.m. -- just a few people making the lonely walk to and from the BJC -- but inside, the music's still pumping and there's no signs that the energy is slacking off. Just a few minutes ago, people were playing Rockband on stage, followed by this hour's line dance. Now another dancer meal is starting, with some morning bagels and fruit and yogurt for the dancers.

--Ryan

Megan Pisone is all smiles and more than happy to give me the scoop on raffle ticket sales as she sits by the raffle stand.

"I'm really excited for tomorrow to get parents in here and sell as many [tickets] as we can," she tells me, still bubbling with infectious energy even though it's almost 7 a.m.

The prizes for Thon's raffle were donated free of charge and include a Suzuki SX4, backstage passes to the Jonas Brothers concert, a seven day cruise to Bermuda and Dell laptops. All profits will go directly to the kids.

Pisone (junior-hotel, restaurant, and institutional management) said students go in shifts throughout the stands to sell tickets, and also help staff the merchandise stands.

Pisone didn't have a count for how many tickets have been sold thus far, but she says sales are "awesome."

The raffle will conclude at 4 p.m. Sunday.

As the sun starts to come up, Greeks continue to keep the support strong for their brothers and sisters on the dance floor, waving their letters and dancing in the seats.

"I think they're doing good," said Sigma Kappa member Kristen Nuss (senior- crime law and justice), who has been here since 1 a.m. "It's tonight that they're really going to need our help."

"They're holding together pretty well, it's lots of fun still," said Sigma Phi Epsilon member Kevin Baker (freshman- engineering), who also said he's looking forward to the upcoming Family Hour.

Sisters from Alpha Phi remained energetic and positive throughout their 4-hour shifts.

"The line dance is great," said Alpha Phi member Tori Lobiondo (freshman - undecided), when I caught the sorority as the entire BJC finished another round of the dance.

ATO and ZTA, who had last year's highest grossing total for Greeks, were feeling good about their 10 dancers, but are still anxiously awaiting their total for this year.

"It's a huge surprise, and a tradition that they don't tell you until the end. You can only hope for the best," Paige Maron (freshman- PR and Spanish) said. "It's going pretty good, we have a lot of floor passes and are trying to get as many people on the floor as possible."

- Laura

Gooooood morning, everybody. The dancers are currently munching on breakfast foods - bagels, hot tea, fruit salad, yogurt, and orange juice.
"The food was refreshing," Puja Patel (senior-bio chemistry and molecular biology) said. "It's a well balanced meal. I don't feel greased down with food."
Emily MacPhayl (senior-masters business administration) agreed. She said she wasn't even hungry, but had to keep eating because the dancers don't know when the next meal will be.
"The tea is much needed," she said. "All of our throats were starting to get scratchy."
-Cirilli

When the chicken dance blared out the bass system, Nicole Karasek (junior-athletic training) said she walked to the athletic training room.
As the music plays on, some of the dancers admit to disliking some song selection.
"I'm dancing for the athletic training team," Karasek said. "So I just go in the athletic room and hang out there."
The current Chris Brown-Rihanna controversy can't even escape Thon. When Brown's songs came on, it distracted some dancers.
Carrie Adair (senior-finances economic) said when Brown's "Forever" played she felt a little down.
"I was very sad," Adair said when she heard of Browns allegations.
But Alexis Rolla (sophomore-economics) wasn't as bothered. She continued to dance to Brown's music.
"I love it regardless," Rolla said. "I went to see him in concert. We don't know if it's true yet!"
-Cirilli

There's a whole bunch of OPPerations committee members walking around the BJC with straw Chinese-style hats on. I caught up with a few of them on the floor, and they said they chose the Asian hats to go with their committee's name: "Thon-Ton Soup."

Sara Englert (sophomore-DUS) said the 36-member committee also has themed T-shirts, but it had to wear the official dark blue OPPerations shirts while on duty. Englert said she's been collecting garbage and recycling during her shifts.

Many of the different Thon committees have a distinct article of clothing. Two of the other examples I saw on the floor are plastic sunglasses and red, white and blue joker hats.

Englert said her committee found the hats on the Internet -- I found one here for $12 if you're interested.

- Ryan

While members of the Rules and Regulations Committee may have to keep the peace outside the floor, they sure keep themselves occupied. At almost every gate a member can be spotted playing with a tennis ball, beach ball, or doing something to stay alert. Sarah Pufiosky (senior-animal science) colors to pass the time.

Courtney Crowley (sophomore-communications) said, "the highlight of my shift is the line dance. We come together as one and it's what Thon is about."

Committee members -- noticeable in their red T-shirts -- amuse themselves by playing with the kids. When some kids approached Matt Sampson (junior-accounting) and a few other rules and regs members, they asked them if they wanted to play a game. This led to a make-shift game of baseball with a tennis ball and hanger.
-Jourdan

While all members of committees, independent and Greek groups have droves of floor passes, only a certain set has access to the elusive "VIP" floor pass.

"It goes to the 'higher-ups' in the university," Daniel Iachini (senior- computer science) said. "Big donors get them."

Laura Hurst (junior- communications) said Four Diamonds families are also on the VIP list, allowing the children and their parents to venture onto the floor to dance, play and interact with all those students dancing for them.

"It only grants them floor access." Hurst said, noting the VIP passes don't provide any "extra perks."

- Laura

Thon merchandise, ranging from T-shirts and track jackets to teddy bears and water bottles, is still abundant at the two stands in BJC.

"It's been busy," Danielle Rufo (senior-English) said. " It got a little slow overnight, but we just opened back up. We're expecting things to pick up again soon."

This is Keith Youngen's first year selling merchandise, but he believes sales are higher this year.

"From what we hear from people returning, it's run much more efficiently this year," he said.

This year's two new products - the "I Dance for" shirt featuring quotes from the Gladiator video, and a shirt with FTKs spelling out Thon - are already sold out. Headbands and socks are now selling the fastest, according to Rufo, but there are still plenty of Thon T-shirts left to buy.

When sales are slow, Rufo and Youngen (sophomore-marketing) stay entertained by "looking at each other's eyes," Youngen joked.

"I try to pop in and do the line dance if I can," said Scott Delone (senior-physics), who works at the Gate Stand.

- Brittany

Fourteen hours into Thon, and the theme for Color Wars seems to be ties.

The overall Color War standings are as follows:

1. Blue and Red are tied
2. Orange and Green are tied

Talk about a horse race.

-Julie

Here's a screen capture from my frantic twittering of Some Downtown Avenue's performance.

Some Downtown Avenue finished playing a few minutes ago, and I noticed two girls doing some pretty enthusiastic dancing on the floor. They said they were doing a ska dance called the "skank."

Neither one of them knew why it was called that, and the Internet isn't providing much insight either.

"It's just fun to do," said Margot Berger (sophomore-secondary education). "It definitely wakes you up."

Berger said she heard Some Downtown Avenue at Movin' On, and she thinks they're really good.

If you want to learn how to do the "skank," here are some instructions.

BELOW: Berger (left) and her friend, Jen Makulowich (sophomore-advertising) dance the "skank."

- Ryan

Whether it's dancers staying on their feet, OPP patrolling the dance floor or supporters in the seats keeping the energy alive, hunger is going to strike everyone at Thon -- hard.

At night, there's tons of choices, with all the snack bars open and a Dippin' Dots cart every few feet. But in the morning, what does a starving Thon-er eat? Breakfast, or whatever happens to be available? Trolling the hallways, I saw an array of choices one could easily classify under the "college diet". Pop-tarts suddenly went with soda, and pizza looks to refuel like never before.

I decided to talk to those vendors clad in flamingo pink, and as I neared myriad smells emanated from behind the food counter.

"A lot of people are getting muffins and fruit," said Andy McGugh (sophomore-finance) as he pointed toward a basket only half-full.

He also said the hot ticket around 6 a.m. was soft pretzels and nachos. Even if it sounds strange, I'd certainly call it a "Breakfast of Champions", given that everyone is still staying strong.

- Laura

The baby powder is back, leaving a stench of cleanliness throughout the BJC.

The dancers call it Slides of Strength, and it is definitely helping
them out. They throw their bodies down the baby powder slip-n-slide.
Dozens of Morale members line the side of the mats chanting "We want
the dancers."

Then the dancers slide down belly first. The Morale members
immediately rush the mats and give the dancers a 10-second massage.

"This is the best thing ever, it's the best ten seconds," dancer Becky
Scull (junior-journalism) said. "It's perfect, it really does work."

Dancer Jennifer Howard (junior-elementary education) agreed. Howard
admitted she was beginning to feel a little down after standing for 15
hours.

"It gets our energy back up," she said. "I feel rejuvenated."

- Cirilli

Technology Overall Chairman Ryan Dickson is very excited about this year's Thon because of all additions that have been made to the Web site. While the Tech Team's big project for this year has been revitalizing thon.org, they also manage the Web cast, Web site and the Pass System, which allows visitors to the floor.

This year at thon.org, there are two text blogs and user controlled "Thon Cam."

Dancers use the Thon blog to let friends and family know how they are doing during the 46 hours and to encourage Penn Staters to come see them. Throughout the posts, the dancers reiterate that they are doing it for the kids, and that they are not tired yet.

While in the past few years there have been problems with technology in the Bryce Jordan Center, there have been no glitches in the system so far this year, Dickson said.

-Jourdan

With the first rays of Saturday morning sunlight came a stream of parents to support their family on the dance floor.

Several parents were too tired and anxious to get some rest to stop and talk, but others were more than willing to share their enthusiasm and pride in their dancers.

Don Cella of Pittsburgh and his son, Danny, came to cheer on Toni Cella (senior-nursing).

"It's special for us because of Toni dancing. She's doing great," Don said. He and his family arrived at 4 a.m. this morning, after staying from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. last night.

John and SuAnne Kelly drove from Houston, Pa to support their daughter, Stephanie Kelly (sophomore-economics and French), who is a member of Phi Gamma Nu.

"We're worried she might not make it, but we think she will. She's really excited, [and] a little tired."

Sandi D'Ottavio of Murrayville is here for her daughter, Carly D'Ottavio (senior-forensic science).

"She's a little tired, but not too much," D'Ottavio said.

She will be staying until the final hours to continue cheering on her dancer.

- Brittany

Phi Kappa Tau members in conjunction with The Student Nursing Association, President Tom Piarulli, Andrew Fisher and Mike Freidman have taken it upon themselves to become Thon Knights. Dressed in blue capes with the Four Diamonds logos on the back and shiny-silver knight helmets, they stand, dance and cheer on everyone in Thon.

They have stood in the stands since 5:30 p.m., taking only short breaks, and have switched on and off wearing the two capes.

"Someone wears the helmets all the time," Piarulli said.

They are out here in support of their Four Diamonds Kid, Cora, and all the other children.

- Jourdan

Those not familiar-- and even those who have been around Thon -- may not know how it seems the seats in the BJC are constantly filled with supportive members of every group standing up and cheering on their dancers, never showing any signs of fatigue. Groups such as Atlas Thon have very effective strategies that keep their dancers going all weekend.

"We actually have a Thon Weekend committee making sure we have people at all times, on the floor and in the stands," Dan Levy (sophomore-marketing and psychology) said. Atlas Thon filled hour and a half time slots for those members wanting to get on the floor, but chose not to designate specific times to have members in the stands, relying on the dedication of Atlas Thon-ers to come at their own will to keep Atlas Thon's 10 dancers grooving to DJ Larry Moore all night (and day) long.

"We had at least 25 people until 6 or 7 a.m. this morning," Levy said.

Around 2 a.m. Sunday, Atlas Thon is having a "Happy Hour" for its members, with pizza, Gatorade and other snacks as further incentive for them to stay and help their dancers through the hours that start to get tough.

"It gets really bad overnight," Michelle Thiry (senior-secondary education and English) said. "So we're having a big celebration to keep people here."

"The dancers are doing great!" Thiry didn't forget to add.

-Laura

A live webcam feed is currently providing coverage of Thon events for those who want to participate in the excitement of Thon from home or a dorm room.

The Webcast is organized by Thon Public Relations and the College of Communications, and is being manned by students in Comm 498F. The students are supervised by College of Communications professors.

Kellye Crittenden (senior-journalism) said the students have been traveling to Innovation Park since the beginning of the semester to learn how to use the cameras, get feedback to the control board and other such techniques.

Crittenden is unaware of any major technological glitches thus far.

"This is a great experience for me," Crittenden said. "It's my first time doing anything with Thon. Part of why I wanted to do the web cam is to experience Thon through a different way."

The Webcam is fed by two cameras on the floor and one overhead. Setup took place from 11 p.m. to 3 p.m. yesterday with breaks. Students take turns manning the cameras in shifts of about five hours.

-Brittany

I just got back from the floor. I can't believe how excited and happy everyone still is. I feel really guilty for getting to sleep last night!
Moralers are hosting lots of games to keep the dancers busy. First they brought out a giant black and red checker board. Dancers, moralers and other committee members lined up on the squares to begin a game of human checkers -- it looked a lot more like Twister to me.
B-I-N-G-O! Next was human bingo. Dancers were given a bingo sheet with different items on them, like "speaks more than two languages" or "registered voter" and they had to get another dancer to initial it. This was all intended to keep them moving and help them meet their fellow dancers.

Comm Radio and The Lion FM have both come out to cover Thon for the full 46 hours.
This is Comm Radio's second year broadcasting from Thon and the first time it has raised funds for Thon.
Comm Radio has followed the days building up to Thon.
While broadcasting from the Bryce Jordan Center, the radio stations are covering what is happening on the floor, following how the dancers are doing and talking with the people in the stands.
The Lion FM hopes to cover everything happening on the floor, too. The station broadcasts to more than 240,000 homes and have received several calls about where to get information on Thon.
The Lion also has two DJs dancing in Thon.

-Jourdan

At every entrance, surrounding the stage and dispersed throughout the BJC are cherry red shirts, most with coordinating shorts, socks and headbands. These are the crimson-clad warriors of what can and cannot go down during the seemingly uncontrollable frenzy that is Thon. They are the Rules and Regulations committee, here to keep you and all your drunken roommates in line.

Committee members are stationed at all portals and keep a close eye on all the dancers, to make sure the "No Sitting" rule is enforced to the best of its ability. They also guard the stage down on the floor, watching that no equipment is touched or harmed.
What would seem to many like a tedious, exhausting job has proved a source of fun and excitement for many committee members.

"It's more glamorous than other jobs. I get to yell at people. I enjoy it." Said Julie Szkudlapski (junior-HDFS). "And it's better than OPP."

Walking past the section where floor passes are given out, there's a bit of an unusual sight. Caution tape keeps unauthorized people from coming through which is not so weird, but it's held up by people-- which is weird. Kelly Potter (senior-bio-behavioral sciences) and Ravi Desai (junior-biology) said they use committee members as a barrier because it is easier to stop spectators from wandering where they should not.

-Laura

Thon moralers do whatever it takes to keep dancers happy and motivated. Sometimes that includes cheering on dancers or giving them massages, but moraler Lindsay Magill (junior-elementary education) had a special assignment: find her dancer some good reading material.

I caught dancer Brendan Dooley (senior-economics) leaning on a table reading a magazine. This particular periodical didn't fit with his masculine image -- he swore it was just what happened to be on the table -- so I'll keep the title a secret. Magill, though, whispered to me that she had a surprise present for him later in the weekend: The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue.

-Ryan

A white cardboard airplane, held aloft in Sean Stokes's hands, is soaring through the stands collecting dancer mail.

Stokes is an entertainment captain and said the plane is a new idea this year: to collect messages and deliver them "via airplane" when dancers "start to get a little more down."

The cardboard model holds letters in its hollow body and is about an arm span's length. Stokes said he's making rounds in the stands with it. Unfortunately, the cardboard model won't be literally flying, but Stokes said he hopes it will provide "a little extra inspiration" once he finishes collecting letters.

-Ricky

The Thon Rules and Regulations committee is making a special effort to enforce its "no sitting" policy this year.

To help keep dancers motivated, people in the stands of the BJC are not supposed to sit down. This has been a long-standing Thon policy. However, some people thought it only applied to people in sight of dancers, said Rules and Regs captain Heather Cummings (junior-public relations).

This year, Rules and Regs committee members trying to encourage people to stand no matter where they are in the BJC -- even if the dancers can't see them, she said. She said committee members will approach people that are sitting and politely ask them to stand.

To drive home the point, Cummings and other Rules and Regs captains' shirts have the word "Sitting" in green letters with a No-smoking-style circle around it and line through it.

-Ryan

So I'll be taking a slightly different approach with my coverage of the next band, Velveeta.

You already know all the songs they're playing; there are no surprises. Veterans of the State College bar scene, as well as 13 years at Thon, Velveeta knows all it needs to do to be loved is play a rockin' rendition of "Sweet Caroline" (which it is as I write this).

More than any band so far Velveeta's involved the crowd. A crowd of dancers and moralers are on stage now, dancing more than I've seen in the past 17 hours.

I just had a chance to talk to the man at the center of Thon entertainment, DJ Larry Moore (who is currently rocking out to a B-52's cover along with everyone else). Over the course of his 33 years with Thon, he's seen music change dramatically, and Velveeta's set is a best-of spanning three decades of hits.

Seeing everyone from 3-year-olds to college seniors dancing together as the band closes out its set with "We're Not Gonna Take It" is the most powerful moment I've seen yet this year.

- Nick

Participants in Thon can be found in places other than the Bryce Jordan Center this weekend.

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive between 12 and 5 p.m. Saturday, and 10 and 2 p.m. Sunday in the Intramural Building for all interested donors.

Tory Miksiewicz, on-site coordinator for the event, said the goal of the drive today is to collect 110 units of blood in five hours.

She said that the goal is feasible because the Red Cross has "enthusiastic volunteers" and "everyone is in the spirit of helping out this weekend."

The drive will also give donors the chance to register for the National Marrow Donor Program, which matches unrelated donors with potential bone marrow transplant recipients.

Donors do not have to give blood to register for the program marrow donor program.

Miksiewicz said she is expecting many Thon families, dancer families and students to donate this weekend. Interested parties can sign up to volunteer or donate blood at www.redcross.org
.

- Brittany W.

The floor is at capacity right now, and the waiting line stretches from Portal 14 to Portal 5.

Jim Belliveau has been waiting for more than an hour to see his son, moraler David. With his camera in hand, he said he's going to "wait as long as it takes."

"It's a great event, and it's worth the wait," he said.

Daniel Florencio, a member of the Rules and Regulations committee, said a lot of people weren't coming off of the floor because of the fashion show, but it should start clearing up soon.

"If the floor's at capacity, it's at capacity," he said. "People have to wait."

- Ricky

One Four Diamonds kid -- who claimed he wasn't a "heartbreaker" -- just played air guitar for everyone on stage to Pat Benatar's "Heartbreaker."

He jumped around while strumming and tilting his imaginary guitar.

Cameras flashed in his face, but he didn't seem to mind. He knows he's a rock star.

This was literally the cutest thing I've seen all weekend. He definitely broke my heart.

- Kelsey

Thon isn't only a Penn State phenomenon. Representatives from 14 schools that held or are holding mini-Thons this year danced on stage earlier today. Last year, mini-Thons raised nearly $700,000 for the Four Diamonds fund.

Matt Weschler, a senior representing Palmyra Area High School in Palmyra, Pa., said his school expects to raise over $20,000 this year.

"Thon is probably one of the biggest things we do," he said. About a quarter of the student body usually attends his school's mini-Thon, he added.

"It's absolutely amazing seeing so many people so pumped for helping these kids out," he said. "It's an incredibly positive and energetic atmosphere."

- Ricky

"When you wish upon a star, makes no difference who you are. Anything your heart desires will come to you."

Thon kids and dancers alike made wishes early Saturday afternoon in a Morale-sponsored event that encouraged participants to reveal their secret dreams and desires anonymously.

Participants wrote their wishes on multi-colored construction paper stars and dropped them in a "wishing well" located in the middle of the Bryce Jordan Center floor.

When one child was asked what he had wished for, he looked me in disbelief that I would ask such a question.

"If I tell you what I wished for, it won't come true," he said. "And it's something really good."

The event was organized by the Wild and Haysey Kids morale committee.

"It's basically just for the kids and dancers," said moraler Aubrey McGuire (freshman-education). "They can wish for anything. Anything from the past, present or future."

She added that the stars will be collected and distributed to other morale teams so that moralers can gauge how the kids and dancers are feeling.

After the stars are read, they will be saved and made into something else, McGuire said; however, she is not sure what it will be yet.

- Brittany W.

The Homecoming 2009 Executive Committee just announced this year's homecoming theme -- "Remember the Lion Within." Get pumped, people.

Although the music seems loud to everyone in press row, most of the dancers say the volume is perfect.

"As a dancer, if you need quiet time you can go back in the locker rooms," said Katie DeCoursey (senior-public relations).

Mike Kessler (sophomore-accounting) said the music helps him stay energized.

"It was good to keep me awake," said Katie Kirsch (sophomore-mechanical engineering).

When I asked her if she thought the music was loud, Colleen Barron (junior - elementary education) said, "It is a little loud, isn't it?"

She said during upbeat times she likes the music loud.

"But during these down times, turn it down," she said.

Overall, most of the dancers seem to benefit from the music.

-Kelsey

Police expect it every year: People might get drunk and get themselves into trouble at Thon.

And less than 12 hours into this year's event, two attendees had already been stopped by police.

At about 1:30 a.m. Saturday, an 18-year-old man refused to leave the Bryce Jordan Center after event security asked him to, police said. The officer then made contact the man, who blew a .29 on a breathalyzer test. He will be charged, police said.

Less than an hour later, police said a 23-year-old man from out of state tried to enter the BJC -- but ran into a wall instead. The man, with a BAC of .265, will also be charged, police said.

Both men were taken to Mount Nittany Medical Center for treatment. As of this morning, no Penn State students had been arrested at the BJC.

-Mandy

I've seen a lot of crazy and outlandish things in my life, but never have I seen an instrument like the one Penn State President Graham Spanier played a few minutes ago with a few other professors in a band they like to call "The Lost Faculties".

With an instrument consisting of a tambourine, horns, maracas, cowbells, a washboard, cymbals and a few other odds and ends, Spanier led the band in a few songs such as "Route 66", "Blue Suede Shoes" and "Hit the Road Jack," all sung by band member Sharon Felson.

"It's fun to see our professors and president singing outside of the classroom," Julia Kellogg (freshman-division of undergraduate studies) said.

Jesse Exum (freshman-animal sciences) said she also enjoyed it, adding she thought it was awesome to see professors doing something different.

The icing on the cake had to be the little kids helping play bongos on stage, especially the little boy with a blue Mohawk -- too cute!

- Sara

R.A.M. Squad, which stands for Raw Aesthetic Movements, entertained the crowd the hip-hop dance moves and group formations on the main stage.

The crew of about 30 members pumped up the crowd, waving towels over their heads to TI's" Swing Your Rag."

The performance involved tight dance formations and group poses.

After the group performance, the group created a semi-circle on stage and allowed members to showcase their individual talents. Many of these performances included some intense break dancing moves and flips.

One member of R.A.M. Squad is also a dancer -- and the crowd showed their appreciation.

- Somer

The floor is completely chaotic right now - but in a good way. I just got back from walking around and checking things out for the last hour or so. The minute I walked on the floor, I got hit in the head with a nerf football. The little boy who threw it yelled, "I'm a quarterback!" and ran up to me to get the ball, all smiles.

I saw a lot of kids using the water guns. Many of them were squirting dancers, but a few were using the guns to squirt water in their mouths, completely oblivious to everything else going on around them.

The moralers then introduced the next theme hour -- Take the Hogwarts Express. Dancers were given the opportunity to make their own wands, get sorted into the four houses of the Four Diamonds, and score goals in cornbag Quidditch.

My favorite part had to be when the Nittany cheerleaders took the stage. The first performance was done by girls 8 years old and younger, with the youngest girl being only 5 years old. The girls were stunting like professionals, even throwing one girl into a basket toss. Then the junior and senior squads performed. I was blown away by their technical skills and energy.

Katie Woodhull (senior-actuarial science) said she was extremely impressed by the performances.

"Their skills and coordination are very above their age," she said.

Standing next to the stage, I got to witness the girls' expressions while they danced. They had so much enthusiasm and passion for what they were doing. I guess that's what Thon is about.

-- Alison

About 20 minutes ago, 40 brave donors received a new hair style in front of the crowd, donating their locks to the Wigs for Kids foundation.

Donors spoke on the jumbo screen, telling their stories and their personal reasons for donation. One little girl said she wanted to donate her hair because she knew her hair would grow back.

The 10 stylists then came out on stage, followed by the first round of donors.

The crowd counted down from 5, and at 1, all the stylists simultaneously cut the hair of the donors. Donors' hair was braided and pulled back.

Some donors looked a little shocked at first but were able to wave to the crowd and hold up their no longer attached ponytails, still smiling.

Altogether, Thon donated 66 ponytails to the Wigs for Kids Foundation.

Thanks to the 40 donors at Thon, more kids will be able to feel the wind in their hair.

--Somer

Sorority and fraternity members just performed their skits from Greek Sing to entertain the crowd.

Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, Sigma Pi fraternity and Phi Kappa Tau fraternity performed a scene from their winning performance of Jersey Boys. Members danced along to Frankie Valli's "December 1963."

Mairys Joaquin from Delta Gamma sorority, who won best performance at Greek Sing, sang a number from Wicked with members of her sorority.

Pi Beta Phi and Delta Tau Delta danced and lip synched to a song from The Nightmare Before Christmas. The girls donned black tutus and the guys wore all back and every member had his or her face painted.

Chi Omega and Sigma Chi sang a scene from a musical based at some point in the future when creativity has been banned. Two Members sang Queen's "We Will Rock You" while the rest of the members danced behind them. The group incorporated live music into their peformance, members of the group playing drums and guitar. This performance won the short performance category at Greek Sing this year.

--Somer

Cardboard boxes, "funoodles" and kids -- that's what it's about, Greg Moran (junior-telecommunications) said.

Many participated in Whack-a-Moraler, an activity on the floor in which kids and dancers whack moralers, those who keep up the morale of their designated dancers, with foam noodles, or "funoodles." Moralers popped their heads out of cut-out holes in stacked cardboard boxes and dodged these blows to the head.

"It was really, really, really cool," Four Diamonds Kid Dylan Moser said. "I love everything at Thon."

--Natalie

Penn Harmonics was just onstage and they were outrageous! Beatboxing, humming, ooos and ahhs made up the background music for one lead singer who sounded almost as good as Rihanna herself in the group's own rendition of "Disturbia."

Next, they performed "Livin' on a Prayer" to bring back memories from this fall's football season. This guy can really hit the high notes -- he's no Bon Jovi, but he sure can sing!

"Have you guys ever heard of High School Musical?" one of the performers yelled.

Four Diamonds kids joined Penn Harmonics onstage for a medley of High School Musical songs. As they sang, "We're All In This Together," they performed dance moves in perfect harmony and really were "all together."

-- Kelsey

Though it has been 24-hours since Thon began, the energy on the floor is still as strong as hour one. No one on the floor is safe from the ongoing chaos: water guns squirting, bouncy balls narrowly missing people's heads, and of course, people breaking out their best dance moves. Everyone is doing their own thing to keep going.

However, most of the dancers and spectators sang in unison to beloved Disney songs during the Disney sing-along. The BJC echoed with the tunes of, "A Whole New World" from Aladdin, "Bare Necessities" from The Jungle Book, "Be Our Guest" from Beauty and the Beast, and other classics. Crowd favorites seemed to be "Colors of the Wind" from Pocahontas and "Can't Wait to Be King" from The Lion King, as singing practically became screaming.

"I absolutely loved it. They have always been some of my favorites," Chris Bowyer (senior-telecommunications) said of the sing-along. "Aladdin was always my favorite."

While I was on the floor, I also met Andrea Nachreiner (freshman-biobehavioral health), who just had 12 inches of her hair cut off for Wigs for Kids.

"Wigs for Kids gives the wigs to families for free. Locks of Love doesn't," she said. Having previously donated her hair to Locks of Love, she said she was very happy to be able to donate to Wigs for Kids.

--Lexi

With "Happy Birthday" signs and photo opportunities everywhere on the floor, students showed you're never too old for birthday party games and crafts during the 6 p.m. theme hour, "Birthday Extravaganza."

Magic tricks, "Pin the Mustache on Larry Moore," frame and hat decorating, card making, relay races, "fish for a prize," and a bean bag toss were just some of the events for dancers to participate in.

At the "fish for a prize" station, dancers used a blue-and-white-colored pole to "fish" for treats on the other side of the table. Moralers attached a piece of candy to a string on the end of the pole and then tugged on the string, as if a fish were biting.

The bean bag toss consisted of a wooden frame with a clown painted in it and three holes in its middle.

"It's excellent," said Alexis Rolla (sophomore-economics), "because I made every one, except one."

At the "Pin the Mustache on Larry Moore" station, a likeness of Moore was painted onto cardboard and students were give white yarn mustaches to pin onto his face.

"I liked it," said Mary Waechter (senior-kinesiology). "It actually makes you do something, not just stand there, but it's still simple."

Students got in touch with their creative side at the frame and hat decorating table. There, participants decorated popsicle stick picture frames and cardboard birthday hats with feathers, markers, foam cutouts and colored cotton balls. Dancers were sporting their handmade hats around the dance floor.

As for the frames, Julie Maurer (sophomore-CSD) said she'll probably put a Thon picture in hers to remember the weekend.

Around the floor were opportunities for students to take pictures with painted wooden frames. One featured the Nittany Lion holding balloons with presents around him and his face cut out so participants could take a picture as the lion. At another spot, students could take pictures straddling a cutout of a pony at the "free pony ride" station.

--Somer

Nicky Egan and The Majority brought a refreshing mix of soul and R & B to the stage at about 7 p.m.

Egan sang backed by two vocalists and a band composed of a guitarist, bassist, keyboardist and drummer. The band performed a host of original songs, including "He's Mine," a reggae-styled piece with an easy feel that had band members and dancers swaying. Continuing with "Price I Pay," a slower, soul-influenced selection, Egan encouraged the dancers during instrumental solos.

But it was India.Arie's "There's Hope" that served as a reminder of Thon's goal. As Egan repeated "You know there's hope," some participants on the floor mouthed the message and danced.

Her cover of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" was most popular on the floor and in the stands of the Bryce Jordan Center, inspiring many to imitate MJ's famous left and right arm motions from the music video.

From "Thriller," Egan and The Majority transitioned to Estelle's current hit "American Boy." Dancers and audience members sang and danced to the easy feel of the song.

Egan gained participation from the audience during her final song when she asked for a crowd echo. Shouting "We are Penn State" and "For The Kids" drew a positive response at the end of the band's set.

--Brittany G.

A father and son looking sharp in black suits and sunglasses kicked off the first family variety show by performing "Nod Your Head" by Will Smith. The father showed off his dance moves as his little son mouthed the lyrics to the song. At the end of their act, the father and son pointed to different sections of the audience and received roars of praise and excitement.

Next, two little girls sang "Love Story" by Taylor Swift and the crowd again reacted with shouts and applause.

Then, the Bryce Jordan Center really started to bounce when a young girl sang "Everytime We Touch." Everyone on the floor jumped up and down and clapped their hands to the beat.

Following the last performance, a young girl, who recently received a black belt, showcased a series of kicks and rapid arm movements that impressed the crowd.

Then, two little girls sang "Breakout" and kept the dancing going.

Next, a little girl told jokes that made the audience erupt with laughter. One of the jokes was "What do you call cheese that isn't yours?" The audience said, "What?" and the girl yelled, "Nacho cheese!"

After releasing some giggles, spectators enjoyed the talent of a young girl who sang "Just a Dream."

Things heated up when a young girl in a fiery red costume performed a dance routine to the Jonas Brothers hit "Burnin' Up."

Then, a boy and a girl sang "Our Song" by Taylor Swift as the audience clapped along. After the song ended, the little girl shouted "We are..." and the audience responded with "Penn State!"

For the last act, a little boy performed a series of jokes that had the audience cracking up. The "nacho cheese" joke was used for the second time, and the crowd loved it!

--Kristin

At 9:15 p.m., the announcement was made for Kid's Mail Call. Several cardboard boxes rested on the diamond-shaped stage, filled with mail for the kids.

Kids in different superhero groups, such as Batman, Superman and Spiderman, were called up to get their mail.

People dressed like The Incredible Hulk, Batman and other superheroes took pictures with the kids after they received their mail.

--Kristin

From press row, the stands of the Bryce Jordan Center are filled with spirit and excitement. Most of the black curtains that have been covering the top level of the stands have been removed and are now filled with people supporting their friends on the floor.

The stands directly opposite of the stage are filled with students trying to replicate the famous S-Zone, but instead it's a blue diamond on a white background. Although it's not a perfect diamond, it still looks amazing and is sure to motivate the dancers.

The pep rally is about to begin, and when host for the event James Sheep asked to hear some noise, the sound produced was deafening. Everyone is excited for the pep rally and it is sure to reenergize the dancers for their time left on the floor.

--Caitlin

I took a seat on a relatively empty Blue Loop bus at about 8:30 p.m., hearing the few people around me gush about how much fun they've had today, despite how exhausted they feel.

"What a workout!" A clearly very in-shape participant said to his friends.

"We always go, everyone likes it," another rider said to friends new to Thon.

The sentiments were the same -- being awake for as long as they are, every moment of Thon is worth being a part of. As the bus made its next few stops, I noticed it getting more and more crowded with riders clad in Thon wear of all colors. Women and men wearing greek letters and "FTK" entered in groups, and members of all committees got back on the bus for their next shifts, still proudly wearing their colors, knee socks and headbands.

By the time the bus pulled out from the stop at the library at about 9:45 p.m., the bus was completely full, those standing packed in and held onto whatever they could find. Not surprisingly, when the bus stopped in front of the BJC, it nearly completely emptied as everyone rushed to get back to Thon. The cycle continued throughout the evening, with more people always getting off at the BJC than ever got on at any of the other stops.

The excitement remained high all night, and in between a lovely serenade of "Total Eclipse of the Heart," I heard one guy say what everyone was feeling, put quite simply to his friends: "That was a great time last night!" When someone chimed in with "Where?" all he had to say was Thon.

-Laura

Standing in the front row after the pep rally, the energy is palpable. Athletes are still in their costumes from their performances. The ones standing out the most are those dressed as bananas and penguins.

People in the stands and on the floor are singing, clapping and dancing along as The Blue Band sets the tone by playing songs familiar to anyone who has ever attended a Penn State football game.

The athletes on the floor are smiling and having fun. They are taking pictures and hanging out with the dancers and the kids. Football player Mike Lucian is even giving a dancer a piggyback ride to give her feet a break from the standing on the hard floor.

Before the athletes leave, Larry Moore thanks them and everyone in the stands for coming and the morale captains lead everyone in the Line Dance.

--Caitlin

Other than knowing all the words to every song ever preformed by Michael Jackson, John Mayer or *Nsync (I can't believe I owned up to that) my music knowledge is pretty limited. So when Lemonsoul, a staple in the State College bar scene, began its set with a song that even I recognized--Rusted Root's "On My Way" - I was pretty excited. Dancers and Moralers alike seemed to enjoy the song too, and more movement from the floor was evident. Several participants hula-hooped, while many others on the floor began dancing rather than leaning on the chest-high tables scattered across the Bryce Jordan Center floor.
The band's set was certainly geared toward an "older" crowd. By that I do not mean geriatric, but, rather, the set incorporated alternative music, mostly from the '90s or early 2000s, that the mostly college-age audience could appreciate. It was definitely an appropriate time for the band to take the stage, because Thon kids and families were almost nonexistent on the floor. The band broke away from the mainstream covers played by Velveeta and Low Jack, both of which preformed at different points within the last 24 hours, and played thoroughly enjoyable jam-rock selections.
About five songs into its set, Lemonsoul broke into a cover of Sublime's "Badfish." This came after a few songs that were unrecognizable to me, though as previously addressed, that really isn't saying much. From the press row, for the first time, I could hear supporters around me singing along with the music. Despite not knowing every word to every song Lemonsoul played, almost everyone in the stands swayed with the music and kept dancing throughout the entire set.
The Stevie Wonder classic "Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours," rounded out the band's set on a very high note. Moralers seemed extremely excited by the song choice, evidenced by the abundance of yellow-clad students bouncing across the BJC floor with more fervor than during the rest of the set.
Even though I couldn't tell you if Lemonsoul's chord progression was on par with any other band in State College, or even what that means, I can tell you that Thon dancers and Moralers seemed to really enjoy the set. And I did too. Maybe I'll check them out Tuesday nights at the Phyrst. I might even learn something.

-Brittany W.

I believe I am on the other end of the spectrum from Brittany when it comes to my knowledge of 90s and 00s alternative rock. How wonderful, then, that both of us were able to enjoy Lemonsoul's performance for completely different reasons. While I enjoyed the Stevie Wonder cover, my favorite moment of the set was during their amazing cover of "First Tube", originally by Phish. Their broad appeal is a tribute to this band's musicianship and experience; some members have been playing together since high school.

And for those of you who (like myself) can't go to the Phyrst on Tuesdays, check out the band's site (www.lemonsoul.net) for other band appearances.

- Nick

I've been noticing a trend in dance music: the rising influence of music from the Indian subcontinent. It was popularized with M.I.A's "Paper Planes," and has only gained ground since Slumdog Millionaire came onto the pop culture radar. My roommate, who grew up in India, has expanded my horizons when it comes to world music, and I'm thrilled that these artists are getting more mainstream attention.

The Raas Society just finished an impressive dance routine featuring a mix of traditional Gujarati dance and modern hip hop styles on the stage, drawing quite a bit of attention from the crowd. DJ Larry Moore has also played "Jai Ho", one of the songs from Slumdog Millionaire nominated for Best Original Song at tonight's Oscars.

Who knew during the "British Invasion" of the 60s that forty years later we'd have what may well become an "Indian Invasion" in the near future.

- Nick

Early-morning visitors to the Bryce Jordan Center may be in for a surprise: All gates except Gate B are closed.

It's not an accident -- it's a valiant three-fold effort by the the Rules and Regulations committee to improve late night security. While each gate closed off at a different time, they'll all be reopened 6 a.m. or 7 a.m, Rules and Regulations Captain Larry Mahally said.

"It's a lot easier for numbers' sake -- Rules and Regs has about 900 volunteers. We don't want to make them work if they don't have to," Mahally (senior-biology) said . He said it is easier to be able to focus on just one gate during the less-attended hours of Thon.

They're also looking to ensure that "people are sober enough for Thon," Meghan Edmiston (sophomore-biology) said. A member of Rules and Regs, she was stationed at Gate A, guiding people to Gate B.

"Though we hate to say it, people do try to get into Thon after a night of partying," Mahally said. "If you say no at one gate, chances are they're going to try another gate. We're trying to eliminate that."

Lastly, only using one gate to enter the building is a green effort to conserve energy, Mahally said.

Behind the wall of red-clad Rules and Regs members stationed at Gate B, several Penn State Police officers stood, offering another layer of security.

"If they have any problems, we are here for them," Penn State Police Sergeant Fran McClellan said. "They are doing a great job, though. They make our job easy."

-- Lexi

I got a chance to talk to My Hero Zero after their performance for the dancers. Steve Bentz (guitar/vocal), Greg Folsom (guitar/vocal), Mike Lee (bass/vocal), and Matt Zelenz (drums/vocal) share what it's like to be onstage and offer encouragement to the dancers.

Click here to download the mp3 file.

-- Nick

Thirty-seven hours and 36 line dances into Thon 2009, DJ Larry Moore instigated a line-dance-off between the girls and boys in the BJC.
Moore asked the girls to move to the sides of the floor, and the boys did the line dance first. Moore rooted the boys on during their performance.
"2009 is going to be the year boys win," he said. They held the final "Dream Forward" pose for 10 seconds.
When the girls took the floor, Moore continued asserting that the boys would take the title this year.
Moore did throw the girls several compliments.
"That looks good. Stretch it out girls," he said. He also seemed to appreciate the girls' rendition of the chorus.
Six seconds into holding the "Dream Forward" pose, one of the girls lost her balance.
"I saw that Sarah -- busted. Yeah Sarah Ross, I'm calling you out," he said to one of the moralers on stage.
Though the number of girls and boys on the floor seemed to be about equal, the girls sorely outnumbered the boys in the stands, from what I could see from press row.
By audience applause, the girls won the 2009 dance off. However, the boys can brag that they can hold the "Dream Forward" pose for four seconds longer.

- Lexi

Hour thirty-eight. Kevin, Joe and Nick Jonas sent their support to Thon dancers via a very short video shout out. Played on the jumbotrons around the stage, each brother took about 10 seconds to encourage dancers.

Nick told dancers, "Keep on dancing, you look great."

"Just keep dancing," Joe said while he flailed and danced around on screen.

By this point, some dancers have begun refusing comment, saying they aren't in the right state of mind. Others however, are still hopping around with enthusiasm.

"It was cute. I'm glad they're thinking of us," said Lionettes dancer Caroline Molloy (senior-public relations) about the Jonas' shout out. Her moraler, Josh Lavra (sophomore-chemical engineering), who was at her side, said he thought the video was "very motivating."

Since the band is targeted at teenagers, some of the dancers weren't impressed by the presentation.

"I don't like them in the first place and I didn't really understand it," said independent dancer Meghan Wikler (senior-recreation, park, and tourism management). "For the people who do, it probably was the highlight of their weekend."

-Lexi

This time I'm with Whipple Jam, another new band; members of which are State College music scene and Thon veterans. Check out the hilarity below!

Click here to download the mp3 file.

- Nick

Hour thirty-nine. A robot, complete with a trash can body, glowing eyes, tin pail for a head and dryer vents for the arms and legs dances to the 1983 classic "Mr. Roboto." His hinges must be loose, as he is terrible at doing "the robot."

He also rocked out to "Don't Cha," by the Pussycat Dolls. A needed distraction for the dancers, as OPP swept and mopped the floors as he danced.

-- Lexi and Erica

My keen eyes spotted dancer no. 1B from press row, and I decided I had to talk to him.

After I found him on the floor, Kent Burgess (senior-supply chain and information systems) rallied for an interview.

Mr. Burgess is the Kappa Delta Rho overall Thon chairman. A partnership between Kappa Delta Rho and sorority Delta Delta Delta was the team behind the first Thon 36 years ago. Kent told me that dancer numbers 1 through 4 are reserved for members of these two groups due to this legacy.

He also introduced me to his dance partner, Emily Gordon (senior-public relations), Delta Delta Delta's overall Thon chairwoman and dancer no. 1A.

Emily was with one of the team's children, Megan, and both were still going strong.

"The last four hours will be incredible," Emily told me.

Kent, who appeared to be feeling the effects of the past 38 hours, said he was getting a second wind, looking forward to the grand finale.

Everyone here is starting to perk up as we approach the final hours of Thon -- you can feel it in the air.

- Nick

The second family variety show of the weekend began with two girls singing "Our Song" by Taylor Swift in star-quality attire. The performance resulted in loud applause from the audience.

Next, a young girl sang Demi Lovato's "This Is Me" and the audience clapped along to the beat.

Things switched up a bit when a little girl performed "The Bacon Dance." The girl moved her hips back and forth. A woman on stage asked the girl "What do you want?" and the girl responded with "Bacon!"

Following this performance, the crowd was wowed by two junior black belts. Two young boys broke pieces of wood with their hands and feet. Their kicks and arm motions got the crowd excited. Towards the end of the act, one of the boys took the other boy down to the floor.

The dancers' energy level increased with the football stadium favorite "Hey Baby." A young girl sang the song as everyone clapped and shouted "Ooh...ahh!"

Lastly, a young boy belted out the lyrics to "Me and My Gang," drawing cheers and clapping from the audience.

--Kristin

Moments ago, moralers formed a human "car wash" tunnel and massaged the dancers. As the dancers moved through the tunnel, the classic song "Car Wash" blared in the background.

The dancers got to experience the elements of a car wash and relieve some of the tension in their shoulders.

-- Kristin

Go Go Gadjet just finished up their set on the stage in the BJC -- basically the perfect party mix:

11:15 - "Fat Lip" - Sum 41: Starting with one of my all time favorite songs (when I was in middle school).

11:18 - "Let It Rock" - Kevin Rudolf feat. Lil Wayne: The crowd goes crazy!

11:21 - "Take Me Out" - Franz Ferdinand: Biggest crowd gathered around the stage I've seen so far this weekend.

11:24 - "What's My Name Again?" - Blink-182: My Hero Zero already did this one this weekend, but I love Blink, so it's okay.

11:27 - "Shake It" - Metro Station: Fun fact for everyone -- Metro Station's lead singer is Trace Cyrus, brother of Miley.

11:29 - "Song 2" - Blur: Better known as the WOO HOO! song that they play during football games whenever we get a first down.

11:31 - "Hey Baby" - Alabama: Right in the middle of "Song 2."

11:32 - "Jailhouse Rock" - Elvis Presley

11:34 - "Johnny B. Goode" - Chuck Berry: If I remember my music history, Chuck comes before Elvis.

11:36 - "Bye Bye Bye" - N'Sync: Can you believe this song is a decade old? JT's come a long way since then.

11:40 - "Like a Prayer" - Madonna: What is it with all-male bands covering female artists this weekend?

11:44 - "Basket Case" - Green Day: Some nice old-school stuff.

11:47 - "Fly Away" - Lenny Kravitz: I want to get away, but not really... family hour is coming up!

11:51 - "I Like to Move It" - Reel 2 Real: The BJC agrees, everyone's feeling the music.

11:53 - "The Way I Are" - Timbaland feat. D.O.E. and Keri Hilson: I can feel the bass from up in the stands.

11:56 - "Apache (Jump On It)" - Sugar Hill Gang: It's not a dance without this one.

11:58 - "Sugar We're Going Down" - Fall Out Boy: They may have "sold out," but I, for one, don't care.

12:02 - "Kernkraft 400" - Zombie Nation: What other way to end the set. WE ARE PENN STATE!

- Nick

The atmosphere in the Bryce Jordan Center is filled with energy. The dancers appear to be stronger than ever! The upper level is almost completely filled with people. It looks like the rest of the black curtain will be removed soon.

A short time ago, a group of six men performed a stepping act with canes. The performance showcased quick arm motions, stomping and clapping that really got the crowd going.

Then, line dances from past Thons were performed on the stage starting with 2004.

--Kristin

Joe Paterno just walked on the stage at Thon. Cameras are flashing incessantly. The crowd is going wild and chanting Joe Pa-terno!

"There are very few times in my life I'm speechless, but I am now," Paterno said. "I wish the whole world could see and feel what's in this room right now. Love and commitment and the dedication that just reeks from this room."

"In my 58 years at Penn State, I've never been more proud than right now," Paterno said.

Paterno shook hands with Thon families after his speech. The crowd is chanting a deafening "We Are!" "Penn State!"

DJ Larry Moore said it's been a couple years since Paterno has been at Thon.

--Rossilynne

Dancers, families and moralers have their arms wrapped around each others' shoulders as they watch a memorial video showing children who have lost their battles with cancer.

Those on the floor are swaying back and forth and wiping tears from their eyes.

People in the stands and on the floor are silent. Songs like "I hope you dance" play while photographs of children are shown on screen.

Check back at psucollegian.com for a Family Hour Web update.

--Rossilynne

It's the first time in Thon's three years in the Bryce Jordan Center that all gates have been locked, Al Karosas, associate general manager for the BJC, said.

The stands are packed, and no one else is allowed in until people leave.

Karosas and BJC staff are standing at Gate B monitoring the seating area and allowing people to come in as others leave.

There's a line from Gate B extending almost the the Blue Loop stop in front of the BJC. All the other gates are closed.

The best bet for people hoping to come into Thon to see the last hour and a half: Get to the BJC, wait in the line at Gate B and keep your fingers crossed for people to leave.

Ashley Engstrom, a rules and regulations committee member standing at Gate B, said there has been a mass exit after Family Hour, allowing some people to enter.

The doors stayed open for the duration of Thon 2008, Karosas said. Having the doors locked was common at Rec Hall, he added.

This year, he said, overall attendance is up.

The black curtains behind the stage will not be raised, Engstrom said, because that area is being used for storage.

--Rossilynne

Since Family Hour ended recently, the dancers know the end of Thon 2009 is approaching. Beach balls are flying around on the floor and everyone is dancing.

To keep the energy flowing, JR and Natalie provided musical entertainment for the crowd. The band consisted of a lead female vocalist, a male drummer and three male guitarists.

Their set featured recognizable songs such as "Stand By Me," "Sweet Caroline" and "Don't Stop Believin'," which had the entire BJC dancing and throwing their diamonds in the sky.

We're in the last hour now. Just over a half hour until the total is revealed.

--Kristin

Two girls on stage honored Jillian Siegel, a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority who lost her battle to cancer on Feb. 10 this year.

They spoke of Siegel's constant involvement in her sorority and especially in Thon.

"We will all be forever moved by her courage, honesty, strength and wisdom," one of the girls said.

Following the speech, a video was shown on the screen highlighting Siegel's life and remembering good times spent with her.

Dancers have wrapped their arms around each other and are swaying to "Somewhere over the rainbow."

With all the colors in the stands and on the floor it looks like a rainbow in the Bryce Jordan Center.

Five minutes until the final total is announced!

--Rossilynne

Thon overalls are leading the last line dance of Thon 2009.
Looks like the crowd has figured out the moves too, and they're dancing in the stands along with dancers on the floor.
Moments until the final total is revealed.

--Rossilynne

After a countdown from 10, dancers have officially completed Thon 2009, and they're allowed to sit.
Dancers fell to the ground, but most jumped back on their feet again clapping and cheering in anticipation of the final total announcment.
The crowd led a chant of "FTK" and everyone has their hands above their heads forming diamonds.
Dancers are now sitting while raffle tickets are drawn.
A woman on the stage is arranging white posterboards with the numbers of the final total on them.

--Rossilynne

Commonwealth campus No. 1

$71,070 - Penn State Fayette

Independent organization No. 1

$216,785 - Atlas Thon

Greek fundraising pair No. 1

$317,928.56 - Zeta Tau Alpha sorority and Alpha Tau Omega fraternity

--Rossilynne

All that remains on the floor of the BJC are garbage cans, water bottles, balloons and hula hoops. The once non-visible brown floor can be seen for the first time in 46 hours.

Dancers have exited the floors and committee members are cleaning up. The stands are emptying out too.

Thon overalls posed on the stage with a piece of poster board with the number 7 written on it.

By raising more than $7 million dollars, Thon broke last years' record by about $875,000.

--Rossilynne