Volume 49, Issue 1

thecurrent the student newspaper of green river community college

Oct8.2014

www.thegrcurrent.com

issue01 volume49

Ian Lobdell | The Current

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Faculty Working Without an Updated Contract

Artist Spotlight: Anastasia Devol

Blassingame Rebranding the Green River Basketball Team

Faculty negotiations with GRCC administration struggles for resolution over finances page2

The Current sits down and has a Q&A with painting student Anastasia Devol

Coach talks about new philosophy, personnel leaving and transferring from GRCC

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James Ristig | Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

All photos: Job Williams | The Current

Sam Ball, director of capital projects (right) works to bring the new building to life. Crews are working to construct a new Student Life Building (above left) and trades building (above right).

By: Job Williams Staff Writer

Work on the new Student Life Center (SLC) and the new trades building is on schedule to be completed in June 2015. The new SLC building will accommodate many of the administration, food, and resources needs along with various recreational student facilities for the increasing number of students attending the college.

The projects have accumulated a total cost of $31 Million with 45 percent being paid by the students

Construction On Schedule Student Life and Trades Buildings to be Completed June of 2015

and 55 percent being paid by the school. The students voted in 2007 for a fee that goes toward paying off a 15 year loan that was taken out in August of this year. The loan is scheduled to be paid off in full by August 2029.

The state of Washington refused to grant the college state funding for student life activities or facilities the college would want to build. “It saddens me that the state refuses to pay for student life,” Sam Ball, director of capital projects, said.

Both buildings will house state of the art equipment that will replace the obsolete ones that were being used in the old building. Ball said,

“We hope to be an example,” Ball said. He hopes that Green River can be a leader to other schools and institutions state-wide or further if it can be managed. The details have yet to be finalized on what is going to be purchased for the new buildings, but the cost of creating and outfitting two new facilities with new equipment is high.

The trades building plans are being handled primarily by the faculty in charge of the trades department. The student government members are on the committee in charge of making design decisions in the new SLC building. This is part of the projects design philos-

ophy of focusing on students Ball said, “Think students, then decide.”

At the construction site, work has not slowed down, even for a moment. The construction site can usually be seen with various pieces of construction equipment and workers in groups brainstorming the best way to get their work done.

The smell of dust from the buildings fills the air, and yelling over the sounds of construction equipment continues throughout the day.

The crew is currently putting on outside panels and preparing for weather proofing. Soon they will be laying down the brick work for the SLC building.

Senior Superintendent with the Walsh Group Micheal Gonzalez said the groundwork for part of the roofing is complete. During the following week, steel framing for a large portion of the building will be raised as a structural support during construction.

The Walsh Group is a contracting firm that were hired by the college to manage the construction of the new buildings.

Gonzalez said at this point, the buildings could be considered 20 to 25 percent complete. The construction crews are making steady progress towards completion of both buildings.

Green River Faculty Working Without Updated Contract By: Nicholas Rasmussen Staff Writer Tensions are high as administration and faculty negotiate a new faculty contract.

The contract that the faculty of Green River Community College work under expired in June. Although the old contract expired, it remains in effect while negotiations are under way.

United Faculty Treasurer Glen Martin said negotiations began in January and there is currently “no written or spoken deadline” to reach an agreement.

Four negotiators from the Green River United Faculty Coalition (UF) and the administration’s team have mutually agreed to enter meditation in an attempt to speed up

the process. Martin said that it is extremely frustrating for everyone involved when negotiations are slow, and it only hinders the negotiation process.

A lack of respect for faculty by the administration is among the problems listed by United Faculty President Mark Millbauer. “We [the faculty] feel like the College doesn’t value our place on campus,” Millbauer said.

The UF is also upset with how negotiations are being conducted.

The administration budgeted up to $75,000 for a chief negotiator to represent them. This is something that has not been done in past negotiations between the union and the administration. In the past, it had been handled by a group of colleagues sitting in a room and negotiating with each other. This

new tactic by the administration can complicate communications between the two parties.

Another issue raised by Millbauer was instructional faculty wages.

There has been no raise for instructional positions since 2008 while administrative positions in the past four years have had an overall 23.5 percent salary increase. The Washington State Legislature has not allocated more state funds for faculty salaries, but the UF urges that local dollars can be used for an increase in their salaries.

The faculty has taken on extra responsibilities since the last contract such as student advising and certain committee work. As such they feel the need for their first salary increase in nearly seven years. Millbauer said “Our proposals involve extra pay for extra work and can be

funded out of these local dollars.”

Local dollars are taken in through programs such as student tuition.

At the same time as the contract negotiations, faculty and administration are at odds over raises for part-time faculty. This concerns the return of a 3 percent budget cut.

The UF asked to negotiate for the 3 percent to raise funds for adjunct faculty in September 2013. Adjunct faculty are members of the faculty that work part time at the college.

The UF was told that negotiations would be held off until the following year Millbauer said. The UF filed a grievance against the college claiming they violated the existing contract by failing to negotiate the matter. The two sides held and arbitration hearing on Oct. 3.

An arbitration hearing is a form of conflict resolution where a third

party is brought in to help mediate the discussion.

College administrators declined to comment on the subject of faculty contracts and negotiations. “Out of respect for the ongoing negotiation process Green River has no comment on the status of negotiations,” Vice President of Human Resources Marshall Sampson said.

Tensions are high and, although the threat of a strike is not impossible, it is not likely that one would occur at this time. The last time GRCC had a strike was in 1974.

In 1990, the faculty held a form of protest where dozens of the faculty members called in sick to work. Both parties do not wish to disrupt the education process at the college. “We want the best for the students no matter what the cost,” Martin said.

James Ristig | Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

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Faculty Say ‘No’ to Extra Students

Instructors Vote to Reject Overloads In All GRCC Classes By: Sayaka Nishi Staff Writer

Instructors will no longer accept students hoping to take full classes or students who are on waiting lists. On Sept. 19 the faculty voted to no longer accept overload students.

Most students did not know about the policy change, and some of them continued to wait for the instructors to accept them into the class. Until fall quarter, some instructors accepted students on the wait list into the class if they attended the first session and asked permission of the instructor.

In an email sent to administrators, United Faculty President Mark Millbauer said classes are designed for a maximum enrollment level depending on the course. Some instructors allowed for overload students but it “represents a substantial increase in faculty workload“. The exceptions were made on behalf of the students, he wrote.

“If there is no room, then I don’t think I should be on the waiting list,” said Yelena Arkhipshuk, a student at Green River Community College. Most of the students on the waiting list want to either be accepted into the class or know that they need to find another

one as soon as they possibly can.

Students that wait for an opening in a specific class they need are kept waiting if they don’t know about the new policy.

Donghui Kim, a student at GRCC, had been on the wait list for a week when the quarter started. When he gave up on getting into the class he wanted, there were only a few class choices left. He is taking another class just to fill the gap in his schedule. A situation like this could put the student a position where they have an unnecessary credit that won’t go towards their degree.

Caidie Lu, an international student, was on the waiting list for a class she needed for her degree.

However, because of the new overload policy, she was not accepted and had to take another class. This was not only unnecessary to her college plan, it also cost her money that she would not normally have paid towards her education. This happened because, when she learned she could not take the class she wanted, it was already too late to choose a suitable alternative.

“They have their plans,” Lu said.

International students must add some classes if they’re not taking 12 credits or more to qualify for their international studies.

Janet Ash, an engineering faculty member, said many faculty mem-

bers are frustrated because there has been a serious money issue at the college for a long time. There was a meeting between the faculty to discuss the best way to revise the overload policy.

Ash said that there is a general feeling that the administration lacks respect for the faculty at the college. She said that if the administration wants to do something new at the college, they need to ask the faculty before hand.

The administration required the faculty to accept more students into their classes. Overload students generate more money for the college because the extra students are paying tuition. Ash said the administration enacted this policy without informing or seeking the agreement of the faculty.

The more students that classes accepted, the more work there was for the faculty. Ash said the college does not have enough money to pay the faculty for the additional students they accepted into a class.

Some extra students could be good for one class but it might not work for another. The amount of office work there is for the faculty member is also an issue. Ash said the faculty should be able to make a decision about how many students can be accepted into the class based on their own judgments.

The current overload policy posted outside of classrooms at the beginning of the quarter (above).

College President Eileen Ely Injured in Car Accident By: Renno Jeon Staff Writer President Eileen Ely was injured after being involved in a three car collision Sept. 17.

The crash happened around 8:30 p.m. in the intersection of Auburn Way South and Westbound State Route 18.

Ely was briefly hospitalized but was soon released, according to an email sent to campus. Ely was still recovering at home with an injury to her back as of Oct. 1. She is required to wear a back brace for the next several months, according to the email.

Commander Michael Hirman of the Auburn Police Department said Ely was southbound on Auburn Way South.

A 67-year-old Enumclaw woman was northbound on Auburn Way South in the outside left turn lane, according to a police collision report. She believed the traffic light was green and made a turn onto State Route 18. The light was

actually red according to the report.

Ely drove into the intersection with a green light and the woman crashed into Ely’s vehicle, according to the report. Ely was struck on her driver’s side and pushed into another vehicle in the far west lane, according to the report.

All the vehicles were towed from the scene, Hirman said. The woman was cited for failure to obey a traffic control device, according to the collision report.

Through emails sent to all the campus community, she expressed regrets for not being a visible part of the new school year.

“I may not be at my normal speed when I get back to campus,” Ely said in the email. “This isn’t how I planned to begin the school year.”

Ely thanked the Green River employees for their thoughts and kind words to her. “Your many wonderful cards, flowers, phone calls and best wishes have inspired me every day, and I’m so glad to be joining you soon.”

It is still unclear when she will return to the college.

Photo Courtesy | Auburn Police Department

Diagram of the accident. Ely was driving in Vehicle 2 (above).

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James Ristig | Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

Green River Building Houses for the Homeless By: Madeline Wentz Staff Writer Green River Community College’s carpentry department has received a $20,000 grant to build small houses for local homeless people to live in mortgage free.

With a grant from Master Builder Career Connection, the department hopes to build houses for at least 20 to 60 people. If the program takes off, it will continue and even more homes can be built for people that really need them.

Glen Martin, the program director and carpentry technology faculty member, said that he has plans to involve not only the carpentry department, but also the welding department and hopefully the architecture department. In the near future it will involve a larger group of students and instructors working on this project. The idea is to go out into the community of Auburn and provide a needed service, and to train students for skills in construction.

Martin said the carpentry department wants to “get as much as the college involved as we can.” He would also like to get the students and various clubs at GRCC involved in the project. Whether it involves physical help, painting the houses or running food and clothing drives to help bring awareness to our com-

munity and campus. Martin hopes to get help raising money to build the houses making them more affordable for homeless people.

Martin said he “always believed in giving back.” He considers volunteer work very essential in life.

From this experience, the students will gain volunteer work and skills needed for their future jobs.

This project has yet to begin, since they received the grant last June. Martin’s goal is for this project to take off within a year, and have the project become a repetitive thing for the college. He wants it to be something that the college is known for throughout the Auburn area.

The Master Builder Career Connection is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping students acquire experience to enter the construction industry. They provide grants to colleges that help support their mission statement. They want to help prepare potential students for their future careers and get them valuable life experience.

The homes are 18 feet tall, supported on a trailer. Solar power is built in along with a shower, composting toilet and a loft. There will also be a kitchen furnished with a microwave, sink, cooktop and a refrigerator. A house takes about three to six months to build. Each house costs less than $20,000. Martin hopes to get discounted lumber,

windows and other materials from local businesses because of the nature of the project.

Mark Stalnacker, a former student at GRCC, is using some money he has saved up to build one of the houses with the help of the carpentry department. It is currently being built just behind the carpentry shop on the GRCC campus.

He is building this for himself with the help of the instructors and a few other students. At this time, it is cheaper for him to rent a spot in an Auburn trailer park for $200. He has been living for $1200 in a condo home, and needs a cheaper place to live in.

With the house being on a trailer, they plan to bring a prototype around the Auburn community.

This is to show the potential owners in need of houses what they will be getting when they sign up for the program. The houses are started in the carpentry shop before being moved outside where they’re put onto the trailer. Once outside, the students can begin putting the house together and getting it ready for its new owner.

The plan for these houses is to bring them to local churches, Lion Clubs, Rodeo Clubs and community groups and offer them to lower or no income people at a fair cost to replace tent cities. Martin said he wants to “give them a livable affordable to build home.”

Ian Lobdel | The Current

A house for a homeless person built by the carpentry department (above).

Changes to Conduct Code Increases College’s Jurisdiction Some Faculty Believe Rights of Students Are Threatened by Revisions to Code By: Taylor Lopes Staff Writer

Revisions to the student conduct code could threaten the rights of students, according to some faculty members.

The Student Code of Conduct has been undergoing revisions since March. None of the proposals have been finalized yet, but some of these rules have already garnered the attention of Green River Community College faculty.

During the process of revising these rules, there have been open forums for students and faculty to voice their opinions. These forums were held in the Glacier Room of the Lindbloom Center. Very few students have been present at these open forums, and the majority of attendees meetings have been faculty members.

Mary Jane Sherwood, a criminal justice faculty member, said

that students should really be concerned about these changes because it directly affects how they can and cannot behave both on and off campus. As a criminal justice faculty member, Sherwood is concerned about the topic of student rights, and is knowledgeable about the topic. She teaches classes about the law and the rights of citizens.

The Statement of Jurisdiction is supposed to let students know where their actions are punishable by the college. “The student conduct code shall apply to student conduct that occurs on college premises, to conduct that occurs at or in connection with college sponsored activities, or to off-campus conduct,“ according to the second draft revision of the Student Code of Conduct.

Originally, the college could only punish a student for violations to the Student Code of Conduct while on campus. The Statement of Jurisdiction has been expanded in the recent revisions to encompass activity both on and off campus

and during holidays. “Jurisdiction extends to, but is not limited to, locations in which students are engaged in official college activities including, but not limited to, foreign or domestic travel,“ according to the second draft revision of the Student Code of Conduct. No matter where or when an incident occurs, a student can be punished for said incident that the administration believes it affects the college in a negative way.

The Rule-Making Summary, a document that details the changes made to the Student Code of Conduct based on feedback in the open forums, said, “Off campus jurisdiction only applies if the college believes the conduct adversely affects the college community or the pursuit of its objectives.”

The decision of what is and is not acceptable is left totally up to the college to decide. The language used in this statement leaves students unclear of the rules, even though the purpose of revising the Student Code of Conduct is to

make the rules of student conduct more clear.

From the time of enrollment to the time of commencement, a student’s actions are punishable by the college. “Students are responsible for their conduct from the time of application for admission through the actual receipt of a degree,” according to the second draft revision of the Student Code of Conduct.

Tim Malroy, a judicial officer at GRCC, said in an online interview that the reasoning behind the new jurisdiction rule had a lot to do with federal mandates regarding sexual violence. These mandates require institutions to respond with investigations of behavior which would have an impact on a student’s education, regardless of where this incident occurred.

Malroy said the college was already starting the process of updating the Student Code of Conduct when President Obama had the Violence Against Women Act reauthorized. The act revises how colleges handle assault on

and off campus. Colleges are given new requirements for disciplining students involved in crimes against women. The goal of the act is to raise awareness of sexual violence.

“Most of the two year schools in the state have used this federal guideline as a way to update their rules of student conduct, us included,” Malroy said.

There will be two more open forums regarding changes to the Student Code of Conduct on Oct. 13 and 22. Malroy said he was hoping for more student involvement in these forums, as faculty members have been the major contributors to the discussions thus far.

“I don’t know that students know how important this is,” Sherwood said. The college had planned to increase student participation at the forums by distributing flyers, displaying sandwich boards, and installing screen savers at each campus location. Despite the college’s best efforts, student knowledge on this subject is still extremely low.

James Ristig| Campus Editor campus@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

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Pacific Raceway for Sale Board Slot Vacant By: Ed Ali Staff Writer

Pacific Raceway went up for sale on Wednesday for the first time in 54 years. According to the Green River Department of Transportation, the shuttle location should remain indefinitely.

Green River Director of Cam-

pus Safety and Transportation, Richard Axtell, says that the plans for shuttles to and from the Pacific Raceway should remain the same.

He said the school has a contract with the property holders of the raceway that allow students at Green River Community College to park at the track.

The Florito family, the group that currently owns and operates

the Pacific Raceway, said a new ownership group would be best to work with the planned Pacific Innovation Center. The Pacific Innovation Center was being built in the area to promote more commercial development in the region but construction has yet to begin.

The Washington State Parcel Viewer has calculated the appraised value of the raceway for all six properties that are being sold as part of the Pacific Innovation Center.

Students like Lynn Hoang said the loss of the shuttle could mean even more parking woes and traffic organizational issues at the college.

He said it would be a “huge loss for the students because [the shuttle] cuts so much of the time getting to the school.”

By: Kaylee Markonich Staff Writer Trustee and Board Member Tom Campbell resigns after being in office for 5 years.

Campbell was a part of the Green River Community College Board of Trustees since April 2009. Each member was appointed by Governor Jay Inslee. This voluntary position has a term of 5 years.

Vice President of Human Resources & Legal Affairs Marshall Sampson said this summer, Campbell was relocated out of state and resigned his seat on the Board.

Applications are not made locally therefore it unknown who will replace his spot.

Not only was he a member of the board, but he was also Chairman of the Board from 2011-2013.

Members of the Board of Trustees are considered to be the governing body of GRCC. The Board of Trustees is composed of five slots. The current members are Pete Lewis, Claudia Kauffman, Mark Albertson and Linda Cowan. All current

Former Board Member Tom Campbell (above). members were appointed by Gov. Inslee in 2011.

All trustees are also members of the Trustees Association of Community and Technical Colleges (TACTC). This includes of trustees from the other 34 community and technical colleges across the state.

There has been no word on who will replace Campbell’s vacant seat or when GRCC students will know this information.

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Rachel Wood | A&E Editor ae@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

thecurrent’s artist spotlight

Anastasia Devol By: Rachel Wood & Megan Hopper A&E Editor / Staff Writer

Q: What kind of art is your forte?

A: I’ve had a lot of exposure to photography in my life, my dad has done some photography, and my brother has really picked it up and pursued that, but I haven’t adhered to it as much as I have with painting. Of the different art forms that I’ve had experience with, at least, oil painting is the one I’ve enjoyed and done the most with.

Q: What did you enjoy about painting that you didn’t get from photography?

A: The whole process between the two is different. Painting is a lot more expressive. You’re building up to something that you’re creating.

You’re not freezing a moment, you’re making your own.

Q: Has art always come easy to you or was it a working progress to get to where you are now?

A: Well, like most people, I doodled and drew when I was younger, but I’ve had to work at it as I got older and wanted to pursue art more. It isn’t as much of a natural thing for me, as it is for some people.

Q: What kind of emotions or thoughts do you want to provoke with your work?

A: Well I generally feel relaxed and calm when I paint, so if I get out what I put it that’s great. I might expect various emotional responses to these works because every person is different, and because the pieces aren’t overtly trying to elicit a response, I would be interested to know what kind of response people have to my work, because I’m not always aiming for one.

Q: Will you pursue art as a career?

A: This is a debate in my mind right now. But usually my rational side wins over saying no, mostly because art school is just really expensive, and the lack of jobs and job security, etc. But I definitely want to continue making art. That’s the plan for now at least, things change all the time.

Original artwork (above) by Anastasia Devol, detailing her everyday life and the objects she surrounds herself with.

Q: If job security wasn’t a problem, would you chose to pursue your artistic ability?

A: I already know that the stress of not knowing that I could be financially secure would be too much for me. If that wasn’t a problem then I would love to continue with art as a career. I am thinking about leaning more towards teaching though, that might be a possibility for me.

Green River student and artist of the month, Anastasia Devol. Photo courtesy of Sarah Dillon Gilmartin.

Q: You’ve taken a lot of the art courses that are offered here at GRCC, which one would you recommend to students pursuing art?

A: I would recommend to just to start with drawing. In a lot of ways it’s the basis of art. You can really build from there.

Q: If you could say anything to the other prospective artists at Green River, what would it be?

A: If you want to make art, do it. If you tell yourself you’re not an artist, like I did once, don’t listen. Art has more forms than can be counted, there are artists everywhere and in every job field. You don’t have to be the person that has naturally made art their whole life, you don’t have to go to art school, because those aren’t necessary for being an artist.

There’s a wquote I read once that has helped me immensely in art, as well as life: “To live a creative life, we must lose the fear of being wrong.” – Joseph Chilton Pearse.

I’m the kind of person that is, honestly, really afraid of being wrong, especially with something like art, that I love so much, but felt like I was doing it wrong, or not well.

Green River has really awesome art teachers and programs, and I know because I’ve taken a variety of art classes here. Making and expressing yourself through art is a wonderful thing to be able to do, and taking a class, whether it’s photography, painting, drawing, or design, is such a good way to get started doing that. I think art is a really vital part of everyday life, and it has really made my life richer and better, and I have less anxiety when looking at my future, wherever I end up, with whatever job or life, because I know art will be a part of that, in whatever form.

Rachel Wood | A&E Editor ae@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

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Enhancing the GRCC Experience Through Clubs and Activities By: Sean Chounlamany Staff Writer Green River is a culturally diverse campus that encompasses a vast amount of both international and local students. The clubs here at Green River create a welcoming, comprehensive and supportive environment that provide many opportunities for students to take full advantage of their college experience by engaging in extracurricular activities.

The college offers more than 30 clubs each year that focus on three main aspects - academics, multicultural issues, and social prospects. There are clubs available that balance academic school work and involvement opportunities to guarantee each and every student receives a well-rounded education.

Here at Green River Community College, there are two music programs that are directed by Kelly Einsenhour - Concert Choir and the Green River Jazz Voices.

For anyone that is interested in singing and performing, Concert Choir is the perfect fit.

“Concert Choir brings freedom and fun outside of your busy school week,” said Tracie Lee, a former program member. There are no auditions required to join. Choir features singing classical, folk music, spirituals, and some musical

theater.

When it comes to Jazz Voices, a group of 16 singers are selected from auditions to perform . The Concert Choir and Green River Jazz Voices hold concerts throughout the entire school year.

Students who are interested in getting involved with these music programs are encouraged to contact Eisenhour, national recording artist and award-winning director.

For Taylor Harris, a GRCC student and member of the Jazz Voices, being a part of the music program has helped her to transition out of high school and into a full time Green River student.

“It has definitely made the start of my first quarter completely out of high school easy to transition. The people are really fun and Kelly is great,” Harris said.

In addition to the musical clubs that are offered here at GRCC, Students who are interested in having an influence on student affairs are encouraged to run for Associated Students of Green River Community College.

ASGRCC plays a viable role here at Green River. It handles student disputes, provides funding for campus clubs, athletics activities and programs, in addition to reporting student requests directly to the administration and college Board of Trustees.

For Student Body President

Tevin Gladney, becoming a part of ASGRCC has made his time here at Green River both enjoyable and rewarding.

“I look at the school from a different view. I’m always open and eager to meet, and hear about other students’ wants and needs,” said

Gladney.

Clubs offer a great place for students to meet others and have fun, and for those students who want to make a lasting impression here at GRCC, there is even the option of starting a new club that is not already offered.

Visit the Student Life building and pick up the “Club Start Up” form from the Organization Coordinator. If the club is approved, then spread the word - clubs are a great way to gain experiences that will help guide you through college and beyond.

Ian Lobdell | The Current

GRCC student, Taylor Harris (on the right), practices with other members of the aJazz Choir.

GRCC’s Ministry of Madness Eligible for National Improv Competition By: Megan Tilton Staff Writer In the last four years, Green River’s very own Ministry of Madness has become a growing and award winning improv club.

In January of 2014, the Ministry of Madness found themselves competing against other college improv groups at the College Improv Tournament in Seattle for a spot at the national improv competition.

The Ministry of Madness was up against various universities, state colleges, and community colleges, including the award-winning Dead Parrot Society from Western Washington University.

Green River’s Ministry of Madness was the only community college to place in the top 50 improv groups, placing 12th in the competition. Their placement secured them a spot at nationals, which will take place in Chicago of January 2015.

“We’re the only theater club on campus,” Ministry of Madness member Amanda Olsen said.

During rehearsal they play theater

Their contribution to the event sports and games, work on game helped raise over two thousand structure, and take suggestions from audience members who might dollars for Alzheimer’s research drop in. They put on performances and treatment.

The Ministry of Madness was for larger audiences once a month, established by three GRCC students and hold open auditions in the at the college four and a half years campus theater. ago. They wanted to put on a stu“Twice a week we meet up and make each other laugh as best as dent-led play. However, that soon morphed into a theater club, and we can,” Green River student and it grew into an improv group, or an Ministry of Madness member, Yi “improv troupe” as they like to call Hui, said. “I’ve made awesome themselves. friends there that truly have made me feel like I’ve According to advisor and improv belonged in the professor, Andrew community.”

Apart from “I’ve made awesome friends Rice, the Ministry of Madness is a being the only there that truly have made me largely popular theater group feel like I’ve belonged in the club here on camon campus, pus. Since their the Ministry of community.”

Madness is also - Yi Hui conception, they have more than an award-winquadrupled the ning club. Last number of members in their club. year they won Event of the Year.

“We love new people. A lot of The year before that, they won Club shy people have come out of their of the Year. shells,” Olsen said.

The Ministry of Madness has It is a club that appears to thrive even been involved in raising monon energy and insanity, and acey for charities. They performed for twelve hours straight for the cording to Rice, the members are Hilarity for Charity U Improv Show. generally enthusiastic about the

Courtesy | Ministry of Madness

The 2014-2015 Ministry of Madness Improv Group poses on stage. club and their performances.

“I have an immense amount of respect for the people in this club.

They are entirely motivated and self-driven,” Rice said.

To join the improv group, all a

potential member has to do is show up at practice and be willing to look and act a little silly. The group meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 12:50 p.m. in theater PA-115.

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Rachel Wood | A&E Editor ae@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

The First of Many Scares to Come This October Movie

Calendar

Film Review of Annabelle

Courtesy | Warner Bros. Pictures

John (Ward Horton) and Mia (Annabelle Wallis) in Annabelle.

By: Rachel Wood A&E Editor As a prequel for The Conjuring, Annabelle had high expectations. The Conjuring was arguably the best horror film of 2013, which set the bar high for Annabelle Director John Leonetti.

Annabelle began with the same opening scene from The Conjuring, in which two young women are talking to paranormal investigators

Ed and Lorraine Warren about their experiences with the doll that they believe to be haunted.

The scene that was included in both The Conjuring and Annabelle was set up perfectly so that the beginning of Annabelle would transition smoothly from The Conjuring.

As the scene ends, the story behind the Annabelle doll begins to unravel, and the main characters of the film are introduced.

John (Ward Horton) surprises his pregnant wife, Mia (Annabelle

Wallis), with a rare and vintage porcelain doll to complete her collection. On one horrific night, their small-town home is invaded by members of a satanic cult, who violently attack the couple.

After moving into a new home and giving birth to their baby girl, Lea, the couple hopes to leave behind their gruesome past and move on. But when the family begins to experience terrifying supernatural occurrences, they discover that the satanic cult may have conjured up something evil that simply can’t be left behind.

As the movie progresses, you find that it is not so much the doll that is terrorizing the family, but the demonic entity that is latched to Annabelle. This made the film distinct from other films, such as the Child’s Play movie series, that feature a doll that is possessed by the soul of a serial killer.

Annabelle, similar to most horror films, did contain a few cheap scares that caused the audience, as well as myself, to jump in our seats.

However, Director Leonetti did manage to deliver the jolts that left me double-checking the backseat of my car before driving home.

The film portrayed the era of the 1970’s rather well, and Leonetti did

a great job of following the same styles that Director James Wan set forth in his film, The Conjuring.

Leonetti and Wan had formerly worked on projects together, including Wan’s previous horror films, Insidious and Dead Silence.

Annabelle included practical camera tactics that added suspense to the movie, rather than overdoing the supernatural and demonic aspects of Annabelle with CGI like many other horror films do.

However, a majority of the scares were featured in the previews for this movie, which left what should have been some of the best scares, a bit too predictable.

Annabelle lacked the exhilarating pull that kept us on the edge of our seats for The Conjuring, although it did generate jumps and gasps throughout the length of the film.

Despite the minor shortcomings of Annabelle, Leonetti managed to conjure up an audience that was engulfed in the possessed doll, satanic cult, and horrifying deaths throughout the length of this film.

Overall, Annabelle was a great way to start off the Halloween horror movie season, and if you were a fan of The Conjuring, then Annabelle is the prequel to see.

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Dracula Untold Luke Evans, Dominic Cooper, Sarah Gadon

Rated: PG-13

Dead Snow 2

Vegar Hoel, Orjan Gamst, Martin Starr

Rated: R

The Devil’s Hand

Rufus Sewell, Alycia Carey, Adelaide Kane

Rated: PG-13

The Town That Dreaded Sundow Addison Timlin, Gary Cole

Rated: R

Ouija

Olivia Cooke, Ana Coto, Daren Kagasoff

Rated: PG-13

Horns

Daniel Radcliffe, Juno Temple, Heather Graham

Rated: R

Kent Station Scavenger Hunt Raises Awareness to GRCC Kent Campus By: Sam Ward Staff Writer The Green River Community College Kent Campus hosted their first photo scavenger hunt on Oct. 2. Nearly 20 students participated in the hunt.

The event was supervised by Mary Dempsey, lead secretary of the Kent campus, and Director of Instructional Support and Operations, Byron Ford.

Teams of two to four students were given one hour to complete as many tasks as possible on their list.

Some of the scavenger hunt tasks included taking a picture with the fireplace at the center of Kent Station, or posing by one of the movie posters in front of the AMC Theater. The photos were then posted on Instagram and Twitter using #grcckent.

The goal for this event was to help raise awareness to the GRCC Kent Campus and showcase the businesses in the area.

One of the supervisors of the event, Dempsey, commented on the “unique” location of the campus and how this event helped to “build a sense of community with the businesses.”

The Kent campus is located in the heart of Kent Station and is surrounded by restaurants, clothing stores, an AMC movie theater, and more, all within a block of the GRCC Kent Campus.

This gives students the opportunity to be a part of a small, and friendly community where they can enjoy time between classes at restaurants and local shops.

One Green River student, Nohealani Sadang, explained how she enjoyed the diversity of the Kent Campus location. “It was so close to everything,” Sadang said.

The scavenger hunt concluded at Naked Pizza, one of the restaurants just feet from campus for an allyou-can-eat pizza bar. The restaurant offers a selection of all-natural, whole food ingredients, with no added sugar or citric acid.

Prizes were also awarded to two teams that completed the scavenger hunt. The prizes included self-filtering water bottles and Skull Candy headphones. In addition, two students won raffle prizes of gift cards, each worth $25 for the shops at Kent Station.

Much like Main Campus, Kent Campus offers flexible class schedules, morning and evening classes and free, convenient parking.

Samantha Ward | The Current

Nearly 20 students (below) particiapted in the event.

The scavenger hunt concluded at Kent Station’s Naked Pizza (left) for an all-youcan-eat pizza bar while prizes were awarded.

Samantha Ward | The Current

opinion Editorial: Overload thecurrent

David Price | Opinion Editor opinion@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

Policy Harms Students The reason faculty voted to stop accepting class overloads is because in the past, as well as present, there has been a lot of tension between faculty and administration. On Sept. 19 United Faculty of Green River Community College voted “overwhelmingly” to stop accepting overload students this fall quarter.

“Class capacities are intended as maximum enrollment levels for a course, which were set to serve the best interests of students. Not only do overloads represent a substantial increase in workload for faculty, they inhibit our ability to effectively meet student needs, including ensuring safety in some classes,” according to a strongly worded email sent to faculty and administration

by Mark Millbauer, United Faculty President, on Sept. 21.

One of faculty’s grievances against the administration is referring to a three percent budget cut enacted in 2011 by Washington State Legislature for state employee salaries. That same three percent was later given back by the state but not put towards salary increases or raises for which it was designated. The faculty has been trying to meet with the administration in an attempt to resolve this issue.

Both parties have not agreeeed to

a resolution and decided to hire an impartial third party to settle this dispute. This situation illustrates the administrations negative attitude towards faculty.

Administration implemented the overload policy in the first place without faculty consent, and then did not give the faculty any additional payment for the extra students. Administration was keeping the money for themselves when they should have been compensating teachers for the extra work load. Overload students are paying tuition too so there is no reason why more money couldn’t have been allocated to faculty.

The policy doesn’t really help anybody. Students all across the campus have a schedule they need to keep to. Having to deal with the lack of overloads could potentially throw many students off their schedules. In the case of international students, the policy could interrupt their visa status. If they fall under 12 credits their visa expires. For graduating students they may not be able to complete the required classes they need in order to get their degree, unnecessarily extending their time at Green River.

For Running Start students this could throw off their High School graduation. They have very spe-

cific classes they need to take and considering that local high schools split the school year into semesters rather than quarters they can’t for example decide spring quarter to pick up a makeup class at their high school because classes for the semester are already in session.

In the case of certificate students there are specialized classes that are only offered once a year. Missing those required classes could set students back an entire school year.

Although the intent of teachers has not been malicious, the policy could be potentially detrimental towards many students.

The policy only minimally helps teachers because it reduces the total number of students occupying their classes, thereby reducing their work load. It could be argued that teachers would have more time to spend with individual students.

However, it’s unlikely that students will actually get more help from their teachers because it does not increase the teacher’s office hours.

The only classes that are directly affected by this policy are classes that are already full. Also, it’s helpful to keep in mind that for most waitlist classes the number of overload students will only be a few so students time individually spent with teachers doesn’t really increase.

The faculty’s intent for the policy was to rebel against administration but the result is a failed attempt that inhibits students. The policy doesn’t affect administration in any meaningful way. Any tuition money lost will just be made up when the students have to take a class they need later. When students can’t get into the classes they want and then go to administration and complain, the situation only becomes an annoyance.

Administration and faculty need to come to an agreement for a better overload policy that doesn’t negatively affect students. Administration could consider an overload policy that has monetary incentives for teachers to take on overload students. Faculty members need to understand that overload enables students to take the required classes they need even when they are full. Students are scapegoats left not knowing what is going on so there isn’t much they can do except perhaps voice their concerns to their teachers. If the dire situation between administration and faculty is not eventually resolved, it could lead to a strike. Once again it would be the students who would suffer the most. see pages 3&4 for more info on “overload” and “faculty contract”

Long Lines to be Avoided at Bookstore and Cafeteria Time can be Saved by Going to online Bookstore and Getting in Shorter Lines By: Brent Gibson Staff Writer One of the best ways to save time at Green River Community College is to avoid waiting in the long lines that accumulate at certain parts of the day.

Regular coffee drinkers may have noticed that the espresso stand in the LC building, next to the food court, often has about seven people waiting for their caffeine kick. With the dining area and the bookstore

Editorial Policy

nearby, the stand brings in over 100 customers per day and it can be difficult to find times when the line is empty.

What fewer people seem to know is that there is a second espresso stand nearby at the TC building.

According to barista at the LC espresso stand, Kaycie Morrison, it is usually quicker to make the small walk for a shorter line even though she can pump out coffee like nobody’s business.

The Current is a limited public forum for student expression, in which student editors make policy and content decisions.

Green River Community College delegates editorial responsibility for the content of the publications. The college acknowledges the dual free purpose of student publications as instructional tools and as vehicles for free inquiry and free expression in the academic community. The views and opinions expressed in The Current do not necessarily reflect those of the college or student body.

A second source of buildup occurs at the bookstore. If a customer arrives at the wrong time, they could potentially find themselves waiting in a line of 50 to 60 people.

When this happens, it is smart to jump into the second line that everybody seems to forget about.

Bonnie Ryan, cashier at the Green River Bookstore, claims people need to be reminded of the second line, “All the time.”

It’s almost as if people believe

Theft Policy

it to be cutting to skip past their more patient classmates and hop into a nearly empty line, but it’s actually encouraged, as it spares the staff the task of shouting out the reminder to everyone.

When buying books, a person can save even more time by buying at the online bookstore at the Green River website and picking it up from a completely separate and shorter line toward the back of the store.

A person commits the offense of publication theft when he or she willfully or knowingly obtains or exerts unauthorized control over more than three copies of The Current that is distributed on campus (with the intent to prevent other individuals from reading that edition of the publication). A “publication” includes any periodical that is distributed on a complimentary or compensatory basis. In addition to the imposition of other campus disciplinary penalties, a person who violates this provision is responsible for compensating the publication for all reasonable costs incurred, including, where appropriate, the refund of advertising fees.

Letters to the Editor

9 2014-2015

thestaff Jesse Torres Editor-in-Chief 253-388-3457

Ian Lobdell Managing Editor Ads Editor 253-833-9111 x2376 James Ristig Campus Editor

Rachel Wood A&E Editor

David Price Opinion Editor

Jesse Maiwald Sports Editor

Staff Writers: Alanna Argudo, Alexis Ball, Megan Tilton, Sean Chounlamany, Kaylee Markonich, Taylor Lopes, Mari Regalado, C.M. Warnke, Job Williams, Megan Hopper, Samantha Ward, Madeline Wentz, Brent Gibson, Nicholas J. Rasmussen, Renno Jeon, Sayaka Nishi, and Ed Ali Photographers: Ian Lobdell, Alina Moss, and Job Williams

Corrections

As much as The Current would like to think we are perfect, we are not. Because of this, we welcome our readers’ thoughts and comments on the our work an it’s accuracy.

If you find and error in our facts or simply a name spelt wrong, please contact us at: editor@thegrcurrent.com 253-288-3457 or come in to our office in: OEB room 17

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Take JOURN 100.1 Or stop by OEB 17 Reporting Writing Photography & Video Gain valuable journalism experience

The Current encourages all its readers to be involved and will publish letters. Anonymous letters are not accepted and the editor reserves the right to reject or edit letters on the basis of length, libel, or propriety. All letters become property of The Current. Send letters to editor@thegrcurrent.com.

10 2014-2015

opinion

thecurrent

David Price | Opinion Editor opinion@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

Public Hearings on the Code of Conduct Hearings Take Place to Take in Public Comments on the Revised Draft of the Code of Conduct By: David Price Opinion Editor

On September 24 I attended a public hearing on the proposed rules changes to the Rules of Student Conduct. Hardly anyone showed up. In the half an hour time period I was there nobody spoke. The hearing was at 10 a.m. so I understand that student attendance would likely be few.

This was the first of such hearings of the fall school year and the second hearing for the proposed rule changes that has occured.

There will be more opportunities for students to voice their opinions in the future; on Oct. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the SOB rooms and then the final hearing on Oct. 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Glacier Room.

Those who attend have the option of speaking or leaving written comments.

According to the Public Hearing Information Sheet “The Board of Trustees will receive a summary of all the public comments as part of their decision making process.”

I strongly encourage all students who are able to attend these public hearings and exercise your first amendment rights or at least observe what others have to say and become informed. A free copy of the Rules of Student Conduct revisions will be given to all who attend.

The proposed rule changes are inconsistent, vague, and ambivalent. On one hand the administration claims to be a defendant of student’s right to speech but on the other hand from the time of enrollment to graduation the college can subject students to discipline not only for their conduct on the

Ian Lobdell | The Current The first Rules of Student Conduct hearing held July 9 was attended only by Safety Director Rich Axtell, two editors of The Current and their adviser. college premisis but also for their conduct outside the college premisis as well, if the conduct disagrees with the colleges goals. This allows authority far too much discretion.

According to WAC 132J-126-020 Statement of Jurisdiction, “The student conduct code shall apply to student conduct that occurs on college premisis, to conduct that occurs at or in connection with college sponsored activities, or to off campus conduct that, in the judgment of the college, adversely affects the college community or the pursuit of its objectives.”

What could students do or say

that could detrimentally affect the college? What is the college afraid of? Unfortunately these questions are not answered in the new proposal. Students are not going to automatically know what types of conduct the college is talking about unless it is specified.

For college activities these rules even apply to domestec travel, training internships, online education, practicums and supervised work activities.

However, the policy has some redeemable qualities. According to section WAC 132J-126-190 “The respondent may appeal a disciplinary

action by filing a written notice of appeal with the conduct review officer within twenty one days of service of the student conduct officer’s decision. Failiure to timely file a notice of appeal constitudes a waiver of the right to appeal and the student conduct officer’s decision shall be deemed final.”

Students who timely appeal a disciplinary action have a right to a prompt and fair hearing. Only time will tell how true this is.

Students have a right to assemble. Students have a right to express their opinions. Students have a right to say what they wish outside

the boundaries of the college.

Students have a right to hand out leaflets and pamphlets without administrative approval.

For administration to infringe upon fundamental constitutional rights and then try to make it sound like they’re not shows that they either don’t understand the fundamental basics of liberty or they just don’t care. The effect the changes in this policy will have in the classroom and around campus are uncertain. Please speak out because if everybody stays silent administration will continue to succeed in taking away our rights.

Prices at Cafeteria Turn Away Students By: C.M. Warnke Staff Writer

A poll was conducted on opinions about the high prices in the cafeteria. Out of all students polled everyone agreed they would rather bring food to campus than eat in the cafeteria.

The price of food on campus is considerably higher when compared to local restaurants off-campus. One burger can cost $7, as opposed to McDonald’s or Burger

King where you can get $4 burgers at not only lower prices but for more food as well.

One student, when asked whether they had ever eaten in the cafeteria, said “No, it’s much too expensive and I enjoy making my own food.”

The cost of a drink is very high too. A Monster energy drink for example, a common sight around campus, can cost $3 compared to $2 at a grocery store.

It seems that the school would

have no choice but to lower the prices in the cafeteria. However, students who may not want to spend money in the cafeteria will, if desperate enough. Green River students Tom and Camellia said “Leaving campus is too far.”

One student, when informed that the nearest fast food place was 1.2 miles from the school said he would buy a meal in the cafeteria because he didn’t have a car and didn’t have time to walk that far.

Students in a lot of situations

have no choice but to give in and spend whatever is charged.

Though it also depends on the students. Out of a small group of students polled twice as many men said they would be willing to buy in the cafeteria than bring something to eat while women said they would prepare and bring their own meals.

As far as an option of leaving campus to eat none of the students polled said they had time to leave, knowing they would be going at least a mile or more off campus.

This fact alone shows that often there is no choice but to pay high prices in the cafeteria.

Student employee Ashley Mitton-Dorn at the GRCC book store said that there’s often long lines of students getting their meals at the cafeteria. The other book store employee Melisa Dando said she would never eat at the cafeteria because the prices at the book are so much better. A noodle bowl at the bookstore was $2 compared to $4 at the school cafeteria.

Jesse S. Maiwald | Sports Editor sports@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

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Blassingame Rebranding the Green River Basketball Team

New Head Coach Ryan Blassingame

By: Jesse S. Maiwald Sports Editor Twitter: @SK3M3R Green River has a new head basketball coach this year after 10-year head coach Tim Malroy left this past season for another coaching opportunity at Evergreen State College. Malroy’s assistant coach for the past 11 years has been Ryan Blassingame, who

now has the head coaching job.

Students should be getting ready for the changes that are upon the school this upcoming season. “I want to restore the name of this program,” Blassingame said, referring to his experience as a student more than ten years ago. “We have a lot to offer and it’s a beautiful campus. It’s what made me who I am today”.

In 2002 during his sophomore season, Blassingame was able to help bring the Gators not only to the NWAAC tournament, but the championship game. The Gators finished as the runners up, but there was something more in that gymnasium that the new coach wants to recover.

“That game will forever hold a sentimental spot in my heart,” Blassingame said. “We had the gym packed to capacity, and I haven’t seen it since then. I want to give our school a good brand of basketball, and bring very entertaining games in for people to come watch. When you’re not winning people don’t

year after being the teams leading care, when you are winning it brings something for people to look scorers as sophomore’s last season.

The team has three returning forward too.”

This new philosophy Blassingame players in Aaron Holiday, Bryce Demecillio, and Matthew Hardis trying to bring his team up with wick. The team has also brought should be one that garners success. in transfer students from a couple This years team will be a lot different schools. different than when under Coach Glenn Malroy. A couple Brooks is key players from a point last season will guard not be returning, “I want to restore the name from but the college of this progam, we have Central has recruited a lot to offer and it’s a Arizona some transfer beautiful campus. It’s what College students. “We have different made me who I am today.” who just transpersonnel now, - Head Coach Ryan Blassingame ferred and we’re smaller this is expectyear, but we’ll ed to be a be faster, and starter this upcoming season. C.M. defense will become an emphasis,” Garrett who is a six-foot-six transfer Blassingame said. “I will focus on from Bellevue College who has the discipline of this team. The been sent over to play wing. Anothguys can relate to me because I’m er transfer student named Damon younger, I’m definitely a player’s Cikanek, who was a former student coach for sure.” in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Isaac Winston and Devonte Coach Blassingame said he is well Luckett will not be returning this

respected in the basketball community and has his connections.

He has worked with a few great coaches including Travis DeCuire who just landed a head coaching job at the University of Montana.

“I had given up on basketball past high school after I had a knee surgery,” Blassingame said. Coach Decuire gave him a chance with his first coaching job at Green River.

“My style reflects how he (Decuire) coaches the game,” Blassingame said. One of his primary goals for this season is to “rejuvenate Green River’s basketball image” and to target the hundreds of athletes coming out of Kent and Auburn schools who sign to schools that are further away.

“We lose a lot of Kent and Auburn kids who are signing further away to play basketball at further away programs,” Blassingame said.

Basketball is not only his career path, it “saved my life, and my friends”. Now he wishes to reach out and spread the same help for his players.

Volleyball Team Striving to Stay on Top of Winning Season By: Alexis Ball Staff Writter

The Green River Women’s volleyball team currently boasts a record of 3-1 since the school year has started. The team is currently in possession to make it in the postseason possessing an overall season record of 14-13. The most recent game was against the Tacoma Titans and was a tightly heated competition lasting all five period on Wednesday, October 1.

In the first period, the Gators beat the Titans with a close win of 25-19. Nadine Middlebrooks, the outside hitter #15, rolled her ankle within the first half of the period. Middlebrooks expects her ankle to heal up just fine, with limited physical therapy. After the game, she had her injured ankle wrapped in a bandage to keep it stable. She has high hopes for the rest of the season, stating, “I believe in my team”.

Her positive attitude reminds us that these girls are not just a team, but a family.

The Gators ended up committing their first foul in period two, but still won the (session) with a slightly closer score of 25-20.

This gave the Green River Gators a 2 (set) lead over the titans who still hadn’t won a set.

However, in the third period, the momentum of the game had turned. The Titans were reaching

down to catch up from behind.

The Gators ended up committing one more foul, making it a total of 2 so far. Soon after that foul was made, #9 Audra Koke, a setter, was also injured. She was not available to comment on her injury. Nadine then substituted for Audra during the third period.

While the Gators lost their footing and tempo of the game, the Titans were able to capitalize on the opportunity and capture the momentum of the game.

With all that happening for the

Gators, the Titans won the third period with a score of 25-16.

Tacoma was able to gain a strong lead early on Green River during the fourth period. In no time the Titans were sitting on ten point lead and looking to tie up the game. The Titans dominated the Gators in this period and came out on top with a score of 25-12. With this win in the Titans’ hands, it tied the game, forcing the game into a fifth and final period.

By the fifth period, the Titans

also matched the amount of fouls Green River had committed, making it two for each team. Being an overtime period, the Gators only had to reach a score of 15 before the Titans. The Green River Gators did just that, winning the game with a close overtime score of 15-12.

After the win, Coach Densely - as well as the entire team- was very excited and began celebrating right away. When asked if he expected to take the win, Coach Densley simply stated, “yes”. He

is very impressed with the entire team’s improvement throughout the season so far, especially the freshmen players. He notes that they have all come quite far in such a short amount of time. Densley is especially happy with the middle blocker #7, Rochelle Middlebrooks, confirming that she is his MVP. Densley is very impressed with this year’s team, because of how cohesively they work. The Coach compliments the girls, saying they are more about the team than the individual players.

Alina Moss | The Current

Dana Alderson (#2) diving for a ball still in play.

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Jesse S. Maiwald | Sports Editor sports@thegrcurrent.com www.thegrcurrent.com

Alina Moss | The Current

GRCC Soccer Defeats SVC By: Alina Moss Sports Photographer

The Green River Gators defeated the Skagit Valley Cardinals 2-0 at Wilson Play fields on Oct. 1.

Green Rivers defense was playing strong and the Cardinals struggled with every shot they took. This left Green River’s women’s soccer team with a clean sheet all the way to the end of the game. Goal Keeper Molly Lambert played efficiently under her job of protecting the goal and not letting anything get by her.

Not only was Green Rivers defense firm at protecting their goal, the Gators also had brilliant pass play throughout the whole field. Displaying teamwork and communication while the player’s worked together to move the ball through around the Skagit Valley defense.

The Gators right outside mid fielder Anna Marie Merrell commented on the game, “If I wasn’t playing with bronchitis, I normally could have played the whole game.”

The Gators biggest plays of the day came from long passes

to Brandy Sinclair (#11) in the forward position with good space to score two game changing goals, both in the second half of the game.

In order for Green River to be successful this season, the lady Gators need to “come together” and “bring some wins in for our standings”, said Bob Kickner, GRCC’s Athletics Director When the team was on the field, that is exactly what they did. With the spirit of the Green River Gators staff, students, and faculty in the crowd and in mind the team, they came together and brought a hard fought team win to the match.

Our Gators practiced hard, played hard, and won as a team. They left Wilson Play field that day with a score of 2-0 and the satisfaction of victory.

The GRCCs Womens Soccer team now stands at a score of 4-6-0 in the league and 6-6-0 for the season. Green River Community College women’s soccer is now ranked second to last, above Skagit Valley Cardinals in the North division in NWAAC soccer league.

Brandy Sinclair (Above #11) Scoring a goal aginst Tacoma Shortly after Halftime.

Shelsea Carrillo (Left #13) fighting for possession.

Alina Moss | The Current

Alina Moss | The Current Alina Moss | The Current

Anna Marie Merrell (Left #22) slide tackling against a Skagit Vallet player. Alexus Yantzer (Above #12) dribbling the ball into the final third during the second half of play.