Mar 11, 2022 (53.1)

53.1

THE

COMMUNICATOR

03.11.22

DATES THAT WON’T

BREAK THE

BANK

CONTENTS OUR STAFF

Brandon Pickering REPORTER

Savannah Langhurst WEB EDITOR

Erik Nelson REPORTER

Tobey Mickleson REPORTER

Jason Nix ADVISER

Visit us online at: communicatoronline.org

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03.11.2022

Cover Photo | Brandon Pickering

NEWS

Our Mission The Communicator has been an open forum for the diversity of voices on the SFCC campus since 1968. The paper is, and has always been, entirely produced by student editors and staff, who are completely responsible for all content.

The purpose of the Communicator is to inform and entertain SFCC students, faculty, and staff while providing a space for multiple points of view from all members of the campus community. We believe that the freedom of speech and expression is vital to intellectual pursuits, and we fully expect that you will find opinions expressed in our pages with which you agree and some with which you disagree. If this is the case, it means we have done our jobs.

We strive to publish news stories that are accurate, impartial, fair, and relevant to the entire campus community. On our editorial pages, readers will find individual opinions from students, faculty, staff, and members from the outside community when relevant. Staff editorials represent the majority view of the student editorial staff and do not necessarily represent SFCC administration, student government, faculty, or staff.

When we make a mistake, we will make every effort to correct the mistake in the next issue as well as on our website (www. communicatoronline.org).

We value your input. Please send all story ideas and feedback to communicator.eic@gmail.com.

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COVID VACCINE PASSPORT RUNNING START/COVID TRAVELS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 5 6

STRING QUARTET LIVE MUSIC IN SPOKANE

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BLACKENED SHRIMP TACOS

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CONSTRUCTION ON CAMPUS

FLAVORS PHOTO ESSAY TECHNOLOGY

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AMATEUR ASTRONOMY

FEATURES

10 BUG OUT BAG 11 PARKING ON CAMPUS 12 DATES FOR REASONABLE PRICE The first issue of The Communicator is free. Additional copies are 50 cents each.

Newspaper theft is a form of censorship and removal of copies may result in criminal charges.

Class sets are available free of charge upon request:

Community Colleges of Spokane does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, sexual orientation or age in its programs, activities or employment. CCS offers more than 100 academic degrees and career and technical programs. CCS has an open door admissions policy which admits any graduate of a high school or an individual at least 18 years of age and holding a Certificate of Educational Competence. Some programs have additional admission criteria, which is listed on the website. CCS takes steps to ensure a lack of English language skills is not a barrier to admission or participation. Direct all inquiries regarding equal opportunity compliance and/or grievances to chief strategy and administration officer, CCS, 501 N. Riverpoint Blvd., P.O. Box 6000, MS1004, Spokane, Wash. 992176000 or call 509-434-5037. Direct all inquiries or grievances regarding access and Title IX to the chief compliance officer, 2917 W. Whistalks Way, MS 3027, Spokane, Wash. 99224, or call 509-2796012.

WANT TO JOIN THE COMMUNICATOR STAFF? Any SFCC student is welcome to join our staff by enrolling in College Newspaper Production I (JOURN 101).

No previous experience is required. All students are encouraged to participate.

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Tips to make COVID-19 travel easy Try the Covid-19 Vaccine Card on your Smartphone Brandon Pickering COMMUNICATOR

H

ave you or someone you know received the COVID-19 vaccine, and keep losing the card? Try out the digital path with your iPhone, Android, or Galaxy.

As the COVID-19 Pandemic, and its many variants, is still in full force across small businesses, schools, government agencies and across the globe, proof of vaccination is key nowadays going into any event or trying to leave the country for business or pleasure. In some cases, these mandates just apply to employees, but in others, customers and visitors must show they’re up-to-date on their doses, too.

If you’re traveling abroad, verifying your current vaccination status is more important than ever. But you don’t have to keep your printed record in your wallet or purse anymore. To avoid damaging or losing your vaccine card, you can easily store it on your phone.

“Having my vaccine information on my phone is so much easier,” Aaron Richardson, SFCC sophomore, said. “I don’t have to worry about damaging or losing my card, I just have it right in my Apple Wallet.”

Even with the country split on their decision with allowing their citizens the digital download of their vaccine cards, you can still get into places with having a picture of your vaccine card in your camera roll.

Even though states like Kentucky, Texas, Wyoming, Maine and many others are not on board with having digital records of the vaccine for smartphones, they are not denying that it could potentially work out in the near future. With Legislation passing left and right from government officials who don’t want the vaccine passport to be a digital access, everyday people are still deciding if it’s really a bad thing to have or not.

“I still have my vaccine card, laminated and always in my wallet,” Ryan Parker, Arkansas resident, said, “I just feel safer with having it the old fashioned way than having the government all up in my business like they usually are.”

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It’s always easier to add your vaccine information on your phone and to keep it safe at all times. Losing it and dealing with the wait time with your local health department trying to get a new card is always a hassle and time consuming. Some people have even gone to the extra measure and taken a picture of their card and saved it in their photo gallery on their phones just to be extra safe at that time of need at either sporting, music, movie, or travel events.

“I use all three methods of storing my COVID-19 vaccine information, and make sure it’s with me at all times,” Corey Yanks, Washington resident said, “I have a photo, physical card, as well as my Apple Wallet proof of my vaccine and my booster shot, just to be safe.”

If you haven’t gotten your vaccine card on your phone yet, and are interested in doing just that, follow these simple steps below on getting them on your phone today. iPhone: If given a downloadable file from WAverify.org, follow these 3 easy steps.

Tap the download link on your iPhone or iPod touch.

For verifiable vaccination records, tap Add to Wallet & Health to add the record to the Health app and Wallet app.

Tap Done Apple Watch: The WatchOS 8.1 update allows you to keep your card handy through your Apple Wallet too.

Android: With your device, visit the website, app, email, or text from your healthcare provider.

Find your COVID-19 vaccination or test information.

Find and tap Save to phone.

If you’re asked if you want to save with Chrome or Google Pay, choose Google Pay even if you don’t have the Google Pay app.

Tap Continue.

Samsung: Galaxy owners have the option to add proof of vaccination to Samsung Pay. To access Samsung’s Vaccine Pass, you can download either the IBM Digital Health Pass Wallet or the CommonHealth app from the Google Play Store and follow the prompts to verify your vaccination status. Once the app confirms you’ve indeed gotten the jabs, you’ll be prompted to download a Smart Health Card to Samsung Pay that you can show to anyone requesting you show proof of vaccination.

Brandon Pickering | COMMUNICATOR Top: Here is the Digital Vaccine Passport on an iPhone 11 Pro. Bottom: Two locals holding the Physical Vaccine Card.

For more information in the state of Washington, visit waverify.doh.wa.gov/ and get the digital records today.

Brandon Pickering | COMMUNICATOR

MARCH 11, 2022

COMMUNICATOR

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The Communicator

03.11.2022

Traveling in global pandemic, still possible?

With COVID-19 still around, how is the world traveling?

Brandon Pickering The Communicator Eager to get out of your state or even get out of the country for a little bit of “You” time, or maybe you just want to explore the world? Well you’re in luck, but there might be some restrictions, including vaccine requirements.

For people not making road trips, the CDC reminds people that wearing a mask over your nose and mouth is required when in indoor areas of public transportation. If you do decide to travel to another US state, you should still check out the latest guidance before you go, even if you’re fully vaccinated.

When entering a different country, especially now, these are the key items to bring with you when you depart and arrive from

airports. Face masks/face coverings, proof of negative test or vaccination card with passport. With those items, you are sure to have an easy run through international customs.

“Traveling is fun, but during the times we’re still, we always have to make sure we are being safe,” Amy Shofell, American Airlines flight attendant, said, “Always make sure you bring extra masks, hand sanitizer, and your covid vaccination card when you travel out of the country. It’s better to be prepared than to scramble at the last second.”

Even though the pandemic is still in effect , always be sure to check weekly for specific country restriction updates. Countries such as Albania, Argentina, Brazil, and Costa Rica (as well as few others) are on board with showing a negative test result within two to three days prior to arrival. Other countries such as England, France, and Greece (as well as a few others) are now accepting a one day negative test prior or vaccination card with less

than six months/up to date booster shot to enter their country.

“It’s always a crazy time traveling anywhere, but this past winter season has been even more crazy due to low staffing (due to covid) and the weather conditions,” Darren Rodriguez, Spokane Airport TSA, said. “Even though it was hard for some of us (including myself), we managed to pull through and made sure people got through the checkpoint to get to their flights.”

It’s always good to know when and when not to travel out of your surrounding areas, especially right now with the pandemic still in full force. With the Omnicron variant in full spread throughout most of the east coast as well as many of the European countries, as long as you are taking the precautions seriously, you should be fine when entering different countries.

While other countries are being portrayed as “a crazy area to be in,”

Alex Church | Submitted Photo Plane leaving the Pheonix Sky Harbor Airport

they are close enough to the United States and each individual state on their protocols. Each public transportation service requires you to wear a mask (unless actively eating or drinking) and to have a six feet distance from others.

“I traveled to England for school in 2020/2021 and really enjoyed it.”

Roxanne Zorea, University of Kent Student, said, “Even though it wasn’t the best time to travel over there and be there

because of Covid, I was still able to go up to the University of Kent and take part in my classes. It was interesting to see how London was acting towards the virus. To see the governmental restraints on certain places in Canterbury and London was mind blowing because I have been to England many times prior to the pandemic.”

If you still plan on traveling to different countries or different states right now, make sure you always check the state or country restriction updates on their website, https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/ map-and-travel-notices.html

Running Start students earn college credit Tobey Mickleson

The Communicator One of the programs offered

by Community Colleges of Spokane (CCS) for high school students is called Running Start. Running Start offers high school juniors and seniors with a certain GPA the opportunity to earn dual credit. Running Start students earn high school and college credit at the same time. For CCS, high school students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above to be admitted. Students must have at least a 3.25 GPA to take classes at Eastern Washington University (EWU).

With Running Start, it is possible for a student to earn an associate degree tuition free. The student

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still has to pay for books and fees.

Running Start credits transfer easily to Washington State schools. This program is an option for students looking for more challenging coursework not available in some high schools. While this requires greater responsibility, it also gives a measure of independence for the students who are ready for it.

Despite the many benefits, only some high school students will see Running Start as a path worth pursuing. Being a Running Start student requires more responsibility. Running Start students have to be ready to adapt to the college level expectations. Before any student signs up for Running Start, they must be sure they are up for the challenge. It is important to know that failing a college level

class will always be on the student’s permanent high school transcript.

This could put the student behind in credits to graduate. Another reason students may feel hesitant about Running Start is because they will miss much of the high school social scene, although some might see that as a benefit.

A counselor from Mt. Spokane High School, Jamie Goodman, said that about 90 percent of all Running Start students from Mt. Spokane advanced to four year colleges. She also mentioned that she had four students return to Mt. Spokane from Running Start this year.

The director of enrollment programs at SFCC, Brenda Schreiber, confirmed that Running Start students can earn up to 15 credits each quarter, and that many students earn

their AA and High School diploma at the same time. Schreiber endorsed Running Start saying, “As a parent of three running start students, I would highly recommend running start! In addition to the financial savings, it was an opportunity for personal growth and responsibility, taking courses that were not available at the high school , and career exploration. It allowed them to start their college career with the support of high school and running start staff to guide them along the way!”

There will be an information session on March 10th at 6:30 pm.

For more information visit sfcc.spokane.edu/Become-a-Student. https:// sfcc.spokane.edu/Become-a-Student/High-School/Running-Start/ Who-is-Eligible www.communicatoronline.org

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String Quartet To Play At Bing Crosby Communication is key, but these four make it look so easy Savannah Langhurst COMMUNICATOR If you have never watched the Spokane String Quartet perform before, you should consider making plans to go to their next concert on March 20th at the Bing Crosby Theater in downtown Spokane.

This will be their first Spring concert of the new year and the theme for this show is “On a lark.”

They will be playing three pieces by three different composers: “An Exaltation of Larks” composed by Jennifer Higdon, String Quartet in D Major, Op.64 No. 5, “The Lark” composed by Joseph Haydn, and String Quartet in E Minor, “From my Life,” composed by Bedrich Smetana.

Helen Byrne, who plays the cello in the quartet, talked about the music selections for the upcoming concert.

“This concert features more pragmatic works, the first half features “The Lark” by Joseph Haydn, and Jennifer Higdon’s 2005 piece “An Exaltation of larks,” she said.

She noted that there will be a lot of birdlike sounds in those pieces, and considering that spring is the time when birds start becoming more active again, it seems fitting for this concert.

“The second half features Czech composer Smetana’s quartet “From my Life,” which is an autobiographical gem, completed two years after Smetana became completely deaf,” she said. “It describes in sound, elements from his life.”

Byrne also described some parts from the music that she believes the audience will find both touching and delightful.

“I think the high-pitched tinnitus that Smetana experienced, and that he depicts in the quartet, will be very touching for our listeners,” she said. “Whenever we play music from composers who have lost their hearing, it always makes us realize how amazing it is to be able to connect to our world through sound.

And the drunken dancing in the second movement is pretty hysterical!”

The Spokane String Quartet is a

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Gary Matlow | PHOTO Musicians from left to right: Mateusz Wolski, Jeannet Wee-Yang, Amanda Howard-Phillips, & Helen Byrne

group of tight-knit individuals who have been performing with each other for years. It features Mateusz Wolski and Amanda Howard-Phillips on the violin, Jeannette Wee-Yang on the viola, and Helen Byrne on the cello. Helen Byrne described how they are able to “read” each other on stage and how they always expect the unexpected.

“We learned how to communicate non-verbally and how to fit our parts together, knowing who is important and what should come out of the texture,” she said.

“And even though we rehearse our pieces, there is always some element of surprise in performance - someone will do something unexpected. So part of the fun of seeing and hearing a live concert is watching for those moments of communication between members.”

Being part of the audience

can also allow you to see the quiet communication between the quartet members.

“I have friends who enjoy the string quartet concerts not so much because of the music, but because they enjoy seeing the interaction, especially in a venue like the Bing where you can sit quite close (to the stage),” she said.

Byrne encourages people to come see the string quartet perform, not only for the interaction of the quartet members, but also for good music that anyone can enjoy.

“Many of our greatest composers have written their last pieces for the string quartet,” she said. “I think the interplay of just four voices allows them to distill their ideas down to the essential elements, and lets us hear them with greater clarity than with a larger group.

So, really great music and vivid communication - what could be better?”

Indeed, you will find many people enjoying the quartet’s music. Students, families, couples young and old, people from all different backgrounds come out to enjoy the Spokane String Quartet’s

Sun., March 20 3p.m.

Bing Crosby Theater $20 adults $12 students $16 seniors

MARCH 11, 2022

concerts. There is enthusiasm and joy and many different emotions that people will feel for pieces that the quartet plays, from classical to contemporary.

All are welcomed to enjoy the Quartet, if you have never listened to classical music or don’t think that you will like classical music or any genre of instrumental music, you should consider seeing a performance by the Spokane String Quartet. You may just find that you hear something so profound to you that it will change your mind. Or maybe you will find you enjoy the energy of the concert and experiencing watching the musicians perform. Whatever that may be for you, you will never know if you don’t go and find out for yourself.

As for future plans for the Spokane String Quartet, they will continue playing old and new pieces, and they enjoy seeing new composers creating music for string quartets.

“The challenge is to make the string quartet matter in today’s music culture, and it is heartening to see so many young composers creating new string quartets,” Byrne said.

The Spokane String Quartet’s upcoming concert is on Sunday, March 20th at 3PM at the Bing Crosby Theater. Tickets are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $12 for students.

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Live music back in Lilac City spring ‘22 Take off that mask, take off your headphones, the bands are back

KNITTING FACTORY PRESS RELEASE Live band performing at the Knitting Factory

Nine Kills) are some of the well known named artists perfroming at the Knitting COMMUNICATOR Factory this March. Tickets are on sale on their website, Covid has been a frushttps://sp.knittingfactory. trating time for musicians and com/ venue owners. Thanks to the “This is my home! I help of the CDC as well as the love the Pacific Northwest, public volunteering for the and to perform in 4 cities COVID-19 Vaccine, shows and in the PNW is wild to me,” events are starting to come back Rapper Amine said, “BEST into play and give us the best TOUR EVER in Spokane will shows we’ve seen since before be an interesting stop for my Covid. crew and I. I’ve had a blast With protocols and restric- on all these other stops, but tions loosing up around the to be back in the PNW (my Spokane Country area, music home), it brings happiness artists are starting to come back to my crew!” to the Lilac city. Artists such As the Knitting Factory as Amine, OhGeesy, Bad Reis coming back to life, the ligion, & the Trinity of Terror Spokane Arena (even though Tour (featuring Motionless in sporting events have taken White, Black Veil Bridges & Ice full force) is coming alive

Brandon Pickering

Brandon Pickering | COMMUNICATOR Concert poster on Sprague Ave, showing Pacific Northwest’s own Hip-Hop Artist, Amine, who perfoms March 24th in Spokane.

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MARCH 11, 2022

this April with Paul McCartney bringing his tour here into town for his first stop on April 28th. Before Sir Paul comes rolling into town, don’t forget that the one and only Santana will be firing up the stage on April 3rd.

MercyMe is also coming into town on April 10th to bring a lively, Godly, outstanding concert to the people of Spokane. To get more alerts, as well as tickets for future events at the Spokane Arena, check their website at http:// www.spokanearena.com/ “It took some time to win over McCartney’s manager, Mark “Springo” Spring, but I’m so thrilled he chose Spokane to be the place that Sir Paul will kick off his tour,” Matt Meyer, Spokane Facili-

ties District director of entertainment, said.

If you’re the type of person who likes close interactions and is not good with a lot of people in a huge venue, go check out the Lucky You Lounge on the west side of Downtown Spokane.

They have artists that are always popping up onto the radar for more audiences to grab onto. Artists such as Jack Symes (with Joe Kaplow and Eva B. Ross), Everything is Terrible!, Joe Vann, Paul Cherry (with Dougie Poole and Sedona), and

Ghost Light are some of the few artists coming full swing at the lounge and are eager to have a sold out crowd. Tickets start at $15 and you can get those at http://luckyyoulounge.com/ .

“I’m ready for the energy this town brings to artists who are ready to go even farther in this game,” Joe Vann said, “I’ve heard from other artists that this town just thrives on music and is the best crowd to perform in when music comes to their town! Give me all the energy.”

Brandon Pickering| COMMUNICATOR Knitting Factory’s famous marquee in downtown Spokane showing that concerts are live and ready for fans to be back. www.communicatoronline.org

The Communicator

MARCH.11.2022

Flavors

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Blackened Shrimp Street Tacos

Erik Nelson | PHOTO Shrimp, coleslaw, tortillas, limes and a few spices make for a delicious dinner that will save you a few bucks by eating at home.

Erik Nelson The Communicator This is a good recipe that will definitely wow the crowd (or your significant other) if you make them.

There is a little bit of work involved but they are delicious. All of the ingredients were the in store brand as opposed to name brand products.

At a cost of about $1.35 per taco you can’t go wrong given that most restaurants in town charge about $5 per taco.

Frozen shrimp tend to work best. They are usually smaller and they are peeled, cleaned and deveined. It also makes the tacos easier to eat. Take the shrimp out of the freezer the night before and leave them in the fridge overnight. This is plenty of time for them to thaw. A

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bigger tortilla can make them easier to eat and less messy, but you can use the smaller tortillas (street taco size).

If you want to save some money and impress your guests, make them yourself.

Ingredients: Coleslaw 1/3 cup mayo ½ tbsp honey 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp red wine vinegar ¼ tsp salt Pepper ½ bag coleslaw mix 2 green onions sliced To prepare coleslaw, mix mayo, honey, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, salt and a dash of pepper in a bowl. Put the sauce in a bowl with the coleslaw mix and the sliced green onions. Stir until everything is coated. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Lime sauce 1/3 cup mayo 1/8 tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp paprika 1/8 tsp salt 1 lime(1 tbsp juice) To prepare the garlic lime sauce, stir together the mayo, garlic powder, paprika and juice from half a lime. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Blackening seasoning 1 tbsp paprika 1 tsp thyme 1 tsp oregano ½ tsp cumin ¼ tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp onion powder ¼ tsp salt Pepper Prepare the blackening seasoning by stirring together paprika, thyme, oregano, cumin, garlic

powder, onion powder, salt and pepper in a bowl. Pour the seasoning over the shrimp and stir until coated.

Tacos ½ lb peeled and deveined shrimp 1 tbsp butter 1 clove garlic, minced 6 small tortillas 3 green onions sliced Put butter and minced garlic in a skillet or non-stick frying pan.

Cook over medium heat for about a minute. Add shrimp and sauté until the shrimp is firm. About 3-5 minutes.

Put 5-6 shrimp on the tortilla and squeeze lime juice on the shrimp if you so desire. Spoon some garlic lime sauce on the shrimp, then spoon some of the coleslaw mix on top of that and enjoy

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PHOTOS

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SFCC CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES

Erik Nelson| PHOTO

Construction on the Spokane Falls Community College campus is expected to be complete in the fall of 2023. The new building will house facilities for the Photography department and the Fine Arts department.

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MARCH 11,2022

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Technology 9

03.11.2022

Attention Spokane stargazers If you are interested in becoming a backyard astronomer, Spokane has you covered.

Savannah Langhurst The Communicator Have you ever gazed up into the sky and were delighted when you realized how it was such a clear and beautiful night to stargaze and you wished you had a telescope and a guide that could help you discover the wonders of the universe?

Good news. There is a solution for those who enjoy stargazing and want to try dabbling in amateur astronomy. Spokane Public Libraries offers two telescopes, The Vixen and The Orion which are available for public use. You have to request a hold on a telescope, which will put you on a waitlist until it becomes available to you for pickup and use.

Spokane Public Libraries also offers numerous books on astronomy, including night sky guides that help novice astronomers navigate and identify celestial objects.

You can search for available books on their website or go to a library near you. Spokane Libraries have four locations that are currently open and available to the public: Shadle Park Library, Liberty Park Library, Hillyard Library, and the STA Plaza Library.

In addition to books, there are also several phone apps available that can teach you about astronomy and even help point out stars and other celestial objects to you. For iOS systems, the app titled Night Sky X is a particularly useful one. It uses your location data and sophisticated augmented reality (AR) technology to show you what objects are visible to you in your area and where to look for them.

When you open the app you will see a screen full of all sorts of celestial objects like stars and constellations, planets, moons, nebulae, comets, orbiting satellites,

A telescope pointing up to the evening sky.

where the International Space Station is and it’s trajectory, and even other galaxies, like our neighbor Andromeda.

It has a compass on screen, and the app will rotate the sky towards the direction you move your phone.

So if you are facing West and then towards South, the app will move with you and show objects that lie to the South. What you see is also dependent on what hemisphere you live in and the time of year. However, the app will show you what is being seen in the other hemisphere, all you have to do is tilt or move your screen down. You are able to zoom in and out of the sky too.

You can also tap on objects to highlight them and learn more about them. There is also a new feature called Sky Tags, where you can long press an object and tag it, allowing you to keep track of it.

Night Sky X shows you the weather forecast in your area, so you can determine if it’s a good night to stargaze or not. They also keep information on when the sun and moon will rise and set in your timezone, as well as what astronomical events will be occurring in

Night Sky X shows you the weather forecast in your area, so you can determine if it’s a good night to stargaze or not.

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Savannah Langhurst| PHOTO

Savannah Langhurst | PHOTO The Planetarium at Spokane Falls Community College.

your area and when - like meteor showers for example.

For the Android users, SkyView Lite is a good alternative option to Night Sky X. The official NASA app is also another informative tool for both iOS and Android.

If you are looking to have clearer skies for stargazing than in the city, you could go to Mt. Spokane, which is a local favorite spot for astronomers to go and observe the night sky. Outside the city limits is also a good bet for getting away from the light pollution in the city.

Another option to learning more about astronomy is to see a

planetarium show for a low cost at Spokane Falls Community College.

They are one hour in length and the first half consists of a night sky presentation with a speaker presenting, the second half is a full-dome movie. The planetarium is currently planning a spring re-opening, so check in after April 1st for dates and times.

So, to those who stare up at the night sky in wonder, Spokane Libraries has you covered with both telescopes and book sky guides. Your phone can also be a convenient tool to help you gaze at the cosmos with certainty and delight.

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BUGOUT BAGS: A MUST HAVE FOR EVERYONE A 72-HOUR EMERGENCY KIT CAN BE CHEAP, SIMPLE Erik Nelson COMMUNICATOR In September 2020, a wildfire destroyed most of the town of Malden, Washington. Most of the population had to evacuate. Were they prepared for this? Are you prepared?

One way to be ready for an event such as the fire in Malden is to have a bag ready that you can just grab and go in case of emergency. Some people call this a “bug out bag” or an emergency supply kit.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), recommends the following items for an emergency supply kit.

• Water and non- perishable food for several days • Extra cell phone battery or charger • Battery powered or hand crank radio that can receive NOAA weather radio alerts and extra batteries.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• First Aid kit.

• Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place.

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

• Can opener (if kit contains canned food).

• Local maps FEMA also recommends that you have any necessary prescriptions, infant formula and diapers, pet food, water and supplies, and important family documents. For a complete list of FEMA’s recommended emergency supply kit items, you can go to www.ready. gov.

In an interview with an instructor at the Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) school who wished to remain anonymous, he stated the importance of having a bug out bag as well as what should be in the kit.

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Erik Nelson | PHOTO A good basic emergency kit should contain food, water, a first aid kit, a stove with fuel and matches and a emergency blanket. “ A bug out bag is a necessity for three reasons,” he said.

“Being prepared gives you the flexibility to get further away from the danger/emergency quickly and without having to stop for supplies as early or often. It also gives you confidence and a sense of ease if an emergency were to occur.

Having a bag ready can significantly increase your survivability (quality of the condition you’re in and duration of how long you can survive.

“Bare essentials that you would need in case of an emergency include something for water purification, a multi-tool, weatherproof matches or a butane torch with extra fuel, tinder, a map of the local area, a compass and a stand alone global positioning system (GPS). A secondary means of communication such as a satellite phone or walkie talkies should also be in the kit.

Basically something that doesn’t depend on a cellular network in order to function. A mobile battery pack or another power source is necessary to charge these devices.”

We all have to eat but you

can’t carry a refrigerator on your back. What are the best food items to pack in case of emergency?

“Of course food and water are necessities,” said the instructor.

“Mountain House and other brands make dehydrated meals. They are a bit expensive but are usually light weight, have good nutritional value, and generally taste better than some alternatives. Some other options for food are tuna packets, ramen noodles, peanut butter, dehydrated fruits, jerky, nut mixes, tortillas (a good source of carbs that don’t get moldy quickly like bread), hard candies (these are less likely to melt and can be good for morale), vitamins (easier to pack than fruits and vegetables and they won’t spoil).”

So what is the right pack for you? You don’t want to take too much stuff and weigh yourself down, and you don’t want an uncomfortable pack if you have to carry it for an extended period. In an in person interview with Kurt,Perrigo from the REI camp de-

“Being prepared gives you the flexibility to get further away from the danger/emergency quickly.”

US Air Force Instructor

MARCH.11.2022

partment, he has all the answers.

“For a 72 hour kit, or bug out bag, I recommend a pack with 35 liter capacity or more,” he said. “It depends on how much gear you’re packing. If you’re thinking of a kit, maybe you’ve got other people with you and you want to be able to carry some gear for them, you can go with a little bit bigger bag.”

“Also pick a pack that has a hip belt versus a thin, little waist strap.” said Perrigo. “This helps distribute the weight on the hips a little more comfortably. The weight is on the hips and not on the shoulders.”

While a good pack is expensive, Perrigo recommends shopping locally as opposed to buying online.You may pay more but you will get a pack that fits your needs and doesn’t cause strain.

“Our prices range from around $120 to $140 for a 35 liter pack,” he said. “The advantage to shopping with us as opposed to online is that you can come in and we will load up the pack and get it

Links www.ready.gov www.REI.com See BAG. pg. 11 www.communicatoronline.org

FEATURE

sfcc.Tobey.Mickelson@gmail.com

Student parking in age of COVID Parking policies and road construction Tobey Mickelson COMMUNICATOR The ease of finding a parking place when you arrive on campus can mean the difference between arriving on time for class versus arriving stressed and out of breath from an all out sprint. Avoiding this predicament starts with getting a parking pass if you regularly drive to campus.

SFCC Parking Services is where you register your vehicle license plate and obtain your virtual permit. According to the director of parking services, Ken DeMello, the annual parking permit costs $91. A quarterly parking permit costs $3, and a monthly permit costs $15.50. The only other option is to park in spaces with parking meters. The cost of a single ticket is 30 dollars, but according to Parking Services’ website, there is a 25% discount if you pay the fine within five days. For repeat offenders, Parking Services will immobilize your vehicle with the boot until you pay all outstanding tickets. Should you fail to pay a parking ticket, the consequences include: denied admission to CCS, not being allowed to register, inability to receive your transcript, or even graduate. However, if you believe you have received a parking ticket by mistake, there is an appeal process.

A couple of other details to help you avoid the boot: Yellow painted curbs are off limits.

“Zero inches of your vehicle can be in the yellow,” according to the Parking Services’ website.

According to the website, faculty parking is indicated with signs, and student parking is indicated with yellow lines. Parking along campus streets also requires a permit. There is no grace period for obtaining your parking permit– you have to have it on day one.

More information can be found at: https://sfcc.spokane.edu/About-Us/ Campus-Safety-Parking/Parking-Services

www.communicatoronline.org

Photos by Tobey Mickelson | COMMUNICATOR Parking on college campuses is always a difficulty, especially when construction is happening.

This academic year, the COVID pandemic has lessened the demand for these coveted spots.

Planning ahead and using public transportation are good strategies for getting to class.

The director of parking services, Ken DeMello said that parking rates are going up. He also said that students can park in staff parking spaces after 3:30 p.m. He mentioned that “there is no grace period,” and there are no restrictions on the number of license plates.”

There are two other factors that impact parking at SFCC. During the pandemic, many courses were online only, reducing the number of people and vehicles on campus. However, the potential for more availability may have been offset by the ongoing

construction on campus. Many lots are blocked by construction equipment or partially fenced off.

As more students return to campus for in person classes, the parking situation may get more challenging. If you are attached to parking in a certain lot, near a particular building, or even in a favorite spot, you would be wise to heed the advice of comedian John Stewart: “Get there early because hope does not park your . . . car.”

MARCH 11, 2022

Bag, continued from pg. 10 fitted to you so it is comfortable. It fits you like a pair of shoes. REI.com also has lists of bare essentials for bug out bags.”

While a lot of the items in this- article are expensive, they can be worth it if they keep you or your loved ones alive.

Knowing that you are prepared in case of an emergency is good for your peace of mind. You can’t put a price on that.

COMMUNICATOR 11

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Features

03.11.2022

The Communicator

Fun Dates in Spokane at a Low Cost Where you can go to get delicious cheap eats and have some fun afterwards.

Brandon Pickering The Communicator Ever think “I don’t know where to go out tonight for dinner” or “wish I could go do something fun today” but you might be low on cash? Don’t you worry about that. Here are some local places in Spokane that will fill up your taste buds and give you the thrill you are looking for, at a reasonable price.

When it comes to taking either a friend or a significant other out on the town, it’s always hard to choose where to either eat or have fun. Here Brandon Pickering | PHOTO RUT Restaurant in downtown Spokane, which serves vegan options for a good price. is a list of places to eat and have fun for a reasonable price all in Spokane.

Food in Spokane is a cultural Fries,Buffalo Cauliflower Wings to phenomenon. From seafood to the our RÜT Burger and Masa-Crusted classic American burgers to the juicy Cauliflower Steak.” and tender steaks straight from the There are so many places here grill, the options are all around town! in Spokane and the nearby towns D-Lish being a staple here in Spokane outside Spokane that will definitely with only one store in operation, it is give you the thrill you are searching the to-go spot for perfect burgers. for, and here are some places for you “We try our best everyday and to put on your list. every night to get our guests the From ranges of off-roading fun best burger they will experience,” to flying in the sky, Spokane has it Anthony, Crew Member, said, all for you. DirtKart has been turning “Freshly made every morning and heads for many who love go-karting. afternoon, our guests will definitely It’s an interesting way of go-karts … leave satisfied for a low price of $6. in the dirt. With their state of the art Definitely try our signature burger, karts that are made for off-roading Brandon Pickering | PHOTO Dave’s Q.” and their track that is groomed before Gondolas from the Numerica Skyride over the Spokane River.

For those that choose to not eat each race, DirtKart in Spokane is the meat, here are some restaurants in spot to hang out. With Downtown Spokane You really do get a each race starting at $25, that are eager to have enjoy the day with either friends or a it’s definitely worth the more outstanding guests great view of the date night. riverfront and the ride. www.dlishs.com in their restaurants.

“Here at Riverfront, the SkyRide Flying over to Restaurants like RÜT, waterfall being up another thrill, here are experience is so much fun for any www.rutspokane.com/ Allie’s Vegan Pizzeria age,” Anthony Heldward, SkyRide close and personal two options that will & Cafe, Neato Burrito Staff Member, said, “You really do get menu but also being safe give you a great view and The Melting Pot are a great view of the riverfront and the www.alliesvegan.com up in the sky. From the just a few to name that in the sky cabin waterfall being up close and personal neatoburrito.com Riverfront’s Numerica have an impact in this but also being safe in the sky cabin.”

Anthony Heldward SkyRide to the largest www.meltingpot.com community for those indoor trampoline park against meat. www.dirtkart.com Here are the websites for the of Flying Squirrel, these two places “Here at RÜT, we are the best places that were mentioned and flyingsquirrelsports.us/spowill give you the thrill of being up in in Spokane with a bunch of options more. Definitely swing by when you kane-valley-washington the air at any moment in time. With for those who choose a better life are out in Downtown Spokane and each ride at the SkyRide starting at my.spokanecity.org/riverto live,” Rachel Cummonds, Crew you want to have a good time. $11 and Flying Squirrel starting at frontspokane/attractions/ Member, said, “Our prices are a set $16 (for one hour) and $26 (for two range from $4 to $18 with again the hours), these are great to run by and best options to run by like our Dirty

For more information:

sfcc.brandon.pickering@gmail.com

www.communicatoronline.org