The Puyallup Post | Volume 12 | Issue 5 | February 2007

Investigating the ongoing genocide

What’s inside the sweets See page 9

See page 6

VOLUME 12

ISSUE 5

February 2007

Springing forward soon

Photo by Cody Turk

New art

Sharon Coward Reporter

Americans have been observing the tenets of Daylight Saving Time since 1966. Fall back an hour, Spring ahead an hour. Simple stuff.

Don't look now, but it's about to get a lot more complicated.

Two years ago, the U.S. government shifted DST three weeks up in the name of energy conservation. That means that instead of springing ahead on the first week of April, clocks should read an hour later by March 11, 2007. This is the first year this policy, called the Energy Policy Act of 2005, goes into effect.

“Basically, what happened was, in 2005, the president signed a bill for energy conservation, which is why the daylight savings time is starting three weeks earlier and ending three weeks later,” says Donald Sanford, Pierce College's IT System Specialist III. What does this mean for you? If you have a computer, it means a lot. Your computer is set to automatically update to DST times. The problem is, they're set to update to the old DST times. So for three weeks, your schedule will be behind for one hour.

“It's going to affect the personal computers, because…when daylight savings...hits March 11, your clock's not going to automatically adjust,” says Sanford.

Microsoft currently has a fix for Windows operating systems. It is an update, available for no charge on their website.

“Installing this update enables your computer to automatically adjust the computer clock (to) the correct date,” says the Microsoft website.

Try going to the Microsoft updates webpage, however, and you might get a little confused. Sanford explains Microsoft updates: See Daylight on page 17

SERVING THE STUDENTS OF PIERCE COLLEGE PUYALLUP

Tele-Lobby to do something

The installation ofCody Turk Photo Editor After Image

by Linda Beaumont in Recently, Director of Enrollment the dining Services and Student Life Mari commons has Kruger, ASPCP President Sean been delayed Cooke and Health and Wellness because of a Coordinator Andrew Monson fabrication attended a tele-conference with Nani Jackins Park, director of student error. The services of the Washington State glass Board for Community and Technical company colleges, as well as other community and technical colleges to further discuss the possibility of becoming part of the Washington State Student Lobby and what such a merger would look like.

Throughout the meeting most were for becoming a part of the student lobby, and talk quickly turned towards what the face of that organization would look like.

The issue of funding, which has which allows for another bad quarter, been brought up before, continued to but must be followed by a good quarter, be a major subject of discussion. Curand repeat that process without any rently, members of the Washington worries.

State Student Lobby pay a fee of This is because the original probation $4,500 a year. This amount of money policy was only turned into a serious is much more than most community matter when students failed to do better and technical colleges are able to pay. during the probation quarter. This led to Another topic that received a lot of the suspension of the student and the attention was vote allocation. Curappeal process. More often than not, rently, the system is based on the this did not occur. number of full time enrollment stuThe policy, in many ways, was as dents, or FTEs. The more FTEs the flawed as it was flawless, because Run- college has, the more votes they ning Start students could easily slack off receive. However, if this system is left one quarter, but as long as they got back unchanged, the community and techon track the next quarter, they would be nical colleges will gain a monumental fine. amount of influence since they have Well, all would have been fine, but more than double the FTEs comwhen facts saying every quarter “about pared to universities.

30 percent of Running Start students are As it is now, the community and placed on academic probation” and technical colleges will have their own classes can now be filled with more than general assembly, as will the four“60 percent Running Start students,” year colleges. Some at the meeting questions are raised regarding whether were worried about what would hap-

Running Start probation woes Tim Guy Managing Editor

Pierce College has been known for its Running Start students, and the fact that Puyallup campus has whopping 600 or more is no annual joke. The truth is, since our campus is surrounded by high schools, it is to no surprise that many of those students are looking for ways to get ahead.

However, it has recently been decided that a change be made to a particular policy that could, and will, change the very essence of the Running Start program: the Probation policy.

Recently, it has come to the college's attention that the original probation policy was not doing anything at all, at least—so they thought. The original policy was not so much about enforcement, but how a student could go back and forth, each quarter, being on probation and not being on probation.

Simply put, you could have a bad quarter, followed by a good quarter,

See Probation on page 17

See Lobby on page 13

The Puyallup P o S T

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Editor’s Corner

CommeNTaRy

Rebecca Watkinson Editor

Do students really need clubs on this campus?

Svetlana Nozdrina Senior Reporter

Hey Everybody!

Thanks for sticking by us as we move closer to the end of winter quarter. We are more than half-way through now and I hope that you are enjoying your classes and your time spent at Pierce this year.

A couple of weeks ago some of the staff of The Puyallup Post was honored to take part in a tour of the new childcare center on campus. It is an absolutely beautiful building that takes its soon-to-be occupants into great consideration with child-size features including everything from low sinks to windows that reach the floor so that even the smallest child can gaze at the outdoor scenery.

If you are a student on campus with children from one to five years old, take advantage of this opportunity to have them nearby while you're in class. Get on the waiting list now, because the center opens soon, most likely next quarter, in April. If you have questions or concerns, see Cherry Tinker in the Chancellor's office in the administration building.

We have some pretty fun stuff for you in this issue. It was fun for us to make anyway, and we hope you like it too.

First off, we dedicated our feature pages to Valentine's Day with romantic poetry, song dedications from you, the students, and information about what's really in that V-Day candy you'll be eating.

Next, we thought it would be fun to give you some ideas and tips for spring break, which is fast approaching. We get about 10 days off after this quarter, so waste them wisely.

Finally, in keeping with February as Black History Month, we decided to dedicate our reviews to celebrate the accomplishments of African-American artists, writers and activists.

We have our regular features too with a bit o' news, commentary and sports, so check those out as well.

I've used up all my space for this issue, so I'll just say, Happy Valentine's Day to you all and see you again in March!

As I walked through the halls of the College Center a while back, I noticed an advertisement hanging on the bulletin board.

It was for an American Sign Language Club meeting, specifying the time, date and location. Knowing that I needed to rack up some culture points for my ASL class in high school, I took down the information and decided to attend right then and there.

I found it awfully impressive that someone would actually have the time and energy to expend that goes into organizing and maintaining a club.

When the scheduled day came, I, at the designated time, walked up to the classroom where the meeting was to be held. I thought it strange to find the room empty.

Ok, so maybe I wrote down the wrong room number. Walking back to the bulletin where I originally saw the flyer, I doublechecked my information.

Hurrying back and knowing fully well that there was no possible way that I could be late, I figured the club council was running late. I tried to look normal as I checked inside the completely empty classroom again.

Fine, so who isn’t entitled to being five minutes late sometimes? I’m late all the time. However, 15 minutes is a little extreme. You’ve really got to be stuck in

Comic of the issue

some major traffic.

Twenty minutes, and I am feeling really silly sitting in an empty classroom.

I go back to the bulletin board and stare at the flyer for at least a minute. What if the ASL club is in another room, discussing events, planning things and having a good time, and I didn’t read the flyer correctly?

At thirty past, I slowly gather my stuff and scowl to myself. What a complete waste of time. Don’t hang up flyers if the event isn’t happening, ok? At least let people know if it is cancelled!

I remember how frustrated I was that day. However, I did not think much of it.

You know, I got over myself, but I also took on a different perspective towards college clubs.

As I continued attending Pierce College, I took note—and correct me if I’m wrong— on how much emphasis is made on clubs, clubs, clubs.

Organize one, sign up for one, come check them out! Why? In order to maintain an official club on campus and receive funding, tedious rules are involved.

You need to have a certain amount of people and, believe it or not, you need a charter.

Wow, I highly doubt many would trouble themselves with more homework than what is already assigned.

Don’t get me wrong—some people do.

See Clubs on page 13

The Puyallup Post The Puyallup Post is produced by students attending Pierce College Puyallup. This publication is intended as a public forum.

Published materials are the sole responsibility of the editors, reporters and photographers, and are not intended to represent the college s policies.

For information on advertising rates, or how to submit letters to the editor or story ideas, call 840-8496 or email puypost@pierce.ctc.ed u. The student newspaper office is in room 218 in the College Center.

Editorial staff: Rebecca Watkinson, Tim Guy and Cody Turk Reporters:Sharon

by Albert Latham

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FebruAry 2007

CommeNTaRy

From my cold dirty hands—campus germs Anna Peterson For The Puyallup Post

When I go to wash my hands in the college restrooms, I wince as the icy water sprays forth from the automatic sink machines. In the winter time especially, it's masochistic, working up a lather and then rinsing it off.

While I find this troubling, the memory I carry with me is worse. The images of my busy classmates, those who cannot stand the fresh glacier melt. Unable to avert my eyes, I become a horrified spectator of a five- to-10-second handwashing ceremony. Brisk, too brisk, I fear.

Everything I touch at school is touched by other students. This vicious cycle makes itself at home wherever people congregate.

Public places like schools are virus havens in the winter, I have heard.

I asked Dr. Robert Foege at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston to chime in with a medical professional's perspective: “Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza, but because hand washing helps prevent influenza as well as many other infections, it remains one of the most effective ways to prevent getting sick.”

He added that, “Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, when available, are even more effective than hand washing, but if your hands are visibly soiled, you must wash them first and then use hand sanitizer.”

What other infectious diseases can spread through contaminated hands?

Dr. Foege named a few such as Hepatitis A, E. coli and the Norovirus family ('stomach flu’).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and leading public health officials, simple hand washing is the single most important method of preventing the spread of

infection.

Washing your hands correctly and frequently is the first step toward staying healthy and can help us avoid spreading and acquiring germs.

The Tacoma/Pierce County Health Department outlines how to correctly wash your hands, and it is not just rinsing them in cold water quickly.

Follow these steps when you wash your hands: n Wet your hands with warm water.

Apply plenty of soap. n Scrub your hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Wash the front and back of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails. Scrubbing your hands together loosens germs and dirt and allows them to be washed away. n Rinse your hands.

Dry your hands with a paper n towel. n Turn off the water with a paper towel.

Unsure if you have scrubbed for 20 seconds? Try singing "Happy Birthday" to yourself twice while washing your hands.

As invincible as students at Pierce College might feel, we too are susceptible to these menacing organisms. “The flu goes around all the time—and the common cold,” says Dale Blum, biology instructor at Pierce College Puyallup.

However, “even with the common cold you don't know” if the cold water handwash contributes to spreading the germs.

“Some of the experiments really make you believe that it is spread through air, and then there are other experiments that really make you believe it is from contact.”

When asked if she thought the students at Pierce were spreading more germs as a result of the cold water, Blum replied, “I would want to do the test. I

Photos by Cody Turk

Germs travel fast from one place to another. Make sure to wash your hands often to help prevent illness. want to do a test with a control.”

She adds, “The warm water does make a better emulsion with the soap, but I think even more important is the (amount of) time you actually wash your

hands. I think that does make a difference.”

I interviewed a couple dozen people See Germs on page 17

Safety is sexy—so is responsibility Appriel Lance Reporter

Sex is without a doubt a hot topic in America. You can find sex just about anywhere you go—from billboards to store shelves to your TV, the topic ranges far and wide. And why wouldn't it? Sex sells after all, but the act itself always comes with a risk and a price to pay whether it be emotional or physical.

Recently, Student Programs sponsored a Safe Sex Seminar and hosted the Abortion Diaries and it started me thinking about how educated the general public is on the matter.

Sexual education and abortions have both made it into the political hot seat and on to the media circuit as subjects of mass debate. The main fight on sexual education starts in the public schools, which in my opinion, have the obligation to educate everyone equally in every subject—to many parents and political groups chagrin.

The truth of the matter is that the public should be educated on the topic of sex, especially on how to engage in the act safely.

Remember that it is always a good idea to talk about sex with your partner, a peer, an educator or a healthcare professional before you make the choice to

have sexual intercourse.

Sex always involves certain risks like sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancy. To many people, however, the risks are worth the prize, but for you out there who are interested in getting down to the deed, there are many ways to make your sexual experience safer.

There are at least 10 things you can think about, say, or do before you have sex: 1.

Talk smart sex first. Have smart sex later. STIs and unintended pregnancies affect both partners, not just one person. If you feel uncomfort-

able discussing sex and birth control with your partner, then you shouldn't be having sex! Be straightforward and talk about sex beforehand so you both know what to expect. It's easier to be rational and reasonable before you're in the "heat of the moment."

2.

Two are better than one! To help prevent both pregnancy and STIs, you should correctly and consistently use a birth control method like the Pill, Depo-Provera Contraceptive Injection or a diaphragm (for pregnancy prevention) and a condom (to prevent STIs).

Condom use is essential, especially See Sex on page 13

The Puyallup P o S T

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makING NeWS

Running Start forum informs students Tim Guy Managing Editor

Recently, Student Programs hosted a Running Start forum to help Running Start students with any questions, problems and provide overall information with and about Running Start.

Surprisingly the entire event was packed, with all heads turned toward the panel of speakers, which included Susan Mitchell, acting director of student development; Larry Pierce, director of student development at Pierce College; Leah Panganiban, Running Start coordinator for the Puyallup Campus; Kara Gardner, the Running Start program specialist of Fort Steilacoom; and Pat Earing, high school coordinator. Also, Sarah Butcher, the Running Start curriculum advisor of

the Puyallup campus, was nearby at a table of pure amazement—tons of information regarding practically everything a Running Start student needs to know was available, from a detailed comparison of the differences between high school and college to explanations about which courses count for high school credit to how to get AP credit while at Pierce.

And that is just the beginning, since almost everything from successful transitioning to college to frequently asked questions to academic support services to book loans, student expectations, and even instructor expectations was covered.

Overall, the speakers at the forum gave great advice, focusing mostly on questions that Running Start students posed to them.

Interesting facts that came to light during the answering of questions included the information that if you qualify for reduced or free lunch at your high school, you are already qualified for the book loan, which helps Running Start students obtain the otherwise pricey books they need for their classes.

Also, a whole year calender is available for students, particularly Running Start students, in the Advising Center, which details when registration begins and ends for Running Start students.

And lastly, but certainly not least, they discussed how certain facilities on campus, such as the Tutoring Center, are a major resource available to Running Start students.

It is impressive to note that although the focus was on the Running Start pro-

gram, the speakers made sure to acknowledge every aspect of Pierce College, since all of it truly contributes to the success of the Running Start students.

As to whether much of the information that was provided and displayed at the forum existed beforehand, most of it did. However, the access to such information has never been more clearly provided, nor has it ever seemed that concerns of former Running Start students would have been, as actively, acknowledged.

Also, many of the speakers are available on campus or via email, should a Running Start student have any questions that they need addressed and on top of that, all of the paperwork provided can be found in the Advising Center on either Pierce College campus.

Security helps keep the peace Matthew Hartmann Senior Reporter

The fatal shooting at Foss High School last month has concerned many students about safety.

Pierce’s Campus Security strives for a safe File Photo environment on campus for learning, and Traffic at the main entrance to the Puyallup campus should be alleviated when overall, the Pierce College tends to be a safe location, with few exceptions that do occur from time to time.

The most common incident to occur on campus is vehicle prowls which occur zero to three times per month, according to official campus at the same time that we might need to evacu- statements by security office.

Cody Turk Photo Editor ate our own students and employees. Providing more However, despite the low amount of inciconvenient access to the college was also a major factor. dents that occur on campus, it is the obligaPierce College Puyallup will soon have a second tion of every student to report any suspicious Q: How much did the second entrance cost? entrance near Bradley Lake Park that will help with behaviors no matter how innocent it may A: Total cost is approximately $1.5 million. both traffic and safety for students who drive. Director appear. of Facilities Jim Taylor was able to answer some ques“It is helpful for students to always keep Q: Will there be a third entrance? tions regarding the second entrance. their eyes open for suspicious behavior,” said A: A connection to Wildwood Drive is identified as Maureen Rickertsen, supervisor of campus a potential third entrance. However, to date, the City of security. They also want students to report Q: When will the second entrance be opened?

A: The opening date is not certain. A walk-through Puyallup has not been favorable to requiring the college any spills, tripping hazards, suspicious activiinspection with the contractor and our architect and to construct an entrance at this location. We have no ties and accidents that have occurred on camcurrent plans to add a third entrance. engineers is scheduled for Feb. 6. pus.

Weather conditions over the past couple of months For the safety of students, there are always Q: Were there any problems with the second at least two officers on duty per shift. Mainhave hampered project completion.

Signage and road striping were completed late last entrance? People who opposed it? Why? tenance workers and gardeners also carry A: There were some delays in construction due to Nextel radios and are in contact with each week.

We are waiting for Puget Sound Energy to complete permitting issues with the City, particularly regarding other. electrical service connections to the site for the street management of storm water run-off. These issues were If an emergency should arise, it's recomlighting, and we have not received word as to when favorably resolved. mended to seek one of these people out.

A few residents in the neighborhood adjacent to the PSE will complete this connection. The entrance canAll officers are trained in First Aid and entrance drive and along Bradley Lake Park have CPR as well as other emergency procedures. not be opened for use until all work is accomplished. expressed concern over the construction of the drive.

Although they are unarmed, they are in Most concerns are related to taking down trees in constant contact with local law enforcement Q: What was the reason for creating a second order to construct the entrance as well as concerns departments as well as the fire department. entrance?

A: A second entrance was needed in order to pro- about traffic noise and lights from cars at night.

The most important thing to remember is We have also heard several favorable comments. that the Security officers are here on campus vide a second point of entry and egress for the college.

Safety was a major consideration, particularly in the Some residents are supportive of having a means of to protect the peaceful environment. It is very event of an emergency situation in which emergency walking and jogging through the area created by the important to always appreciate the hard work services personnel and equipment may be arriving on entrance drive. they do by being respectful and cooperative.

New entrance questions answered

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FebruAry 2007

makING NeWS

aDS office helps students in need Stephanie Start For The Puyallup Post

Students with disabilities are a valued part of Pierce College and a key aspect of the college’s commitment to diversity.

“The Access and Disabilities Services office is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment,” ADS Coordinator Patrick Murrell said.

The ADS office coordinates assistance for disabled students in order to promote equal access to college programs and activities.

It seeks to assist students by making the necessary arrangements to facilitate full participation in academic pursuits.

ADS will provide assistance to students with disabilities who request help with academic or personal concerns.

ADS also offers advising, educational planning, assistive technology and learning strategies for students.

A student with a disability is defined as one who has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of the student's major life activities, has a record of such impairment or is regarded as having the impairment. Students must provide documentation of their disability from a qualified licensed professional.

What if students are afraid or embarrassed to apply?

“Everyone has some type of limitation,” Murrell said.

The ADS Office helps about 100110 students per quarter, and the goal is to see students succeed.

Murrell explained that there are two different types of disabilities: the ones people are born with, and the ones people acquire.

While it may be more difficult for students with acquired disabilities to accept help, the ADS office assists the student and facilitates a comfortable academic environment as well as helps the student adjust to life with a disability.

Pierce College admits qualified students regardless of disability and welcomes disabled students into every area of life within the college.

Students are encouraged to “self identify” by contacting the ADS Office at any time.

It is to the student's advantage, however, to contact ADS before the beginning of the quarter. Students requesting extensive accommodations should contact ADS well in advance so that appropriate arrangements may be discussed and implemented.

ADS is also willing to work with students who have a temporary impairment, such as a broken arm. A scribe can be used to help the student take notes or to assist the student in marking down answers for a test.

The options are nearly limitless and the benefits are completely at the student's disposal.

Some of the accommodations include (but are not limited to) alternate formats of educational materials, alternate testing procedures, readers, scribes, volunteer note-takers and adjustable tables and chairs. The college provides handicapped accessibility to include entrances to buildings, elevators, ramps and restrooms.

Also provided are pathways, curb cuts and handicapped parking areas.

The Assistive Technology Lab offers voice recognition software for students with limited hand motion or other physical impairments. There is also software which enlarges what is seen on the monitor for those with visual impairments. A separate room is designated for students who require a quiet or more dimly-lit testing environment.

Confidentiality is just as important to ADS as it is to the student.

It is a key factor and plays a big role in the success of the ADS office.

Documents retained are kept securely locked for up to seven years after the student leaves Pierce College. It is the student's right to privacy, and any retained documentation of a disability is treated as a confidential record.

Pierce College complies with Title II of The Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure any qualified student at the college who has a documented physical, emotional or mental disability is eligible for services from ADS. Section 504 and Section 508 of

the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Washington State laws prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities.

Federal Law states that, “No qualified individual with a disability, by reason of such disability, shall be excluded from the participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs or activities of any public entity, or be subject to discrimination by any such entity.”

Rehabilitation Act of Congress, 1973 Title V; Section 504 states that, “No otherwise qualified individual with a disability in the United States shall solely by reason of his/her disability be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”

Pierce College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, disability, age, sex, sexual orientation or marital status in admission to and participation to educational programs, college activities or employment.

ADS Coordinator Patrick Murrell, Program Assistant Amanda Granata and Faculty Counselor Liz Scott are available for consultation and may be contacted by telephone: (253) 8648335, TTY: (253) 840-8474 or Confidential fax: (253) 864-3159.

The ADS Office is in room 102 B in the Administration building.

Civil Rights: en-‘acting’ the right to dream Appriel Lance Reporter

The poster that advertised “Living Voices: The Right to Dream” on Feb. 6 near the Connection Café was misleading. My original impression of the presentation was that there was going to be an actual survivor of the Civil Rights Movement speaking out to students in honor of Black History month. However, I came to find that there was no real man by the name of Raymond Hollis.

Kevin Warren is one of the actors that presents “Living Voices: The Right to Dream” to Junior High Schools, High Schools, Colleges and Universities across the country.

Kevin Warren is an actor and Raymond Hollis is no more than a character from a make believe story.

According to Living Voices, “Raymond Hollis is the Mississippi son of a WWII African American soldier. His mother is a domestic worker who is respected in their small Mississippi

town. As a young boy, Raymond befriended a white boy and the two become great pals. ‘The Right to Dream’ follows Raymond’s life after he is no longer allowed to see his friend.

Raymond becomes aware that segregation and inequality must be ended in order to imagine a brighter future for himself and his family. When Raymond wins a scholarship to Tougaloo College he becomes involved with SNCC (Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee) and takes part in the sit-ins and protests of the early 1960’s.

When friends are hurt, and civil rights workers are killed, Raymond’s dedication to creating a color- blind society is tested. After attacks by state troopers in Selma, Alabama—and the following march from Selma to Montgomery— Raymond and the civil rights workers are rewarded with the passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Raymond, inspired by Martin Luther King, dedicates himself to continuing the fight against racism and raising his people out of the world of intolerance.”

Unfortunately, the only thing that was historically accurate was the photographs and video footage. The photographs that were presented with the presentation were actual pictures of actual people experiencing the actual fight to free themselves from the oppression they suffered at the hands of the American people and the American government during the civil rights movement. I am sure that the “Right to Dream” was real to those who actually took part in the fight for equal rights, however, I find it unlikely that an invented character acted out by a man has the right to claim he has a “Living Voice”.

The story of Raymond Hollis was moving and it gave students an idea of what it would have been like to live through the period known as the Civil Rights. I know that it reminded me of why we celebrate Black History month.

It brought to the surface my reverence and undying respect for Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and organizations that moved our nation to a higher stan-

dard of acceptance. I think that the overall message was important enough to ignore the fact that you weren’t hearing the story from the lips of an actual once-active participant in the civil rights movement.

In fact, the only important thing that we all need to remember is what so many of our nation’s brothers and sisters gave in order for us all to enjoy a nation free of prejudice, free of hate and free of violence.

Raymond Hollis was meant to echo the collective voice of a generation and I believe that he successfully did that, a spirit uplifted by the voice and body of Kevin Warren.

I have to say I must applaud Living Voices for continuing the memory of a time period in history not so distant from where we are today. I thank them for presenting students with images and details that Americans should never forget, because it is as George Santayana says, “Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”

The Puyallup P o S T

6

Darfur: an ongoing genocide Students can get active

Sharon Coward Reporter

“The children started jumping out of the windows of the classes when they saw the ‘Janjaweed’ coming into the school. Some of the children were trying to run from the school, others were trying to hide inside.

They killed two or three of the students who stayed in the classes. They were also shooting the other children who were trying to run away,” reported BBC News.

Scenes like these occur every day in a region of Africa known as Darfur, where looting, rape and death are commonplace. In addition, with constant warring disrupting lives and slowing the flow of aid, disease and malnutrition have become rampant, and threaten to break out into a serious heath crisis.

The Boston Globe is calling Darfur “perhaps the worst humanitarian crisis since the Rwandan genocide.”

“Human rights groups, the U.S. Congress and the former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell all said that genocide was taking place,” says BBC News.

Evidence does indeed point to a genocide that carries echoes of the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

“At least 400,000 people have been killed; more than two million innocent civilians have been forced to flee their homes and now live in displaced-persons camps in Sudan or in refugee camps in neighboring Chad; and more than 3.5 million men, women and children are completely reliant on international aid for survival,” says the take-action website SaveDarfur.org.

“Not since the Rwandan genocide of 1994 has the world seen such a calculated campaign of displacement, starvation, rape and mass slaughter.”

Regardless of the correct political term for it, the crisis in Darfur has clearly become too large to ignore any longer. The abuse of basic human rights must be stopped, and the warring hemmed before it seeps into surrounding countries and threatens the stability of the region.

Before action can be taken, however, it is best to understand the situation.

First, where is Sudan, and what is Darfur? Sudan is a large African country situated directly south of Egypt, and Darfur is the name of the western region of Sudan.

The crisis appeared on the world’s stage in 2003, when, according to BBC News, “rebel groups began attacking government targets.”

“In retaliation, the government launched a military and police campaign in Darfur.”

Origin of situation When examining the roots of conflict, some point to religion as a cause. Others point to racism. Both have valid reasoning.

Ethnically, Sudan is largely composed of Muslim Arabs and black Africans. If there is a genocide taking place in Darfur, the ethnic cleansing is being done by the Muslim Arabs, who control the country.

“The Sudanese government is… a military dictatorship that has been ruling Sudan for a long time,” explains Chris Vanneson, Pierce College Puyallup’s history instructor.

“They are representatives of a more radical brand of Islam… (and they are) trying to basically make sure that… all of the people of Sudan speak Arabic (and) follow the tenants of Arabic culture.” “(Their goal is to have) one language, Arabic; one religion, Islam; (and) one culture, Arabic.”

The rebel groups, largely supported by Darfurians, justify their actions by insisting that the Sudanese government is ignoring the people of Darfur.

“The rebels say the government is oppressing black Africans in favor of Arabs,” reports BBC News.

The Sudanese government, meanwhile, supports a militia called the Janjaweed, who together with the regular Sudanese military have been attacking the citizens of Darfur. “(The Janjaweed) have been trained by the Sudanese government,” says Vanneson.

“Their objective is to force the local people of Darfur who don’t speak Arabic, (who) don’t want to follow the culture… to become

Arabs.” “(The Darfurians) are Muslims, but they are not inclined to adopt (the Arabic language) or Arabic culture. They would rather follow their own traditional African cultures… they don’t want their cultures… to be replaced by Arabic culture, as is the intention of the Sudanese government.” “(If) they resist, then they are beaten…sometimes killed, their property is taken away from them… women are brutalized, often times they are raped, and sometimes after being raped they’re killed.”

“It’s appalling, an appalling situation.”

Face of genocide Reports of abuse, killing and death abound.

“Many speak of government aircraft bombing villages, after which the Arab Janjaweed militia would ride in on camels and horses to slaughter, rape and steal,” says BBC News.

“Millions have fled their destroyed villages, with many heading for camps near Darfur’s main towns. But there is not enough food, water or medicine. The Janjaweed patrol outside the camps and Darfurians say the men are killed and the women raped if they venture too far in search of firewood or water.”

Take action The international community, to date, has been sluggish in responding to this crisis. There is clearly a need for peacekeeping forces in Darfur, but the Sudanese government has been standoffish to international pressure, and according to BBC News, “Sudan… says it will not allow a U.N. force on its territory.”

“The Sudanese government is

This is where you come in.

According to StudentsAgainstGenocide.org, there are several ways American citizens can prod the government to increase pressure on Sudan to end the violence.

These methods include contacting elected representatives by letter or email, writing a letter to the editor of a newspaper, posting a blog comment online or donating to organizations working in Sudan.

Perhaps the best way to help, though, is to increase awareness of the situation in Darfur.

“The more people who are aware of the deteriorating situation in Darfur, the better our ability to get the international community to respond,” says StudentsAgainstGenocide.

“Talk about it ... (and) tell people,” says student Marissa Jordan, who has a friend in Sudan.

“Donate a little bit of money or time to help them or get the community (to help).”

You may have noticed Darfur Awareness Week during the week of Feb. 5-9. Student Programs Diversity Coordinator Gabe Johnson created the event with the goal of increasing awareness of Darfur.

“Hopefully (it will) get people to start taking action and doing something about it,” he says.

Simply by spreading the word, you are taking action.

The following websites contain further information about Darfur, and how you can help in other ways: SaveDarfur.org, DarfurGenocide.org, StudentsAgainstGenocide.org and CommitteeOnConscience.org.

playing games with the international community,” explains Vanneson.

“One day they seem to be cooperative, the next day they seem to have forgotten what they have promised.”

Small steps toward peace were taken in 2004 and 2006, but ultimately they did little to halt violence.

“The Janjaweed are still active and free to commit the same genocidal crimes against civilians in Darfur,” says SaveDarfur.org.

While the international community is in agreement that something must be done to end the violence, they will continue to move slowly unless pressure is applied to resolve the conflict.

7

FebruAry 2007

a cognitive look into studying habits Leela Dzyk For The Puyallup Post

Imagine the scenario: Bob is the typical Pierce College Puyallup student. He stayed up all night cramming for this big chemistry final. In the morning, as he took a seat to face the looming questions, his mind went blank.

Bob forgot everything he had studied during the entire sleepless night.

Now for some students, this may be an all-toofamiliar experience.

But there are better ways to study besides staying up all night to cram.

To be able to study and whiz through an exam, students first have to understand the concepts of how their memory works.

Human memory has three critical stages.

First is the sensory memory, which has a large capacity but a short duration of a few seconds.

Next is the short-term memory, which temporarily stores sensory information and decides whether to send it on to long-term memory.

The last stage is the long-term memory, which stores information for longer periods of time; its capacity is virtually limitless and duration is permanent.

“To increase the duration and capacity of the short-term memory, students need to practice maintenance rehearsal where they simply repeat information over and over until they are able to say the information without looking,” according to Psy-

chology Instructor Leon Khalsa.

There also is chunking, the process of grouping separate pieces of information into a single unit.

For example, if students need to memorize the order of a certain combination of numbers, such as a social security number, they can divide the whole number for easy brain processing.

If students want to take memorizing to a whole new level, it’s called elaborative rehearsal. This is where people expand or think deeply about the new information and try to relate it to their past experiences and their lives in general.

Several strategies in recalling or retrieving information are known as the encoding specificity principle.

One of the aspects of this principle is the fact that when students study for a test and take the exam at the same spot, they have a better chance of recalling the information.

Another strategy has to do with one’s mood.

Studies show that people remember something better if their emotional moods are the same at the time when they learned something and during the time when they try to retrieve it.

So if students are in rage because their professor gave them so many test review questions, then they should be in an angry state when they take that test to achieve better recall.

Finally, another component of the encoding specificity principle is if students learn something while under the influence of a drug, especially caffeine, they will remember the testing material with-

out much difficulty when they take the drug again.

In the scenario, Bob's problem was that he was cramming for that upcoming exam.

Instead, Bob should have studied with distributed practice, which means spacing his studying time with break periods between each interval.

Cramming is mass practice and should be avoided because it encourages forgetting. And actually studying the testing material before going to sleep, and waking up, then reviewing it again will greatly increase the chance of remembering the information when questions about that information is on the test.

Here are some more study tips: n Pay attention and decrease interference. n Improve your organization such as taking notes during reading.

Do not always read the material the same n way, add variation to the order you study it. n Prioritize your time around your most demanding classes and assignments.

Be your own teacher—make yourself do the n extra reviews, challenge yourself to make sure you actually understood what you read. n Apply mnemonic devices to your studying experience.

Sometimes, doing what Bob had done appears to be the most convenient way to get a decent grade on a final, but in the long run this studying habit won’t work.

Soto changes positions Svetlana Nozdrina Senior Reporter

Heather Soto is the student leader who has currently taken up the position of Representative II- Chair of the Environmental Committee.

Soto’s position within the student government was originally the Publicity/Promotions Coordinator.

“It has been really good working on the team,” Soto admitted to her prior worry about coming on board, because the student government had been working and bonding together since the hot, summer days.

“I was nervous about fitting in,” she said, but by her wide grin, it was obvious that Soto enjoys her job.

As a representative, Soto’s main responsibility is to represent student needs, address problems, and present solutions.

“I am a voice for the student body,” she says proudly.

Another proud voice found in student programs is Melani Cope, Representative I, who also actively addresses student needs—specifically those of the evening students.

Between the two representatives, accommodations are made to involve all students who balance between life and textbooks. The Disability and Disabled Forum and the Running Start Forum were planned and held with the hard work and effort of

these two representatives.

For those who have concerns about issues on campus, do not hesitate to stop by Student Programs; Soto is usually in the office during the early morning hours.

The entire student government body, however, makes it a point to meet daily from noon to 1 p.m. to eat lunch together, hang out, and bond.

Soto is currently taking Psychology, Public Speaking, and a Business course—working towards her transfer Associate’s degree. What will she be majoring in?

“That is what I have to figure out in the next two years.”

Graduating from Rogers High School a mere seven months ago, Soto admits to being the classical debate geek and into all sorts of clubs.

Currently, she serves as a member on the Students Against Destruction Decisions (SADD)—an organization which focuses on anti-tobacco use.

She is an assistant for Jerald Apple who, as the Washington State Safety Coordinator, is chairman of the organization.

Some of Soto’s favorite pastimes include basketball, scrapbooking, foursquare church youth and SADD. At home, Soto helps out with the family’s towing business, James’ Best Towing, by answering the phone and helping out with paperwork.

Photos by Cody Turk

Childcare Center construction Left:Construction of the child care center is nearly complete.

Top: The Puyallup Postand administrative staff were lucky enough to get a guided tour of the facility by the Director of College

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shoutout “Should the government be involved with banning unhealthy foods?”

“Maybe it's a good idea, since we have such a problem with overweight people.”

—Nathaniel Anderson

“Definitely; they should play a major role.”

—Thomas Bungert

“I think it's a good idea since Americans are so obese.”

—Holly Emerick

“That's your choice. If you want to eat bad food, you should be able to.”

—Chris Gregersen

“Absolutely. People obviously can't make these decisions for themselves.”

—Jason Mattingly

“No. If people want to be fat, let them be fat.”

—Kirk Ramsden

“No. If people want to eat fat foods, nobody should stop them.”

—Rian Winter

“Definitely, because if they do so, everybody will be forced to eat healthy.”

—Josh Mergens

—by Jonathan Feucht

Trans fat: eat at own risk Jonathan Feucht For The Puyallup Post

By July, New York could be the first city to outlaw the use of partially hydrogenated oils.

Jolene Sugarbaker, the self-proclaimed “Trailer Park Queen”, isn’t too happy about this.

“New York, I’m angry at you, and I think everybody should be as mad as me,” she said on a YouTube.com video.

“You need to stay out of my food. I know it’s some sort of scientifically formulated oil that’s bad for you. I know it’s bad for you, and I think it may be addicting.

But, do you know what? I like it, and I like to make my own choices on what's good or bad for me.”

Sugarbaker is talking about those trans-saturated fats, which exist naturally, in trace amounts in certain hoofed creatures, but are also by-products of genetically modified vegetable oils.

To understand exactly what they are, Chemistry 150 student John Johnson explains, “A trans fat has one or more double bonds in which a hydrogen atom is on opposite sides of a carbon chain in a transconfiguration.”

The process of hydrogenation involves bombarding unsaturated fats with hydrogen atoms under pressure, which further saturates the molecule, resulting in irregularly shaped fatty acids. As a result, the oil thickens and its shelf life is increased.

When consumed, the body does not know how to handle it.

“It stays in the body for quite a while, and increases your risk of just about every chronic degenerate disease known to man, including cancers, heart disease and even Alzheimer's,” said Dr. Joseph Mercola, a nutritionist at Mercola.com.

These fats can be found in most snack foods, baked goods, breads, cereals and even some so-called nutrition bars.

The New York trans fat ban will force fast food chains to abandon their popular tastes in search of healthier alternatives.

In New York, many fast food restaurants will be required to switch to alternative non-hydrogenated oils in order to maintain their market share. Many franchises are already phasing out partially hydrogenated oils throughout the country.

McDonald’s executives currently are testing a new blend of canola, soybean and corn oils, which is expected to phase out partially hydrogenated oils in all of around 30,000 restaurants in the

So why doesn't McDonald’s McDonald’s large french just use canola oil in their fries, fries which is less unhealthy?

In an investors’ conference in Nutrition Facts November, McDonald’s Chief Serving Size 6 oz.

Executive Jim Skinner remarked Servings Per Container to reporters, “As we move forward, about 1 we don't want to jeopardize the iconic nature of the french fry, Amount Per Serving which as you know is so very Calories 520 important to our brand.”

Calories from Fat 220 That iconic nature Americans have grown to love may be in its last throes of existence. % Daily Value* “Nutritionally, (McDonald's Total Fat 25 g 38% french fries) are a disastrous prodSaturated Fat 5g uct,” said Michael Jacobson, exec25% utive director of the Center for SciCholesterol 0mg ence in the Public Interest, a 0% Washington D.C.-based health Sodium 330mg advocacy group, which claims 14% trans fats account for 50,000 Total Carbohydrate 70g deaths annually.

23% The CSPI has been involved in Dietary Fiber 7 g suing companies that market foods 28% they consider unhealthy.

Sugars 0g Ironically, the CSPI in the 1990s Protein 6g was involved with promoting marVitamin C 15% garine (which contains trans fats) Calcium as a healthier substitute for butter.

Unfortunately, many of the 2% legal substitutes that may replace Iron 10% trans fats may be no better for * Percent Daily Values areAmericans. based on a 2,000 calorie The New York legislation may diet. Your daily values may lead to an increase in consumption be higher or lower of interesterified fats (such as depending on your calorie Crisco), which some health needs. experts consider a less healthy alternative.

INGREDIENTS: French Fries A recent study has suggested (Potato(es), Soybean(s) Oil that besides having the same Partially Hydrogenated, health effects as trans fats, interNatural Flavor(s), Dextrose, esterified fats also raise blood Sodium Acid sugar by 20 percent and may be a factor of type II diabetes.

“What this study shows is that United States by early 2008. some of the newer ingredients that McDonald s large fries has are being used to substitute for the 8 grams of trans fat trans fats that have been used may McDonald’s french fries, actually be promoting more heart according to the restaurant’s web- problems,” said Dr. Cindy Moore, site, contain 8 grams of trans fat for a dietician from the Clinical Nutria 6-ounce (large) serving, which is tion Management dietetic practice more than the maximum daily group on WSJV Fox 28. intake of 5.2 grams recommended Get the facts by the FDA. Nutrition facts are an excellent Shirley Fastrup, employee from the Puyallup campus dining com- tool for avoiding genetically modimons, remarked, “We use canola fied foods; although, they often oil in our fried foods, which is high can be deceiving.

“These (food) companies are in monounsaturated fat and low in not stupid,” said Dr. Mercola on saturated and trans fat.”

Many french fry consumers his website, “They cleverly passed seem to prefer the taste of fries legislation that allows them to disguise trans fat, so that if one servcooked in canola oil.

When interviewed, a majority ing contains less than 0.5 trans fat, of Pierce College students pre- they can legally get away with callferred Dining Commons fries to ing it 0 grams trans fat, which is a lie.”

McDonald's fries.

He went on to explain that the “It's not very hard to beat McDonald's fries,” Nathaniel See Fats on page 17 Anderson said.

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FebruAry 2007

b

efore you give your sweetie a little something special this Valentine’s Day, consider that most of the chocolates, cute candies and cupcakes just aren’t that good for your loved one.

Here are some examples of just what’s inside these Valentine’s treats.

elmer’s Chocolates Ingredients: Sugar, Milk Chocolate (Sugar; Cocoa butter; Milk; Chocolate; Soy Lecithin, an emulsifier; Salt; Artificial Favor), Corn Syrup, Dark Sweet Chocolate (Sugar; Chocolate; Cocoa butter; Natural and Artificial Flavors; Soy Lecithin, an emulsifier), Fructose.

Contains 2% or less of: Milk, Whey, Cocoa, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Food Starch-Modified, Invertase, Citric Acid, Salt, Skim milk, Color including red 40, yellow 5, yellow 6, blue 1, blue 2, egg whites, Gelatin, Soy Lecithin, Potassium Sorbate, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Sodium Hexametaphosphate.

Sweethearts Little Debbie Ingredients: Sugar, Vegetable Shortening (Soybean(s) Oil Partially Hydrogenated, Cottonseed Oil Partially Hydrogenated), Corn Syrup, Flour enriched bleached (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Iron reduced, Thiamine Mononitrate, riboflavin, Folic Acid), Water, Dextrose, egg(s) Whites, Soybean(s) Oil, emulsifiers, (Sorbitan Monostearate, Mono and Diglycerides, Soy Lecithin, Polysorbate 60), Whey from Milk, Leavening (baking Soda, Sodium Aluminum Phosphate), Salt, Corn Starch, Sorbic Acid To retain Freshness, Color (Titanium Dioxide, red 40 Lake), Natural and Artificial Flavor(s).

Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Corn Starch, Gelatin, Modified Food Starch, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Gum Arabic, Xanthan Gum, FD&C Colors (red 3, red 40, yellow 5, yellow 6, blue 1).

Cupid Corn Ingredients: Sugar, Corn Syrup, Confectioner’s Glaze, Salt, egg Whites, Honey, Glycerine, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Mineral Oil, Artificial Colors (Includes FD&C: red No. 10 and red No. 3), Coconut Oil, Cananuba Wax.

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The Puyallup Post thought we would give you our picks for the best, and worst, movies to watch with your sweetie on Valentine’s Day. Svetlana Nozdrina

Rebecca Watkinson

Best: The Wedding Planner

Best: When Harry Met Sally

This movie should be watched only under strict conditions. Should you need a good laugh and be equipped with chips and salsa. Having a friend nearby will also increase your enjoyment of the movie. In the beginning, the viewers are deceived into thinking that the plot has an innocent aura; hence, that is not the case. This romantic comedy turns into a twisted mess that begins to look hopeless. This is a relaxing, stress free film and is a great choice for any party.

This is without a doubt the best original romantic comedy ever created. Not only is it a really sweet story that will bring tears to your eyes, it's very informative about the opposite sex. Plus it has the famous restaurant scene that no one can forget.

Worst: Rumor has It Novels are written with a plot, poems are inspired, plays have a moral, and movies usually have a point. The point should be meaningful. You know, have a lesson to life, be funny… um… how about entertaining? Americans are not so desperate that so much effort should be put into something that is completely beyond entertainment. It took me 10—if that long—minutes of the movie to realize that it was another one of those—she sleeps with him, he slept with her, who slept with her boyfriend, who slept with his grandma, who slept… is that your idea of entertainment?

erin Stockton Best: Sleepless in Seattle This is a romantic movie starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Fate brings two people together from opposite sides of the country. Lo and behold! They end up at the Empire state building. The fact that the couple doesn't meet until the end of the movie makes me love it even more, especially for Valentine’s Day.

Worst: Lawrence of Arabia Guys, if you plan on boring your girlfriends to death, this is the movie for you. Although it won best picture of the year, and was the winner of seven Academy Awards, this movie, starring Peter O'Toole, about a British military figure and conflicted loyalties during wartime service runs three hours, 36 minutes long. Not quite my idea of a romantic evening.

matthew Hartmann Best: A lot Like Love This movie takes place over a few years in which the two main characters’ lives cross over and over. They eventually get together in the end and it's just a fantastic feel good romantic comedy.

Worst: Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood It may be good for an older crowd, but it had me lost and confused most of the time. The fact that it is apparently based on a book may have something to do with it.

Worst: Meet the Parents I know that many people like this movie, but consider this: Ben Stiller plays essentially the same character in all his “romantic comedies” and this particular one is no different. He's basically a nice guy who keeps getting into awkward, embarrassing and strange situations that make him look bad, but the girl loves him nonetheless. You have seen it before, and you really don't need to waste your time seeing it again.

Tim Guy Best: Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain Better known as just “Amélie” in the U.S., this is probably the best romantic comedy one could see. Combining eclectic elements from the rather inspirational sides of both the modern romance and culturally French humor, this film will bring many laughs, even a few tears, but with the addictive music score, many moments of heartfelt joy. Some might call the film surreal, others call it divine, but what is true: It is one of the best films of all time, perfect for one's valentine.

Worst: Titanic This may be more of a grudge than a criticism, but seriously—this movie has ruined Bag-pipe music. Ever since this movie came into creation, no one in America can play bag-pipe music without every freakin' American passer-by wondering if its from Titanic. Overall, the movie is long, dreary, so sappy that it is the crème de la crème of cheesiness and certainly not heartfelt—at all.

Worst: Bedrooms and Hallways For those of you who have seen “The Object of My Affection” and puked, well... imagine if they could make it worse. Well, they did.

Sharon Coward Best: Remember the Titans: One day, I shall have four cats. They shall be named Lofa, LeRoy, J-Pete and Niko—after the Seahawks linebacking corps. We shall watch this movie together.

Assuming, of course, that the Seahawks re-sign Niko Koutouvides. If not, then it shall be three cats.

Worst: Cold Mountain There are some movies you just wish you never saw.

This is one of them.

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FebruAry 2007

shoutout Whence Was I a lost soul wand'r, No rose to set me right, A graven heart, Guilt in stone, No love is lost for I. —Albert Latham

A fizzle of light, For clandestine roses, A song in a heart belies, A crumble of bread, Monastic rose, Serendipity flies above.

—Albert Latham

The first time we met, While I was waitin' for a friend, You passed me by, I caught your eye, And now it all began.

But truth does not portend, That it should not have been, What fate should be, Reality is undoing.

Love through memory, Not without contrary.

—Tim Guy

Hungry Desire White chocolate kisses Sweetly stolen in silence Creamy smooth flesh of fragrant forbidden fruits, Tumble down sheets where Virgin victims of vanilla Flirt with velvet fetishes.

—Yvonne Vahndell

With you I was alone this morning, but then I saw your face.

Your sleeping smile warmed by heart.

Your warmth soothed my pain.

And as I lay here next to you, I know this to be true: I will never be alone again as long as I’m with you.

—Cody Turk

The Perfect Girl The perfect girl is not very tall.

Very short in fact, measuring five feet in all.

She rarely wears skirts or even a dress And high heels are scarce I must confess.

No, jeans and a T-shirt is what she equips.

And a frumpy sweater to complete the outfit.

She snorts when she laughs, and she laughs all the time.

She gets embarrassed. I think its sublime.

She nags quite a bit, and calls me lazy.

She hates flowers, but she loves when I get her daisies.

She's beautiful as can be and she drives me crazy.

You may not be perfect, but I love you baby.

—Cody Turk

This is dedicated to the one I love Song Title: Called to Serve disheveled and dirty at the Artist: It’s in the Hymn Book neighborhood cleanup. I?will love From: The Youth you always.

To: Our Missionaries Song Title: Thank You Comment: If you get a Morman on yourArtist: Dido door-stop, listen to what they have From: Jordan to say.

To: Josh Comment: Happy Valentine’s Day! I Song Title : That Thing You Do love you!

Artist: The Oneders From: Jessica Song Title: Last One Standing To: Kelly, Lindsey, Lynzi Artist: Emerson Drive Comment: You guys light my soul on From: Kates fire, between three bags of To: Gretta-groo popcorn, rings of fire ( til we’re sick) and gross tasting-taffy, I will always love you!!

Song Title: Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing Artist: Mark Chesnutt Song Title: The Very Thought of You From: Katie Senior Artist: Nat King Cole To: Clinton From: Kim To: Tim Comment: You ve been in my heart Song Title: I Like Big Butts Artist: Sir Mix Alot since the first day I?saw you all

“What’s your favorite love song and why?”

“I can’t remember the title, but it just calms me down. It's by Jagged Edge.”

—Tony Chou

“I would say… favorite love song?... it's funny because I have a huge music collection… it's by Guy, called Let's Chill.

That's a good song.”

—Bobby Glass “Oh boy. I don't listen to love songs. Nope, nope, my music is disturbing.”

—Jessica Willemin

“My Endless Love. I don't know who sings it. (I like it) because I saw it on a movie, and I thought it was funny. It was a very good representation.”

—Joey Gray “You and Me by Lifehouse. It's a good song.”

—Cameron Halvorsen

“That song by Keisha Cole. I just like it. It appeals to me.”

—Tommy Chouag

“The Fray. The song Look After You. I just really like it. It's just a good song.”

—Kiki Salvnes

“Only You. I don't know why, though. It's just pretty.”

—Andrea Becker

—by Sharon Coward and Cody Turk

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FEbruary 2007

Sex Continued from page 3

in relationships that are not monogamous. If your partner says no to contraceptives that may prevent STIs, like condoms, it's probably time to rethink your relationship. Nothing is worth the potential lifetime consequences of a few minutes of unprotected fun.

3. Don't feel pressured to have sex. Or have sex out of fear—fear of hurting someone's feelings by saying no or fear of being the "only one" who isn't doing it. Virtually everyone wants to fit in with his or her friends, but you should never compromise your values to be "part of the crowd". If you don't want to have sex, be honest, discuss the reasons behind your decision with your partner and stay true to you.

4. Don't abuse alcohol/use drugs if you think things could get physical.

Drug use or alcohol abuse interferes with decision-making, which can lead to date rape, forgetting to use contraceptives or contracting an STI. The lowering of inhibitions that often accompanies alcohol use might make you think you'll enjoy sex more, but in fact, for a variety of biochemical reasons, too much alcohol actually makes sex less enjoyable for both men and women.

5.

Use the buddy system. If you

Lobby Continued from page 1

pen if the interests of the two college types conflicted, but there was assurance that whatever the situation, it would be as fair as possible.

Currently the meetings are just discussions, and no hard decisions have been made, but these discussions are important nonetheless. However, it is also important to start making decisions about what we want this student lobby to look like.

Clubs Continued from page 2

But those students are dedicated and passionate about their hobby. They want to maintain a club.

However, when this dedicated student graduates and no other students have dedicated a portion of their life to the same hobby, this club is gone.

Students should be cut some slack, especially when it comes to pressuring them into clubs. Because of all the regulations needed by the college to keep a club, it would be easier to just have an unofficial club on campus.

A club that doesn’t need any fancy flyers could function just as

go to a party or a bar, go with friends and keep an eye out for each other. Agree that you won't leave with another person without telling someone. Sometimes a friend's “second opinion”could help prevent you from making decisions that you might regret later.

6. Remember that “no” means no and passed out doesn't mean yes.

Being drunk isn't a defense for committing sexual assault or a reason for being a victim of sexual assault. If you are too drunk to understand a person trying to say no, if you are too drunk to listen and respect a person saying no, or if you have sex with somebody who is passed out or incapable of giving consent, it can be considered rape.

7. Respect everyone's right to make his/her own personal decision— including yourself. There is no imaginary "deadline", no ideal age, no perfect point in a relationship where sex has to happen. If your partner tells you that he or she is not ready to have sex, respect his/her decision, be supportive and discuss the reasons behind it. It is everyone's ultimate right to decide when and how they have sex—be it the first time or the tenth time.

8. Be prepared for a sex emergency. Consider carrying two condoms with you just in case one breaks or tears while it's being put on. Both men and women are equally responsible for pre-

“When we go to the President’s group we need to be unified and know the answers to our own questions, because they are going to have the same exact questions,” Kruger said.

Whether or not Pierce College will join the Washington State Student Lobby is still to be seen, but it is something that many are passionate about doing, and rightfully so.

Being able to have students’ voices heard and to have a say in things that affect you is part of what makes this country great.

well (FYI: you need to pass all those rules in order to be allowed to put up flyers for your “official” club).

Being a two-year institution, by the time a club gets to the status of an “official club”, the dedicated student that started it is on to greater and better horizons.

Clubs are great! I was in several clubs throughout high school and I enjoyed them all.

If there is so much need for clubs on campus, maybe someone needs to revise or throw out all those regulations that take out all the fun of starting a club in the first place.

Yes, some rules should be kept to maintain order, but sometimes it seems that the troubles exceed any benefits a club may have.

venting STIs, using contraceptives and should both carry condoms.

Sometimes things go wrong even when you try to do everything right.

Maybe the condom broke or you forgot to take your birth control pill. Whatever the reason, women should know about emergency contraception. Taken within 72 hours of intercourse, emergency contraception may prevent pregnancy.

9. The best protection doesn't mean less affection. Abstinence is actually the most effective way to protect against STIs and prevent pregnancy. But practicing abstinence doesn't mean you can't have an intimate physical relationship with someone—it just means you don't have vaginal or anal intercourse.

There are many other ways to be intimate and not have intercourse—just be aware that alternatives, like oral sex, carry their own risks. If you are going to engage in oral sex, you still need to use a condom, because oral sex still may lead to STIs. 10. Make sexual health a priority.

Whether you are having sex or not, both men and women need to have regular check-ups to make sure they are sexually healthy. Women should have annual gynecological exams and males should have their annual physicals.

Abortion is never an easy topic to talk about. Abortions can occur for many reasons, ranging from complications

with a pregnancy to an unwanted baby, but most of the debate arises when a “healthy” pregnancy is terminated.

I have never had an unwanted pregnancy, but I can imagine that it is a serious matter that strikes fear into many lovers' hearts.

The truth of the matter is that abortions will have a lasting emotional and physical effect on a woman who makes the choice to have one, but I also believe that it is her body and she is the only one who can truly make the decision about what goes in and out of it.

However, I do not believe that abortions should be used as a form of birth control. Having an abortion that terminates an unwanted pregnancy once should be enough to encourage you to practice safer sex, in my opinion, but I also have to admit that accidents can happen more then once.

Sexuality is such a wonderful and exciting part of a human's life. But like most great things it should be taken in moderation and with much care.

Sex has many consequences as well as bonuses, so being educated on the matter will give you the advantage on how to protect yourself and your partner.

Practicing safe sex every time you have sex will limit your risks of unforeseen consequences like abortions and diseases. Knowing where you stand and what your limits are will also help you develop a better mental outlook about sex.

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ReVIeWS

Photo by Kimberlee Titus

Saul Williams entertains and educates Pierce College Puyallu with a mixture of both rhyme and reason.

Williams: a beat we can all follow Matthew Hartmann Senior Reporter

Poetic hip-hop with an inspiring message to illuminate the world.

Saul Williams never imagined that he would become famous. All he wanted to do while he was growing up was to be an actor. As fate would have it, he would become sidetracked into a world often misunderstood by those not within it.

During Williams' recent performance at Pierce College he explained through word and rhythm the problems facing the culture of the United States today.

He ridiculed the so called “Gangsta Hip-hop” that is so prevalent in American society.

“Hip-Hop is extremely powerful,” Williams said. He further explained this by pointing out that the majority of the genre focuses too much on trivial issues

and violence while avoiding more serious matters.

He has been occasionally overwhelmed by his fame and advised students that are interested in performing to “take it in steps. It's a lot to get used to.”

The message that he is trying to spread to the world is to not take anything for granted and fulfill your full potential even if it doesn't fit into what others want you to be.

During the performance Williams allowed the audience to ask him questions which he gladly answered.

The way the words flowed from his mouth was truly amazing and very enjoyable.

If you missed the performance, but are interested in hearing more, he is currently working on releasing his third album which will be coming out later this year.

moVIeS X-ing out X’s movie: a co-tragedy Tim Guy and Appriel Lance Managing Editor and Reporter

My first impression of Malcom X, upon its completion, was the fact that it was very long for the amount of information presented. I have to say that I was disappointed with Denzel Washington’s portrayal of Malcolm X. Washington played a very dry-cut interpretation of what I have come to know as Malcolm X. I was further disappointed to find that the movie did not capture the true fire of his activism. I think that the producers focused too much on his early life and because of that, they forgot to do his memory or his movement justice.

In fact, the entire first hour (which felt longer than any other part in the movie) covered nothing but Mal-

colm X’s past as Detroit Red. Although, the film failed to explain the significance of the name, but that was the least of this film’s concerns.

The first hour is nothing more than a choppy mess of intertwined story lines, from himself early, himself in Harlem, and his parents. In some parts, it almost seemed impossible to know where you are on this portrayal of one’s life, because there is absolutely no flow.

He got a job on the train? Dancing at a club? Which girl is he dating? Is it the waitress? What happened to the blond? Was it Mrs. Scarlet, in the conservatory, with the candlestick? The parallels between this and the game “Clue” are astounding, because the same kind of detective work to know where you’re at was necessary.

Luckily, a copy of the book was close by for deep comparison. Apparently, what they spent an hour on

was barely a 150 pages, with almost 400 more that needed to be covered in the span of barely two hours. Obviously, that was a good sign that this film was mostly about Denzel Washington ad-libbing and Spike Lee imposing his vision of Malcolm X instead of focusing on what is documented either in newspapers or in video documentation.

When I think of Malcolm X, I don’t think of Detroit Red or who he was dating in his youth. The movie should have followed a stricter timeline and a more accurate account of the important events in his life.

They should have deeply covered his conversion to Islam, the fact that he changed his last name from Little to X, and the progress he made in the African American community.

Spike Lee’s amateur collage approach to the creation of his version of Malcolm X has a dangerous possibility of leaving the general public with a belittled version of the hero and the man known as Malcolm X. I sugSee malcom X on page 17

15

FEbruary 2007

ReVIeWS BookS an outlaw View Appriel Lance Reporter

In her most recent volume of cultural criticism, Bell Hooks analyzes "outlaw" culture—forms of cultural expression associated with contemporary society's margins—and the politics of cultural interpretation.

The essential theme of Outlaw Culture is that while many academics assume that the culture of the margins is subversive, that it represents an authentic expression of the values and beliefs of marginalized groups, in fact these works often serve conservative ends, reinforcing stereotypes and ultimately reaffirming conventional norms.

A class analysis lies behind this conclusion: that elites play a major role in shaping popular culture's images and consumption. hooks suggests that many liberal academics are so desperate to bridge the chasm that separates them from more "authentic" realms of society that they project their fantasies on the icons and products of commercial culture (for example, initially idealizing Madonna as "patron saint of a new feminism" and later as "high priestess of a cultural hedonism"). Although the book's twenty essays range across a wide range of topics including criticisms of the "new" feminism of Katie Roiphe and Camille Paglia and a reinterpretation of Columbus, the heart of the book focuses on race and its representation in film, art and music.

Three major themes run through these discussions. One is critical misinterpretation of black works by critics

as inspirational as it is Heartfelt Tim Guy Managing Editor

In an age where poetry is rather scarce, at least in the public eye, it is interesting to note that poetry, like wine, only gets better with age. And one particular poet rings true: Maya Angelou.

Hailed as a true “Renaissance Woman”—poet, teacher, historian, author, actress, playwright, civil rights activist, producer, director—Angelou is one of the great voices of today that can be found, especially in contemporary literature.

In The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou, a voice that speaks from experience-learned emotions and timeless compassion emerges.

Since many of her poetic works can be a tad difficult to find, it was amazing to have discovered in one my English

who unconsciously adopt a Euro-centric frame of reference. Thus, for example, hooks critiques the interpretation of gangster rap simply as a music of murder, materialism and misogyny. On the one hand, she argues, this reflects a pervasive cultural demonization of the young black male; on the other hand, it reflects a perception of a huge young white male audience for a music emphasizing violence and sexism.

A second major theme is the persistence of racial stereotyping among avantgarde works. For example, in her analysis of the film “The Crying Game,” hooks emphasizes the persistence of older, racial images, such as the "tragedy" of interracial sex.

A third key theme is "white colonization"—that is, the incorporation of the constructs of white popular culture in supposedly authentic expressions of the culture of the street. Hence, in Menace II Society, hooks shows how the conventions of the "gangsta" genre have been transplanted with few modifications to the contemporary “hood”. Or, she argues, Malcolm X in Spike Lee's film was de-politicized in order to make the film appeal to a crossover audience.

A critic of all forms of separatism, hooks seeks to encourage inclusion and "border crossing"—combining various voices and cultural levels. Her book does a masterful job of showing how race, class and gender intersect in American popular culture.

classes that such an anthology does exist.

The words found in the poetry are real, with no glossing, only the essence of life as it is wherever the inspiration is found, infusing cultural proverbial phrases and local catch-truths within the poetry itself. Included in this treasury are five of Angelou's published volumes of poetry, from “Just Give Me a Cool Drink of Water 'fore I Diie,” first published in 1971 to “I Shall Not Be Moved,” which was first published in 1990. The volume also includes “On the Pulse of the Morning,” which she delivered at President Clinton's inauguration in 1993.

Overall, Angelou's poetry never fails to release into one's imagination the truths of reality, using her knowledge of love, her travels and the wisdom gained over the years in order to make the poetry itself as identifiable as it is understandable. How rare such a perspective truly is today, and what a treasure it is to discover such insightful sight into the reality that is life.

muSIC B’Day’s no Survivor Appriel Lance Reporter

I remember when Destiny's Child was on top of the R&B and pop world.

I loved the soulful feel of their album Survivor.

Well, time sure has done a number on Destiny’s Child, they are no longer a group and the soul survivor appears to be Beyonce. The former lead singer is now a Grammy Award-winning singer, song writer and producer. On top of that, she's a Golden Globe nominated actress, model and fashion designer.

This girl has it going on!

Recently, she released her sophomore album, B'Day, and I have to be honest, the album is missing the creative soul I felt embodied everything that was Beyonce. Jay-Z makes an appearance in two of the songs on the album and I hate to say it, but having the same person featured in your songs gets old after awhile.

There are 10 songs on this album.

Out of all of the songs only two were worth the listen: Irreplaceable and Resentment. It’s true that Irreplaceable

has gotten the most play time on the radio right along with Déjà vu, but then again, that be may because it’s the only soulful in-yourface femaleempowering song on the w h o l e album.

The album art for B'Day confirmed what I guessed all along: Beyonce's body has become the main marketing tool for her music. The girl is gorgeous, but with all due respect, I think that as a musician you have an obligation to put the music before the camera. I know the common thought in the music world is that eye candy sells, but as a consumer, I don't want to buy a pretty package that has junk on the inside.

I can honestly say that I enjoyed her debut album way more than B'Day. The style of the music and the context just weren't my thing. I hope that Beyonce's next album reflects more of the diva I know she is on the inside. If I was her, I would write B'Day off as one of those mis-steps in my career and head back to the drawing board.

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16

The Puyallup P o S T

17

FEbruary 2007

Daylight Continued from page 1

“There's a critical update, and then your optional software update… some computers are set to automatically run the updates… it just depends on what the setting is.”

“A lot of people don't mess with the optional software updates. They just do the critical… and right now, the fix for [DST] is listed as an optional software update.”

There are two things you can do, continues Sanford.

“If you do your automatic updates… all of them, not just critical, you'll be okay on your home computer.”

Option B? “If you go to Windows updates, and

Probation Continued from page 1

or not the college experience, let alone the class, is being supplied. Thus, a new probation policy was drafted, one that every Running Start student needs to worry about.

Unlike the original policy, that was more of a warning that you could get biquarterly, the new probation policy becomes a black mark upon your academic record as a Running Start student. That is, if you go on probation.

But with claims that 30 percent of Running Start students are, it’s only a matter of time before the number of Running Start students actually affected by the new policy is realized.

See, once you go on probation, with the new policy, that factor remains with you—permanently—unlike before.

Now, if you have a bad quarter and have been on probation before, you will be suspended.

you go to the optional updates…and if you run [the DST update] you're fine.

Your home computer will be okay.”

Microsoft warns that home computers won't be the only computers hit by the DST change.

“The change in DST will have an affect on many automated and technology-reliant products,” says the Microsoft website.

“Individual consumers, small to medium size businesses, and large enterprises may be affected by the new change in time.”

That includes Pierce College.

“Where it's going to hit us is… in Outlook,” says Sanford.

“Outlook is a corporate email that we use, and there's a calendar in there… so you've got appointments and stuff.”

The college is planning to correct the

problem using a method similar to the one you'd run on your home computer: updates. The plan, says Sanford, is to “patch the server.” He explains what a “patch” is: “A 'Patch' is an update to the software. It is a little file you click on that runs an executable (another little miniprogram) that makes some changes in the code that makes up the software.”

Before the college can run the updates, though, it must first see how many programs will need to be corrected.

“Since January, the people in the network have done research to see what Microsoft says will be affected and how to fix it,” says Sanford.

“They have also gone over all the software that is used in the college to see if any of it would be date depend-

ent.”

Some are comparing the DST changes to Y2K, and questioning if it has the potential to disrupt our lives.

Sanford is quick to contradict.

“It's not gonna be a major meltdown, it's just going to have everybody an hour off… the ones that are affected, they'll be an hour late.”

Keep in mind, though, that you'll only be an hour late for three weeks, because once we pass usual DST time, all the software will automatically change. As Microsoft cautions: “All users of Microsoft products affected by the time change should give extra attention to meetings and appointments scheduled between March 11, 2007 to April 1, 2007 and Oct. 28, 2007 to Nov. 4, 2007.”

And for Running Start students— turned Pierce Students that are not even aware of what being “suspended” is, since it would rarely occur under the old policy, it is the closest thing a Running Start student has to being expelled. A suspended Running Start student cannot participate in the Running Start program, which means they can no longer work on their Associate’s until after they graduate high school and enroll as a regular student.

The first thing to be brought up in defense of the new policy is, in fact, the appeal process. Former Running Start students, unless really interested in how the program works, will have almost no knowledge that such a thing existed.

Basically, Running Start students that feel the quarter that causes them to go on suspension (mind you, not the quarter that originally puts them on probation, but any latter quarter to come in which they don't do very well) was unsatisfactory due to circumstantially unavoidable factors, they can try to

appeal the decision to have them suspended. But, unlike merely pleading one's case, and since some Running Start students take advantage of sometimes not having to go to high school at all while in Running Start, appeals must include a “letter from the student's high school counselor stating whether or not the school is in support” of the student's appeal.

Of course, high school counselors can be a new face of ugly for Running Start students. Countless examples of high school counselors not being involved, supportive, let alone even “for” the Running Start program can be found among the Running Start students.

Of course, such dissent is usually unacknowledged, because at the college level, it would be almost obscene for school faculty to not be involved in the betterment of its students. Not so much on the high school level, which is generally a reason many students join the Running Start program in the first place.

Also, to make matters worse, even if you can manage to appeal the suspension, every quarter after you do badly will result in you being suspended afterwards. Thus, you are locked into a cycle of suspension, and if you do badly the quarter after an appeal was successful, you are instantly, permanently, dismissed from the program. This is like getting expelled from high school, except worse—since it sends you back to the high school.

It is certainly no doubt that to prevent such a harrowing process to begin under the new policy is really a matter of whether a Running Start student is capable of maintaining, at minimum, a C grade level (at least 2.0 GPA) every quarter in all classes. And once you fail to maintain 2.0, you are branded with probation, and henceforth, they should basically tell you that once on probation, always on probation, because the next quarter, even if it is three or four quarters later, that you fail to maintain the 2.0—BAM! You’re suspended.

Germs

malcom X

Continued from page 3

Continued from page 14

in the women's bathroom while they washed their hands. These were originally intended to be printed individually, but I will spare you from the repetition. Every person had been sick while attending classes and noticed visibly sick people in the classroom as well. They all wanted warm water and believed it would elongate the handwashing ritual they all participate in.

gest that anyone who views this movie also does a good amount of research on Malcom X by means of other books and documentaries.

This is where I would recommend the book that the movie is nonchalantly, if not nonexistent, the basis for, because it fills in the countless gaps. However, another serious problem, which goes into the need for a stricter timeline is when they bring up the Johnson Hinton incident, because it takes place way after he is married, but the movie portrays this as the other way around and the wedding takes places in a different places and the entire struggle behind it…

Basically, the movie is not chronologically correct in various parts.

On top of that, all the travels done by Malcolm X in the world, whether it was in Ghana, China, or wherever, all of it was left out and not even touched upon in the movie.

The book itself is amazing, and provides so much detail, that you would think that the possibility of not having much to work with would be nonexistent, but I guess that wasn’t the case. After all,

Fats Continued from page 8

word “hydrogenated” in the product ingredients provides the clearest indicator that a product has trans fat.

While Uncle Sam may not be very competent at banning foods that may be unhealthy for consumers, good personal health decisions and education are the best guard against future heart problems and chronic diseases.

And for those who aren't too concerned, try Mrs. Sugarbaker's Cherry Chocolate Baked Donut Pudding with Malibu Margarine Sauce recipe before the ingredients are banned from the local grocery store.

the movie seems to have done more harm than good towards who Malcolm X is, portraying the worst of the worst and giving little to no attention to the struggling journey that a man took to become a leader, a father, a brother and even a hero. This transformation is phenomenal and justifications for all of his actions are completely absent in the movie.

If I hadn’t read the book before, I would definitely not be a fan of Malcolm X after seeing this movie. I just hope that others who saw the movie first took the time to read the book afterward.

In spite of the fact that the movie is poorly made and not in chronological order, I suppose that some credit is due to the creators for at least attempting to honor the memory of a man, who was willing and did give his life for his beliefs.

Even though he is mostly known for his radical beliefs in racial separatism, he was able to humble himself to the idea of a true “brotherhood” of mankind after his journey to Mecca where he drank and ate from the same cups and plates of men of multiple colors of skin, including—white. He admitted the dangers of nationalism and embraced the idea of alliances across the gap of race. It takes an individual to grow, but it takes a real hero to overcome one’s self—and that is what Malcolm X did.

The Puyallup P o S T

18

SPoRTS

Raiders headed for the playoffs Sharon Coward Reporter

The Raiders men’s basketball team— at 8-1 as of Feb. 2—is having one of its most successful seasons.

“That’s our best record to start a season—ever,” says Duncan Stevenson, Pierce College’s athletic director.

The team’s sole loss came after they had established a 7-0 start, the first such start in the team’s 36-year history. “(The) team is doing fine,” says Coach Bill Mendelson.

The 8-1 record keeps the team at first place in the Western Division of the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges (NWAACC), but as of Feb. 2 there are still seven games left in the season. “(We have) some tough games coming up,” says guard Noble’D Shelton. “If we can keep doing the things that got us here, to this point, I think we will be fine.”

What have the Raiders been doing to get to this point? There is no recipe for assembling a winning team, but there are ways to throw in the right ingredients.

For the Raiders, building a team starts with recruiting.

“People think… recruiting takes place at all the big schools like the University of Washington,” says Stevenson. “but there’s active recruiting at our level.”

Coaches, who do most of the recruiting, will frequently attend high school games and practices in search of future

prospects.

“Each coach has their own approach and philosophy to recruiting,” says Stevenson.

“Coach Mendelson believes in everything starting with defense… (and) he recruits players that play to that style of play.”

Characteristics that the coaches look for in players include quickness, athletism and strong defensive skills. Stevenson believes that “the strength of our defensive skills” is what got the team to the championships two years ago.

Assembling a talented group of players often isn’t enough to create a team, though. As sophomore forward Michael Wright explains, “Last year we had a lot of talent, but we did not play well together (as a team).”

Therein lies the most important component to a successful team. “(The players on this team are) not necessarily the most gifted athletes, but they’re good teammates,” says Stevenson.

“They’re unselfish players, they share the basketball really well (and) there really aren’t any egos on the team.”

For Mendelson, this makes his job less complicated.

“It makes it a lot easier to coach a group of players like that as opposed to trying to balance egos, and who needs to be the star and who needs to score the most points,” says Stevenson.

Mendelson still faces challenges,

though, one of which is the size of his team. In the NWAACC, the average number of players on a team is about 12.

The Raiders have 14 players on their roster. The challenge is trying to find playing time for everyone, because only five players are allowed on the court at one time. During the course of a game, coaches frequently substitute their starting players with backups, thus allowing others to play the game.

“Keeping 14 on the roster is unusual,” says Stevenson.

“Fortunately, I think Coach Mendelson’s found a way to keep everyone happy.”

“Of course, when you’re 8-1 that solves a lot of problems… the team’s successful, so everybody’s happy,” Stevenson says.

The players are also optimistic about the playoffs. Even though, on Feb. 3, the team suffered their second loss of the season which bumped them to second place in the western division of the NWAACC, the team knows what needs to be done to get into the playoffs.

“We just gotta work harder in practice,” says freshmen forward Quincy Garia, “that’s about it.”

“We’ve gotta get a lot better,” says Wright.

“I think we’re battling tough,” says freshmen guard Andrew Boykin.

“We’re a good team… (and) I think we’ll make it to the tournament.”

The tournament is the appropriate name for basketball playoffs, and because

of the way the tournament works, the Raiders have a good chance of appearing in this year’s competition.

“We’re in good shape,” says freshmen guard Scott Halasz.

There are four divisions in the NWAACC, and the tournament takes the top four teams from each division.

“It’s a four-game tournament, double elimination,” says Stevenson. “(Double elimination means) two (games) and you’re done… whatever point through the tournament that you lose your second game, than you’re eliminated from play.”

The Raiders finished second in the championships two years ago, and this year’s team hopes to repeat that success.

“I think this group has a good chance of doing well in the tournament,” says Stevenson.

Mendelson knows what it takes to get to the tournament.

“We can’t sneak up on anyone,” he says.

“Our team defense is key and that takes everyone who plays.”

There are concerns, though.

“We have to get there first,” cautions Stevenson.

“That’s always the worry of a coach, when a team gets on a good run and they get a little overconfident… we’re trying to make sure that doesn’t happen.”

“The season is not close to being over and we have to play like every game is (our) last,” says Shelton, “if we don’t, it may be.”

The pick of the boys’ basketball season Sharon Coward Reporter

Playing for the Pierce College Raiders basketball team takes a lot of commitment. Between daily practices and the twice-weekly games, players can spend up to 30 hours a week just on basketball.

Then there are the off-court commitments. Pierce players are also Pierce students, and they need time for classes and studying just like all students do. “(The players) all seem to be pretty committed to their academics,” says Duncan Stevenson, Pierce's director of district athletics.

Take guard Noble'D Shelton, for instance. On the court, Shelton is the team's second leading scorer and, though under six feet tall, he lights up the game with crucial three-pointers. As much as he enjoys the game, though, Shelton knows academics are also important.

“I love playing basketball, but at the same time education is the key,” he says.

“Without an education you can't even apply for most jobs. So I use basketball to make my time as a student much easier.”

Shelton has been playing basketball since he was five years old, and credits his family for drawing him into the sport.

Noble D Shelton

Michael Wright

“The whole family played basketball, and it was the thing to do,” he explains.

“Basketball is (also) a good way to stay out of trouble.”

Shelton graduated from Auburn High School, and he chose Pierce College because of its program.

“Pierce gave me the chance to show my talent, and it looked like a very good program,” he said.

“They have (also) had success in the last couple of years. It is huge to play for a winning program because colleges recruit winners.”

Sophomore forward Michael Wright has been

playing basketball since he was six years old, and he agrees that playing basketball is a big commitment.

“You have to give a lot of your time,” he says.

Wright is the undisputed leader of the team, both in theory and in play.

“Michael is really… the heart and soul of the Harmeet Mahal team,” says Stevenson.

“Statistically he's our leading scorer, and he leads the entire conference in rebounding.”

Typical of team leaders, Wright knows his team is doing well, but he also believes that there is room for improvement.

“I think we are playing good, but we can be a lot better,” he says.

Being a returning sophomore, Wright remembers last year's team, and knows there's a difference in this year's team.

“We're more focused on winning,” he says.

See Profiles on page 19

19

FEbruary 2007

effort is everything Will they stay Brad Jones For The Puyallup Post

In basketball or any other sport, you can't measure a team’s success by wins all the time.

Sometimes it’s measured by the effort that is put out, and overcoming the obstacles that come up in one’s season.

That is the case with the Pierce Raider women's basketball team this year; wins and losses don't tell half the story about this team.

At the beginning of the season, the Lady Raiders had a squad of only six players; and in basketball, five players are on the court during the game. Consequently, this is one of the smallest women's basketball teams in the western division of the NWAACC. Then, only a few games into the season, the team suffered an injury to guard Leah Brooks, which made the starting five play 40 minutes each game for the stretch of about a month.

But things turned around when Leah

Profiles Continued from page 18

Guard Harmeet Mahal is new to the team, but he likes what he sees so far.

“It's cool,” he says, “a lot of people are from all over the place, so it's cool meeting them… I like the team.”

Like Shelton and Wright, Mahal has been playing basketball since he was young.

“I used to play for fun, just at the park and stuff,” he recalls, “(then) I tried out for my team in elementary school, and I made it, and I've just been playing ever since.”

Mahal grew up in Vancouver, Canada, where he played basketball from elementary school to high school, and was recruited by Raiders Coach Mendelson to play for Pierce.

He notes that there are some differences between playing for a Canadian team and an American team.

“The competition's a little better out here,” he says. “Some of the rules are a little different (too), but it's the same thing, basically.”

Like Shelton and Wright, Mahal hopes to continue playing basketball after Pierce.

“I want to go on to a four-year school after this,” he says, “and try and take it as far as possible.”

How far is possible?

While the odds are long, community college basketball players have made it into the NBA before.

“Some students are hoping for the opportunity to play their sport professionally and hope to use their participation in college athletics as a springboard to the pros,” says Stevenson.

Others aspire to “continue their athletic participation at the 'next level'— meaning a four-year college or university,” says Stevenson.

“A couple of years ago we had as many as eight that were playing on four-year teams, which really was a good number for

Brooks returned in the line-up—Pierce had its first victory of the season over the Grey Harbor Chokers on Jan. 27.

In a dominating performance, the Raiders controlled every aspect of the game and came out in a 54-41 win where no. 22 Mele Rich almost came out with a triple double—scoring 11 points, grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing out nine assists.

This group is amazing for going out there every night and giving it 110 percent no matter what the circumstance, and that's exactly what they've been doing the whole season.

It's easy to have an all-star squad and win every game, but when you go through some of the difficulties that this Raider team has gone through, that really shows a team's character.

There's only a few home games left until the season is over, so go and support this team for all the hard work they've put out this year representing all of us at Pierce.

us. Right now we have three young men that are still playing at the four-year level.”

Wright and the team's other sophomore, Kellen McCaffrey, will most likely have an opportunity to play for a four-year university.

“Next year, we have 12 freshmen returning … (and) we should be able to place quite a few of those folks in four-year schools,” says Stevenson.

Remembering that education is also important, some players plan to get degrees while playing basketball.

Mahal will transfer his Pierce degree and major in either business or marketing, while Wright plans to major in education.

“I want to be a teacher,” Wright says. He credits Pierce College for “(opening) up doors for my future,” and also plans to continue playing basketball after Pierce.

Shelton isn't sure what his major is, but he does know that he too, “will definitely play basketball after Pierce.”

Before they began playing basketball, though, each of these players had special people in their lives who influenced them in a positive way.

For Mahal, it was his parents and older brother. “(My brother's) always telling me what to do, 'cause… he wants be to be successful like him.”

Shelton's biggest influence in his life is his mom.

“She does everything for me, and will help me out in any way. While I was growing up we went through some rough times, but she always managed to have me in the best clothes and always the best basketball shoes.”

“My parents always put me and my sister first,” Shelton said.

Wright credits his mom and dad as the biggest influencers in his life, and carries this philosophy to the court: “Play every game like it is your last,” he says.

“You never know what can happen.”

or will they go?

Brad Jones For The Puyallup Post

Watching the Seattle Sonics play at the Key Arena could be a thing of the past if the team moves out of town.

The Sonic’s lease is up on their arena in 2010 and after that the future of the team is at best—up in the air.

Local Starbucks millionaire Howard Schultz sold the Sonics this last summer to fellow millionaire Clay Bennet from Oklahoma after losing money the past seasons, which he blamed on the Key Arena’s inadequate facilities to make profit.

Schultz tried but failed to get state lawmakers to update what he thought was the problem; it was reported to be around a $200 million proposal and not even close to being passed due to the tax plan he laid out.

Bennet has decided to go a different direction. He would like a new arena all-together.

Two cities that are in the running of the new facility are Bellevue and as of right now what looks to be the leader, Renton.

Think about that, driving to Renton to go see the Sonics instead of downtown Seattle!

Only problem is that the State Legislators in Washington do not want to have any taxpayer forfeit a dime.

As reported by The Seattle Times, Hall of Fame Coach Lenny Wilkens visited Olympia in January to talk to the state senate about keeping the Sonics in Seattle. And that's what's happening; we're fighting for our professional basketball franchise to stay in Washington.

Ironically, Bennet was not present, so Wilkens laid out the business proposal that was given to him.

Basically, the Sonics owner asked for at least $300 million be paid in tax money to go to the arena that is rumored to be as expensive as $530 million; taxes would most likely occur in King county in rental cars, dinner bills and small effects like that.

To say Washington was unenthused about passing this would be an understatement.

Rep. Doug Erickson said, “It's just not a priority,” and House Majority Leader Lynn Kessler reportedly rolled her eyes and said, “Taxpayers have grown weary of building stadiums for multimillionaire athletes.”

All this bodes badly for Seattle Sonics fans.

On top of the lack of support from state officials, Bennet is from Oklahoma and even though Oklahoma City currently is hosting the New Orleans Hornets because of the team’s displacement after Hurricane Katrina, once the Hornets return to New Orleans, which is said to be as soon as next year, Oklahoma City will be team-less once again.

Oklahoma has never had a professional team in the state, the closest thing residents have is the college football team, the Oklahoma Sooners.

Oklahoma City has proved to be a great sports town to host a sports franchise after averaging 19,000 people a night.

If Washington officials don't pass Bennet's proposal over the next two years, he's sure to go back to his home state with his newly acquired NBA team.

If this took place, NBA Commissioner David Stern would take out one of the oldest NBA franchises, as the Sonics were founded in 1967.

This also means no LeBron James coming to town, no cute Sonics dance team, no Kobe Bryant and the Lakers fighting it out with Ray Allen and the Sonics, not even the rivalry that exists between the Portland Trailblazers and our beloved home team.

There is not much fans can do other than to try to make our voices heard to the legislators. There is a website “saveoursonics.org”, that gives us a chance to get involved in this fight.

Other than that, all we can do is hope the stars will be aligned when the final deal is submitted, so that we can enjoy professional basketball in our community for years to come.

The Puyallup P o S T

20

Erin Stockton Reporter

Spring break is on its way, which means Pierce students will be making a get-away and be looking for some helpful tips on what they will need.

Well, look no further! This article contains tips on where to get the cheapest airline tickets (priced just for students), what to pack for a weekend vacation and where to find and purchase a passport.

If you are planning on flying somewhere sunny over spring break, Fort Lauderdale, FL; Maui, HI; and Mazatlan, Mexico are great choices if you prefer longer distance travel, and are not afraid of flying. The cheapest ticket prices for each of these places right now are indicated on the map, as offered through www.statravel.com.

If you would rather stay near or in Washington, Canada and Oregon both have great vacation places. Victoria, BC; Cannon Beach, OR; Seaside, OR; Astoria, OR; or Leavenworth, WA are all great vacation places. Red Lion Hotels are located near or in each of these des-

tinations, offer great prices and have a good reputation of cleanliness.

Here are some of the recent prices being offered through www.redlion.rdln.com: • Cannon Beach/Seaside/Astoria . . . . . . . .$81.95 per night • Victoria BC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$60.80 per night • Leavenworth/Chelan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$60.00 per night As for what you should pack for a weekend trip, www.ehow.com recommends: • 2 T-shirts, 1 sweater • A favorite pair of blue jeans, 1 pair of casual pants • 2 pairs of shorts (for summery weather) or a light jacket (for cool weather) • 3 pairs of underwear, 2 pairs of socks • Pajamas for each night • Travel sized hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.

For the trip: • Wear comfortable sneakers or flat sandals • Wallet, ID, cash organizer, reading materials, etc.

• A map, driving instructions and details about your destination

If you plan on traveling out of the country and need to get a passport, you should visit your local acceptance facility. These include many (but not all) federal, state and probate courts as well as post offices, public libraries, and county and municipal offices.

You will need to take two photos of yourself, have proof of U.S. citizenship and a valid form of photo ID. Visit: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html/ With all this information, Pierce College students should be good to go… anywhere for spring break.