What’s up with these guys? See page 6
fINAlS! Dec. 6-8 WINTER BREAK starts Dec. 11
he’s a mean one... See page 5
Puyallup POST The
S E R v I N G T h E P u yA l l u P C A m P u S O f P I E R C E C O l l E G E
College offers new associates degree REGISTRATION: By Israel Adams Puyallup Post
Just this quarter, the college’s Board of Trustees passed the proposal to create a new associate in science degree. Information on the degree will be provided to students who are interested and qualify for acceptance into the degree this quarter. The new associate degree is designed for students who have a highly defined interest in a science. There will be two tracks for students. The first track is for students who have an interest in biological science, envi-
ronmental/resource science, chemistry, geology or earth science while the second track is for students interested in engineering, comscience, puter physics or atmospheric science. Mari Kruger, director of enrollment and student Mari Kruger life at Pierce College at Puyallup, recently spoke about what this new degree means for students.
“This degree has requirements that would limit qualified students to a select few,” she said. This is partly because of the need for students to have a very defined idea as to what field of science they would like to study. Also, students interested in the new associate degree must have qualified to enter Math 124 at the very least, which is Calculus I, a high level even for those who have taken numerous math classes. The reason this degree was created is mainly because many students were See new degrees on page 6
Give ’til it hurts On Nov. 15, Megan Peart willingly succumbed to the needle, donating a pint of blood in the special Cascade Regional Blood Services motor home.
Student groups putting Pierce on the net By Lonny Sulfaro Puyallup Post
Students on the Puyallup campus could soon have another place where they can find out what’s happening on campus. Members of student government and Student Programs have been working to get a student services-sponsored web page for students. Pierce students are currently looking at Mascot Network as the company they want to build the site that would be suited to meet students wants and needs. They have not yet committed to Mascot Network yet because they have already encountered some problems with the com-
pany. The original target date for the site to be online was this quarter. Mascot Network was unable to fulfill their contract because they were over booked. Another major problem has been that Mascot Network wants to put students’ pictures as well as their personal information like addresses and phone numbers on the site. There will be a security system designed to keep unauthorized people from accessing this information. Students at both the Fort Steilacoom and Puyallup campuses have expressed concerns about this. The college is currently negotiating with Mascot to try and
get them to build the site without the pictures, but Mascot isn’t budging saying that the pictures are an essential to the web site. If Mascot won’t concede to the college’s requests, then the college will start looking at other choices and even the possibility of building the site themselves. Some of the features of the site will be an auction page so students can post classified ads, an events calendar, chat rooms, faculty information including office hours, group and club bulletins, and the site would provide each student with an e-mail address. “It will be a wonderful service for stuSee website on page 8
VOLUME 6 ISSUE 3 ¥ DECEMBER 2000
Why the delay?
By Israel Adams Puyallup Post
Ever wonder just how your registration appointment time gets determined? Well, part of the answer is in this article. “Students’ appointment times are determined by the number of credits that they have accumulated here at Pierce,” said Mari Kruger, director of enrollment and student life Additionally, students with the same amount of credits accumulated at Pierce may have differing times due to the high amount of students currently enrolled at the college. Furthermore, the system assigns times according to an estimate on the number of students who can reasonably pass through registration in a specific See registration on page 7
No grades will be mailed home By Israel Adams Puyallup Post
As students, we all look forward to learning what our efforts amounted to in our classes. Yes, we’re talking about grades. But, don’t wait to find out what your grades for this quarter are through the traditional method—the mailbox. Starting this quarter, grades will no longer be sent to students’ home through the U.S. Postal Service. There are a few reasons for this. Mari Kruger, director of enrollment and student life, recently talked about this development. “Students are already getting their See grades on page 8
2
Puyallup Post
s t u d e n t
editorial
Pierce College will miss Barbara Cheek
What is your tip in dealing With pierce college’s traffic and parking? —complied by Megan Peart
T
his issue, the editorial is dedicated to the career of retiring Coordinator of the Alternative Learning Center and Director of Basic Skills Barbara Cheek. Cheek, a fixture in the Alternative Learning Center for years, is retiring after the end of this quarter. She has enjoyed teaching the fundamentals of English to students at Pierce College at Puyallup for more than four years now, and has also enjoyed working as the Coordinator of the Alternative Learning Center. I talked to her earlier this month, and learned just what kind of person she is. Her warmth and passion for teaching and for the students truly shines from her being. Her extensive teaching career, more than 33 years as a teacher, the past 13 teaching with Pierce College, has enriched her and given her a great understanding of the student mind and soul. I asked her what she would miss after she left Pierce and she replied, “The students . . . interacting with them and getting to see their interactions with each other. Just feeling the positive energy that the whole Puyallup student body radiates. It’s very Barbara Cheek positive and uplifting.” One of her memories was of a student from India who, after completing one of her classes, gave her a complete set of traditional Indian dress. “It absolutely floored me,” she said. “I was so shocked and overwhelmed by the gift.” She also said that “the students all show their appreciation in many ways.” Cheek also said that her staff was “wonderful. I’ll really miss them too.” She said that working with them was an honor. Her plans after retiring from Pierce include ministering at her local church. She told me that she also plans to continue working with students in her area and that many had already contacted her about the idea. She shared some points about her experience as a teacher, such as “You must have a passion for the students to be a teacher . . .” and also said “I’ve had tremendous growth as a person, mentoring students, and even mentoring other teachers.” During her career, Cheek has taught multitudes of students, specializing in teaching students the fundamentals of college English and reading. She teaches the under prepared and gets them to where they should be. When asked who has been the most influential person in her life, she replied immediately, “My father has been the defining influence in my life.” She was drawn to teaching ever since she was young, and she used to play school with her four younger siblings. “I feel like I’m making a difference, that I’m facilitating students’ learning.” On behalf of the students of Pierce College at Puyallup, thank you for your many years of service to us and to the community. Please know that you’ve influenced many lives and have made a difference. —Israel S. Adams The Puyallup Post Editor
s p e a k o u t
“Be patient and fill your tank before you come to school.” —Jessica Hardsand
“There really is no parking problem. People just don’t want to walk a little further. There’s plenty of parking. —Rick Fosmo
Jessica Hardsand
Rick Fosmo
“Come 20 minutes early and bring something to do in the car with you.” —Heidi Hardesty
“If you have problems, I would try coming really early or leaving later, then you could go to the library to study.” —Kristin Fraga
Heidi Hardesty
Kristin Fraga
“Carpool more often to allow less traffic, and make sure to give yourself plenty of time to deal with traffic.” —Armando Cavelti
“Park down below the visitor parking. You should also probably bring an umbrella and some good walking shoes.” —Beth Padilla
Armando Cavelti
Beth Padilla
“Wake up a little earlier so you can get here earlier. The earlier you get here, the more time you have to find a good parking spot.” —Mike Coffey, Teacher
“I always come really late and there are normally pretty good parking spaces, but that probably isn’t the best tip.” —Anna Arbic
Mike Coffey
The
Anna Arbic
Puyallup Post
is looking for students interested in writing for the student newspaper. No experience is necessary.
CaLL 840-8496 for more information.
DECEmBER 2000
3
Getting to Know you leon Khalsa This is Khalsa’s second year teaching on the Puyallup campus. After rigorously applying for jobs throughout the Western United States, he was happily accepted by his first choice, Pierce College.
When and what was your most memorable moment? There has not been an epiphany, a single moment of transformative revelation in my life. I most vividly remember Mike Lamka’s phone call in the summer of 1999 offering me the job at Pierce. It had been some weeks since the job interview and because I hadn’t heard from the college, I was starting to believe that they had selected another candidate. When he called, I was delighted and overwhelmed. I did a spontaneous victory yell that probably damaged his eardrum. What is your favorite television show? Non-fiction: 60 Minutes and Larry King, Fiction: StarTrek-The Next Generation (with Jean Luc Piccard as the captain). What has been your most embarrassing moment? The moment in my life when I felt most embarrassed occurred during my high school drama performance. On opening night, I played a major part in a Moliere play. Being very nervous, I missed an entrance cue for one of the scenes. The other players had to improv until I made it on stage. As a teenager, I was convinced that every eye in the auditorium was focused on me with great disdain. I later found out that the audience didn’t notice; however, the memory has stayed with me. What is your biggest pet peeve? Usually, my biggest pet peeve is restaurants that play scratchy music through bad speakers. This week; however, it is politicians who say, “This is NOT about politics.” Who do you admire most? Generally, the people I admire most are knowledgemakers or wisdom-sharers, in other words, teachers of all kinds. Examples would include Stephen Covey, who worked on the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, which has affected so many lives in a positive way. Also, Colin Powell, The Dalai Lama, and Dr. John Gottman. What is something crazy you have always wanted to do? To jump out of an airplane with nothing but a bit of nylon on my back. About 10 years ago I made my first, and so far, only parachute jump at 20,000 feet (which is A LOT higher when you are looking down, than when you are looking up). What is your most treasured possession? My music system brings me many hours of deep pleasure. If you could be an animal, what would you be and why? A dolphin for the joy of leaping the seas with my pod-mates. An eagle for the freedom of flying the unbounded sky. A dragon for its mystery, power, and majesty. If you could change one thing about society, what would you change? To ensure that every child is educated to his or her full potential. It is a crime that we impose mandatory, age-graded, uniform tests when we know that children develop at different rates and favor different types of intelligences. Children aren’t meant to receive knowledge, they are meant to discover it. What advice would you give to students at Pierce College? Resist the fast-food society. Switch your emphasis from receiving a degree to one where you cocreate your own education. The best advice I can give to students is this: Education is not something that happens to you. For the most part, it is something that you create for yourself. Whether your upbringing has taught you to believe in yourself or not, choose to know that you are important. Pierce College is filled with people and programs that are geared to helping you succeed. Only you can make it a priority.
The
Puyallup Post
For information on how to submit a story idea or advertising rates, please call 840-8496. editor: Israel Adams advisors: Teresa Josten Steve Heeb
reporter, Photographer: Dolores Mahoney reporters: Megan Peart Lonny Sulfaro Shanta Watson
Events Calendar Israel S. Adams Puyallup Post
We’re going into the final days of the quarter . . . do you know where and when your events are? Hey, no problemo my fellow students, the answers to your prayers lie here in the final events calendar for the year! For November 27, a Success Workshop will be in room A141 at noon on covering the topic of Transfers! It is titled Transfer 101, and provides information to students on how to ensure that your transfers are completed without a hitch. Bring a sack lunch and your enthusiasm. On November 28, the Ski/Board Expo 2000 will be all day. There will be a showing of an extreme sport video, and waxing is scheduled to be available for the low, low price of $5! Also, there will be a raffle for prizes including two free ski lift tickets to Crystal Mountain! Informative posters and signs will be in the hallways around campus providing more info on this event. On November 29, university representatives will be on campus from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. to answer your questions. Drop by the atrium to find the schools of your choice and talk to some friendly, informative representatives. Remember the ongoing struggle against AIDS and the virus that causes it, HIV, on December 1, World AIDS
Day. Informative displays will be around campus. You can also stop by the Student Programs office in room A130 for more information. We enter the final week with the final Success Workshop of the quarter on December 4, about Overcoming Test Anxiety. I bet that’s just the thing you wanted to learn about now that its finals week. Warm up to some soul enriching knowledge on how to beat back your pre-test butterflies and enjoy the company too, knowing that the students sitting in the room all feel the exact same way you do. This Workshop will be in room A141 at noon. From December 5 to 8 will be the Stress Free Zone, where you can sign up for a free massage on December 6 and 7 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., or enjoy food, music, beverages, coloring books, and a quiet place to study the entire time. The Zone will be featured in the Library Science main lobby all day. Finally, enjoy Holiday Cheer on December 5, when you can enjoy holiday treats and music all day in the atrium. And remember, today is the Final Day of Classes! Wahoo! But then again, many of us will be taking a final or two today too . . . Good luck in your tests, and enjoy the winter break. Cuddle up to some warmth, friends, and family during the holidays this month, and remember to celebrate the New Year too. We’ll see you in January!
ThE ACCuRACy CORNER
Puyallup Post Staff
The accuracy of our newspaper is very important to us. Therefore, if there are ever any misspellings or other errors in our newspaper, we want to know about it. Please tell us by slipping a note under our door, or telling one of the staff members in the hallways around school. Our job is to provide the most up-to-date and correct information to you, the students of Pierce College at Puyallup, and we take pride in doing so every quarter.
n n n In the November issue, Brandon McHugh’s name was misspelled in the article titled: Wanted: Support for tax-free textbooks.
n n n In the Events Calendar, on November 5, the article stated that flu shots could be obtained for $10 apiece, however, this event has been postponed until December 5. This is also stated in the Health and Wellness pamphlet provided to students around campus. Student Programs apologizes for any inconvenience.
Our office is located in room A160B, and our phone number is (253) 840-8496. Please direct any errors you locate in our newspaper to our office or call us at this number. Please include the page and article involved, and the specific error you have spotted. Thank you.
4
Puyallup Post
Christmas Charit y Equals Christmas Cheer!
Seasons Greetings H o l i d ay
M
any of us celebrate the holiday season with family, food, decorations, gifts, and fun. However, there are many people who aren’t given the opportunity to enjoy the holiday season. We consider this to be one of the most celebrated times of the year, however, when you don’t have a family to share the holiday joy with or you can’t afford the gifts, food, or a house to celebrate in, this can be one of the most dreaded times of the year. It is important for the fortunate to incorporate donating and/or volunteering into their holiday routine. This allows everyone the opportunity to enjoy the holiday excitement. Here are some simple and inexpensive ways that you can help the less fortunate this holiday season:
What is your favorite holiday flick and Why?
“How The Grinch Stole Christmas because of the fun songs and lyrics; you’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch.”
—Kent Beuchamp
—Kim Stevens
Kim Stevens
Local churches will also be hosting fundraising events and taking in donations. Ask around.
Terry Hobart
“It’s a Wonderful Life because it’s been an ongoing tradition for many families since it came out in the 1950s and it’s also our family’s tradition.”
“The Muppet’s Christmas Carol.”
—Lindsey Ostrem
—Michelle Riggs Michelle Riggs
Lindsey Ostrem
“The one with the guy with flaming hair. I think it’s called The Year Without a Santa Claus, but I like it because of its songs.”
“Frosty the Snowman claymation because it is warm and happy.”
—Danielle Hawkins
—Larry Wiseman Larry Wiseman
Danielle Hawkins
“Frosty the Snowman the cartoon because Frosty is so happy, but then he melts and you have to wait till next year for him to come again.”
Service Clubs Objective: Many service clubs in our area will be hosting fundraising events to help people in need, as well as accepting donations. For more information you can call: The Elks Lodge: (253) 845-9515 The Eagles: (253) 847-4390
“I love the movie, Miracle on 34th Street, the old one that is. I used to watch that every year as a kid.”
—Terry Hobart
holiday meals A service sponsored by the Salvation Army Objective: If you are interested in volunteering your time to deliver meals to needy families, the Red Cross will start accepting volunteers in December. They are also accepting food donations. For more information, call 474-1300.
—Matt Boyles Matt Boyles
“National Lampoon’s Christmas because it is realistic”
Gifts for Adopted Children A service sponsored by Sleep Country USA Location: Sleep Country USA 101 37th Ave SE Puyallup, WA 98374 Objective: You call 1-800-428-7495, a representative will help you pick the name of an adopted child and a list of things they need. You buy what you wish and return the wrapped or unwrapped gift(s) to Sleep Country USA, they will ensure that the gift(s) is given to a child.
“A Christmas Carol is really one of my favorites. I’ve watched it ever since I was a kid.”
Kent Beuchamp
The Giving Tree A service sponsored by the Salvation Army. Location: The Tacoma Mall 4502 S. Steele St. Tacoma, WA 98409 Objective: You choose the name of a child or elderly person from the tree and buy a gift for them. (You choose how much to spend.) Return the wrapped or unwrapped gift to the tree.
s p e a k o u t
—Kellie Dysart Kellie Dysart
DECEmBER 2000
5
Movie Review: Brief Synopsis: The curmudgeonly recluse Grinch, who hates Christmas, becomes annoyed with the out-ofcontrol Christmas festivities in Whoville, the town lying below his cave dwelling on Mt. Crumpit. But after the Grinch conspires to deprive the Who community of their favorite holiday by sneaking into town on Christmas Eve to steal everything associated with the holiday, he learns that the spirit of Christmas goes much deeper than tinsel and toys. Reviewed by Teresa Josten The Grinch is an entertaining movie for the holidays, but it relies heavily on the talents of Jim Carrey, who plays the Grinch. Not that this is necessarily a terrible strategy for a moviemaker given Carrey’s talent, but it leaves the viewer wanting more. More? Yes, like more plot. Although most viewers who grew up with Dr. Seuss books knows the original story, How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, I thought the movie would be somewhat based on Dr. Seuss’s story but somehow gives us more—more entertainment. One area were the movie did succeed in developing the original story was explaining why the Grinch didn’t like Christmas. This was interesting. In fact, I felt sorry for the Grinch after learning about his childhood tales of woe. That’s not something the book does for most readers. Amazingly enough, The Grinch included parodies of the movies Chariots of Fire and Lethal Weapon,
The Grinch
which seemed to make the movie more entertaining. The cutest character next to the Grinch, himself, quite possibly was Cindy-Lou Who. Look for her to steal every scene Carrey isn’t in.
Universal Pictures Director: Ron Howard
Reviewed by Steve heeb One Friday night, blustery wind blew-vey, when my friends and I watched the Grinch and his movie. Dark room set in motion, the kiddies commotion, and finally hush-hush the silence sounded, and flakeflittery druthers, the sisters and brothers, were glued to the screen quite astounded. We saw Who-vites galore in their crowded whostreets, who-caps on their heads, who-shoes on their feets. Who-ears and who-faces, who-bundles and bows-es, who-baskets fantastics, as plain as whonoses. Poor syrupy Cindy-Lou Who, the star with hair up to here and curls out to thar. She giggles and squiggles and then in a pinch, she warms up the heart of the villainous Grinch. The green man himself, the wit of Jim Carrey. His make-up is great, so wrinkled and scary. His whofur-lined features carry the day, for the mountain-top outcast the Carrey-man plays. You know how it goes, you’ve seen it before. This live-action remake has all that and more. Ron Who-Howard, the Who director on high, ponders not How The Grinch Stole Christmas, but “why?” I liked this movie, I liked the Grinch. I liked the acting, it’s a cinch. I would have watched it in a coat. I would have watched it on a boat. I think they shipped it in a box. I think that Martha May Whovier is a fox.
Starring: Jim Carrey , Molly Shannon, Suzanne Krull, Christine Baranski, Anthony Hopkins Rated: PG On a scale of five popcorns... Teresa says:
Steve says:
I’ll leave this prose if just to say, it’s kind of cute by night or day. And now I’ll amend those famous Who-words, that every child at Christmas has heard: You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch . . . Then you’re not so mean, then you’re back to mean again. Then finally not mean. I suspect if the movie went on another 10 minutes, he would have been mean again. Boo-Who. This movie proves to be much more than the original animated classic . . . At least in length. It’s not really that much better, it’s just different. And how could you hope to improve a holiday staple. And for anyone who hasn’t seen the original Dr. Seuss classic: “Bad. Bad. Baaaaaad person. Bad.”
for those who need a refresher course, here’s a sample from the incredible Dr. Seuss...
how The Grinch Stole Christmas!
For, Tomorrow, he knew . . . All the Who girls and boys Would wake bright and early: They’d rush for their toys! And then! Oh, the noise! Oh, the Noise! Noise! Noise! Noise! That’s one thing he hated! The NOISE! NOISE! NOISE! NOISE!
“I know just what to do!” The Grinch laughed in his throat. And he made a quick Santy Claus hat and a coat. And he chuckled, and clucked, “What a great Grinchy trick! “With this coast and this hat, I look just like Saint Nick!”
The Grinch hated Christmas! The whole Christmas season! Now, please don’t ask why. No one quite knows the reason. It could be his head wasn’t screwed on just right. It could be, perhaps, that his shoes were too tight. But I think that the most likely reason of all May have been that his heart was two sizes two small.
And THEN They’d do something He liked least of all! Every Who down in Who-ville, the tall and the small, Would stand close together, with Christmas bells ringing. They’d stand hand-in-hand. And the Whos would start singing!
THEN He loaded some bags And some old empty sacks On a ramshackle sleigh And he hitched up old Max.
But, Whatever the reason, His heart or his shoes, He stood there on Christmas Eve, hating the Whos, Staring down from his cave with a sour, Grinchy frown At the warm lighted windows below in their town. For he knew every who down in Who-ville beneath Was busy now, hanging a mistletoe wreath.
They’d sing! and they’d sing! AND they’d SING! SING! SING! SING! SING!
Every Who Down in Who-ville Liked Christmas a lot . . . But the Grinch, Who live just north of who-ville, Did NOT!
“And they’re hanging their stockings!” he snarled with a sneer. “Tomorrow is Christmas! It’s practically here!” Then he growled, with his Grinch fingers nervously drumming, “I MUST find some way to stop Christmas from coming!”
“All I need is a reindeer . . .” The Grinch looked around. But, since reindeer are scare, there was none to be found. Then the Whose, young and old, would sit down to a feast. Did that stop the old Grinch . . .? And they’d feast! And they’d feast! No! The Grinch simply said, And they’d FEAST! FEAST! FEAST! FEAST! “If I can’t find a reindeer, I’ll make one instead!” They would feast on Who-pudding, and rare Who-roast-beast So he called his dog, Max. Then he took some red thread Which was something the Grinch could stand in the least! And he tied a big horn on the top of his head.
And the more the Grinch thought of this Who-ChristmasSing, The more the Grinch thought, “I must stop this whole thing! “Why, for fifty-three years I’ve put up with it now! “I MUST stop this Christmas from coming! . . . But HOW? Then he got an idea! An awful idea! THE GRINCH GOT A WONDERFUL, AWFUL IDEA!
Poor max. And just what is the mean Grinch up to now? To find out, pick up a copy of how the Grinch Stole Christmas! have a happy holiday break—if you dare!
6
Puyallup Post
Espresso cart a possibility? By Israel Adams Puyallup Post
Once again, a permanent espresso cart could be placed on the Puyallup campus. It’s been a couple of years since Puyallup campus students have been able to grab a double tall non-fat mocha on the way to class. To investigate this caffeine-driven rumor, a newspaper staffer spoke to
Mari Kruger, director of enrollment and student life. She indicated that the possibility did exist. However, the pulse of the student body on the issue would need to be taken in order to approve or dismiss the idea. So, the staff at The Puyallup Post would like students to sound off on this issue. •Would you like to have an espres-
mIllENNIum mADNESS:
vine Club meets on Thursdays
DID yOu KNOW?
Megan Peart
By Israel Adams
Puyallup Post
Puyallup Post
The Vine is a Christian-based organization that meets every Thursday at noon in the library building’s large group meeting room. Students come together to worship God and grow in Christian fellowship. The group has a goal to bring the campus to Christ through Christian fellowship and worship. Advisor Tony Granata is available to answer questions about the group. This group is growing every Thursday. Students Amy Hamel or Adriene Aguilar help lead this club on campus.
As Pierce College and its students wind down yet another successful Fall Quarter and look forward to winter break, as well as the holidays during that time period, take a moment out of your gleefulness and remember that this upcoming new year provides an even better reason to celebrate big. This year marks the true end of the 20th Century. Yes, that’s right, we are not yet in the 21st Century, as mass media would lead you to believe. You see if one thinks about it for a moment, I believe you’ll come to realize that this is true. Allow me to explain. When the Catholic Church numbered our current calendar centuries ago, there was no inclusion of the year zero. It’s similar to the situation of children and figuring out
so cart placed permanently on campus? •Would you purchase coffee, espressos, and other items from this cart if it were placed on campus? •Do you think that an espresso cart is a waste of time and resources? Please direct all correspondence to the Student Newspaper Office, in room A160B. We welcome all responses to this article.
their ages. We start counting how old a person is as soon as he or she is born, right? Well, that is our year zero. From the time we are born to the time our birthday comes around for the first time, that year’s length of time is year zero. In other words, we can’t say that a child is one year old until one year’s time has passed, correct? Well, that’s not how the calendar was numbered. We started with year one, and went from there. Now, without a year zero, every decade, century, and yes, millennium starts on January 1 of the year that has a one at its end. Therefore, the 20th Century is still in effect, since we are living in the twentieth century that this calendar has recorded, AD, of course. So, if this concept is applied to the focus of this article, the new millennium, it actually starts on January 1, 2001. Not 2000, as is the popular belief. So, if you missed having a huge blowout party to celebrate the coming of the year 2000, make your plans to celebrate the coming of the new millennium, cause baby, it’s right around the corner!
Student Programs gets new special events coordinator By Lonny Sulfaro Puyallup Post
Starting winter quarter, Pierce College at Puyallup will have a new member of student government. Kristian Nason will take over the position of orientation/special events coordinator. Current OrientaKristian Nason tion/Special Events Coordinator Alison Yurovchak is leaving because she will be graduating early. This is Nason’s first year at Pierce and his first time working in student government. “I’m really stoked about it,” Nason said. “It’s a great opportunity for me. I really wanted to get involved in college and this is my chance.” The primary duty of the orientation/ special projects coordinator is to bring diversity programs to the college. Nason attended a conference in Wenatchee in mid-November to get some ideas to plan events for the remainder of the school year. “If students have any concerns or ideas, I want them to feel welcome to come in and talk to me,” said Nason. “I’m always available.”
New degrees from front page
Sumo Slammers
Puyallup campus students had the chance to dabble in the sacred art of Sumo. above: Justin Johanson applies the ever-difficult “Belly Flop” maneuver to Cole Ferrier. Left: Chad Allen (left) and Josh Warmoth gracefully carry out the “Belly Buck” technique. This event on Nov. 15 was sponsored by Student Programs.
transferring into four-year institutions early so that they could start taking the necessary sequences of classes for their chosen degrees in science, said Kruger. Unfortunately, they were transferring early because they didn’t realize until after having applied for acceptance into these institutions that those sequences of classes were required. Now, however, some students have the option of completing this degree before they transfer, to give them a better chance at being accepted to transfer in as a junior into the program they want at the four-year institutions, said Kruger. Administrators at Pierce are working on developing curriculum sheets now, and will be providing these sheets to their science instructors as soon as possible. They anticipate this process to be completed before the end of the quarter. “Also,” Kruger continued, “students shouldn’t feel like they are trapped in this degree. Students can switch into a regular associate in arts and sciences if they wish and don’t have to feel like they’ve ‘wasted’ two years on something, since all the classes can fit into the parameters of an AAS.”
DECEmBER 2000
7
meet the new student representatives By Dolores Mahoney Puyallup Post
In a statewide, record-setting voter turnout, students elected Zac Green to be representative I and Christine Chilton as representative II. Here’s a profile on each of the new representatives. Zac green Since the election, Green has been involved in helping Student Programs with their activities. In addition to classes, his schedule includes attending meetings and debates, working on the action plan for tax-free textbooks, and busily familiarizing himself with his responsibilities. The position of Representative I carries with it a special focus on environmental issues for the campus. Green has set several goals for his term as representative I. Most students are aware of the recycling bin located behind the administrative building. However, students have asked if the campus has an infrastructure set up to conduct recycling. The answer is no. Green would like to change that. One of Green’s goals is to implement a convenient and efficient paper-recy-
cling program. This would include having paper-recycling bins in each classroom and establishing a schedule to collect the paper. Green’s second goal is to maintain an active Environmental Committee that will address environmental issues and needs of the campus. At the present, the commit- Zac Green tee consists of only two individuals. “With more people involved in the committee, there will be more ideas,” says Green. Members of the committee would establish its parameters using the guidelines set by the Student Council. Green would also like to address the environmental interests and concerns of the students. This is where the student’s voice makes a difference. He needs to know what environmental issues matter most to the students on campus. Green, along with the Environmental Committee would find the best way to get the information to the students. “All too often,” says Green, “only one side of an issue is given, I’d like to present all sides.”
It was a dark and stormy . . . The tires gave softly on the wet pavement as I made the turn off of 39th Avenue into Pierce College’s Puyallup campus. Swinging left, I made my way around to the student parking lot, watching the dense foliage pass by through rain-streaked windshield. I eased into one of the few parking slots still available and quietly cursed to myself as I realized just how far I would be walking in the rain before reaching the doors of the main building. I quickly gathered up my textbooks and a few assignments that had rustled themselves free from my duffel bag during the drive. Finally satisfied that I had everything together, and no longer able to put off the inevitable, I switched off the ignition, opened the door and, clutching my duffel bag, stepped out into the rain. A gust of wind swept through the parking lot and roared across my already-chilled face. I quickly picked up the pace until I was nearly running toward the dry, warm building in the distance. I clutched the heavy bag close to my chest as I made my way down the winding path. My mind already was thinking ahead to my classes, which was why I was taken by surprise when . . . n Well, we started it for you — now it’s your turn. Write the next segment in this gripping tale of mystery and intrigue. Submissions should be 150-250 words in length, and should pick up where the story above ends and should end as a cliffhanger for someone else to continue. Submit your story along with your name and telephone number (in case we have a question) to room A160B. We will run our favorite in the next issue of The Post. Stories may be edited for length and clarity.
christine chilton As representative II, Christine Chilton has the responsibility of general representative of the student population. Since elected, she has been helping Student Programs promote activities. their Aside from classes, she has attended Christine Chilton meetings, debates, and festivals. She is actively working on the taxfree textbooks action plan. Her primary goal is to ensure student satisfaction. In order to meet her goal, her first task is to conduct a student survey. Each quarter, students are asked to complete a survey. Participating in a survey is voluntary. These surveys keep Chilton busy. She must always be listening to the voice of the student population and develop questions which address those concerns. Those questions, in turn, become part of the survey. Her job is not done yet. She must then take the results of the survey and represent the student population’s feel-
Registration from front page
time period. Therefore, students may not always share the same registration appointment time even if they share the same amount of credits. However, students may also be wondering about the lag between the time they can be advised and the actual time they are allowed to register for their approved classes. This time varies also according to the amount of credits they have. For example, a student with 15 credits accumulated will be able to register later than a student with 50 credits accumulated. “The system is that way to ensure that students with more cred-
ings and opinions to the Activities Board. As Rep II, she must set aside her personal agenda and represent those that elected her. In the past, student participation in the quarterly surveys has been quite low. Chilton would like that to change. She is designing new and creative quarterly surveys which will capture the attention of the students. More student participation actually makes her job easier. She has a better understanding of what the student’s opinions and wants are, so she can better represent us. Chilton has also been talking with students and listening to their concerns. Always interested in what others have to say, one can see Chilton in the halls participating in a conversation with students. Another goal Chilton has on her agenda is to have a debit card machine put into the deli by February 2001. At present, she is at work researching the possibility and laying the groundwork to meet this goal. As their final goal, both Green and Chilton plan to create a week of activities during graduation that will surpass everyone’s expectations.
its get the classes that they need to graduate. And that’s the way it should be, logically,” said Kruger. Also, there is quite a bit of lag if you’re one of the few who gets advised way before you can register, even if you’ve accumulated a lot of credits already. The early opening of advising for students is meant to provide a solution for the staggering number of students on roll at the campus. So, during the advising and registration for spring quarter, remember a few tips: o Get advised early. o Choose several alternate classes. o Take lots of patience with you because you’re going to need it.
8
Puyallup Post
Madam h
Zellda’s O
R
O
S
C
O
P
E
S
sagittarius November 22 - December 21 Love ‘em and leave ‘em is not the way to go! The chaos you thrive on is going to come to an abrupt end. You have to be patient. Show some respect and you will get respect in return. capricorn December 22 - January 19 People are buzzing around you and you wish they would go away. Be careful what you wish for. You might find that when they are gone, you will need them most. aquarius January 21 - February 19 You cannot seem to express yourself without being stomped on. People all around you are hypersensitive. It may be tough and you might want to cut loose, but stay calm. It will pass very soon!
Ask the Expert
Straig ht answers t o your technical questions By Israel Adams Puyallup Post
Welcome to the inauguration of Ask an Expert! This fledgling section of The Puyallup Post is designed to answer students’ questions regarding anything and everything* technical. Of course, this section can only run if there are questions from students regarding these topics. However, as this is the first run of the Ask an Expert section, there are no student questions for us. So, to kick things off, I thought of a few questions that I have faced recently and looked them up to further your education. Just think, you’re learning without having to do anything but sit there and read this article... Q: I’m new here at the college and I need to use the computer labs. What are a few things I need to know in order to do this? A: Well, there are a few items that you’ll need in order to gain access to one of the many computers around the campus. First, you’ll need to get your student identification card, unless you have already done so. These are available, for free the very first time you get one, at the Student Programs office in room A130. Second, you’ll need to fill out a
pisces February 20 - March 20 It is now or never. You are feeling a bit daring and you want to get at the truth. Go for it! Quit stressing out and clear the air. You will be better off.
cancer June 22 - July 22 Now is the time for romance. Kick back, relax, and share a cup of hot cocoa with someone you care for. Enjoy the warm, cozy fire, and remember to add the marshmallows!
aries March 21 - April 19 Show how nurturing you can be and you will avoid confrontations. A soft touch will go a long way and do wonders for your reputation.
leo July 23 -August 22 The tried and true is becoming tired and blue. Talk to your friends, brainstorm, get fresh ideas. Perhaps try a new “do”.
taurus April 20 - May 20 Now is the time to make points with certain members of your family. Perhaps you should indulge them and prepare their favorite food! Show them you care; you will be happy you did.
virgo August 23 - September 22 Have you been neglecting someone who means so much to you? Spend some time with an old friend. Get to know each other again.
gemini May 21 - June 21 You are running on overdrive and your emotions are starting to control your every move. Take time out for yourself and smell the crisp, winter air. Slow down, things will be done.
form in the computer lab that the lab technician will give to you. The form is required in order to use the computers and to use their web-surfing capabilities. You will need to fill out one of these forms every quarter. After that, every time you access one of the computers in either one of the labs on campus, the technician will need to keep your ID card while you are using the computer. Your card will be kept until you tell the technician that you are leaving the lab. Also, be careful not to print too much at the labs. Although you may create, edit, and print out your reports, articles, and research, use your common sense and don’t print out a massive amount of paper at a time. Q: I understand that I can access something called a “kiosk” around campus for a copy of my unofficial transcript, my class schedule, and other things that I am interested in obtaining. Where are these things and how do I use them? A: The self-contained kiosks are computer terminals that look like miniature ATM machines. There is one in the cafeteria, one in the Library and Science Building’s upper lobby, and one in the Advising Center. You must have your student identification number, which is usually your SSN, unless you request it be changed, and your PIN, which is usually your birthdate, unless you request it be changed. Any additional information varies depending on the item you want to look at. For your transcript, all you
libra September 23 - October 22 Cover your backside! Someone is feeling they have a score to settle with you, although it is only in their mind. Be on the safe side. Find those alibis; they are out there. scorpio October 23 - November 21 You are in for a treat! Many activities are going to have you trying new things. Perhaps a trip, a party, a job—you will have a pleasant surprise.
need is your student identification number and PIN. For class schedule, you’ll need the quarter and year info in addition to these numbers. To register for classes using this method, you’ll also need a class catalog for the quarter you want to register for, as it contains item numbers and other required information. The kiosks simply hook students up to the Pierce College website’s student information site, which can be accessed over the web at http://www.pierce.ctc.edu/ Q: My professor told us that we are supposed to email him/her for an assignment. How do I do this if I don’t even have an email address? A: Just go to one of the computer labs on campus and create an email account using one of the many free services available online. A good service is MSN Hotmail, which will allow you a large inbox, which is where any messages you receive will remain until you delete or move them, the ability to create multiple accounts, and the ability to access your email from anywhere in the world using the web. Other email services can be found through a web search using a search engine such as Yahoo!. Look at several in order to choose the one that is best suited for your needs. Well, that’s it for the first edition of Ask an Expert. If you have a question involving technology in some way or another, then please ask us by dropping off your question at our office in room A160B, or calling us at 8408496.
Grades from front page
grades using the Internet or touchtone phone,” she said. The removal of the mailings was seen by college officials as the next logical step forward. Eliminating the mailings also saves the college a substantial amount of money. Although no exact figure could be quoted, Kruger said, “since the removal of the mailings is throughout the district, it’s quite a bit of money saved.” Students can still use the touchtone service provided by the school, or obtain their unofficial transcript containing their new grades over the Internet. For students who do not have access to the Internet from their homes, any Internet capable computer terminal can access the same information, provided they have the necessary numbers to do so. Internet accessible computers are located in the library on campus, the computer labs, or any off-campus library or Internet cafe.
Website from front page
dents who want to know what’s going on. A lot of students will use the site—but not all of them—as long as it is marketed well,” said Mari Kruger, director of enrollment services and student life. The student services web page would be connected to the colleges current web site and would not have a fee to use it. “If students have any suggestions about the site they can drop them off at either the student services or student programs offices,” she added.