the
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PoSt S e r v i n g t h e P u ya l l u P C a m P u S o f P i e r C e C o l l e g e
Student body president resigns Pam Luke The Puyallup Post
In recent weeks, Student Programs has dealt with the loss of four of its members. Now another name can be added to the list. Sean Culver has stepped down as ASPCP President. Brooke Oliver will be vacating her current position as Vice President of Government Concerns in order to take over for Culver. Culver’s resignation comes on the heels of the exits of Corey Chafin as Vice President of Government Concerns, Paul Warden as Representative I, Shannon Cooley as Special Projects Coordinator and Paul Rice as the Student Development Coordinator. Culver says making the decision to resign wasn’t an easy one. “I’m going through some tough times, and I need to slow my life down. Leaving student government was the toughest decision of my life, but I know it is the right thing for me,” said Culver.
“Plus, I know that Brooke will do a great job.” Over the last few months, new President Brooke Oliver has experienced quite a meteoric rise in the student government Sean Culver ranks. When she first joined Student Programs, it was as its secretary/treasurer, and after Chafin left the position of Vice President of Government Concerns, she took over for her. Now as the new president, she’s not letting another sudden shift get to her. “I was a little nervous at first, but it’s a good opportunity for me to get involved with the students on campus. It’s a lot of work and takes a lot of time, but I’m up to it,” Oliver said. The most important of Oliver’s new goals as president is gearing up for the
Smokers violating policy will receive warning tickets starting this week As of Feb. 16, the security staff will issue warnings to people who violate the college’s smoking policy in an effort to make the policy work. And if warnings don’t make a difference, fining people who violate smoking rules could be the next step. The Pierce College Cabinet, which is made up of faculty, staff, students and administrators, recently reviewed the policy and determined it isn’t working. The policy prohibits smoking within 30 feet of any doorway to the college in an effort to prevent smoke from entering the building, and to enable people to avoid smoke as they enter the college. “We have had many, many complaints about tobacco smoke near our entryways,” said Pierce College President George Delaney. “When we checked with colleges where the smoking policy works, we found the key is active enforcement of the policy.” Delaney said he hopes Pierce can stop short of issuing fines to people who violate the smoking policy, as other colleges do, but he said the College Cabinet and Board of Trustees are likely to approve fines if warnings are ineffective. “I’m hopeful that all we need is more active education of what our policy is,” he said. “The warnings are a good way of doing that. The goal is not to penalize people who smoke, but to see that the smoking policy is followed.”
fight for full-campus status. “I’m going to work very hard at increasing student involvement when it comes to the issue of full-campus status. The trip to Olympia will be Brooke Oliver much more purposeful if we have a large number of students going instead of just having a few of the faculty and members of Student Programs,” said Oliver. Oliver wants to encourage students to feel free to contact her concerning any questions or ideas they might have. “I hope they will recognize me, and approach me for questions or suggestions. I’m here to serve the students,” she added. Student Programs Director Mari Kruger is not discouraged by the high attrition rate of the members of the
office she oversees. “It has been a big change, but the other members have risen to the challenge. They have filled the gaps and are doing a great job,” Kruger said. “Compared to other colleges, our stability in this office over the last few years has been unusual. We have been lucky, but now it’s our turn.” Kruger sees the recent reshuffling of its members as a possible plus for them. “Actually, the recent attrition has probably added to the skills of the new and existing members because they now know what it takes to handle major changes in their work environment,” said Kruger. In addition to Oliver being the new president, Lisa Sims will be taking over for Paul Warden as Representative I, John Muff will be the new Secretary/Treasurer and Jason Schlegel will vacate his position of Outreach Coordinator in order to be the new Vice President of Government Concerns.
Children’s entertainer comes to campus The popular children’s entertainer belts out a few funny songs during his performance.
The sold-out p e r fo r m a n c e brought children of all ages to campus. Tim Noah’s performance on February 6 was energetic to say the least. He spun, jumped, bounced and sang all over the stage. His costumes were bright and BIG. The children had a great time. His routine included some Poppi the clown who made the children balloon figures before the show. There was popcorn for all to enjoy. The audience agreed, Student Programs did a wonderful job organizing and preparing for the fun. Photos and Story by Susan Cherry
VOLUME 4
ISSUE 5 ¥ FEBRUARY 1999
Tim Noah even stands on his head for a few laughs.
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Will Pierce College maintain sense of community?
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he recent shuffling of student leadership has pressed home the need for clubs and community groups at Pierce. Having a sense of their being a “Pierce College scene” is important. An all inclusive, all welcoming group united by our choice of college, for whatever reason, is needed to relieve the stresses of tests, and also to guard against outside stresses effecting students while on campus. When I first arrived here in summer quarter, I was amazed at the hurried “get in, and get out” attitude of many students, including myself. I assumed
that that was probably the extent of life at Pierce College, that “onversation and interaction were generally thought of as an annoyance. But at the beginning of fall quarter something interesting happened. This big, somewhat goofy guy started being aggressively friendly to me, and he got me involved in the actual life here on campus. That guy was President Sean Culver. Sean, Student Programs as a whole, the events, and to a lesser extent, the clubs, provided me with a feeling that there was “love in the air.” Students liked one another, and cared about each other, regardless of the diverse sets of experiences amongst recent high
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school students, and older students here to continue or renew their education. Sean was a real catalyst for the huge change in my view of this place we call “school.” “School”—it means more to me than a place where I go to listen to lectures for a few hours, and forget to turn in assignments. It’s a place where my friends are, and it’s a place that I enjoy being. A personal face is required of the various student leaders of this campus. Sean Culver understood that and worked very hard to achieve that. I hope that our future student leaders understand that as well. —Doug Weisgerber
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What was your best or worst “My worst Valentine’s Day was when this guy took me out, but invited his parents to go, too.” —Kristy Keplinger “My absolutely best Valentine’s Day was last year when I spent Valentine’s Day helping to get a house ready for a family with Habitat for Humanity. I experienced a tremendous amount of love and gratitude between all the volunteers and the family involved. It was a real spiritual experience for me. I loved it!” —Marge Desrulsseaux
“My best Valentine’s Day experience was during my senior year. All my friends’ boyfriends had sent them flowers, and mine said he didn’t believe in sending flowers. So when my friends heard what he had said to me, they called a local flower shop and had a dozen roses, representing each of my friends, and 12 balloons, with all their names on each balloon, sent to me.” —Amy Battle “This guy I had a crush on finally found out that I liked him. On Valentine’s Day he totally surprised
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me with a limo and roses at my work. We had the most romantic evening ever! We’ve been together ever since 1997.” —Tara Houghton “Several years ago my best friend got a dozen red roses from her boyfriend on Valentine’s Day. I hinted to mine that flowers would have been cool, and he showed up at my house an hour later with a flower made of crape paper. No other flower could ever mean so much.” —Beverly Redding
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Doug Weisgerber The Puyallup Post
Bulgaria was the only soccer team in the 1994 World Cup in which all 11 players’ last names ended with the letters “OV.”
Any free-moving liquid in outer space will form itself into a sphere, because of its surface tension. Raindrops aren’t actually tear-drop shaped. They are rounded at the top and flat on the bottom.
Heidi’s Bother Box
Bother: To disturb or anger, especiall by minor irritations. Motor vehicles have intelligently and strategically been equipped with side and front turn signal lights to allow other drivers to know when you plan to maneuver your car in a different direction. However these things were also meant to be turned off. I can become very irate after driving behind someone with their blinker continually flashing in my face and never knowing if they are really turning or not. Please, double check to see if your blinker is on, especially after changing lanes.
Abdul Kassem Ismael, Grand Vizier of Persia in the tenth century, carried his library with him wherever he went. The 117,000 volumes were carried by 400 camels trained to walk in alphabetical order.
Over 2500 left handed people a year are killed from using products made for right handed people!
Ambassadors to the United Kingdom are not called that officially, but rather Ambassadors to the Court of St. James. The Court of St. James being the palace which was the residence of the monarch before Buckingham Palace was built.
Venus is the only planet in our solar system that rotates clockwise.
The cells which make up the antlers of a moose are the fastest growing animal cells in nature.
An electric fan does not cool a room. It actually increases the air temperature because of the heat released by the motor. What makes the room seem cooler is increased air circulation over the skin, which speeds evaporation of moisture.
The Puyallup Post
Bananas did not originate in South America. Bananas first grew in tropical Asia and were eaten by the ancient Greeks and Romans.
submit a story idea or advertising rates, call 840-8496.
Gypsies did not originate in Hungary. They can be traced to India, about AD 1000. Their language, Romany, is related to Sanskrit, an ancient language of India.
Editor: Pam Luke Managing Editor: Doug Weisgerber Production Manager: Heidi Redford Reporters: Susan Cherry, Brian Hancock and Meagan McDonald
Reading in the dark will not ruin your eyes. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, reading in dim light will not damage the eye.
www.homestead.com/PuyallupPost/main.html. PuyallupPost@yahoo.com
An ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain. Mongoose were brought to Hawaii to kill rats. This plan failed because rats are nocturnal while the mongoose hunt during the day. New York City is nicknamed the Big Apple after an early swing dance that originated in a South Carolina club (actually a converted church) called The Big Apple. No war has ever been fought where both countries had a McDonalds. The United States has never lost a war in which mules were used.
Barbie’s measurements if she were life-size; 39-29-33.
You must get out of bed on the same side that you get in or you will have bad luck.
The Puyallup Post is published four times per quarter. For information on how to
January 1999
3
Leslie’s Lip Service
new rep committed to full campus status Pam Luke
LesLie RuPPeRt Vice President of Activities
Each quarter a group of 11 individuals get together and decide what we think the students will enjoy. Everything from bands, to multicultural speakers, to workshops on Test Anxiety; we try to plan something for everyone. If you have not seen something you like yet, then stop by and tell us what you want to see. A number of bright, informed students reside in A130, or they can be reached at 840-8487 to answer your questions. Until we hear from you, here’s a list of activities we thought you might like. For the musically interested: If you like Dave Matthews then you’ll rave about Fourth Plane Jaiant. Come check them out at noon on Feb. 18 in the Atrium. Feel a little more like Jewel with a back-up band, then you’ll just have to meet Stephanie Schneiderman. Her style ranges between pop/rock, folk, gospel and blues. She will be performing at noon on March in the atrium. Don’t miss out. Are you a little outdoorsy? Well you may be lucky enough to buy one of last spots on the Mt. Hood Ski Trip. Tickets are $53 per person and include transportation, hotel accommodations and lift tickets. Sign-up and pay in Room A120 by
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February 19. Only the first 35 are going to go so stop by soon. Warm your heart and someone elses by donating non-perishable food items or clothing during the week of February 22-27. Enjoy the melodic mixture of straight forward musical talent, humor and sensitivity of James Hersch. This acclaimed writer, singer and guitarist will perform at 7:30 pm on Thursday, March 4 in the Lecture Hall. Feeling a little stressed about those final test days? Jeff Pisetzner of the Alternative Learning Center and Student Programs will sponsor a Test Anxiety Workshop at noon on Monday, March 1 in room L234 for some helpful tips. Still even more stressed? Student Programs has arranged for Free Seated Massages in the atrium on Tuesday, March 16. Make an appointment from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 5-7 p.m. and relax, on us. Elvia Alvarado is a peasant leader in Honduras. For 25 years Alvarado has been at the forefront of human rights and land reform struggles. She is a passionate voice on the effects of economic globalization.
As the new Representative I, Lisa Sims is committed to issues such as full-campus status and getting the Environmental Committee going. “Full-campus status is a major concern right now, Lisa Sims and I want to get as many students as possible to lend their support,” Sims said. “I also have plans of getting recycling bins in every classroom, and maybe even for plastic and glass in the main rooms such as the atrium.” Sims past experience in student government was at her high school, where she was on the student council during her senior year. She also was on the honor roll. While still in high school, she volunteered at both Puget Sound and Good Samaritan hospitals. At Puget Sound Hospital, she worked in the emergency room. “I learned a lot. The experience taught me a lot of stuff about a world
Safe sex brochures available on campus Pam Luke
The Puyallup Post
As part of an ongoing effort to inform as well as educate the students at Pierce College-Puyallup, the Student Programs office is sponsoring a new Health and Wellness rack. This rack will feature various brochures that will cover topics such as abstaining from sex before marriage, safe sex practices and information on body piercing. Along with the brochures, both male and female condoms will be available. Vice President of Government Concerns Jason Schlegel wants to reassure those that oppose the new
rack that Student Programs is not trying to force the issue with students. “We’re not trying to tell people how to live their lives, instead we look at this rack as a tool for them to use in whatever means they see as necessary. Autonomy is the key here,” said Schlegel. Around Valentine’s Day, for those that are interested, “care packages” also will be available. These packages will contain male and female condoms, spermicide and brochures on how to use them. The new Health and Wellness rack is in the entry of the Library/Sciences building.
muff takes on new post
Student Jackie Dyer peruses the pamphlets displayed on the Health and Wellness rack.
award-winning author speaks at Pierce Heidi Redford The Puyallup Post
The Puyallup Campus was fortunate enough to be visited in January by nationally renowned scholar and award-winning author Charles Johnson. He vocalized a message full of hope for unity in all nations and for all colors. He stressed, from his writings, that if we don’t live as brothers we die as
I had never seen,” said Sims. Her volunteering experience lent itself to her career choice, which is to be a doctor. “I like kids a lot, so I’m thinking about going into pediatrics. If that didn’t work out, I would want to get into the field of either chemistry or biology. My ultimate career goal would be to be a mission’s doctor. There aren’t too many of those around,” Sims said. Sims is hoping to attend Seattle Pacific University and/or the University of Washington because they both have excellent Medical School programs. Lastly, she would like students to know that she will be working hard to provide an atmosphere that will bring them together. “The students are in their own little orbs, and they’re not branching out and trying to make better connections with others. There is a big gap between day and night students, and I would like to plan activities where they can mingle with each other more,” said Sims Students interested in contacting Lisa Sims can call 840-8439, or they can stop by Room A-130.
fools. A flat tire on the way from Seattle delayed his arrival by 40 minutes, but in the mean time, the packed lecture hall was enjoying the musical celebration of God and the works of Martin Luther King Jr. Deneen Grant and Voices of Inspiration performed several songs before Johnson’s arrival. Johnson read from some of his most famous works, The King We Left Behind, which was published in the
Common Quest, a magazine printed by African-Americans and his most recent novel, Dreamer. His message was simple: Racial unity and equality. He read passages from his writings that stressed these important points to live by and he told how we can go about changing the world. The evening came to a close with a book signing and reception in the atrium.
John Muff has taken over the office of secretary/treasurer as a part of the complicated and confusing changes going on in the Pierce College student government. His main duty is to document each Student Council meeting, but he takes on other general responsibilities of a student leader in helping plan and John Muff promote different events, and of course putting in personal appearances at those events. Muff cites his experience in Boy Scouts as good leadership preparation. In ninth grade he ran for a similar position at his junior high, Ferrucci on South Hill. Muff, a former running start student has been a student of Pierce College Puyallup for two and a half years total. Muff feels that this will probably be his last year at Pierce College, but that doesn’t mean he’s not dedicated to working for a better Pierce, and hopes to add his “personal flavor” to the events going on here at the campus. Muff is proud of the sense of community on campus, and is concerned that issues like full campus status, and the new smoking policy may divide the student body, or disrupt its sense of community.
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Valentine’s Day
Candy, carnations & kisses are not always so sweet
for the love of money — in america Susan Cherry The Puyallup Post
Before I began researching this holiday, and I use the term holiday loosely, I was reflecting on my childhood. I was one of the millions of children who gave those little cards to all my friends and classmates. I was even told to include the class bully, whom I am sure had some lovable qualities only his parents could see. What began as an innocent, and possibly insincere gesture of fondness, may have catapulted us into the marketing mania where little notes of love are no longer appropriate. Teddy Bears with hidden diamonds, fine dining and romantic getaways are on the menu if you are exposed to any form of advertisements. Are we in love, or are we victims of peer pressure and manipulation? Perhaps, we are just suckers of an outstanding marketing campaign. Most likely, it’s all of the above. Don’t get me wrong, I am not a love cynic. I am just baffled by the amount of emphasis placed on making that special purchase during Valentine’s Day. Therefore, I did some research and discovered where Valentine’s Day is rumored to have started. Originally, it was believed that birds, particularly Lovebirds, began mating on February 14. On February 15, Romans celebrated “Lupercalia.” The celebrations offered fertility rights to two Roman gods. Valentine’s Day’s only connection to the martyred Saint Valentine, of Third Century Rome, was
that feasts were celebrated on February 14. During the 1400s, young people in France and England would draw names from a box before midnight. This would determine who their Valentine was going to be the next day. So, unless my math has failed me— Love + Sex + Food + Cards = Valentine’s Day in America. Not only does this equal Valentine’s Day; it also equals big money. According to the Chocolate Manufacturers Association, Valentine’s Day is the fourth biggest holiday for candy purchases (after Halloween, Christmas, and Easter). It is estimated that Valentines Day candy sales total $1.1 million each year. Consumers are spreading their “love” all over America. The U.S. Postal Service, jewelry stores, florists, hotels, greeting card manufacturers and specialty apparel stores are just a few of the businesses making a fortune from this holiday. So, does Valentine’s Day mean love or profit? Are the demonstrations of love sincere or forced by competition? Do men feel an overwhelming pressure to produce on Valentine’s Day while women feel an overwhelming pressure to put out? These are just a few of the questions that enter my mind every year during the lovefest season. And what about the children’s little love cards anyway? What happened? I recall little pink and red cards with hearts and sweet little notes. Some
S t u d e n t Safe sex information and condoms are available on campus.What are your comments? Thank Goodness! I have four kids at home and three of them are teenagers. I have preached safe sex to them since they were young. I think it’s extremely important. I think it’s wonderful! If they hadn’t thought of it, I would have had to think of it. Dolly Smith I think it’s a great idea because I like to make balloon animals. I could use the condoms for making balloon animals, but unfortunately I would only be able to make small snakes. David Leath
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I feel this is something that they really should have available. I think it is long overdue. I think the issue should be out there and in their face. Donna Russell Since it’s such a relevant topic to the attendance of the school, I think that it’s good for the school to show an interest in the lives of the students. It shows that they care about the student’s health. Stephanie Bassette
I don’t agree with it because I think by doing this they are encouraging sex before marriage, and I don’t agree with that at all. Kendra Sutherlin
I’m all for it. I think AIDS prevention in our society is of a needed today. Even though we see the advances of technology, it’s important to see prevention to stop the disease. Ian Paven It’s a college, so people are old enough to make their own decisions about whether they are going to have safe sex or not. It’s pretty much a personal choice. . Ashley Wilson Well, on the condom issue, I guess they are going to burn us on the tuition increase anyway. If they want to hand out a few jimmies while they are at it, that’s fine with me. Stefan Goetz
had a cartoon face, and some had a cupid, but they were about love. On a recent trip to the super market, I passed some little notes of love. There on the first box was Michael Jordan. How did Michael Jordan end up a valentine? And for that matter, what does Barbie have to do with Valentine’s Day? There are some outstanding marketing geniuses out there. Not only are we buying the holiday of love, we are also buying the commercial media frenzy, too. I wonder if Cupid and Mattel have a “no compete” clause in a contract somewhere. Having said all this, I am about to run the gauntlet of the upcoming festivities. My children are preparing for their school parties, and anticipating the trip to the store to beg me to purchase their favorite valentine flavor. I am hoping to avoid the game by offering to make our Valentine’s at home; however, I don’t hold out much hope against the marketing giants. I will most likely sell out for Barney, or Barbie or perhaps even the strange creatures, TeleTubbies, but I stand firm behind my answer NO!, if they have produced, and I bet they have, a Spice Girl Valentine. By the time you get to read this, it will all be over. Reading this will merely offer reflection of a day in which you either felt loved, unloved or bought. As we move beyond Valentine’s Day, we brace ourselves for the next marketing campaign— St. Patrick’s Day’s.
Potential valentines get love advice Brian Hancock The Puyallup Post
Relationship expert Rick Doyle presented an interactive lecture at Pierce College-Puyallup on February 11. Students were offered dating tips and love advice to help get them through the Valentine’s Day weekend. Doyle, who has been featured on The Jerry Springer Show, CNN Headliner News, and major networks, offers a program called Creative Dating to the lovelorn. It has been featured in such publications as USA Today, The Washington Post, Glamour, Mademoiselle, and the Chronicle for Higher Education. Doyle stressed that in a relationship, the person who loves, cares or tries the least, controls the most. He suggests backing off from your crush for five days. If you do not get a phone call then it is best to drop him or her like a bad habit. “We seek out what is familiar to us and what we practice we become good at,” said Doyle on the cause of repeating bad relationships. The audience was asked what men and women want more than anything else. The obvious responses such as sex, money, companionship and a sense of belonging were dismissed by Doyle. “Men and
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February 1999
ahhh . . . to be in love Valentine’s Day isn’t for me
Valentine’s: A good thing, really
Doug Weisgerber
Meagan McDonald
The Puyallup Post
Once again it’s Valentine’s Day, and once again to avoid humiliating myself I’ve chosen to give everyone I know the same Valentine in an effort to cover my tracks . . . Valentine’s Day usually puts me in a fairly surly mood. That’s because it’s this huge yearly reminder that I’m alone. It’s like somebody put a big flashing neon sign right in the middle of the calendar that says “NOBODY LOVES YOU!!!!” Maybe some of you out there can relate. I’m really tired of playing the game, “play it cool,” “don’t let on,” “ play it safe,” “take risks,” “don’t let them know... not yet.” I just wish we were all more honest, that love was a lot less like poker or chess, and a lot more like “go fish.” “Do you have a likes-long-walks-oldmovies-and-watching-sunrises? No? okay, I’ll keep looking.”
Recently I swore off women, told myself I was taking a vacation, taking a time out in the game of love, so far it hasn’t been working out very well. “That’s it!!! I’ve been played a fool for the last time, and I’m not going to let my hormones lead me aroun . . . Hey, who’s the new girl!!!??!?!?!!???!?” Um, this one’s going out to all the ladies: Stay clear of men!!! I can’t emphasize this enough. All men are evil, and rotten to the core. Okay, you’ve got me, I’m bitter, and what I really want is everyone to be just as miserable as I am. For me romantic love is like what God must be like for other people. I’ve never seen it, or touched it. I don’t know how to define it, and I can’t prove it exists, but I can’t imagine a world without it, and so I believe no matter what. Recently I was asked if I was a “butt man.” I said “no,” so they asked me what I did like, and I thought I’d be original, I said, “personality.”
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Valentine’s Day! Just thinking about it, I get all excited and that warm, fuzzy feeling spreads over my body. It’s one day every year that we get to show our love and appreciation for others. Every Valentine’s Day, I can always count on a card and a little present from my dad. I enjoy getting presents, but I love reading Valentine cards even more. I think everyone needs to hear that they are cared for by someone, I know I do. I could live without flowers or candy, but I need to be reminded that others care about me. Even more than receiving cards, I love to give them. Watching a person’s face when they read the message on a Valentine card is one of the best experiences in the world for me. Seeing a huge smile spread slowly across their features, that happy glow of satisfaction and meaning light up their face, and hear a giggle escape from their lips is, to me, the best kind of reaction you could ever get from a
person. Obviously, Valentine’s Day is aimed at couples. We all know this. We don’t all like it, but we know it. Is it really such a bad thing? It’s a time to show just how much you love or care about each other; a special day set aside just for that purpose. That’s perfectly fine. I know I’ll be spending the day with my boyfriend, as will thousands of other people. What about those people who don’t have a special someone right now? In my opinion, that’s no reason not to enjoy yourself. I have always loved Valentine’s Day, even when I didn’t have a boyfriend. There is always family and friends who would be more than happy to spend the day with you. Not everyone is half of a couple, you know. Why waste a perfectly good holiday sitting at home eating as many of those little candy hearts as you can before you throw up? My advice is simple: buy a friend a card, call him or her up, and spend the day watching those old sappy love films together.
Valentine Wishes
In honor of sharing the love, students were given an opportunity to send a special Valentine wish to anyone special in their life. To: My future special someone (or someone’s) “I’m waiting so hurry up and find me.” From: Paul (call me Zeke) Warden
To: Michelle and Paul Thanks so much! Love: Steve and Teresa
To: Charley “Have a good V-day and slow down on the T-zone for me.” Love: Danny
Audrey, Your are the humor and the joy of my life. Happy Valentine’s Day I love you forever, Mom
To: Arthur, Joshua, Seth and Jordan Thanks for being such a wonderful family. Your patience and support of me while I’m in school means so much. Love: Mom
“Happy Valentines with love from Obadiah Bowen to Shelby Kingman, John Muff, Marie Knowles, Renee Shelby, Judy Trenaroy, Erin Bowen, Rene Kiley and Sharon Russell.”
Jessica, Your kindness and sensitivity warms my heart every day. Happy Valentine’s Day I love you forever, Mom
To: Heather Hobert “Thanks for making each day at school more enjoyable! Have a fabulous Valentine’s Day!” From: Heather Bartling
To: Bradon and Mckenzie “I love you both with all my heart. Thank you for blessing me with your precious love.” Love: Mom
To: Jen Rawley “I am so glad that you broke up with Dave! Now my best friend and I can be single and totally unhappy on Valentines Day. I love you!” From: Brian Hancock
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By: Meagan McDonald
Varsity Blues In a town where the high school football team is the main attraction, some of the players are realizing that the game brings them no guarantees. James Van Der Beek stars as Mox, the “smart” football player, constantly yelled at by his coach for paying more attention to his books than the game. When tragedy befalls the team’s star quarterback, Lance, Mox is next in line. Surprising the town by leading the team to State, Mox deals with girls, education, fame and disobedience. Good overcomes bad when the team, taking Mox’s lead, stands up to their coach, who is willing to risk anything to win— even his star players. A good movie teaching the importance of education over physical abilities.
She’s All That When Zach (Freddie Prinze Jr.), the most popular guy in school, is dumped by his girlfriend, he bets his friends that he could take any girl in school and turn her into the prom queen. When Laney Boggs (Rachael Leigh Cook) is chosen for the project, Zach is anything but thrilled. A clumsy, paint-spattered artist, Laney seems to lack the looks, attitude and confidence to become popular overnight. Zach has six weeks. At
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first reluctant to have anything to do with him, Laney forces Zach to pull out all the tricks in his bag. When a beautiful, sexy girl emerges from this artist’s bedroom one night, Zach falls for her— hard. Finding a best friend in such an unlikely vessel, Zach realizes how much he cares for Laney, but not until she finds out about the bet. This movie has the perfect mix of comedy, drama and reality. Anyone who likes to see the school nerd rise to the top will enjoy this movie.
The Thin Red Line A movie about a group of American soldiers fighting the Japanese in World War II, this movie had little-to-no effect on the audience. The plot was somewhat confusing, that is, what it was exactly I couldn’t understand. Every once in awhile, the voice of one of the actors would come on and spiel off a sort of monologue that has hardly anything to do with the movie itself. There seemed to be no main character or characters. John Travolta, Woody Harrelson, Sean Penn, and Nick Nolte all have some of the shortest, smallest roles in the movie. If three hours of abstract boredom and not really understanding what the point to the movie is sounds like fun to you, you’ll enjoy this movie immensely.
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By: Brian Hancock
HOLE-CELEBRITY SKIN Post grunge 1995 left the alternative music scene in disarray. The face of rock and roll was changing rapidly and bands that could not innovate with it were left behind to soon be forgotten by the mainstream. With the recent release of their third proper studio album, Celebrity Skin, Hole proves once and for all that their music will stand the test of time. The ever flourishing band has finally abandoned their early sugar baby doll grindcore noise, evolving to the delicate and melodic sounds of the final great album of the millennium. Seemingly, all things involving Hole’s infamous lead singer, Courtney Love, are shrouded in controversy. Celebrity Skin, which received negative criticism even before its release, is no exception. The media attacked the band, insinuating that the entire album was written by Smashing Pumpkins front man Billy Corgan. According to the album’s inner cover, however, Corgan is credited for contribting to just five tracks. For Celebrity Skin, Hole traded the aggressive, distorted style of their first album, Pretty On the Inside- and some of which carried over to their second, Live Trough This- for intricate fingering, producing a far more mature sound. Tracks “Northern Star”, “Boys on the Radio”, and “Heaven Tonight” utilize
the band’s beautifully developed musical techniques. Hole’s crafty and well-sculpted melodies live up to Love’s clever lyrical style. The punk diva’s songwriting particularly shines in tracks like “Hit So Hard,” in which Love explores abusive relationships: “He hit so hard/ I saw stars/ He hit so hard/ I saw God.” “Malibu” is perhaps the platter’s most memorable gem. The song combines a beautiful vocal performance by Love with a soothing and catchy melody that captures the true California sound. By all means, this band still knows how to rock! The explosive title track, for instance, as well as the slap-in-the-face sure classic, “Reasons to be Beautifully,” provide a pleasing sound for the old-style Hole loyalist. “You guys like rock still? You guys are stupid. Nobody else likes rock in the whole world,” Love told the audience of last month’s KNDD Deck the Hall Ball. “It’s amazing—it’s great!”
Brian’S Beat
BRian Hancock Post Staff
Hey Brian: I can’t seem to figure out how to go about starting an advice column in the newspaper I work for. Can you please give me some pointers? “Collin” the Confused Columnist Hey “Collin”: I feel your pain brother! I am having a mondo problem of my own trying to establish myself as a columnist here at Pierce. Several students have given me lines like: “Ohmygosh, Brian, your column is so awesome,” and “I’m totally going to write you letters.” Blah blah blah. I love you all but, don’t write checks you can’t cash! The truth is, I have received very few letters from the apathetic students and staff at Pierce College. My two cents worth: learn from my mistakes! Avoid coming forth like a bitch from the get go. Allure your readers by convincing them that you are- like me- an opinion-God who has “been around the block” enough to give insightful and knowledgeable advice that can be supported by your own experiences. Once you have earned the trust and respect of your audience, their letters will, in theory, come poring in. Best wishes to you my fellow confused journalist. P.S. Funny that we should share such an offbeat and uncommon trouble! Hey Brian: This is my first year at Pierce College and out of high school. I anticipated that this would be change, but thanks to my parents life is almost exactly the same. You see, I decided to stay at home as a commu-
nity college student, yet my parents seem to think that means I am still in high school. They nag at me about homework, enforce a ridiculous curfew and even tell me when to clean my room! How can I get it through to my parents that I’m not their baby anymore? Oppressed in Puyallup Hey Oppressed: I suspect that many freshmen are having similar problems at home with their parents. I certainly am. Let me break it down for you. We still live at home with the ‘rents because we are: a.) not financially ready to live on our own, b.) not mature enough to live on our own and/or c.) just plain lazy and far too comfortable to move out. For us it’s a great set up- free room and board, good food, comfort- but often times our parents feel as though they are being taken advantage of. It’s a you scratch my back, I scratch yours type of thing. They are paying the bills and, in turn, they expect you to live by their rules. My advice: do your best to convince them that you are in fact mature and responsible. Break away from them by becoming self-reliant. You won’t achieve this by asking mom and dad for a gas money loan. Impress them by acting like an adult- that is the only way that they will ever treat you like one. Some parents simply refuse to let their children grow up. If you realize that this is the case with your folks, then it’s time for you to hunt for a roommate!
Student council report Doug Weisgerber The Puyallup Post
There are plenty of changes happening in the Student Council. New Student Council President Brooke Oliver will be leading the council meetings from now on. She takes over resigning President Sean Culver’s post. Jason Schlegel, former Activities Outreach Coordinator, has been appointed Vice President of Government Affairs. Leslie Ruppert will remain Vice President of Activities. In other news, Recreation Daze— two days during which students will have available to them an air hockey
table, “pop-a-shot” basketball, a pool table, and of course foosball. For Willy Wonka there was a 32 percent increase of attendance for family movie night. An estimated 105 people attended. Students now have a wealth of health information at their disposal thanks to Schlegel. The Health Rack which contains pamphlets on everything from drinking to sex to sleep, and body image to and how to care for hands is located just inside the door to the library building. Culver adjourned his recent final meeting of the Student Council with the words, “All right . . . it’s over.”
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February 1999
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Sign teacher becomes student as well Heidi Redford The Puyallup Post
When American Sign Language instructor Gary Courie was asked why he become a teacher, he responded, “I like to help students learn sign language. Deaf people need more interpreters. When I was in community college I did not have an interpreter, and I became frustrated with school. So I decided to become a teacher to teach sign to hearing people who can become interpreters.” Gary (people who are deaf use first names on reference) was born hearing to hearing parents in Houston, Penn. He became sick with Meningitis, and to treat his sickness he was given two shots of penicillin a day for one month. His parents did not know it but Gary was unable to hear at 6 months. He overcame his illness and grew up healthy and happy. It was when he was two years old that his parents realized that there was something different about their son. Concerned, they took him to the church they attended and asked the priest to help them solve their mystery. They called his name and tried to get his attention verbally. Unsuccessful, they turned to his other senses. The priest, being a wise man, took a book and threw it down hard upon the ground. Gary responded, but only to the rumble created by the book slamming on the floor. He later was diagnosed as being profoundly Deaf. When he was 4 1/2, his parents enrolled him in Western Pennsylvania
School for the Deaf in Pittsburgh, a residential school for the deaf. It was here that he learned sign language, lip reading and speech therapy. He excelleded in ASL, but struggled until he was 7 with learning to speak. It is extremely difficult for Deaf people to learn to speak because they have no prior knowledge of the sounds they are trying to pronounce. Everything was happy at the residental school until his junior year in high school. His parents decided to move to California and Gary was forced to leave his school behind. He attended Hollywood High School and experienced for the first time mainstream schooling with hearing students. After graduating, he attended Citrus Community College in East Los Angeles, but he dropped out after a year and a half. It was the first time he was not provided an interpreter and struggled daily with his school work. Gary’s past experiences in the work force have been immense. He worked with deaf and blind children for 12 years in the L.A. County school district, and four years at Atascadro State Prison Hospital in California as a provider of deaf services to deaf inmates. He also worked two years at Maplelane High School JRA in Rochester, Washington, before coming to teach at Pierce College and some surrounding schools. Besides his impressive work experiences and fascinating stories, there is something even more interesting about him. He is a sign instructor at Puyallup
Instructor Gary Courie signs with student Anja Thomas about her diagram. The students had to make diagrams of their homes and describe them, High School, South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) and at Pierce Community College, but he is also a student at SPSCC. He is working toward his bachelor’s degree and during this upcoming summer he will be attending Western Oregon University to take a course on Deaf studies and linguistics. “The best part about being an ASL teacher is teaching facial expression to students and telling stories about Deaf culture,” he says. Gary is also the treasurer of Washington State American Sign Language Teachers Association (WAASLTA). It is a program to help schools develop and grow with ASL programs. Gary says that if you want to become more involved with the Deaf community and learn more about Deaf culture the best way is to start attending Deaf com-
munity events and club functions. You are always welcome at the Silent Games in Tacoma, Olympia, Auburn and Seattle. “Most all my friends are Deaf just because accessibility for a Deaf person is limited and other Deaf individuals understand this.” Hearing people need not be nervous or scared while in the presence of Deaf people. Gary has four children, all of them hearing and all of them interpreters. “In the future I want Deaf culture and ASL folklore to continue for many years to come,”said Gary. Does Gary ever wish he could hear? “Never! I am happy with what I am,” he said. Editor’s note: The writer conducted the interview for this story using sign language.
Black history month honors african-americans Heidi Redford The Puyallup Post
February is Black History Month, as you may know. Elementary students will make artistic acknowledgements to great leaders in the movement. High school students will study great leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and produce essays which carry on the ideas of racial equality. But there are many other individuals who were instrumental in the progression of the black nation. I have found a few and would like to highlight their achievements, great and small. King did a superb duty of preaching nonviolence, but let’s focus on some other phenomenal individuals. Arthur Ashe was known for his outstanding skills and performance in the game of tennis. He was the first black player to win a major mens tennis title with his victory in the U.S. National Amateur singles competition in 1968. During the same year he won the U.S. Open and became the first black man to play on the U.S. Davis Cup team, the team in which he would be a non playing captain after his triple by-pass surgery. Before his mild heart attack and retirement in 1979, he became a professional tennis master and won several titles
such as the Australian Open in 1970, Wimbledon in 1975 and the world championship of professional tennis. Ashe announced in April 1992 that he had contracted the AIDS virus through a blood transfusion given during his heart bypass surgery more than three years before. Ashe died in 1993 of AIDS related viruses, but before his passing he wrote, Hard Road to Glory, a history of African American athletes. Barbara Jordan was most known for how she impressed TV audiences with her eloquent speaking style during the impeachment hearings of President Nixon. She was a member of the House Judiciary Committee and a democratic representative from Houston, TX in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1973 to 1979. Jordan graduated from Texas Southern University in 1956 and was the first black student to attend Boston University Law School (1956-59). She served as the only woman and only black person in the Texas State Senate and was consulted by president Lyndon B. Johnson on civil rights legislation. In 1991, she was appointed special counsel on ethics by the Governor of Texas. She also published an autobiography, Barbara Jordan: A Self-Portrait in 1979.
families join fun at ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate factory’ night on campus
Malcolm X, born Malcolm Little, was an influential American advocate of black nationalism and a precursor of the black power movement in the late 1960’s. After the death of his father, he acted as a rebellious youth and landed himself in prison for burglary. It was here that he studied the teachings of Elijah Muhammad. Upon his release from prison he embraced the black Muslim movement and changed his name to Malcolm X. An ideological split between Malcolm’s beliefs and that of Elijah Muhammad resulted in a suspension of his ministering of black Muslims. In 1964, he traveled to Mecca and returned announcing that he was now a orthodox Muslim. He traveled to many foreign countries and preached to people about the benefits regarding brotherhood between black and white Americans. He no longer preached racial segregation, but rather a socialist revolution. He was shot and killed in New York at the age of 40 by assassins thought to be connected with Black Muslims. Black History Month was established for the purpose of learning more about America’s struggles to find equality. There are many influential people to be studied and information is available in the library or on the internet.
The best turn out yet for Family Night. It was fun for the children as well as the adults. There were prizes and popcorn galore. If you were a lucky winner, you were encouraged to shout, “Umpa Lumpa!!!” in the audience. Although he didní’ win anything, student Sean Culver was by far the best at performing the Umpa Lumpa cheer. One would suspect that he had been practicing the cheer at home.
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Maureen Hodges Favorite comic strip: Pickles Least favorite task: Cleaning my gutters when you have to stand on the edge of the roof. A hobby I enjoy: Working in my rose garden and traveling Favorite travel destination: My Mom and I traveled to Russia and Copenhagen, and I would love to return to see more of Copenhagen. If I could make one change in society it would be: Getting rid of the drugs. Then we’d be able to get rid of a lot of needless crimes. A habit I’d like to break: Smoking Something that makes me mad: When someone can look you in the face and lie to you, and you know they are lying. Most embarrassing moment: I was cooking for a large dinner party with a lot of dignitaries present. I used the wrong spice in the main Chinese crab dish I was cooking. I used cream of tarter by mistake, instead of cornstarch. I knew as soon as they took the first bite of the Dau Crab that I did something wrong. Most treasured possession: Piece of jewelry that I’ve had for 18 years Someone I admire: My Mom, she raised five of us kids after my Dad died, the oldest 14 and the youngest 5 at the time. She made us see how important education was, so we could always have a career to fall back on if something were to happen to our spouses. We’d be able to make it on our own.
Still a high profile guy
events Calendar Feb. 18 Feb. 22 Feb. 23
Live Band: “Fourth Plane Jaiant” at noon in atrium “Confidence in Class” workshop at noon in L-244 Vanneson Lecture: “Trouble Spots…” at noon in A-136
relationships from page 4
Student Sean Culver shakes his “booty” to the song “Baby Got Back” at the karaokee event on campus.
women want what they cannot have,” he said. Relationships were broken down into five characteristics: Trust, respect, intimacy, passion, commitment. According to Doyle, in order for a love to be successful, it must include all five aspects. A European and Mexican manufactured drug called Rohyphol was discussed at the lecture. Both men and women slip their date the drug to sedate them and get them into bed. Doyle warned the crowd never to leave their drinks lying around to be tampered with. Rohyphol is not traceable.
Check out The Post’s new website www.homestead.com/PuyallupPost/main.html. PuyallupPost@yahoo.com
What’s your sign? ARIES (March 21 — April 19) Aries tend to rush into love without any long-term plans. You know who you want and how to get him/her, but this month your love life may suffer a bit. If you are in love, do something spectacular to get his or her attention. Then do something outrageous to keep it. TAURUS (April 20 — May 20) You are in love with love, and this month you may turn a casual romance into something more serious. A thoughtful gift or a meal at a gourmet restaurant will win his/her heart, and so will little love notes left around the house. If you love a bull, be loyal and patient. GEMINI (May 21 — June 20) Geminis like to have fun, especially in the love department. You crave the adventure of a new relationship. This is fine — as long as your partner understands a commitment is unlikely. Being crazy in love with a Gemini isn’t easy. On the other hand, you never have to worry about being bored. CANCER (June 21 — July 22) Cancer, one of the most romantic signs, has a compassionate manner that endears you to others — except those who don’t want to be mothered. You tend to fall in love easily, but you’re crushed if it doesn’t work out. Save some adoration for yourself. LEO ( July 23 — August 22) Leo rules the heart and is considered to be one of the world’s great lovers. Your strong ego can interfere with close relationships. You love the spotlight, so looking good is important. Once you find a partner that compliments you, you’ll love him/her with all your heart. VIRGO ( August 23 — September 22)] Although not often associated with passion, Virgo’s are very loving. If you are looking for passion, get out more. You will never meet anyone if you stay at home. Ask your friends to introduce you to their friends or coworkers. Someone from your past may show up this month. LIBRA (September 23 — October 22) You love to love and want to go through life with a partner. You are
by Susan Cherry flirtatious and attract a lot of attention. If you love music and art, you can be swept off your feet. Romance is promising if you keep your heart open to love. If you are in a relationship, make sure you show your love often. SCORPIO (October 23 — November 21) Passion comes easy to you, but don’t be too eager to turn a casual relationship serious. Although your sensuality is irresistible, your jealousy has been known to dampen your relationships. A potential soul mate will have a special touch that will win your heart. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 — December 21) You’re outgoing and your life is filled with friends and activities. Look forward to adventure, and that applies to your love life too. Enjoy your healthy life and don’t settle for second best in anything, especially romance. Before getting married, make sure your partner enjoys your zest for life. CAPRICORN (December 22 — January 19) Since you usually put your career first, it makes it easy to fall for a coworker. Just don’t let work-related competition ruin your relationship. If you trade romance for success, you may end up alone. Compromise is important, so you must adjust your busy schedule to make time for your partner. AQUARIUS (January 20 — February 18) You have been known to find romance with a friend. Your partner must also get along with your friends. Expressing emotion is not your strong suit, but when you fall in love you want to share your hopes and dreams. Don’t start worrying about opinions of you now. PISCES (February 19 — March 20) You are the sign of romance. Your magic touch over relationships continues to work in your life. Love may find you in exotic places this year. Even though you like to flirt, you’re still sincere about your quest for love. If you want to meet someone, go to a concert or dance. It’s time to have fun with someone you like.
The Puyallup Post is looking for students to volunteer as writers for the student newspaper. It’s a great opportunity!
Call 840-8496.