Volume 42, No. 5 February 2014
KaOhanaOnline.org
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s k : o o b t x e T verpriced? O “
by Patrick Hascall Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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ou got to be kidding me!” Is this what you were thinking when shopping for textbooks? Or was your comment a bit more colorful? Yes, soaring textbook prices are a frustrating part of college life. According to USA Today, in the last decade textbook prices have increased around 82 percent and over 800 percent since the 1970s. This increase far surpasses inflation and tuition costs. So why are prices increasing so dramatically? Unfortunately, since 2008, publishers have not released cost breakdowns. But according to Bruce Hildebrand, executive director of higher education at the Association of American Publishers, “Developing and producing a textbook takes three to five years on average, and can even
used textbooks at significantly cheaper prices, though not always. Online classifieds, such as Craigslist and eBay, are also becoming a portal to students selling their used books. “Sometimes I end up paying about $500 for books,” said WCC student Tarisa Monmaney, “but if I shop a rou nd on l i ne I can get them all for about half the price.” In today’s digital age, Etexts (online textbooks) are also becoming more popular. Most ILLUSTRATION BY PATRICK HASCALL textbook publishers now offer such an option at take more than a decade for some science books. Students are paying for this cheaper rates, and you may even be lucky enough to find a free E-book with labor-intensive process.” Hildebrand also says used text- a little research. “One thing I have found is checking books are driving up the prices. “The single greatest contributor to online for a free download of the Ethe price of a textbook is a used text- book,” said WCC student Jesse Brooks. book,” said Hildebrand, “As students “Many books are out there if you know use these as substitutes for new books, how to look.” Used textbooks or rentals from the it creates fiscal pressures on publishers.” Whatever the reason, there seems to campus bookstore are another option. “Used books generally sell for be no end in sight for rising costs. With sticker shock becoming com- around 30 percent lower than new monplace, more students are fighting texts,” said WCC bookstore manager back by turning to the Internet to help Debralee Goto. “We buy back and sell ease the pressure on their pocketbooks. used textbooks if the departments Many online retailers offer new and decide to reuse the same publication.”
But book buyback is a hot-button issue for many students, who believe past return values are a bit lacking. “The books are often very expensive,” said WCC student Noah Foti, “and when it comes time to return them, they offer to pay you a fraction of what you paid for them.” In answer to buyback prices, Goto said the bookstore is making some changes. “We are switching to dynamic prices,” she explained, “where students can receive up to 50 percent of current market value at the time of buyback.” When asked where bookstore proceeds go, Goto said, “The bookstore’s proceeds go into a special fund from which we order new supplies and make donations to college fairs at area schools.” Also, contrary to popular belief, the bookstore does buy back unbound course material. “We do buy back loose-leaf textbooks if the departments are using them in the future,” said Goto. “But it does depend on the condition in which they are returned.” With textbook prices climbing ever higher, the problem has not gone unnoticed by college bookstores. To help students, many have added a textbook price comparison tool. “One-stop comparison-shopping is just one of the ways our bookstores help our busy students make smart choices,” said Tricia Ejima, assistant director of UH Mānoa’s Campus Services. “There SEE TEXTBOOKS PAGE 11
Major milestone for vet tech J
by Jessica Crawford Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
an. 31 marked the blessing and opening of the longawaited vet tech facility at WCC. The new $2.1 million facility will offer students hands-on experience as they earn their twoyear degree in the veterinary technician program, as well as provide many valuable services to the community. Construction on the new facility started on July 31, 2013, but Dr. John Kaya, animal science instructor and director of the program, explains that the process started years ago. “This program has evolved over the past four or five years. It started out as an idea by local veterinarians, as well as (WCC professor) Ross Langston and (former vice chancellor) Richard Fulton. They decided there was a need in Hawaiʻi for a veterinary assisting and technician program. Our first graduate with a one-year certificate was in 2009.” In fall of 2012, WCC had a complete program for the two-
year associate’s in veterinary becoming quite competitive technology. In March 2013, because the facilities are limited WCC received accreditation in size and the type of animals from the AVMA (American students work with usually reVeterinary Medical Associa- quires field trips to local farms tion). Accreditation is important and ranches. Applicants for the second because it allows students to take the national board exam year are narrowed down by and become licensed and cre- a process that reviews trandentialed to work anywhere in scripts, field experience, essays, letters of recommendation and the U.S. According to Kaya, there includes a board interview. “We have a commitment, are only 218 accredited programs in the nation, and WCC not only to our students, but to our graduates. If we were has the only one in Hawaiʻi. “We are working towards to graduate 50 students a year making the program available through the second-year program, we could begin to outer island stuto flood the (job) dents, and that’s market. We are through distance See more photos at conscienvery conscien KaOhanaOnline.org learning, such as tious. We want online classes,” our students to get Kaya explains. jobs,” Kaya says. “But the challenge With the new state-of-theis it is a technical program that requires a lot of hands-on work. art facility, students can learn Of the 218 programs across the and train in a setting that recountry, there are only nine dis- flects the various animal hostance programs, which shows pitals in the community. The new vet annex conthat it can be quite difficult.” Up to 60 students can enroll tains a large treatment room in the program’s first year, with with exam tables and x-ray, 24 spots for the second year surgery and supply rooms.
JESSICA CRAWFORD
Students Leah Davide, Lilyan Koseki and Isabel Haag with Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Sen. Jill Tokuda in the new veterinary annex.
The program will work strictly with local shelters on Oʻahu to provide animals with services ranging from dental cleanings and extractions to x-rays and routine surgeries. “We require MOU’s [memorandums of understanding] between the shelters to provide services to these animals who don’t have owners who can provide these important procedures,” Kaya says. In the past, the program has had partnerships to work with Joey’s Feline Friends, Oahu SPCA, and the Humane Society. “Our plan for this semester is to perform somewhere
between 80 and 100 spay and neuters to shelters or rescue groups, at no cost to them,” Kaya says. Funding for the program comes from many sources. “In the early years, Ross Langston did a lot of grant writing and acquired a lot of funds for the program,” Kaya explains. “Now the program runs on funding from WCC, grants, student fees, and donations from the veterinary community. The vet community is very supportive. And in return, it’s good for them because WCC produces a very qualified workforce.”
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February 2014
Ka ‘Ohana
NEWS of the DAY WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi by Jessica Crawford Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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he 2014 Winter Olympics are scheduled to take place Feb. 7 through 23 in Sochi, Russia. This year, in the lead-up to the games, Sochi has been marked by several controversies. From human rights issues to the enormous cost and threats of terrorism—here’s a run-down on the 2014 Winter Games and a brief history of the Olympics.
Sochi summed up
When Russia won the bid to host the 2014 Winter Olympics in 2007, it estimated the games would cost $12 billion. Seven years later, costs have climbed to over $50 billion. It is slated to be the most expensive Olympic Games in history. So why is Sochi so expensive? There turns out to be a number of factors: It isn’t the most ideal place to hold the Winter Games. Sochi is a subtropical resort town, stretching for 90 miles along the Black Sea. The region has some of the warmest climates in the country. While winters are cold, temperatures during the games are expected to be in the low-50s, pushing for measures (such as snow “hoarding” and hundreds of snow machines) to ensure there’s enough snow on the ground. Much of the infrastructure needed to host the games had to be built from scratch. More than a dozen venues had to be built, including new hotels, roads, railways, bridges, tunnels and an airport renovation. Many reports of corruption regarding government officials, construction companies and building contracts have surfaced and are believed to account for some of the inflated budget. For example, a new 31-mile roadway built between Sochi and Krasnaya Polyana,
the resort hosting the ski and snowboard events, cost over $8 billion (yes, billion) — more than the entire cost of the last Winter Olympics. A good chunk of change is also going towards security. In recent weeks, Sochi has been plagued by concerns about whether security is adequate. In October and twice in December, the city of Volgograd was hit by suicide bombings that have killed at least 34 people and injured over 100.
by foot, train, car, plane, troika and even reindeer sleigh—it is expected to be the longest relay in Winter Olympics history. On November 7, 2013, the torch was launched aboard a Soyuz TMA-11M en route to the International Space Station. At some 200 miles above Earth, the torch was taken on a “spacewalk” by Russian cosmonauts. December 18, 2013—Obama sends a message of opposition to Russia’s anti-gay laws by naming Sochi Olympic delegates tennis legend Billie Bring in the new Amid all the controversy, Jean King, hockey player (twoSochi 2014 will be remembered time Olympic medalist) Caitlin for introducing 12 new winter Cahow and figure skater Brian sports competitions, including Boitano. The openly gay sports women’s ski jumping, coed team figure skating, biathlon, figures will attend the openluge as well as new men’s and ing and closing ceremonies. women’s categories in skiing Obama, on the other hand, is not expected to attend the and snowboarding. Olympic Games. Countdown to the Games December 19, 2013—PresiSeptember 2013—Russian documentary filmmaker Ser- dent Putin announces he will pardon gei Miroshjailed critics nichenko bea n d a c t ivgan shooting ists, includthe official i ng for mer film of the o i l t yc o o n 2014 OlymMikhail Khopic Wi nter dokovsky, 30 Games, titled, Greenpeace “Rings of the members and World.” The two members film will of the punk highlight band Pussy Olympic valRiot. The anues, sports COURTESY OLGA MALTSEVA nouncement philosophy, The Olympic silver medal in detail. comes after technology and the growing role of women international criticism about in sports. It will also contain Russia’s human rights records footage and stories of individu- and recently passed “anti-gay” als behind-the-scenes, such as laws. ice-makers, software engineers, History of the Games technicians and medical speThe a nc ient Oly mpic cialists. Games were held in Greece October 2013—The Olympic from 8th century B.C. to 4th Torch Relay begins. With an century A.D. These games proestimated 14,000 torchbearers vided inspiration to create the carrying the torch across 83 re- modern Olympic Games we gions of Russia, covering more see today. than 40,000 miles, including After growing public in-
COURTESY FOTOPHILIUS
Canadian Jeremy Wotherspoon holds the 500 meter speed skating record.
terest in reviving the ancient games, a wealthy philanthropist provided funding to restore the ancient Panathenaic Stadium to hold the games. The stadium hosted the Olympics in 1870 and 1875. In 1894, Baron Pierre de Coubertin founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The first Olympic Games (under the IOC) were held in 1896 in Athens, Greece. The Winter Olympics was created to feature sporting events that were impossible to hold during the Summer Games. In 1924, a winter “sports week” was held in Chamonix, France, and became the first official Winter Games. Throughout the years the games have grown. The 1936 Summer Olympics was the first to be broadcast on television to local audiences and the Winter Olympics of ‘56 were the first to be televised internationally. The 2012 Summer Olympics held in London brought together 204 nations with approximately 10,500 athletes (compared to the games in 1896, which brought together 14 nations and 241 athletes.) It had more than 219.4 million Americans tuning in to watch, making it the most
watched event in U.S. history, according to Nielsen ratings.
Women and the Olympics
Women were first allowed to compete in the Olympics in 1900, but by the 1992 Summer Olympics, there were still 35 countries that did not send females athletes to compete. At the 2012 Olympic Games in London, for the first time in history, every country competing included female athletes. It also marked the first year in which females could compete in every sport. The only events men cannot compete in are synchronized swimming and rhythmic gymnastics.
Medal breakdown
The IOC determines the physical properties and designs of the medals. The top three winning competitors in each sport receive medals (gold for first place, silver for second, bronze for third). Gold medals were made of solid gold up until 1912. Today, gold medals are composed of silver (.925 grade) and plated with at least six grams of solid gold. Silver medals are the same composition as the first place medal, without the gold gilding. Bronze medals are made of mostly copper, with some zinc and tin.
Do you think the Olympics are valuable? Why or why not? I
completely agree that the Winter and Summer Olympics are extremely valuable. The original intent of the Olympics was to set aside a time of peace, cooperation and goodwill between countries. These values are still seen today. It shows that nations can celebrate their best athletes on a stage that doesn’t involve violence. I actually enjoy watching the smaller nations who may send only a handful of athletes to compete. While these countries may have little to no chance of winning a medal,
they embrace the Olympic spirit of cooperation, sportsmanship and peace. — Jeff Uyemura-Reyes
countries face such as extreme poverty and lack of a good educational system. —Kaela Gimon
I’m very conflicted about any form of the Olympics. The games are an excellent way to bring countries together on mutual terms. The Olympics motivate national pride and seem to generally uplift people. On the downside, the cost is unimaginable for an event that doesn’t really benefit most people other than for entertainment. This is money that could be spent on serious issues many
I think about the two Olympics (Winter in Sochi, Russia and Summer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and see very different roles. The Winter Olympics in Russia will be very political, showing the power of Russia and its leader, Putin. I believe Brazil will benefit from the Summer Games because the government will have to address the uncontrolled crime on the streets of Rio. I
think the healthy competition will inspire many people to do something with their lives and many people will find work (preparing) the infrastructure. —Marta Cybulska-Binduga I don’t understand why we invest money into this competition when the only reward is a gold medal, bragging rights and recognition. To me, these aren’t tangible rewards. The pedestal we put athletes on needs to be kicked down and America needs to get its priorities straight. Besides, the playing fields aren’t equal.
Obviously, wealthier countries have the resources, facilities and people to do much more. —Stacey Pratt I believe the Winter Olympics at Sochi is a valuable event for both the United States and the international community. Because of Russia’s recent “gay opposition,” Sochi will be a prime venue for the international community to protest such discrimination and against Russia’s “tsar-like” government. — Justin Limasa
February 2014
CAMPUS NEWS
Ka ‘Ohana
WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
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Sustainability Club seeks adventurers L
by Kelly Montgomery Ka ‘Ohana Editor in Chief
iving in Hawaiʻi can be costly — not just for our wallets but for the island paradise itself. As population and development grow, natural resources are threatened. WCC’s Sustainability Club aims to change that. Celebrating their second year on campus, the club is stepping it up this semester and invites you to join them. One of the newest developments supported by the club, with the help of non-profit group Hui O Ko‘olaupoko, is the “rain garden.” The kick-off event for the rain garden is set for 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26 at Hale ‘Imiloa 123. “In ancient times, this was all open land, and the water went through the ground into the subsurface where it collected for our drinking water,” explained WCC professor and club co-advisor Floyd McCoy. “As long as we pave the landscape with parking lots, streets, rocks (concrete) and buildings, we seal the ground,” he said. “Because of this, the water now runs off into the street, down the storm drains and directly into the ocean. It does not go down to recharge the groundwater. That’s the whole idea with rain gardens — to get that water back down into the earth.” The garden is planned to replace the lawn directly in front of Hale ‘Imiloa, with construction starting in February. Along with Windward’s developments, the UH system has already been working on its own sustainability efforts. Johnson Controls, a global diversified technology and industrial leader, was recently hired to repipe the air conditioning systems at each community
college so every building on campus is linked to one another, reducing the use to just one “mega” AC station for major savings in electrical costs. In his professional opinion, McCoy feels that there’s much more that could be done to make campus buildings, such as the new library, “greener” than simply meeting the minimum state requirements. But McCoy understands the difficulties faced in upgrading historic buildings, which many of the campuses like WCC have. “We can only go so far because we are under constraints. It has to be handled delicately, but there is a way. There has to be a way to do it. That’s where we need to be—to figure out how—and then to get the construction going.” Finding ways to make UH campuses “greener” and raise awareness are just some of purposes of the 2nd annual UH systemwide Sustainability in Higher Education Summit. March 13 through 15, students, faculty and administrators from all 10 UH campuses will be coming to WCC to build on the statewide and UH System Sustainability Strategy (developed at the first summit), establish sustainability goals through work sessions, share best practices and build lasting relationships to support institutional sustainability transformation. “There are campuses like UH Maui that are doing some interesting things,” McCoy said. “They just built a new science building that it is paved with solar cells. The roof has vertical rotors that the wind moves to make electricity. “They even designed the building so that the tradewinds provide a natural air conditioning.” This type of progress is an example of what will be shared at the summit.
KA ‘OHANA STAFF
COURTESY TODD CULLISON
(Top) Sustainability Club members with advisors Rachel Harvey and Floyd McCoy (kneeling) and Dave Krupp (right). (Bottom) The proposed plan for the rain garden at Hale ‘Imiloa.
McCoy says the privilege of hosting the summit here is due to WCC’s respectable sustainability efforts. One accomplishment is the recent acquisition of the Waikalua Loko fishpond, making Windward the only campus to have one. Already being utilized in McCoy’s and fellow science professor Dave Krupp’s laboratories, Waikalua Loko
is an example of ancient sustainability. “Think of all the stuff that this campus, more than any other campus, is involved in that deals with sustainability. We have the lo‘i, an aquaculture facility behind ‘Iolani run by Sea Grant, an aquaponics facility, the gardens — all of these are looking at sustainability, food sources and how to do it locally.” SEE SUSTAINABILITY
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Events to promote domestic violence awareness T
Shauna Leake visits the memorial for domestic abuse victims at a past “An Empty Place at the Table” event.
he WCC Violence Prevention Task Force is sponsoring a day of events of commemoration and celebration on the theme of Valentine’s Day on Thursday, Feb. 13. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lobby of the Palikū Theatre, there will be a solemn display—“An Empty Place at the Table.” The display will commemorate the lives of victims of domestic violence from the Windward community, who are tragically missing from their household tables. The display consists of unoccupied place settings on a dining table—each place setting with the photograph and story of one victim. Visitors are invited to move respectfully around the table, reading and reflecting on the lives and deaths of the women and children represented. Surrounding the table will be auxiliary displays from the pages of a diary of one of the victims. At 11:45 a.m. in Hale Palanakila’s lobby, a tolling bell will mark the reading aloud of the names and brief statements identifying victims of domestic violence. This will be followed by a program of music and readings on the topics of violence prevention, love and loving and Valentine’s Day. Students from the Poets’ Society, creative writing classes, speech and acting classes and IS 103 will perform original work and selected literature. Instructors with courses meeting at this time slot will be invited to send their classes to the program.
Following the performance, at about 1:15 p.m., the WCC ohana—students, faculty, staff and community members—will join in the One Billion Rising program, a national rising up to dance in solidarity against sexual/domestic violence. For more information about the day’s events, contact Counselors Kate Zane or Winston Kong, or Counseling Intern Sheena Galutira. For information about dance practice for One Billion Rising, contact Kahea Tani in the Office of the vice chancellor of administrative services. The public is invited to join the One Billion Rising event for O‘ahu Feb. 14 from 5 - 8 p.m. at Magic Island. Details are available online.
V-DAY POETRY SLAM
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CC’s Poets’ Society will host a poetry slam dedicated to domestic violence awareness at Pālanakila on Feb. 13 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. An array of poets will be performing original work about love and the art of healing. “Listen to the voice of a stranger, a neighbor, a friend, a witness or a victim,” said coordinator Ashley Shankles. “You never know who can inspire you with their story.” Contact WCC Poets’ Society for more details: wccpoets@gmail.com, find them on Facebook or join them for Third Thursday at the library, 5-6 p.m.
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February 2014
Ka ‘Ohana
CAMPUS NEWS WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Hope you’re hungry W Ka Huaʻōlelo Hawaiʻi o Ka Lā na Tuti Kanahele
He wahi kōlamu hou kēia e mālama ʻia ana ma ka ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi. Inā he haumana ʻoe a i ʻole he kanaka hana ma kēia Kulanui Kaiaulu o ke Koʻolau, i kēlā me kēia lā o ka pule, hoʻouna leka uila au iā ʻoe i ka huaʻōlelo o ka lā, a kekahi manawa, ka māmala ʻōlelo o ka lā. Ua hoʻomaka au i kēia papahana i ke kauwela o ka makahiki iwakālua ʻumikūmālua. Ma muli o ka paipai nui o ka Pelekikena o ke Kulanui o Hawaiʻi e hoʻohawaiʻi ʻia nā kulanui me nā kulanui kaiaulu o Hawaiʻi, a me nā pahuhopu hoʻi o ka haʻawina kālā o ke Poʻo Kānāwai III no ka hoʻomōhala ʻana i ka polokalamu ʻike Hawaiʻi o kēia kula nei, ua hoʻomaka ʻia ka huaʻōlelo Hawaiʻi o ka lā. Koho wale au i nā huaʻōlelo o ka lā ma muli o kekahi hanana nui a i ʻole kekahi mea aʻu e hana ana iaʻu e kākau nei i ka huaʻōlelo o ka lā (e like me ka ʻai ʻana i ka pelena). Koho au i ka huaʻōlelo a laila, hāʻawi au i ka manaʻo nui o ia huaʻōlelo. A laila e hoʻohana au i ia huaʻōlelo i loko o kekahi māmala ʻōlelo a unuhi au i ia wahi māmala ʻōlelo. Hoihoi a mahalo ʻia nō hoʻi ia mau huaʻōlelo o ka lā e nā kānaka e heluhelu ana i kā lākou leka uila. No laila, e heluhelu nō.
The Hawaiian Language Word of the Day by Tuti Kanahele
This small and new column is presented in the Hawaiian language. If you are a student or an employee at Windward Community College, each day of the week, I send an email to you with the word of the day, and at times, the phrase of the day. I started this project in the summer of 2012. Because of the encouragement of the president of the University of Hawaiʻi to indigenize the colleges and the community colleges of Hawaiʻi, as well as the goals of one of Windward’s Title III grants to develop our Hawaiian Studies program, the Hawaiian language word-of-the-day was initiated. I choose these words-of-the-day in while reflecting on a particular event or something that I have been doing while writing the word-of-the-day (such as eating a cracker). I select the word and then I provide the meaning of the word. I then use the word in a phrase and I translate that phrase. These words-of-the-day are actually interesting and appreciated by those who read their emails. So then, keep on reading.
Nominations due March 14 for awards for teaching, service
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ach May at commencement faculty, staff and community members are honored for the work they do at WCC. This year, for the first time, students can nominate a part-time lecturer for the Meritorious Lecturer Award as well as a faculty member (teacher, counselor or librarian) who has had a positive impact on student success. Go to windward.hawaii.edu/Teaching_Awards/ for details on how to submit a nomination.
by JP Spencer Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
indward Community College’s Rain Bird staff is working on another edition this spring with the theme “Appetite for Evolution.” The student staff decided to revise the original theme, “Food Fight,” because it sounded as though it was about hitting someone across the room with your applesauce. “Food fight was meant to convey a global or national issue on the fight for food. However, after a careful review, the staff agreed the theme needed a new look,” said staff member Anyah Albert. Instead, the staff changed the title to “Appetite for Evolution,” to be hungry for change in the world. The staff works on the magazine all year, selecting entries, then designing the book, guided by Rain Bird advisor Robert Barclay. The style and form of the entries are entirely up to those who submit pieces. Writing or artistic works can be on any subject, but pieces that illustrate the theme are definitely encouraged. “Mr. Barclay, along with other English professors, are available to help students improve their stories. The class has favored artworks relevant to the theme, but you’ll never know until you submit a piece,” said Albert. Although the 2014 Rain Bird is in its final stages, the staff has already announced the 2014-2015 theme, “Under the Influence.” This theme’s pieces could describe being under the influence of anything, such as love, a place or an idea. Rain Bird encourages campus creativity and allows students to put their thoughts on paper for others to see. Suppose you had a story or idea you
DESIGN BY ANYAH ALBERT
The poster featuring the theme for this year’s Rain Bird.
wanted to communicate and couldn’t find anyone to tell it to. The staff at Rain Bird wants to hear about it. To submit, first you have to be a WCC student, faculty or staff member or a Writing Retreat participant. Then you enter works of art and writing with an entry form into one of the entry boxes, which are located in the library, the bookstore or outside the Rain Bird office in ‘Akoakoa 236. “If you’re an artist or writer, being published is a big achievement and a major asset to your portfolio. The best way to get involved is to join the class (ENG 280 – Book Production),” said Albert. “If there were more programs such as this islandwide, who knows how many successful writers and artists would surface,” said staff member Ashley Shankles. “Hawai‘i is known for its art and creativity, but only so often do we have writers who go nationwide. Rain Bird is nationally acclaimed and provides the opportunity for those unknown to be known. That in itself is impressive.” Rain Bird was recognized in 2013 with a First Place with Special Merit award from the American Scholastic Press Association and also won an award for “outstanding cover” for its “Love” edition.
Hawaiian language alive in A‘o by Grant Kono Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
“‘A‘ohe pau ka ‘ike i ka hālau ho‘okahi” “Not all knowledge is learned in one school.” — ‘Ōlelo Nōʻeau
S
ome say the best way to learn a language is to visit the country where it’s spoken. You learn about the culture and use the language every day until it becomes a part of you. But what about learning the Hawaiian language here in Hawaiʻi? At WCC, students can immerse themselves in a “home” of their own: the new campus Hawaiian language lab. Inside the older Hale Aʻo, the new lab is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. The lab is not only for fluent speakers or students taking Hawaiian classes, but for anyone on campus to hang out and enjoy the Hawaiian language. “Part of our morning routine in HAW 202 happens in the lab, and sometimes you’ll hear one student tell another ‘Olelo Hawai’i wale no’ which means ‘Hawaiian language only.’ It’s good to hear students push each other to learn and grow,” explained student Ekolu Chang.
JESSICA CRAWFORD
Students of HAW 202 in the new Hawaiian language lab with their kumu, Tuti.
In the lab, it is not required to speak Hawaiian to each other; however, if students are capable of doing so, they will often remind one another of the protocol. “It (the lab) helps us to make Hawaiian a regular thing and not just something we do in class,” said Kahea Kim, HAW 202 student. “If I can try to incorporate speaking Hawaiian into my everyday life, it will help me to become a better student of the language.” Kim is also the vice-president of Hui ‘Āpuakea, the Hawaiian language club on campus. One of the hardest parts about learning a language is being able to use it while still trying to master it. As children we make mis-
takes while speaking, but those mistakes mean nothing because of our age. While learning a language, in a sense, we are children again. Mistakes should not matter, but because of our age it is expected that we know correct from incorrect. Another goal of the language lab is to build the confidence in students to use Hawaiian out in the world. “Sometimes I feel intimidated to speak Hawaiian since I don’t speak much or very well,” said language student Pegah Kamali. “It’s important to have a place to speak (Hawaiian) where I can practice with others and not feel intimidated.”
February 2014
CAMPUS NEWS WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Ka ‘Ohana
5
TRiO-SSS: help on every level F
by Ashley Shankles Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
ree food? Free resources and services? If you haven’t heard about the TRiO-Student Support Services (SSS) program, let Ka ‘Ohana be the first to tell you. TRiO-SSS is the hidden jewel of the Windward campus tucked into Hale Naʻauao, otherwise known as the “Hall of Knowledge” for all who find refuge there. For those who aren’t aware of these services Pu’u Zablan, coordinator for tutoring and academic advising, explains, “TRiO-SSS is a federally funded grant program that provides opportunities for academic development, assists students with basic college requirements and serves to motivate students toward the successful completion of their postsecondary education. “We offer tutoring for most courses, but mainly English and math. In fact, we also offer summer math courses for those who need to meet the Math 25 or 28 graduation requirement or are looking to retake the math Compass test. We partner with other programs like Paipai o Ko‘olau, Hūlili and WAI. “Basically, we try to be as accommodating as possible. Our goal is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of our participants and help them make the transition from one level of higher education to the next.”
JESSICA CRAWFORD
TRiO coordinator Pu‘u Zablan and service-learning coordinater Kila Keohokapu at work.
The requirement to be a part of the program is to be a U.S. citizen enrolled at WCC who is considered low-income or a first-generation college student. Students with physical or cognitive disabilities are also eligible to join. Zablan—a WCC alumnus, a graduate student in social work at UH Mānoa and a product of TRiO programs— openly admits to the high standards set by former director Roy Inouye. “We officially open at 7 a.m. every morning, but I am in the office by 5:30 a.m. We are also open 24/7 during finals, which would seem ludicrous to anyone who works on salary and hasn’t fallen into the routine of things around here.
“However, Roy would wake up at 4 a.m. to come and open up shop by 5:30 a.m. So though I don’t wish to replace him, I do hope to maintain the (same) opportunities for students to get additional study time and have a place to hang out, pray, or whatever it takes to prepare for their day,” says Zablan. In addition to early morning openings and free tutoring, they also host a multitude of beneficial events such as tax services provided through VITA Tax, scholarship, resumé, personal statement and other writing and math workshops and an offer for a bi-annual supplemental grant aid for those who qualify. They also provide supplemental
grant aid to current participants who are receiving federal Pell Grants. Any participant of the TRiO-SSS program is able to apply. According to TRiO affiliates, the program sends an email a month before the semester begins. Interested grant applicants need to have been in the program at least one year and utilized its services, must write a personal statement, complete the USA Life Skills literacy questionnaire and maintain a cumulative G.P.A of 2.0 or higher while also volunteering throughout the semester. “Those who qualify and are selected will be awarded up to a $1,000 at the end of each semester,” says Zablan. “Deadline for the supplemental grant aid is the Friday, one week before school begins.” The praise and appreciation for these services from students are seen throughout the building—literally posted on the walls. “TRiO like a home away from home (where) there is always laughter,” says Ken Hanohano. “It’s as if everyone has known each other for a lifetime. Noon is like an open invitation for meeting somebody you’ll call family after enjoying free sandwiches—itʻs great.” Others utilize TRiO-SSS for the educational aid they provide. “TRiO is one of the greatest resources offered to students on campus,” says Michelle Kam. “The tutoring, SEE TRIO PAGE 10
Ardis Eschenberg, new VC by Ashley Shankles Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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“ t isn’t who we are or what we do that defines us, but
how we choose to be,” says Dr. Ardis Eschenberg, WCC’s new vice chancellor for academic affairs. “When I act with aloha, see the humanity of another person and respond with love — the way I would want for my own family member to be treated — I never have regrets, even if it doesn’t turn out right.” This kind of response is not uncommon when talking with Eschenberg. Whether the subject is her doctorate in linguistics or day-to-day WCC encounters, she comes across as dedicated and down-to-earth. For the past three years, Eschenberg has served as WCC’s vice chancellor for student affairs. Her academic experience and grant-writing skills have helped launch new programs for college success. Eschenberg recently spearheaded several grant projects, one of which awarded WCC close to one million dollars. This Castle Foundation grant launched the Paipai o Ko‘olau project to promote the educational success of returning students or “at-risk” freshmen. This “dream come true” will provide financial aid, summer bridge programs and supplemental instruction to those who qualify. Eschenberg says her goals as the new VCAA are the same goals that have driven her in all her positions: increasing access for higher education, removing barriers to success and working to ensure that higher education does not become a reality only for the wealthy. “To do so, I hope to continue working with the faculty and staff to consider how to best provide developmental education, encourage professional development, seek additional resources to improve student and
faculty experiences and generally uphold our mission and the excellent student-centered, faculty-driven education we have at WCC.” She is also involved in the “early alert” or Starfish project that helps provide resources and feedback to students early on in the semester. “It’s exciting to see if we can make a difference this way, promoting success before the students feel stuck,” says Eschenberg. “I am so thankful for the faculty and staff who are figuring out ways to make this happen, going above and beyond.” This from a woman who has gone above and beyond to create these opportunities and provided a heartfelt response when asked about her short- and long-term goals. “If it’s a Sunday, I’ll be at church, the farmer’s market, and then to the beach,” she says. “Otherwise, I hope I’ll be here at WCC. I love my work, my community, the students, and our faculty and staff. I can’t imagine being happier anywhere else. “I am very humbled to have this opportunity to raise my family in Kane‘ohe, to watch my friends and their children come to WCC, to know the amazing people who live on this side and be a part of the aloha. I hope that I can still be doing this in 10 years.” Eschenberg invites students to be a part of WCC’s extracurricular activities as they “…correlate with increased classroom success,” adding that getting a degree or being successful takes much “commitment, strength and fortuitousness.” “There are a million reasons why a person can’t make it or should make it, but you gotta pick up the reasons that you can make it, why you should make it, and why you have to make it. Then commit — no matter what happens,” says Eschenberg. As a linguist who speaks six languages, she ends
JESSICA CRAWFORD
Ardis Eschenberg, new vice chancellor of academic affairs.
with a saying from the Omaha, a Native American tribe in northeastern Nebraska and Iowa. “Washkon-a!”she says. “Be strong, try your hardest and do your best.”
Help assess child care needs Wish there was child care on campus? We need your feedback! Please take 10 to 15 minutes to complete a survey sponsored by the American Association of University Women. Go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ Q756JSR to share your thoughts.
Movie magic It’s Oscar time again — when Hollywood gathers to honor its best and fans can see if their favorites from the past year will beat the other contenders. This year’s Academy Awards ceremony will be on Sunday, March 2. Some of the nominees for “Best Picture” are included here along with a review of one, “Her,” that comments on our love affair with technology. But what does it take to bring a story to the big screen? Ka ‘Ohana talked with the advisors of WCC’s Film Club — English teachers Robert Barclay and Desi Poteet — about the art of storytelling and their own fascination with film.
Embarking on a ‘Siri’us relationship by John Bascuk Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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he new film “Her” gives the audience a glimpse of what our future may be like: isolated from everybody and developing relationships with our phone. “Her” reflects how we as humans behave in today’s world, whether we’re constantly glued to our phone or the fact that some of us just can’t survive without social media. In an interview for The Salt Lake Tribune, writer and director Spike Jonze said, “I think technology is doing so many things to us. It’s helping us connect and preventing us from connecting. I think that’s the setting for the movie.” Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix) is a lonely writer
WARNER BROS. PICTURES
Joaquin Phoenix and Amy Adams in a scene from “Her.” whose life is slowly falling apart. His wife, Catherine, has left him, and they are on the
verge of a divorce. Theodore has trouble making real-life connections with
real people. Ironically, his job is to write personal letters through the Internet for strangers who can’t express their feelings for their loved ones. His only friend is Amy, who is always busy with her marriage and work. One day on his way to work he comes across an advertisement on a billboard. The ad displays the arrival of the OS1, “the first artificially intelligent operating system, an intuitive entity that listens to you, understands you, and knows you. It’s not just an operating system – it’s a consciousness.” After purchasing and installing the new software to his computer, he finds himself drawn to a very special voice in Samantha (voice of Scarlett Johansson).
Samantha is just what Theodore needs in his life. She’s thoughtful and simply understands him in a way that not even his ex-wife understood him. In fact, she’s programmed to know him better than anyone. Having spent endless hours throughout the day together, Theodore, as well as Samantha, find themselves deeply in love. But is that going to be enough? The film can be seen as a beautiful romance, despite its oddity and strangeness. The sweet and utterly charming voice of Scarlett Johansson and the sensitive portrayal by Joaquin Phoenix help the audience relate and feel engaged. Though we may be afraid to admit it, this film is a direct reflection of what our world is coming to.
And the winner is . . .
Bringing a book to the big screen by Charissa Wittig Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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CC English professor Robert Barclay’s novel, “Melal,” is being turned into a feature film by an awardwinning director. The book, which has a five-star review on Amazon, was inspired by his experiences growing up in the Marshall Islands. It is filled with visually creative adventures and inventive characters that capture the reader’s imagination. It is no surprise, then, that this novel has become the basis for a film in development called “Fall Out.” Barclay signed a contract with Te Maka Produtions to produce a film adaptation of the novel, which he hopes will further awareness of the U.S. nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands, as well as their continued missile test-
JESSICA CRAWFORD
WCC Film Club advisors Desi Poteet and Robert Barclay. ing which has rendered many islands off-limits to the native population. According to Bar-
clay “Sixty-seven atomic and thermo-nuclear tests were conducted in the Marshalls,
with the Bravo test at Bikini equivalent to over 1,000 Hiroshima bombs. Fallout spread over several inhabited atolls, causing a host of medical and relocation problems that people are still suffering from to this day.” With the royalties from his novel, Barclay founded the Alfred Capelle and Byron Bender Scholarship for Marshallese students attending UH Mānoa. All Barclay’s proceeds from the film will also go directly to the scholarship. So far, the scholarship has over $63,000 and is endowed by the University of Hawaii Foundation. “I always encourage people to contribute to my scholarship and to seek an honest understanding of the Marshall Islands, their people and the reasons why so many of them are coming here to Hawai‘i, as is their legal right to do so,” Barclay said.
The movie is being produced by Jeanette Paulson Hereniko and directed by Vilsoni Hereniko, who also directed Fiji’s first-ever feature film, “The Land Has Eyes.” In December, “Fall Out” was one of the 2013 MPA (Motion Picture Association) Asia Pacific Screen Awards film fund recipients. The film received a development grant of $25,000 to help fund the production. The International Federation of Film Producers Associations, recognizes and promotes cinematic excellence and cultural diversity of the world’s fastest-growing film region. If you’re on Facebook, you can follow the production of the movie “Fall Out” by searching for “Falloutmovie.” The novel is available at most bookstores or with online booksellers such as Amazon.
The art of adaptation: from fiction to film by Charissa Wittig Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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CC English teacher Desi Poteet has combined her passion for film with writing and is turning the pages of success. She earned her master’s degree in English-creative writing and is currently working towards her Master of Fine Arts in professional screenwriting. Her screenplays have earned finalist and semifinalist recognition in several competitions. She also teaches the writing intensive course
ENG 272: Culture and Literature, which focuses on the Art of Adaptation: Fiction to Film. Film adaptation is a genre that reconstructs a novel, non-fiction or other work and transforms it into a screenplay. Screenplays include movement, actions, expressions and narrated dialogues of the characters. She said turning fiction into film is a process of trial and error through experimentation. “My passion is film,” Poteet says. “Fiction and film and art in general provide people with opportunities to explore beyond their own experiences.”
Creating a screenplay involves a writer recognizing and developing an understanding of the different techniques between creating fiction and film. Poteet explained, “When an individual writes fiction, it is primarily a solo act, conducted with possible feedback from a writers group or guidance from an editor.” This differs greatly from writing a screenplay since filmmaking involves quite a bit of teamwork. She explains the process of bringing a script to the screen “It requires the vision,
dedication and collaboration of many creative partners: director, cinematographer, actors, wardrobe and makeup artists, set designer, musicians, editors, to name just a few, requiring the screenwriter to be a team player, if he or she is lucky to be included at all.” “It’s important to recognize and respect the hard work and dedication that goes into creating works of art-—a song, a play, poem, performance piece, dance, novel, film, photo or painting —even if you as a consumer do not like it,” says Poteet. “Respect the fact that an
artist created it,” she adds. “All individuals have different ways of coming to the page.” As a teacher, Poteet says her goal is to help her students discover and honor their unique voices as writers, since the course does involve a lot of writing. The creative development involves letting go and participating in the process. She encourages students to bring a positive attitude towards discovering cultural identity and sub-cultures beyond stereotypes and keep an open mind about the skills one can develop from the art of filmmaking.
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rom hustlers to heroes, from Wall Street and Nebraska to slave plantations and the far reaches of outer space—the films nominated for this year’s “Best Picture” at the Oscars run the gamut of human portraits.
Philomena Her
Gravity
American Hustle
Nebraska
Dallas Buyers Club
The Wolf of Wall Street
Captain Phillips
12 Years a Slave
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February 2014
Ka ‘Ohana
CAMPUS NEWS WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Sustainability: from page 3
Artists Tai and Kaaterina Kerekere, whose work focuses on Maori art.
New Zealand artists show pieces at Gallery ‘Iolani
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he exhibition “‘Nga Uri o Tangaroa” (Descendants of Tangaroa) will continue at WCC’s Gallery ‘Iolani through Feb. 27. The exhibit by the husband and wife team of Kaaterina and Tai Kerkere tells the story of the origin of Maori art through Tangaroa, the god and guardian of the seas. The works also connect New Zealanders throughout the Pacific. “Art is a whakapapa (genealogy),” said Tai. “It is continuously evolving from one generation to the next. Art is an expression of one’s identity.” The show navigates through various stories of Maori culture and art, featuring paintings, mixed media works and silver adornment pieces. Gallery hours are 1 – 8 p.m., Monday and Tuesday and 1-5 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday. The gallery is adjacent to Paliku Theatre. For photos of the exhibit blessing and opening, visit KaOhanaOnline.org.
Yet there is still more to be stressed when it comes to sustainability in Hawai‘i. “If we can get these kinds of things rolling on this campus and in the system, we’ve made a big step. The more we can attract this kind of attention to the campus, to our own faculty and students, the more it’s going to happen.” Club co-advisor and anthropology lecturer Rachel Harvey said the club wants to involve students from all disciplines. “Global warming, pollution—it’s all about changing human behavior. That’s why we need a social science perspective,” Future goals supported by McCoy and the Sustainability Club include designating courses with an “S” to show they focus on some form of sustainability. Polynesian voyaging, anthropology, aquaponics and McCoy’s science classes are just a few of these potential courses. They are also hoping to set up lectures in which the pros and cons of environmental issues will be covered through discussion, so students can analyze both sides of the argument without animosity. Topics would range from the fish farming cages off the coast of the Big Island and human dependence on oil and gas to climate change and rising sea levels causing beach erosion. “The Sustainability Club acts like the local managing group to see all this happen,” McCoy said, encouraging interested students to join the adventure. “We want to hit it from every angle: economics, history, hard science (geology, oceanography, biology, etc.) and soft science (anthropology, archaeology, etc.),” McCoy said. “That’s sustainability, that’s where we want to go with the club.” For more information, contact McCoy at mccoy@ hawaii.edu or harveyr@hawaii.edu.
What you can do... • Bring your own bottle. Choose a reusable beverage bottle instead of single-use disposables. • Recycle. Take your bottles and cans to the nearest blue bin. • Rethink mobility. Carpool, bus, or bike more often. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. • Go paperless. Print less by using digital copies of articles and assignments. Print double-sided when possible. • Pack a low-waste lunch. Use reusable containers. Avoid the need for plastic utensils by bringing a washable fork or chopsticks from home. • Power down. Turn off the lights. Enable power saving settings and turn off or unplug phones, computers and chargers when not in use. • Eat sustainably. Eat one or more local or vegetarian meals per week. • Reuse. Buy and share used books. • Learn more! Get involved! Join a campus club or class related to sustainability. • Speak up! Be an example and help spread t he word about sustainable behavior.
February 2014
Arts & Entertainment
Ka ‘Ohana
WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
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‘The Charge of ‘Ai‘Ai’: A first for WCC by Grant Kono Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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very day students pass by WCC’s Palikū Theatre, unaware of the wonders that lie just inside those doors. Many different performances have graced the Palikū stage but none like “The Charge of ‘Ai ‘Ai.” This play about Hawaiian mythology is the first of its kind at Palikū. Written by Moses Goods and directed by Nicolas Logue, “The Charge of ‘Ai’Ai” opens on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, with only six showings spanning two weekends. The play is based on the Hawaiian mo’olelo (legend) about Ku’ulakai, the god of fishing and his son ‘Ai’Ai. Ku’ulakai is a deity of the god Kū. The story tells of ‘Ai‘Ai’s struggles and accomplishments as he grows to find his own kuleana (responsibility) in life. In his hometown of Hana, Maui, ‘Ai‘Ai is thrown into
a fishpond by his father as a rite of passage. He must slay the giant eel, which is stealing fish from his community fishpond. With help from the people of Hana, ‘Ai‘Ai conquers the eel with Manaiakalani, Maui’s fishhook. After Ku‘ulakai dies, it is up to ‘Ai‘Ai to share his fathers knowledge with Hawai‘i. “It is important to serve the community and its young people, to tell stories about the land we live in so that maybe one of the kids watching can see themselves on the stage, in the story,” said Logue. Logue has worked all over the world in theatre production, from London to China to New York, and it’s safe to say he’s found his home. “This is the best school I’ve worked at,” he said. “No other place have I encountered students willing enough to jump in with both feet from the get go.” Playwright Goods has been interested in Hawaiian mo’olelo from a young age. “As a child I would hear
many western stories, but when I would hear a Hawaiian mo‘olelo it just interested me more than the other because I didn’t hear it as much” said Goods. An award-winning actor and cultural advisor for the Bishop Museum, he has travelled the world to places such as Scotland, Germany, Washington D.C. and Canada to perform. The cast comprises nine students who had only four weeks to prepare for this performance — a short amount of time even for a professional cast. “Nick (Logue) is really pushing the students, but you can see the students rising to the occasion. From the first read through until now you can see the progress,” said Goods. “Theatre is not meant to be filmed, it’s meant to be experienced live. Theatre is meant to be on stage. Being there live is experiencing the whole thing,” “The Charge of ‘Ai‘Ai” runs until Feb. 23, with show-
ORRIN NAKANELUA
Noa Helela and Malia Galindo in a scene from ‘The Charge of ‘Ai‘Ai.’
ings only on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students/children/ seniors.
To charge tickets by phone, call Palikū Theatre Box Office at 235-7310. Online purchases can be made at www.etickethawaii.com
‘Battle of Will’: A thinking man’s ‘Goodfellas’ by Ashley Shankles Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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oss waits for the boy whose family he’s slain, hoping to embrace him as his own son. The boy pulls the trigger and the bullet chases a target it will never hit. Instead the shot will haunt a hit man who can’t bear the idea of being killed himself. That’s a snapshot of “Battle of Will,” being presented on two weekends, Feb. 28 to 30 and March 7 to 9, by WCC’s Palikū Theatre and the students of THEA 260. “Battle of Will,” written by Laurent Gaude and directed by Taurie Kinoshita, is a gritty, pseudo-crime drama with dark humor, lyrical dialogue and unforgettable characters. “The characters are named according to their occupations—nothing more—as if their entire identities revolve around their social function (‘Boss,’ ‘Wife,’ ‘Gravedigger,’ etc.),” says Kinoshita, “Yet despite this symbolic convention, each character is full of life, detail and psychological nuance.” Thematically, Gaude›s awardwinning play deals with the possible immorality of survivalist ethics; the play is full of animal imagery. The French play roughly translates to “A Battle of Possessions” but was adapted into British text as part of a project at Londonʻs renowned National Theatre. A meticulously written text, “Battle of Will” will take audiences through a desert wasteland to luxury hotels, where the rich manipulate the poor, a man seeks a son, a wife manipulates
ORRIN NAKANELUA
Some of the cast members from “Battle of Will’: Jessica Kincaid, Christian Sylvester, Brandon Anthony Dipaola, Eybelle Nevins-Rosado and Domina Arroyo.
her ego-ridden husband and between the body bags, gun shots and arguments over the size arrangement of burial plots, it’s a thinking man’s “Goodfellas.” Gaude explores the illusion of man’s intent, the evolution of thought by cautiously illustrating the motivation behind these human relationships and the power of ego that will convince the audience that the most difficult battle is the one within oneself. In Gaudeʻs world, and sometimes in our own, we are trapped by our need to survive, mere possessions in a high-stakes world, doomed to play our roles despite ethical implications. “When all one does is survive, how are we different than any animal?
Are we not economic slaves, willing to commit unspeakable acts for a fair market price?” says Kinoshita. She adds that she likes to try different styles or techniques every semester for the THEA 260 course. According to Kinoshita, they will be focusing on Stanislavski techniques this semester due to the stringent realism required by the text. Stanislavski techniques focus on method acting — connecting with the audience by taking on the character both on and off the stage. In light of the six-week rehearsal time, Kinoshita said the castʻs hard work and relentless dedication have made the production possible. “Yes, we have less rehearsal time
than normal, but I am confident in the awesome students I was blessed with this semester,” says Kinoshita. The success of her students as well as the production is heavily backed by Kinoshita’s theatrical resume. She has written several plays, directed over a hundred productions and taught in both New York and the United Kingdom. According to one of her THEA 260 students, “Taurie has this remarkable way of taking in a student and, in a matter of a few short weeks, giving the stage an actor. “The conviction in her speech, her dedication to not only the theatre, but to her students, and her constant encouragement have been the most educating, beneficial and life-changing experiences I’ve ever been so fortunate to have. The only thing I regret is not being able to take it in my previous semesters.” PERFORMANCES:
Friday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29, 8 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 30, 4 p.m. —— Friday, March 7, 8 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 8 p.m. Sunday, March 9, 4 p.m.
RESERVE YOUR TICKETS NOW! $10 Adults; $5 Students (any age), children (through age 25), seniors and military. To charge tickets by phone, call Palikū Theatre Box Office at 235-7310. Online purchases can be made at www.eticketHawaii.com
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February 2014
Ka ‘Ohana
Community News WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
An ‘Unconferenz’ for a new era by Creighton Gorai Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
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hat paves the way for the new social media age? This and other technology questions will be part of the Unconferenz Saturday, March, 1 at WCC’s Hale ‘Akoakoa. The coordinator of this conference/discussion is WCC ICS instructor Burt Lum, who teaches a course in social media. He also hosts a radio talk show on KIPO 89.3 Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. about technology and culture named “Bytemarks Café.” Lum described the Unconferenz as “a unique local gathering of people from all walks of life looking to share, learn and collaborate.” Its origin began in California with an event called BarCamp, where people gathered to discuss new technologies or innovations being developed now or in the near future. “The conference will cover what can be new norms for the
online world and apply what we discuss to our everyday life,” said Lum. “This will be the 7th Unconferenz and every year it is different. “The main thing is to get people together to brainstorm ideas and share knowledge with the hope that we can catalyze creative projects. The Unconferenz serves as that catalyst.” Suggested topics include areas such as new media and citizen journalists, the Open Data Act of 2014, crypto-currency and the new digital exchange, community broadband and the roles and responsibilities of the digital citizen. The discussion on new media and citizen journalists will address the role of reporters and whether journalism should be reserved for those employed by media companies? The Open Data Act of 2014 discussion will ask questions such as how do we obtain release of more data and how do we request the data that is most interesting.
Lum is also looking for more topics so if you have any suggestions, add them to the list at Unconferenz.com. Unconferenz will cost $25, which includes lunch. There will be 15 sessions throughout the day in three different rooms. Lum is also offering 15 free slots for students. If you are interested, you can contact him at Burt808@hawaii.edu.
Unconferenz coordinator Burt Lum
TRIO: continued from page 5 printing and use of computers is free and during midterms and finals it’s open 24/7. Who else offers that?” “There is a mixture of diversity. It’s awesome!” chuckled Glenn Freitas, arts and design major. “We meet new people and do homework in a family-friendly environment. Everyone is welcome.” Needless to say, it’s difficult to find a base that TRiO-SSS doesn’t cover. “Institutionally speaking, I firmly believe this should be an anchored program rather than federally funded. I believe we are more personable and have endured the many life experiences that support and foster the needs of students,” says Zablan. “Honestly, continuing college and
being a part of this program has helped me get where I need to be as a Native Hawaiian man and a member of my community. It’s allowed me to live up to the expectations I have for myself in becoming a strong, confident, financially stable individual who has the capability to pursue any career or goal that I set for myself, as well as TRiO-SSS. “This has been the best work experience and most educational place to be—whether by the daily life lessons or by those who offer their wisdom—it has been a constant inspiration for growth.” TRiO-SSS is open Monday-Thursday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more details, contact Puʻu Zablan at 2357487 or stop by the TRiO lounge in Hale Na’auao.
February 2014
Ka ‘Ohana 11 Editorial Are textbook prices too high? What are your suggestions? WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
The high cost is the biggest issue I have. Education as a profitable industry goes against my own beliefs of a right to knowledge, learning and education. While researchers, writers, editors and printers also have the right to make a living, I do not believe costs appropriate effort. Somewhere inflation is happening and as students we are fronting the bill. Can these institutions charge exorbitant tuition rates, pay their administration over six figures, spend millions in sports programs and campus beautification, then neglect to cover the costs of educational resources? – Andrea Nishimoto
When purchasing textbooks at WCC, I find that the people there are very helpful. Every time I have visited the bookstore I am greeted with a smile and a great list of books. I have always bought my textbooks from the bookstore because it guarantees that I will have all of them. I have purchased books in the past
Textbooks
through Amazon. Although cheaper sometimes, I find that if it is not purchased early, delivery might be prolonged. As for selling my textbooks, I find that the buyback at WCC is sufficient and connecting with classmates was the best way to sell textbooks. I have never attempted yet, but I would like to see if Craigslist could be another alternative to selling textbooks. – Keliimakamae Waiolama Dread fills my heart before each semester when I scroll down the list of required textbooks and nearly every single one costs over $100. And there is no time to pause before opening your wallet for these overpriced guides to higher education. Many of them sell out of the school bookstore within a few days. As you enter your credit card information you justify the expense by imagining all the money you will get back at the end of the semester when you participate in the buyback program or sell them yourself. FROM PAGE 1
are more than 350 other college bookstores now using the same digital comparison tool.” Students can go to www.bookstore.hawaii.edu and click on their campus name, then enter their course information. The system will list the required text along with new, used and rental prices, as well as listings and links to several online retailers. Listed retailers include Amazon, AbeBooks, Alibris, Textbooks.com, Half.com and many more. If these links don’t show you the deal you are looking for, start searching the Web on your own. With a little research and some time on your favorite search engine, you may cut your costs significantly. Here are some tips: Write down the title of the text, edition and the author. If possible, acquire the ISBN number of the text. An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a 10 or 13-digit number that is unique to every book and is used in identification and is generally printed somewhere in the first few pages of the textbook. Enter this information in your search engine and voila! You will be surprised at how many textbooks are out there. The downfall is, you cannot physically touch what you are buying and sometimes the seller’s description is lacking in detail. Be sure to contact the seller if you have any questions before making a purchase. Also, check out international edition textbooks. These editions are simply the international counterpart to a U.S. edition, but may have a different cover or ISBN numbers. International editions are supplied to foreign colleges by the same publishing companies that produce American textbooks, and at significantly less cost... go figure! If you go this route, be sure to contact the seller to confirm it is a comparable text.
Ka ‘Ohana (The Family)
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Kelly Montgomery STAFF REPORTERS
John Bascuk Jessica Crawford Creighton Gorai Patrick Hascall
STAFF REPORTERS
Yvonne Hopkins Grant Kono Ashley Shankles JP Spencer Charissa Wittig
MEDIA & DESIGN
Jessica Crawford WEBMASTER
Patrick Hascall ADVISOR
Elizabeth Young
Ka ‘Ohana is published monthly by the students of Windward Community College. 45-720 Kea‘ahala Rd, Kāne‘ohe, Hawai‘i 96744. Phone (808) 236-9187 or 236-9185. The newspaper reflects only the views of its student staff. Visit Ka ‘Ohana’s website at www.KaOhanaOnline.org.
Ha! The spare change you receive seems almost not worth the effort. A solution that has been good for me over the years is purchasing older editions. This depends on your professor, however. Make sure it is okay with them to use the older editions, which can be found online for as low as five dollars. Renting textbooks is also a good way to save; just remember to return them before the deadline to avoid penalties. – Pali White One issue I have had is that when I have taken textbooks back for the buyback, I was told that the instructor won’t be using that text next semester and I could not sell back to them. I’m talking about a $150 vet tech book in perfect shape, rarely used because most of the readings were PowerPoint and came from other books. This happened twice for a total of over $500 and they apologized, but I cannot eat with “I’m sorrys.” Another issue is getting
only 20 percent back from what I’ve paid. I vote for online books and buy those instead. It’s cheaper and more efficient than carrying 40 pounds of books every day. — Ken Melanson
Some issues I’ve had with my books is the “loose leaf binder” book. Quite honestly, I hate them. The online website said there were regular bound books for sale, but at the bookstore all they have are these binder books. I don’t like buying them because selling them is a pain; nobody wants to buy them because they don’t know if you’ve accidentally lost a page. My solution is to bring back the regular bound book and forget the binder books. It’s too much work. As for selling, I have not yet sold last semester’s books because they are either loose bound or books that I should keep for future reference. – Nicole Hayler I personally have never had issues with buying and
selling textbooks, but I have friends that have had problems because the textbooks were expensive. I do feel that the textbooks are expensive, but I believe that is why you should apply for all the scholarships that you qualify for. I don’t like to sell my textbooks back to the bookstore, but instead I donate them to TRiO to help people that need those textbooks so they don’t have to pay so much. If TRiO has the textbooks you need, they sell the books really cheap so people can afford them. – Donalei Kepa-Ivester A big issue is how busy the bookstore gets on the first week of school. The lines get crazy and there are only two cashiers open. Textbook buyback is a joke too. You spend $150 on a textbook and if you’re lucky, you might get $40 or $50 back. My solution is to have more cashiers open and have more people working to help the students. – Matt Carr
February 2014
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Entertainment WINDWARD COMMUNITY COLLEGE
A starry night for adult eyes only U
by John Bascuk Ka ‘Ohana Staff Reporter
sually WCC’s Imaginarium shows are “G-rated” for families and kids. But for Valentine’s Day, lecturer Krissie Kellogg has planned an “adults-only” version for Friday, Feb. 14 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. “We thought it would be a lot of fun to not have to edit the Greek mythology, said Kellogg. So be prepared for plenty of murder, mayhem, sex and violence. For instance, Zeus, the ruler of the Olympian gods, had a scandalous sex life — all while being married to Hera. His love affairs and conquests gave rise to some of the most well-known gods and goddesses in Greek mythology. As for Kellogg, she’s looking forward to sharing more of her passion for the myths about outer space. “As a kid, I was in love with the space and stars,” she said. “Jupiter has been my favorite planet since the fifth grade.” Working for Imaginarium founder Dr. Joe Ciotti here at WCC is what she loves to do. “It’s been such a dream for me,” said Kellogg. “Now I am able to teach people about the sky; it’s so awesome.”
With her own stargazing shows at the WCC Imaginarium such a success, Kellogg, along with Imagi n a r iu m m a n ager Mary Beth Laychak, came up with the idea for a Valentine’s Day show, so the 21-and-over show was born. Kellogg, who specializes in Greek myt hology, always has to edit her shows due to the number of children in the audience. In the adults only show, they decided to JESSICA CRAWFORD present the myths in their uncen- Krissie Kellogg and Mary Beth Laychak get ready for the Valentine’s Day “adults-only” show. sored version. Tickets will be $15 and include ad- Walk-up tickets will not be available. Kellogg expects it to be a very fun show. “I can’t wait,” she said. “I don’t mission to the show, a glass of wine and For reservations, please call 235-7433. Reserved tickets must be picked up at want to give the show away too much a special Valentine’s favor. Unlike the other shows, this spe- the Imaginarium box office at least 15 so you’ll just have come and see for cial event will be reservations only. minutes prior to show time. yourself.”
Ka ‘Ohana covers St. Jude event with legends of pro football 1
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JESSICA CRAWFORD
(Counterclockwise from top): 1) Kainoa Makua and Ashley Shankles enjoy a laugh with Warren Moon. 2) Staff reporter John Bascuk meets Eric Dickerson. 3) Ka ‘Ohana photographer Jessica Crawford with Marshall Faulk. 4) ‘Hawaii Five-0’ star Teila Tuli (right) and executive producer Peter Lenkov try out their new headphones.
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by Ka ‘Ohana News Staff
n the run-up to the Pro Bowl, football Hall-of-Famer Warren Moon hosted his annual St. Jude Children’s Hospital charity event at Morton’s Steakhouse — and WCC was there. Ka ‘Ohana was once again invited to provide photo coverage of the Jan. 23 affair as the only UH system student newspaper represented. The extensive donor t urnout included many other football Hallof-Famers such as Willie Brown of the Oakland Raiders, Eric Dickerson of the L.A. Rams and Marshall Faulk of the St. Louis Rams. Other prominent figures who attended were Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Teila Tuli of “Hawaii Five-0.”
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KAINOA MAKUA
All proceeds from the fundraiser benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital, whose mission is “to find cures for children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases through research and treatment . . . No family ever pays St. Jude for anything.” St. Jude takes in $800 million a year through donations, but it costs $1 million to run the hospital each day. “When you see exactly what the money is going towards, you see (how much) it’s helping,” said Moon. “It’s helping children, it’s helping families.” Faulk expressed the sentiments of many who attended for the chance to meet some of the legendary sports figures when he said, “I’m not here tonight to be a football player. I’m here to be a philanthropist.”
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COURTESY JESSICA CRAWFORD
JESSICA CRAWFORD