The Puyallup Post | Volume 22 | Issue 5 | February 21, 2017

The Puyallup Post VOLUME 22 ISSUE 5 | FEBRUARY 21, 2017 | PUYALLUPPOST.COM

e d g d a o m n w ' 1 o 7 n S

SERVING THE STUDENTS OF PIERCE COLLEGE PUYALLUP SINCE 1994

Photos by Chase Charaba. Illustrations

by Katie Foster & Chase Charaba

Inside The Puyallup Post Staff

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Co-Editor-in-Chief: Chase Charaba

253-912-2399 ext: 8632 | ccharaba@pierce.ctc.edu

The Puyallup Post

Co-Editor-in-Chief: Armani Jackson

253-912-2399 ext: 8630 | ajackson@pierce.ctc.edu

Online/Social Media Manager Hannah Pederson

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253-912-2399 ext: 8628 | hpederson@pierce.ctc.edu

Senior Reporter

Volume 22 Issue 5 February 21, 2017

4 Why did the

Suzanne Buchholz

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253-912-2399 ext: 8722 | sbuchholz@pierce.ctc.edu

Reporter

chicken cross 39th Avenue?

Rebecca Dickson

253-912-2399 ext: 8624 | rdickson@pierce.ctc.edu

Reporter

Jared Leingang

Chick-fil-A is officially open in Puyallup and ready to serve its customers

253-912-2399 ext: 8601 | jleingang@pierce.ctc.edu

Reporter

Andrea Mendoza

253-912-2399 ext: 8651 | amendoza@pierce.ctc.edu

SMC Projects Future through art

Reporter

Brenna Smark

253-912-2399 ext: | bsmark@pierce.ctc.edu

Online Reporter Daniel Pollock

253-912-2399 ext: 8587| dpollock@pierce.ctc.edu

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Online Reporter Colton Swanson

253-912-2399 ext: 8811 | cswanson@pierce.ctc.edu

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Student Media Center features student artwork

10 Slam Poet Amal

Office Manager/Reporter James McCraw

253-840-8496 | jmccraw@pierce.ctc.edu

Graphics Manager Katie Foster

253-840-8496 | kfoster@pierce.ctc.edu

Adviser

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Teresa Josten

253-912-2399 ext: 8509 | tjosten@pierce.ctc.edu

Kassir speaks on topics such as social justice and feminism

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

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

For more information on advertising rates call (253) 840-8496 or email puypost@pierce.ctc.edu.

The student newspaper is in room C218 in the College Center.

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Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and/or subject to college discipline.

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www.puyalluppost.com FEBRUARY 21, 2017

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The Puyallup Post Pierce College Puyallup 1601 39th Avenue SE Puyallup, WA 98374

THE PUYALLUP POST

News

Brenna Smark

ASPCP President Madi Martin goes over changes in the ASPCP Constitution with Operation Senator Carly Tryon (left). ASPCP Constitution marked up and waiting for changes (right).

Brenna Smark

ASPCP changes constitution Brenna Smark Reporter

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he ASPCP Constitution and Bylaws is the governing document of the Associated Students of Pierce College Puyallup. It lays out ASPCP’s responsibilities and how to go about appointing or removing members of student government if necessary.

The constitution expands on how committees are formed and lays out the requirements that student government has to abide by and the actions that have to be taken if student government leaders decide to make ratifications to the document.

While the constitution is open to student input, students typically don’t get involved.

“Students typically don’t care to get involved with this kind of thing because it really is just guidelines on how we’re supposed to run things as an organization here,” Martin said. “Unless it’s something that affects them as students directly, they typically don’t have an interest in getting involved.”

Operations Senator Carly Tryon said most of the students don’t even know what the constitution is or what it does.

“A lot of the students don’t realize what we’re doing, whether it be committees, planning activities and events or just anything involving student government in general,” Tryon said. “A lot of what we do does fall behind the scenes, but it’s something that’s still there and impacts how we serve them.”

Despite the constitution being overlooked by students, student government asks the student population to be involved. In order to make changes or ratifications to the document, the students must vote on the issue.

Martin says that the current changes being made to the constitution will be going out to the students soon in a way they hope to be more convenient and productive.

“We’re hoping to do the voting process online this time through Canvas. It’s not official yet, but we’re in contact with the people who are working with us on that,” Tryon said. “Before, the voting process had all the students in one building at one time. This time, we hope to have students access it at home on their computers, so that even the online students can participate in this.”

Martin said having the students vote is just a portion of the process under which changes ratifications are made.

“The process is meant to be all encompassing, so there’s a reason for having the students vote and for doing things the way that we do,” Martin said. “It’s not a difficult process, but it definitely takes time, though Carly (Tyron) is the one who types it up and makes all the official changes.” .....This year, student government has added the vice president of clubs and organizations position, and the new position needs to be added into the constitution and bylaws.

“The only reason we’re making this change is because

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that position wasn’t in the constitution before, and it has to be put in there because the individual filling that position is a voting member of student government here,” ASPCP President Madi Martin said.

Some wording also needed to be changed in the constitution. Tryon said these changes mainly go along with the changes occurring due to the new positions.

“Some of the titles are different this year. For example, instead of there just being a senator, there is an entire board now,” Tryon said.

Some of the descriptions of the current positions in student government are being tweaked as well because the positions themselves are undergoing some changes.

“Those positions and responsibilities of those people have evolved, so that we’re best serving students and that’s what we’ve found the organization needs,” Tryon said.

Martin said while most of the changes are minor, there’s some discussion on making changes to the ASPCP committees section of the constitution.

“There’s a portion of that section in the constitution that we feel has become quite outdated,” Tryon said. “What’s stated under that portion doesn’t even have anything to do with how we run things anymore, so there’s definitely been some discussion on what we can do about that.”

Martin said finding changes that need to be made come few and far between. The last time the constitution was updated was in May 2013.

Tryon said the process for making amendments is all laid out in the constitution and bylaws itself. The student government talks about it and the constitution determines the need. Then, the constitution is used to approve amendments as student council. Then the constitution gets moved to student voting.

“While a lot of what we do goes unnoticed by students, it is required that we get a certain percentage of student vote in order for the changes to amended into the constitution,” Tryon said. “The percentage differs between amending the constitution and amending the bylaws, but it’s still required that we get the student vote.”

Martin and Tryon said they’re hopeful that students will be more apt to participate through the online form of the voting process. They said one of the goals of the online voting is so students can more clearly look at what’s being changed, so they can assess how it’s going to affect them.

“We are required to show students the original constitution before the changes and also show them the changes we are trying to make. This helps them make a more informed decision based on how it’s going to affect them, but most likely it’s not going to affect them at all,” Martin said.

“There’s really no way that these changes can negatively affect the students, so we’re hopeful on getting these changes ratified to better improve student government and to better serve the students.”

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

News

Chick-fil-A kicks off its grand opening with mascots and crowd of people. The first 100 customers received a gift card for 52 combo meals.

Andrea Mendoza

Why did the chicken cross 39th Ave.?

Chick-fil-A is officially open in Puyallup and ready to serve its customers Andrea Mendoza Reporter

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hick-fil-A officially opened its doors Feb. 9. Located at 104 39th Ave. SW. in Puyallup, this establishment is the second in Pierce County and the fourth Washington location for the Atlanta-based company.

“I’m so excited for Chick-fil-A,” student Diego Ramirez said. “It’s gonna be fried chicken awesomeness.”

On Feb. 8, more than a dozen pitched tents were spotted in the parking lot of the soon-to-open Chick-fil-A, waiting to be part of the first 100 customers. As tradition goes, the first 100 customers to attend the grand opening of a Chick-fil-A establishment are awarded a gift card for 52 free combo meals.

“I had heard about that whole free food thing,” student Morgan Frank said. “I told my boyfriend so we could go do it, but he didn’t want to camp out in the snow.”

The first 100 began lining up at about 6 a.m. while more people continued to arrive later in the day. As people endured the weather, the restaurant offered free hot coffee and entertainment via a sound system and emcee.

“I couldn’t pass up the opportunity for free chicken,” Chick-fil-A camper Daniel Gonzales said.

As Chick-fil-A enthusiasts waited patiently outside, scores of new employees were trained in various parts of the restaurant. The Puyallup location will employ 120 part- and full-time workers of varying ages. Mike Lehman, owner of the Puyallup location, is a former career Navy officer who worked as a nuclear engineer and surface warfare officer.

According to Chick-fil-A’s website, the company’s highly selective of who gets to open a franchise. The franchise goes through an 18-month selection process to ensure that

they’ll meet Chick-fil-A standards.

Not including Puyallup, there are three other establishments in the state, located in Bellevue, Lynnwood and Tacoma - although the company plans to expand by as many as 10 more in the region. The scarcity of establishments has driven up local demand for the food chain’s chicken. Local police had to monitor traffic at the Bellevue location when it opened in 2015 to control congestion.

“Meridian is so terrible, I try to avoid it all the time,” student Dylan McCormick said.

“I’m pretty sure it’s going to be even worse when Chick-fil-A opens up. That was the worst spot to put it in, in my opinion.”

The intersection of 39th Avenue Southwest and South Meridian Street (State Route 161) might be the most congested intersection in Puyallup. The City of Puyallup is requiring Chick-fil-A to hire traffic controllers to help ease congestion. A company spokesman confirmed that the restaurant has hired off-duty officers to help mitigate traffic.

“The city is currently fine-tuning the details of that traffic control plan,” Development Services Director Tom Utterback said. “That plan will be required to be in effect until such time as the city traffic engineer has determined that the initial crowds have subsided to a point that standard traffic measures are sufficient.”

As part of Chick-fil-A’s mission to help out in the community, the new establishment volunteered to make 10,000 meals for the Feeding Children Everywhere charity. Of the first 100, about 20 volunteered to make meal kits to distribute them locally.

“I think it’s nice that Chick-fil-A is helping the community,” student Katherine Valdez said. “With the homeless issue we have going around, it’s important that people see that big establishments are helping out too.”

Student Life website gets updated to better serve students Suzanne Buchholz

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Senior Reporter

he website for Pierce College Puyallup’s Office of Student Life is being updated to include new information and coincide with the college’s new website launching soon.

Public Relations Senator Kiss’Shonna Curtis is in charge of the update and said there will be various aspects to it that should make the website easier to navigate, provide more helpful information and generally look more professional.

The changes will also help when the website is transferred to Pierce’s new website, which is expected to launch this spring.

“One of my goals is to just make it look more appealing,” Curtis said. “Also, when we direct students to our website, that it’s a useful resource, it’s not just something out there.”

One new feature that will be added through the update is a tab on the website for the food pantry run by the OSL. Located in the Connection Café in the College Center, the food pantry offers free, nonperishable food items to students in need.

This tab is intended to make students aware of the pantry if they hadn’t been before as well as about what’s needed should students want to donate. The page can be found under the “Resources” tab on the Student Life website.

Another aspect that will undergo change is the club handbook which was recently updated. The club handbook provides the guidelines, rules and regulations that clubs

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

on campus must follow as well as instructions on how to start a new club. It will be accessible under the “Clubs and Communities” tab.

Changes will also be made in terms of updating current team members in the OSL, as new ones have arrived and some old ones have left, Curtis said. These updates are to ensure students have the correct information and know who’s currently working in the OSL, and can be accessed under the “Activities Board Members” and “Student Government Members” tabs.

“We’re in the process of getting their bios, adding a job description to everyone’s job and then the right photos because we have some team members from last quarter that are no longer with us,” Curtis said.

Curtis said her favorite part about the update will be the main calendar on the website, which can be accessed on the main page on the right-hand side. Before, it would list academic events and a couple of other activities occurring on campus. Now, all events run by OSL will be posted on the calendar as well.

“In our office we have events, but not everyone knows about it unless they come in or I post it on social media,” Curtis said. “But here on this new website they’ll be able to see Student Life events on the main thing, so that’s what I’m most excited about.”

Curtis said the process has been long, as she didn’t have much experience with the WordPress platform or programming before starting this project. She’s been working alongside Web Content Manager Wendy Secrist,

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who’s been involved with creating the new Pierce website, in order to accomplish this.

“The biggest drawback is I had no experience, so I’ve just been learning as I go,” Curtis said. “I’ve learned a lot and I’ve learned how to do things that I didn’t know how to do before. But it’s definitely a long learning process.”

Student Issadora Gragg said she hadn’t been aware that the school website was being updated or that there was even a specific site for the OSL. She said she thought both updates sounded beneficial for students who frequent the website.

“I use the website a lot,” Gragg said.

Student Amelia Pedersen also didn’t know about the update but said she uses the website frequently to log into Canvas. She thought the update would aid students who might not be experienced in navigating the site right away. “(The updates) would be helpful for people getting into the school for the first time,” Pedersen said.

Curtis is looking forward to the completed update and new website as she thinks it’ll look better and more professional than before.

“If you go onto the website now, there’s that bar that says Pierce is getting a new website, and you click on it and you can see what the new website is going to look like, and it looks so good,” Curtis said. “Everyone’s WordPress pages or whatever kind of pages they have, they’re all going to look pretty uniform and I like that a lot, because it’s all Pierce, so I feel like every page, every department should be uniform.”

THE PUYALLUP POST

News 16

Pierce College 5 Fort 157 Steilacoom

Pierce College Puyallup

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Pierce College 510 5 @ JBLM

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Pierce College @ Graham-Kapowsin High School

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Jared Leingang

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Katie Foster

Pierce County Pierce works with Bethel to make classes more accessible to students Senior Reporter

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ierce College is partnering with the Bethel School District to make classes more accessible to students who don’t have transportation to the Puyallup or Fort Steilacoom campuses. The classes are offered at Graham-Kapowsin High School for any Pierce student to attend.

The program was approved at the end of fall quarter and put into effect in winter quarter, with classes not being filled due to being last minute, Jo Ann Baria, vice president of workforce, economic and professional development at Fort Steilacoom, said. Classes being offered this quarter are ENGL&101, COLLG110 and CMST&101.

Spring quarter will feature more classes including ENGL&102, history and math classes as well as a nutrition class for students interested in earning degrees in healthcare.

In addition to prerequisites, the program will also provide English as a Second Language courses. The reason for this is because some people in the region are unemployed or unable to get jobs due to being unable to communicate or who would like to increase language skills, Baria said.

Baria, said the state Legislature conducted a feasibility study for the area to determine if students in the region had access to higher education and what gaps might exist in receiving it. The results revealed that, while students went to college at the same rate as those in Franklin Pierce and Puyallup School District areas, it didn’t account for the fact that many students weren’t able to go to school because of lack of transportation.

“There are a lot of Running Start students who don’t have cars, for example,” Baria said. “A lot of dislocated workers and underemployed adults who don’t have access to transportation because mass transit doesn’t go out there.”

The partnership spans across the Bethel School District as well as in Orting, Eatonville, Roy and McKenna, meaning that students in these areas will be able to participate in the program as well. The Bethel area has been growing lately, Baria said, so there’s been more space to create more resources in that area.

Graham-Kapowsin High School, for example, was founded in 2005.

The classes taught at Graham-Kapowsin begin after

WWW.PUYALLUPPOST.COM

A Reporter

Map of

Suzanne Buchholz

Town hall event to introduce underrepresented students to STEM

the high school students’ day ends, at about 3:30 p.m.

The first class begins at 4 p.m. and then transitions into an evening schedule similar to the Puyallup and Fort Steilacoom campuses, with some classes ending at around 10 p.m. The classes meet Monday through Thursday.

Pierce is using the classrooms at the high school for free.

“The school district has offered the space for free, which is just lovely,” Baria said. “They’re not even charging us custodial or anything.”

Student Cami Coles said she drives about 20 miles every day to get to Pierce College Puyallup. She graduated from Graham-Kapowsin High School, which is about five minutes away from her home, and said it’d be interesting to go there again for college courses.

“I wouldn’t mind it,” Coles said. “It’d be cool to go back to my old stomping grounds, and it’d be a lot quicker to get to.”

Student Reganne Hoirup said she lives about 20 minutes away from the campus and that the commute isn’t too difficult for her. She thought having the classes at a more local high school would be a huge benefit to younger students who might have trouble traveling to and from far distances to get to different classes.

“I’m a Running Start student and I’m always going back and forth, so it’d be great having them there (at a high school),” Hoirup said.

The program won’t be the first time Pierce has collaborated with Bethel on educational programs.

Bethel is the sponsoring district for the Pierce County Skills Center on Canyon Road, which provides career options and training to students.

Pierce and Bethel have partnered on professional technical programs, a veterinary technician program and others through PCSC. Baria hopes this program will help students in these more rural areas be able to achieve success and earn degrees despite their location.

“I think for students who are working or returning adults who don’t have time to commute here to campus, I think that opens the door for them,” Baria said. “And people who don’t have cars like Running Start students, that opens the door for them. And I think that’s Bethel School District’s interest and the senator’s interest, just to get more people on the pathway.”

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STEM Town hall event on Feb. 23 will help spread students’ voices in the program.

Pierce College STEM Services Coordinator Chris Davis said he’s excited to give students who’ve been underrepresented in the past, like students of color or LGBTQ+ students, a voice.

“The mission for the STEM town hall event is to educate and to give students a voice around STEM education,” Davis said. “The mission for the STEM Bound program is to support students who are unrepresented and help them get a STEM degree and career.”

The town hall event will feature a guest panel made up of four people in different STEM-related fields.

The panel will consist of Kathryn Mahan, budget and fund development coordinator in the Pierce Conservation District; Klondy K. Canales, program officer in the Washington State Opportunity Program; Christopher Peguero, environmental equity advisor at Seattle City Light and Bill Dickens, a senior economist at Tacoma Power.

The panelists will speak on their education and careers.

They also will give students opportunities to experience possible career paths.

The event is part of the STEM Bound program. Any student can attend the event, but students must apply to be a part of the program.

According to the Pierce website, students who are interested must fill out a STEM Bound application. Priority will be given to first-generation students and students of color.

The program is available for students to join, and it includes advising, advice from STEM faculty and help in completing STEM-related degrees.

This event will be the launchpad for other STEM incorporated events. The goal is to have two seminars each quarter and an advising day as well.

Seattle and Washington in general have a surplus of STEM-related jobs like Microsoft, Boeing and Amazon, and the goal is to help students in those fields have the proper resources and outlets to get those type of careers, Davis said.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there will be an estimated 1.2 million jobs in STEM-related fields by 2018, but there may not be enough graduates to fill these jobs.

Davis said the seminars are being planned for spring quarter and will consist of professors in the STEM fields talking about their experiences and how they achieved the career they have.

The advising day would host multiple professors in the STEM fields and students can stop by the event and ask questions about what classes to take or general questions about a career.

“I wanted students’ voices to be a part of the STEM bound program,” Davis said. “It’ll give students a chance to see what supports them in their education whether that’s going to visit Boeing or doing more talks like this. It’s just a beginning way to start the conversation on how to support students at Pierce College who are in the STEM program.”

The event is scheduled to be from 2-4 p.m. in Brouillet Library/Science Building Room 142.

Students who are on the associate of science tracks are encouraged to attend any of the future events as well.

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

News

art

Rebecca Dickson

The Student Media Center, located in the Arts and Allied Health building, provides students with software like Adobe Creative Cloud, Premiere Pro and iMovie.

SMC projects future through Rebecca Dickson Reporter

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rt is an expression of emotion and thought.

Although some may think it can’t be combined with technology well, the Student Media Center in the Arts and Allied Health Building seems to think otherwise.

The SMC in the AAH is used less often than other labs on campus most likely because of its location.

In order to use the labs, students must check in at the front desk and scan their student ID cards.

The SMC has many differences from other computer labs on campus, such as the red accent wall. This pop of color is representative of the location of the lab - the AAH. Most students use the library or the College Center computer center in order to get their work done, and many are unaware of the existence of the SMC. John Sanford, multimedia facilitator through Pierce College’s Student Technology Assistance Team, works Katie Foster afternoons in the SMC. “Students who tend to use these programs tend to be in the digital design program up at Fort Steilacoom, but they live (in Puyallup),” Sanford said. “We’re here to help anybody, with anything we can.”

Although the SMC has computers and study stations like any other lab on campus, the Puyallup Multimedia Center offers a multitude of additional features, such as the Adobe Creative Cloud which includes Dreamweaver, After Effects, Firework, Photoshop, Premiere Pro and InDesign. It also has three Mac computers which have iMovie, iPhoto, iDVD and Final Cut Pro X. These resources can be useful to many students.

“I think it’s useful because some students don’t have the ability to use that kind of software at home,” student Grace Denchfield said. “PhotoShop can be expensive.”

The lab also has two multimedia facilitators, who can assist students in using these tools. Textbooks on some of this software including Premiere Pro and CSS web design are available for student use within the lab.

“This is the only lab on campus that has the Creative Cloud,” Sanford said. “Most of these programs are used in the digital design world.”

All of these are available to students as part of the technology fee paid at the beginning

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of each quarter. These fees are sent to the Technology Fee committee, which is made up of students and staff who decide where fees are best spent for the greater student benefit. All of this software is funded through that committee.

“We’re a media center, so we have the creative software which the lab doesn’t,” Sanford said. “It’s a good place to come study.

People seem to like it here.”

Students tend to agree that they like the lab.

Student Henrik Haude has used the lab many times.

“I enjoy using the (SMC) and I prefer it to the other computer labs on campus,” Haude said. “Not only is it a quieter and more comfortable environment, (but also) the staff are really friendly and helpful.”

Recently, the SMC has been attempting to find other ways of letting students know the lab exists, such as using student art submissions as projections in the lab.

As the lab has a full projector, the SMC has looked into having student art shown in the lab.

“Any kind of visual art can be put up,” Sanford said. “If you have some art, bring it in here.”

Currently, most of the art is created by the two multimedia facilitators, John Sanford and Chris Horn. However, student Emily Robinson has also submitted work.

Although the SMC will be reviewing the art to make sure it’s appropriate, they wish to demonstrate the creativity and artistic endeavors students pursue in the AAH. Although all students are able to use the lab, most students who use the lab are those who take classes primarily in the AAH, mostly art and nursing students.

“Anyone is welcome here,” Sanford said.

Students interested in submitting their artwork may go to the SMC in the AAH 132 and speak to a multimedia facilitator. The SMC is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

THE PUYALLUP POST

Opinion Fightin’ Words

No

Do companies cater to LGBTQ+ couples?

Yes

Jared Leingang

Hannah Pederson

W Reporter

Online Managing Editor

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ith Valentine’s Day and other such events comes the want to provide significant others with something special. But for some people, specifically non-hetero couples, the task can be difficult. .....When it comes to finding a card for significant others, it can be like finding a needle in a haystack. .....Not only do stores offer a limited stock of them, Hallmark, the leader in the card-making industry, doesn’t have a broad selection

apitalism hasn’t arrived at the point where it’s figured out a way to commercialize and monetize non-cisgender, heterosexual love. .....No Hallmark has ever carried one of those formulaic, excessively emotional Valentine’s Day cards targeted toward a couple that didn’t consist of one man and one woman. Inside these limitations, their creativity knows no bounds and provides every variation on that theme with the proper representation.

Yet, when it comes to anything outside the limitations of the gender binary, there’s maybe one card that’s so vague about who it’s for that it could technically work, and that’s as hard as they’re willing to try to represent as much of the different ways love manifests itself as they can.

No network has ever approved and produced a sitcom starring a trans woman and her wife with the same familiar, overused “ball and chain” comedy style that made shows like Everybody Loves Raymond so popular because when LGBTQ+ relationships are portrayed (sporadically and half-heartedly), based off of shows like Orange is the New Black or movies like Rent it’s pretty consistently an epic drama and someone ends up dead.

These relationships aren’t represented for all the wrong reasons (see centuries of extreme prejudice and literal genocide), but maybe the fact that they’ve been almost completely bypassed by big corporations and their armies of marketers isn’t entirely a bad thing.

Because LGBTQ+ relationships have been so largely ignored, they’re on an island blissfully uninterrupted by the sea of grossly commercialized parodies of love every company tries to shove down consumers’ throats this time of year.

This means that they aren’t specifically targeted by media trying to pigeonhole their relationships into the shallow, uninspired and unhealthy caricatures that teach straight men to view their partners as the bane of their existence and straight women that having any kind of libido is wrong and undesirable.

So while LGBTQ+ relationships are subjected to incredible levels of stigmatization and are largely still illegal, their love is theirs’ to define and express however they choose.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, walking through the Valentine’s section that Target shoves together and not seeing a card or cute little teddy bear intended for women who love women is a painful reminder of the fight those who have come before this generation of LGBTQ+ youth endured, but it feels weirdly freeing.

If corporations suddenly did decide to grow a pair and invest in products specifically intended for LGBTQ+ individuals and their partners, the returns on their investment would be more than worthwhile.

But until that day, couples should just enjoy the peace and quiet.

of them.

According to an article at Time, “This year, Hallmark offers two cards in our instore Valentine’s Day selection that are specifically created for same-sex relationships — titled ‘Love: Man to Man’ and ‘Love: Woman to Woman.’”

Two cards. The $8 billion-a-year industry only makes two cards for people in a same-sex relationship that can be found in a store.

Stores such as Walmart or Target also are popular places to buy cards but they lack catering to non-hetero couples as well. Sure buyers can go on Hallmark’s website and choose from a limited selection of cards, but they should be readily available in stores as well.

As of 2015 there are about 390,000 same-sex marriages and 1.2 million people in a same-sex partnership in the U.S., according to Gallup.com.

With same-sex marriages on the rise and people overall becoming more tolerant of it, stores and companies should also adjust and take advantage of this growing demographic.

With the continued increase in the LGBTQ+ community it’s not like the products won’t be purchased if they’re made. It’s possible companies are wary to invest in products that might not sell but that fear seems unwarranted. Non-hetero couples aren’t considered taboo anymore and although some advances have been made, more should be done.

Hallmark has made improvements in this area. One of their Valentine’s Day ads this year includes a lesbian and gay couple.

With same-sex marriage now legal in all 50 states, it only seems right that companies start supporting it as well, or at least have a larger variety of products.

The card industry is one that seems to be relevant only a few times a year, and with more people creating their own cards themselves, the industry might even be falling behind in sales. If companies catered to LGBTQ+ couples more, then it could lead to an increase in sales and popularity.

In a country where people are encouraged to express themselves it is hard for people to do just that towards the person they love, and that should change.

It’s not just about representing or appealing to a certain sexual preference or group of people to because a company would make profit. It’s about companies doing what is morally right and making sure every person can be represented.

The Puyallup Post reserves the right to edit letters to the editors for grammar, clarity and/or AP Style.

Dear Editors,

I’ve been a student at Pierce College Puyallup for several quarters now, and have loved many parts of it. With that being said, there’s one major problem that needs to be addressed urgently, and that’s the parking situation.

On numerous occasions I’ve spent what felt like hours driving around in a loop to find a precious spot. I’ve seen several accidents throughout fall quarter because of anxious students trying to find a spot in order to get to class on time. In between the hours of 9 a.m.-1 p.m., parking is essentially non-existent. This limits my studies and class options. I feel that I (have to) either take classes at 8 a.m. or 2 p.m. because I will not be able to find a consistent parking spot in between those times. I understand that Pierce may recognize these issues, but do not have the current funding for more parking spots. With the cost of tuition and number of students, I don’t believe this is a situation of insufficient funds but rather spending these funds in other areas. College provides enough stress for student life without the worry of parking as well. ~ Halley Maida WWW.PUYALLUPPOST.COM

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FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Opinion

Katie Foster

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lickers

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Rebecca Dickson

Glenn Ligon’s art titled America in the Tacoma Art Museum’s 30 Americans exhibit shows the state of America today. Although still bright, America’s future flickers from the issues faced in the past and present.

America flickers with Sessions’ confirmation Rebecca Dickson

Section two of Article 19 shouldn’t have been used in this scenario. In order to fairly judge the character of a person for one of the most important positions appointed by the ne letter from Coretta Scott King changed the way the world perceives Attorney president, King’s letter is certainly relevant and important for state representatives to General Sessions (and those who support him) for good. consider.

King’s 1986 letter was left unpublished and largely unknown until Jan. 10, While McConnell may believe in alternative facts, actual, verifiable facts were found when an anonymous source leaked the letter to The Washington Post. within the letter written by King. McConnell’s belief, along with many of his colleagues King’s letter was in opposition to Sessions’ nomination to the federal court judge in is that King’s letter was unjustly read in the presence of the senators. This alternative Southern Alabama. King wished to write a letter to Senator Strom Thurmond, chairman belief is horrifying and disgusting. Some may consider this equal to Thurmond’s actions of the Committee of the Judiciary and a known pro-segregationist. As King was unable in not publishing King’s letter. Both are actions which limit the voice of King. to attend his hearing to express her thoughts, she wrote a letter in hopes that it would While Warren was silenced, many other stepped forward. Four democratic senators persuade those voting to not confirm Sessions. While King asked for the letter to be read King’s letter in full to the Senate- none were silenced. published in full, Thurmond refused.

Although Warren spoke outside the Senate chambers later, her voice was still limited.

In her letter, King cited several examples of why she felt Sessions was a terrible McConnell’s actions, regardless of his reasoning behind it, attempted to withdraw candidate for the position of federal court judge. attention to Warren’s points. However, it did the opposite.

“Mr. Sessions has used the power of his office to chill the free exercise of the vote A massive outcry came from thousands. #LetLizSpeak was trending on Twitter, and by black citizens to the district he now seeks to serve as a federal judge,” King wrote. the letter was published on countless websites.

“From his politically-motivated voting fraud prosecutions to his indifference toward The fact that representatives of the citizenry of the United States could so easily silence criminal violations of civil rights laws, indicates that he lacks the temperament, fairness one of their colleagues and the partner of one of the most revered civil rights leaders in the and judgement to be a federal judge.”

20th century by claiming a violation of a an irrelevant rule is appalling and disgusting. To King referenced Sessions’ actions while he was still an attorney, where Sessions’ do so during Black History Month of all times is paradoxical and jaw dropping. worked to unjustly punish people of color who sought to exercise their right to vote in Although people’s opinions can change for the better, Sessions hasn’t once refuted his Alabama. prejudiced beliefs.

In the mid-20th century, people of color were often unable to vote due to “literacy In a 2015 interview with former executive of Breitbart News and current Chief tests” which were purposely impossible to pass, despite having the legal right to vote. Advisor Steven Bannon, Sessions said the Johnson-Reed Act of 1924 (which favored According to Ferris State University, tests included questions such as: “If it were White European immigrants while persecuting all others “slowed down immigration proposed to join Alabama and Mississippi to form one state, significantly, we then assimilated through 1965 and created the what groups would have to vote approval in order for this to be solid middle class of America, with assimilated immigrants, done?” and “The only laws which can be passed to apply to an “Students at Pierce College and it was good for America.” area in a federal arsenal are those passed by (blank) provided should make the effort to fight to This refusal to refute these racist laws and policies is consent for the purchase of the land is given by the (blank).” absolutely deplorable. The fact that despite this, a majority of Sessions was in support of these policies as well as other maintain the rights of all students the Senate confirmed Sessions is detestable. segregationist policies in the Southern U.S. Regardless, all have a duty to make their country better. regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, “Mr. Sessions sought to punish older black civil rights There are some steps in particular students can take to stand activists, advisors and colleagues of my husband, who had gender identity or expression, up for justice and equality. been key figures in the civil rights movement in the 1960s,” sexual orientation, religion, Students at Pierce College should make the effort to fight to King said. “I do not believe Jefferson Sessions possesses maintain the rights of all students regardless of race, ethnicity, the requisite judgement, competence, and sensitivity to the socioeconomic status, national sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, rights guaranteed by the federal civil rights laws to qualify for origin, disability, immgration socioeconomic status, national origin, disability, immigration appointment to the federal district court.” status or other factors. By voting carefully and in accordance or other factors.” to an individual’s political beliefs, students may have their On Feb. 7. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (Dem.) was set to speak status in Sessions’ confirmation hearing of an even higher office: voice heard. Voting is the most impactful way of demonstrating an individual’s voice- by Attorney General. In her speech, Warren read some parts of King’s letter on the Senate electing officials with views and beliefs that match up with the general population’s views floor. and beliefs, the country will be run in ways that benefit those who vote.

While reading the letter, Warren was interrupted by Senate Majority Leader Mitch For those who wish to get involved or who are ineligible to vote, students can get McConnell (Rep.). McConnell claimed Warren violated Article 19 of the Senate’s rules involved with local organizations which fight for equal rights. Most need volunteers, of debate. Specifically, McConnell claimed she violated section two which reads, “No and people of all skill sets and skill levels can help. Some organizations looking for Senator in debate shall, directly or indirectly, by any form of words impute to another volunteers are Human Rights Watch, an organization that aims to protect the human rights Senator or to other Senators any conduct or motive unworthy or unbecoming a Senator.” of all people and Amnesty International, which fights for the rights of those who are Article 19, rule 2, was originally created over a century ago in order to stop fistfights on having their rights violated by governments around the world. the Senate floor. McConnell was unjustified in using this rule against Warren- although Students can call, email or mail a letter to their representatives and express their views, technically allowed, the rule is rarely used. In the case of a Senate hearing, King’s letter regardless of political affiliation. By talking to representatives, they have a better idea of is relevant and necessary to Sessions’ history. how to respond to bills and can advocate for students on a state or national level.

Warren and King were silenced and punished for listing Sessions’ past erroneous The only way that the United States can create a country that is truly welcome to all is actions against the citizenry of the U.S. In some of the darkest periods of the history of the through standing up for those - who for one reason or another - can’t speak for themselves.

U.S., Sessions’ was a key participant and supporter. Yet, according to McConnell, King’s Those who are able have an obligation to their country and their fellow constituents to historically accurate and notable letter was claimed to be unfit for discussion and worthy speak up for others and to help other have their voice heard. of limiting Warren’s and King’s free speech.

O Reporter

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

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YouTube’s new algorithm helps smaller channels grow Chase Charaba Subscribe Add to

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Published on Feb 21, 2017 t the end of 2016, YouTube suddenly changed its algorithm for calculating and presenting videos to viewers, leaving many popular creators to protest the change and label it as damaging to YouTubers everywhere.

YouTube’s new algorithm is just a sign of changing viewing habits and YouTube’s plan to reinvent itself. Contrary to the majority opinion, the algorithm change was necessary and is beneficial to small YouTubers.

This algorithm is responsible for what videos show up in the suggested tab beside the video a user’s currently watching and what’s on the trending tab. The algorithm deals with what videos are shown to a viewer compared to another video.

Many YouTubers such as pewdiepie and JackSepticEye said the new algorithm is killing their channels. They’ve claimed their videos are not being viewed as much as they used to be and that people are being randomly unsubscribed from their channels.

The algorithm does have major problems. Watch time is now the primary method for calculating what videos are displayed to viewers. Longer videos now do better on YouTube than shorter videos, but this doesn’t mean short videos don’t get views. Watch time isn’t a good, reliable factor for promoting certain videos.

Another issue is the Trending tab, which appears to be broken following the update. Whereas it previously showcased recent viral videos and up-and-coming videos, it now shows many videos from popular TV shows like NBC’s Today. These videos often have fewer views than new videos that aren’t on the Trending tab.

Despite the hate this new algorithm receives, it’s actually a good tool that smaller, unrecognized YouTubers can use to their advantage.

It all comes down to metadata, the behind-the-scenes information an uploader has to provide YouTube with when they upload their videos. This includes a video’s title, description, tags, thumbnail and playlists.

The platform is known for clickbait. This method works, but the algorithm works differently.

Large, established YouTube channels have fallen into the habit of promoting their new videos with clickbait and flashy thumbnails that don’t really have to do with the majority of that video’s content. They rely on their subscriber base to have notifications turned on or to arrive on their video watch page through a link on social media. That isn’t how it works anymore.

Large channels might be losing subscribers and getting fewer views because they aren’t adapting to the metadata system.

Using relevant tags and titles will allow YouTube to learn what a video is about. YouTube can then share the video as a recommendation to those looking for similar videos.

Tagging videos with good search terms helps to get a video displayed higher on search results, which can lead to more views.

YouTuber Roberto Blake made a video detailing how creators can use good tags to get more views, even with the new algorithm.

“If you don’t know how to properly tag YouTube videos for search and discovery, then YouTube will have a harder time promoting your videos to new viewers and even to your subscribers based on what else they’ve watched,” Blake said in the video’s description.

YouTube is a search engine. Creators who understand this will have their videos rank higher and get more views if that particular topic is being search frequently. Making videos about trending topics will get more views than videos about the uploader’s life.

Just because a majority of YouTubers are calling out the new algorithm and complaining about losing views and subscribers doesn’t mean the algorithm is bad. It’s a flawed system that needs to be changed, but when it’s used correctly, success can still be found.

As long as these big YouTubers continue to blame the platform for their channels’ shortcomings, small YouTubers can grow by using good tags and understanding how to use the system.

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FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Features Slam Poet Amal Kassir speaks on topics such as social justice and feminism Brenna Smark Reporter

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mal Kassir is a 21-year-old Syrian-American woman born and raised in Denver. Her mother’s from Iowa and her father, from whom she inherited her Muslim religion, is from Syria. Kassir’s parents come from two different world views, but that never challenged her in knowing who she is.

“I was always my parents’ child and we never really capitalized on a culture,” Kassir said. “It was beautiful because without question we were experiencing these two worlds smoothly flow together. We were just mixing rivers.”

As much as her two different ancestries flow together, Kassir takes pride in the idea that she’s created her own culture for herself.

“My biggest doorway to understanding thought is the bigotry, and the racism made it so that there were these differences,” Kassir said. “As a poet, of course it was my job to try and take all of it and put it in one place, and in doing that I think I made my own culture. I am my own culture.”

Kassir has performed in many different countries and at multiple worldwide events, but slam poetry wasn’t how she expected to get her voice out there.

“Honestly, I didn’t know this was poetry. I didn’t know anything about spoken word or slam or any of it,” Kassir said. “I was so outraged that something so simple as numbers could’ve been manipulated so intentionally for something as serious as an anti-war demonstration, and the first thing I ever wrote just spilt from my pen. I really didn’t know what it was.”

Kassir had her first slam poetry reading at Smoky Hill High School and it set the basis for what she wanted to do with her voice.

“This thing I’d been doing, there was an actual name for it and I had no idea,” Kassir said. “I started out not trying to be a poet and I think that’s what my greatest advantage has been; to explore it because I didn’t know what I was walking into. Now I’m cultivating this garden behind me, and it’s beautiful.”

Kassir never expected to be as successful as she’s become, and she said she has her father to thank for her YouTube viral videos and worldwide poetry readings.

“I wish I could say it was my talent, but straight up it took one YouTube video and my dad emailing 800 people my YouTube link.

My dad made my video viral,” Kassir says.

“As cool as I wanna be, that’s always gonna be the fact, no one would know who I was if my dad didn’t think I was wise enough. He always believed in my message.”

Poetry’s became a passion for Kassir and that passion took her places. She’s traveled to eight different countries and performed in more than 40 cities around the world, but she’s never been alone.

“Suddenly there was just this big story that my little 5 foot body couldn’t even hold,” Kassir said. “People are listening to it and they’re watching you struggle with this Syrian in your arms, like a bleeding baby in your arms. I swear the more people watched, the more they tried to take a little bit more of this weight that I’m carrying. It’s healing for me, I’m using my audience just as much as they’re using me.”

Kassir is currently putting her passion into a book she’s writing. She said this book has changed significantly from what she’d anticipated it would be.

“It started out with me just wanting to share some bits of my Syria and what happened,” Kassir said. “As I’m writing this I find I’m like a con artist trying to put my own demons

t o rest. My house was burned down last year and three days after that my aunt’s house was bombed, and I was making it so that war will be the thing I present this tragedy from. This book is how I am making meaning out of a scary, scary world.”

This book’s also how Kassir’s making her stand to those in charge of the war coming down on her and her home.

“This book has a hopeful end, but it also has a grave warning to the tyrant and the dictator. I talk about God, ISIS and the scarf.

My book starts in the Heavens and comes down to Earth,” Kassir said. “There will be men who make hell on this earth, but for one side it’s just gold purifying. No matter what, they will plant a seed, and no matter what hell they make on this earth, it will grow.”

Kassir has written many poems covering a variety of subjects she finds herself passionate about, but she doesn’t just put her voice into any given subject. She’s particular and has an agenda for what she speaks about.

“I’m very particular on where I draw my voice. My politics is human rights, my religion is human rights, my God is gravity as far as anyone else is concerned,” Kassir said. “People commonly ask me what this thing on my head is, and I’m totally cool with that, but you see what I’m wearing has nothing to do with the humanitarian crisis that is happening, but for some reason they think it does.”

The idea that people continue to bring her religion and customs into the problems occurring around human rights fuels Kassir’s passion.

“My passion comes from being sick and tired of it.

I’m gonna say a lot of uncomfortable things in this short poem so that literally we are all disarmed. I try to lay it out so that we’re all on the same ground now.”

While poetry is something that she’s turned to in order to get her voice out there, Kassir said that poetry isn’t truly the passion behind all the work that she’s done.

“My poetry is more like a segway to my true passion. My passion is justice, not being angry about it. The anger, the outrage is all just a means to an end,” Kassir said. “ My poetry is by no means what I’m meant to do. I’m meant to give a message greater than myself.”

Kassir said all she strives for is for everyone to level with each other and see from the same angle of equality. That’s what continues to push her forward on her path to equality and justice for human rights.

“Religion and these things are destructive.

I am a woman of faith, not a woman of religion. Religion is something that you do, so how is it that we’re arguing about religion when everyone is supposed to be doing their own thing?” Kassir said.

“My goal is to make sure I can pull all those people down with me. Gravity is the God that we all know has us.”

Brenna Smark

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

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THE PUYALLUP POST

Features

Art 260 a 4-D experience New art class teaches students about creating 4-D art that applies concepts of time Suzanne Buchholz

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Senior Reporter

ierce College Puyallup offered a new art class this winter. ART 260 - 4D Design: Real and Recorded Time teaches students the concepts of creating art and producing media beyond three dimensions.

Professor Scott Aigner explained that two-dimensional art focuses on painting, drawing and photography while three-dimensional involves aspects such as ceramics and sculptures. Four-dimensional art, however, deals with time and can be broken into three separate categories, he said.

These categories are audio, video and live performance.

“The class is designed to introduce students to this concept of dealing with time in an element of work because so much of what’s created and drawn in painting, other than the time you spent on it, it’s one moment of time right, one fragment, one millisecond, one capture of a still image,” Aigner said. “So automatically, there’s a shift in that you have to think differently about the idea that if you’re recording audio, recording video or doing something that’s sort of a live performance, that there’s a time element that’s always going to meet a place there.”

The class starts by familiarizing students with the idea of time involved in art and then expands into other areas from there. They learn the history behind audio, visual and performance by studying artists who’ve worked with these concepts before and how they originated. Students then experiment and start creating based on these concepts. The class will involve basic editing on computers as well as other technology-related concepts that Aigner said could be applied in other areas of life.

“They’re all kind of abstract concepts,” Aigner said.

“It’s not a class in how to make music or how to shoot a

movie, it’s how to make art based on audio or art based on video, so it’s sort of experimental uses of these things that already exist in other professional worlds.”

Aigner proposed the class based on his own interest in the field of working with 4D art. He had the opportunity to teach a similar class while earning his master of fine arts at Ohio State University and had been wanting the opportunity to teach another class like it ever since.

“Since I had an interest in it, the opportunity was given to me to teach that instead of drawing,” Aigner said. “So from there it was just something I carried around with me to all the other places I taught at, as someday I would love to do this again. Someday I would love to teach this again, it’s something I’m passionate about and care about.”

The class was intended to begin in fall quarter, but due to time and space constraints couldn’t be offered until winter. For the first class, 17 students out of 20 available spots registered. Aigner said he doubts it’ll be available every quarter, but as long as students show interest in the class, it could be offered more often.

Part of the proposal for the class was to order a television to display student work, so that others can see it and might consider enrolling in the class. If the proposal is accepted, the television will be installed in the Arts and Allied Health Building. This would help advertise the class and gain more interest, Aigner said.

Student Noah Hansen said that while he’s yet to take an art class at Pierce, he would consider taking this class as it would broaden his horizons.

“I don’t know much about the art of audio and visual,” Hansen said. “But I’m interested in general knowledge, and this would further my general knowledge.”

Student Miranda Teabo said she also hasn’t taken art

classes at the college yet. She said she would consider taking this class, but was undecided as she prefers more traditional forms of art.

“I really enjoy art, but more like art on paper,” Teabo said.

Aigner said the class is beginning level and that students shouldn’t hesitate to sign up for it due to lack of experience or knowledge of technology. While he said being comfortable with using computers makes the class less difficult, it’s designed for anyone to be able to take regardless of skill level and without prerequisites.

“This stuff is becoming increasingly popular and students are increasingly having some of these skills anyway,” Aigner said. “There’s a lot of students out here that are already dabbling in audio and video and so why not just teach them more about it, and say like here’s even more applications of what you can do with the technology that’s kind of readily available to us anyway.”

Suzanne Buchholz

Students try out the 4-D experience.

Photos by Suzanne Buchholz and Graphics by Chase Charaba

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FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Campus Life

Brenna Smark

Brenna Smark

Brenna Smark

Students gather to watch Moana in the MPR (top). Student leaders Nhan Ta, Andrew Bottcher, Angela Madrid and Kat Schwab serve food to moviegoers in the dining commons (left). OSL hosts Moana night on Jan. 27(right).

OSL hosts Moana Movie Night Brenna Smark Reporter

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very quarter at Pierce College Puyallup, the Office of Student Life hosts a movie night, an event the Activities Board has been putting together for at least

10 years.

On Jan. 27 the OSL put together another movie night in the Multipurpose Room at the bottom floor of the College Center showing the movie Moana from 5:30-8 p.m. Food was served by the OSL team in the theme of Pacific Islander to represent the background of the movie. Chicken, potato salad, fish and a seaweed wrap with rice and Spam was served along with fruit punch and water for beverages.

Tables were spread out along the dining area decorated appropriately to fit the Pacific Islander theme. Speakers were playing the soundtrack from the movie while guests were eating dinner and an area was opened up for kids to dance around and have fun.

Not a single table was empty as families gathered to experience the festive food and atmosphere of the evening.

“This is our first movie night,” student Kayla Waycaster said.

“We wanted to come because it’s a great and easy way to spend time with family with very little expenses. It’s totally awesome

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

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and way better than what we expected. We’ll definitely be attending more movie nights.”

Parents attending Pierce took the opportunity to use the movie night as quality time with their kids.

“This is the second movie night I’ve brought my son to,” student Annie Sonck said. “The first one we went to was the school’s showing of Inside Out. It’s something fun to do and it’s a great way to spend quality time with my son.”

The movie nights that OSL put together have a history of success among the students.

“I think they’re successful because we have a lot of students with families who can’t take advantage of a lot of our other engagement opportunities, either because they’re busy or have responsibilities off-campus that keep them from attending,” Director of Student Life Sean Cooke said. “Going to the movies is pretty expensive these days, especially if you’re taking a family.

Family Movie Nights are an inexpensive way for our students to see a movie that hasn’t yet been released to the public and it’s one way we can try to meet their needs, connect them to the college and help them to build relationships with other students on campus, all of which increase student success rates.”

Katie Foster

THE PUYALLUP POST

Campus Life Red alert: 911 auto location feature fails Rebecca Dickson Reporter

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ecently, the auto location feature on campus phones that connects to 911 wasn’t operating correctly from Pierce College and no one knows why. Although the error was corrected, concerns are still felt by students and staff.

On Jan. 13, an email was sent to all Pierce employees explaining the issue.

“When dialing 911 from the Puyallup campus we are experiencing some intermittent issues with (campus phones) not always sending the campus location to them automatically,” Brian Benedetti, director of marketing and communications, said. “Please know that the call is still connected correctly, but the 911 operator may need more information from you such as your building name and room numbers.”

Although originally the error was seen to be just with those phones on the Puyallup campus, it was realized that the error was an issue throughout the district Usually, when someone calls 911 from a traditional landline phone, 911 has an address for that phone number.

911 call centers work with service providers to receive the address of a particular phone line Kathy Loyd, South Sound 911 communications manager, said.

When a location uses a software-based landline such as Microsoft Lync, there can be difficulties which take place when calling 911, as the automatic location system doesn’t always work.

“Depending how Lync works, sometimes a Primary Rate Interface circuit comes in and provides that circuit which works,” Loyd said. “We want to work directly with

(the Lync Manager) to make sure all those numbers are working properly.”

Pierce College switched to the Microsoft Lync/Skype for Business system in July 2015.

“We have not been able to identify exactly what caused this feature to go down,” CIO of Pierce College District Mike Stocke said. “There are always some challenges when you switch systems, but everything was working up until this issue.”

Instead, those calling would have to state their campus, building and room number when calling from the Lync system. If for some reason a person didn’t know this information or didn’t have the chance to answer before having to evacuate the building, all the 911 center would know is that the person was calling from Pierce College District, not their particular campus, building or room number.

Each business or school that uses Lync or another software based landline phone should communicate that with the 911 center which receives their calls, Loye said.

“We’ve had a number of these throughout the county, where (the Lync manager doesn’t know) how the 911 system works,” Loye said. “(We want the Lync manager to) call 911 from each location and confirm that the proper locations are displaying on the screen.”

Pierce does quarterly checks to ensure this feature works. If there’s a case where there’s an issue with the 911 location system, IT works together to notify staff and rectify the issue.

“We called 911 from all four campuses/locations in our district to be sure the 911 automatic locator was working, which it is now,” Stocke said. “We notified (employees

Video service

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and departments) right away, as soon as we understood what the problem really was and that we couldn’t solve it immediately.”

Student Jordan Nelson was upset to hear the issue took place.

“I feel like that’s really dangerous,” Nelson said. “I’m really glad that they got it fixed.”

Other students were concerned about the arrival of emergency personnel.

“That’s kind of dangerous,” student Emily Goist said. “If they don’t know where you are, they have a large surface area to cover and by then you’re probably long gone”.

Although calls still went through, Pierce employees were concerned about the issue.

“They assured me that this (was) a top priority,” Benedetti said. “They have dedicated their staff to resolving this as early as they can. (The location) feature is just a safeguard for the 911 operator. In case someone hangs up on them, then they like to have this auto location.”

During the time where the auto location feature was down, students were still able to receive services from 911. Regardless of whether the auto location feature works or not on a particular phone, students would still be asked the location of their emergency first.

“No matter what the emergency is, we want to know the location first.” Loyd said. “Always know where you are.

I think that is the most important thing. We need to know where you are.”

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$3,503 funding approved for a video streaming service made available to students

Andrea Mendoza

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Reporter

tudents are increasingly being required to use full-length films as study material in their courses. However, college book stores don’t sell videos and many students don’t have access to monthly subscription services like Hulu and Netflix. Students who need to access required films often look to their library as an option instead of having to buy or borrow a physical copy of the film on DVD. “This has been an increasing problem for the students,” ASPCP President Madi Martin said. “We’re seeing students engaging more and more in online courses and that they’re starting to need more services like this.”

Pierce College’s library is requesting funds to renew a pair of streaming media subscriptions - Kanopy and Swank. These services will maximize access to technology for students by offering full-length movies outside the scope of the library’s collection development policy. All students will be able to access these films, even from home computers.

“Kanopy and Swank are two video streaming services that would help students access most of the films that their professors are requiring,” Martin said.

Kanopy provides access to educational films and documentaries while Swank provides access to popular Hollywood titles. Both vendors specifically work with colleges and universities to provide access to streaming films. Kanopy offers more than 26,000 films from 800 leading producers including PBS, First Run Features, The Great Courses and HBO. “I think students would enjoy having this services for recreational and educative purposes too,” student Kate Whelan said.

Kanopy uses a patron-driven acquisition model where the subscribing institutions doesn’t purchase a film until it’s played four times. This means that Pierce would only own the films that are being frequently watched by students.

Swank digital campus provides students with access to course related Hollywood films like Casablanca and The Godfather.

This quarter, Pierce offers 126 online classes and 46 hybrid courses. The library currently subscribes to Films on Demand, a database of educational films intended to be used by students completing research assignments. Swank is different than Films on Demand in that it includes full length, popular films.

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Kanopy is different than Films on Demand in that it will only allow students to purchase films that they’re interested in. Pierce would pay per film (after four views) versus paying for films sitting in the database.

“I’m taking two online courses, a hybrid class and a regular class,” student Rebecca Hernandez said. “My drama class requires us to watch some videos and I usually don’t have a hard time finding them. They’re pretty easy to find, but I think having a database to find all these videos would be easier.”

Students would be able to view full length - films from any computer with internet access including home computers. By having this service available to students, they wouldn’t need to pay for their own streaming through Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime or other media streaming services.

“I think that’s a great idea,” student Tyler Billings said. “This is my first quarter at Pierce and I’m taking an online video class that requires me to watch things and they’re usually easy to find, but I don’t think everyone else has the same luck.”

The services are still in the process of approval.

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• Unit Price of Swank Film Collection: $6,300 • Unit Price of Kanopy Patron-Driven Subscription: $5,000 • Funding Request: $11,300 • Funding Approved: $3,503 FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Photo Essay Winter

Clubs Fest 2017

The Pierce College Puyallup Office of Student Life hosted the winter quarter Clubs Fest on Jan. 31 from 10 a.m-2 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room and dining commons in the College Center. Club members set up booths and encouraged students to join their clubs.

Photos by Chase Charaba.

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

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THE PUYALLUP POST

Campus Life Coordinated changes chosen in student council meeting Rebecca Dickson Reporter

M

adi Martin, ASPCP president, whacked a gavel on the roundtable of student representatives. The room went silent. On Jan. 12, the Associated Students of Pierce College Puyallup student council approved more than $5,000 of student fees for staffing of events on campus and for new laptops for the Student Technology Assistance Team.

The ASPCP student council have meetings biweekly.

During these meetings, the student council approves funding requests, discusses tenure committee assignments and approves club charters, among other things.

On Jan. 12, one funding request fulfilled was $3,140 to the district event manager for the staffing of student

performances on campus.

While employees of the college would normally staff these events, this funding allows other support to be funded. According to the meeting minutes, “Sean Cooke said it would mean employees like him would not have to assist them inconveniently.�

Another funding request approved was $2,300 for STAT to purchase new laptops.

STAT is a group of student employees who assist their fellow students in questions related to technology, including email, Canvas or other issues students face on a regular basis. These laptops would help those on STAT perform their duties.

In addition, the Choreography Dance Club was approved for this school year. According to Choreography Dance

t a e B e h T \ \

Campus & local events

Club President Louie Le, the club will allow students to express their creativity by performing and dancing with each other.

The club will now have access to money spent by the Interclubs Council, which has a $30,000 budget for the 2016-17 school year. As of Jan. 9, there is $17,000 left in the budget for club expenses, Carly Tryon, operations senator, said.

The Choreography Dance Club can now request funds from the Interclubs Council and can put on and go to events if approved by the ICC. Students interested in joining the Choreography Dance Club or learning more about Student Council may call 253-912-2399 ext 8893 or go to the Office of Student Life in the College Center Building.

February 23 - Pierce Got Talent 6-8:30 p.m. in the dining commons 23 - Alter Bridge concert 7:30 p.m. at Moore Theater in Seattle 23 - Bret Michaels concert 8 p.m. at ShoWare Center in Kent 24 - Swing Dance Club: Winter Swing Dance 7-10:30 p.m.

25 - Blake Shelton concert 7:30 p.m. at the Tacoma Dome 27 - Vince Staples concert 9 p.m. at the ShowBox SODO in Seattle 28 - BSU: Liberating Minds 1-2 p.m.

March 1 - Dialogues on Diversity 12-1 p.m. in the MPR 2 - U.S./Russia Relations 1-2:30 p.m. in the MPR 2 - OTEP concert 7 p.m. at Studio Seven in Seattle 5 - Elton John concert at Spokane Arena 8 - Acrobats of Cirque-Tacular 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the dining commons 8 - Ann Wilson (of Heart) concert 8 p.m. at the Moore Theater in Seattle 9 - Student council meeting 4:30-5:30 p.m. in ADM 101 10 - Racing Raiders 4-7 p.m. at Grand Prix Raceway in Lakewood 11 - Blue Oyster Cult concert 8 p.m. at Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma 15 - Journey concert 8 p.m. at Yakima Valley Sundome 17 - Red Hot Chili Peppers concert 8 p.m. at KeyArena in Seattle 21 - Panic! at the Disco concert 7 p.m. at WaMu Theater in Seattle

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FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Advertisement

Sports Raiders baseball team serves up dinner auction Suzanne Buchholz

T

Senior Reporter

recognition on the website. People who aren’t attending the event can also choose to donate to the team online.

Byorick said he hopes they can have another successful auction this year and raise enough money for the team to travel to South Korea and play against local teams there, as it’d be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the team. He also hopes to meet new people who might become long-time supporters for the team and will return next year with friends.

“My favorite part of the event is walking around the event, thanking everyone for coming and meeting new people who are supporters of the Pierce Raiders, talking to them about the team and answering any questions they may have,” Byorick said.

Ishikawa also said he expects more new people to come to the event this year. He said members of the community should consider coming to support the team or sponsor it in some way. “(One of my favorite parts is) the thought that our school has that much support and pride for Pierce College,” Ishikawa said. “Seeing everyone have a good time and seeing the excitement overall is truly indescribable.”

Davis said he’s proud of the direction the event has taken in terms of growth and hopes it continues to be this successful.

“It has grown bigger every year and hopefully will become the only fundraiser in which our programs’ members will be asked to participate in,” Davis said. “The team knows that the program has come a long way in the past six years and the auction has played a huge role in that.”

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he Raiders Baseball team hosted its sixth annual baseball dinner auction on Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. This was held in the Health Education Center at Pierce College Fort Steilacoom.

The auction serves as the baseball team’s main fundraiser, Kevin Davis, student success manager and head baseball coach, said. Its main purpose is to raise money for athletic scholarships, uniforms, equipment and any other items team members need.

“In order to have nice things you have to raise the money, especially when you have a team with over 30 members,” Davis said.

The first auction was in January 2012 and has grown since then, Davis said.

The event typically averages about 250 attendees per year, and the amount of money raised differs each year. In 2016, the team earned more than $40,000 from the auction.

“This is currently my third year helping with the auction, and one thing that seems to open my eyes each year is how much it grows and improves,” player Chazz Ishikawa said. “The atmosphere is a very fun and energetic setting that you can relax and enjoy yourself in.”

There were two varieties of auctions at the event. During the silent table auction attendees submitted their bids without knowing what other bidders entered. While in the live auction an auctioneer took bids from attendees as they’re called out. In both events the highest bidder wons what’s being auctioned. In the past, items that have been auctioned off included vacations, artwork and tickets to other events.

In addition to the auction, attendees are served a buffet-style meal catered

by Lancer, which offers a choice of chicken or beef as well as side dishes such as salad and mashed potatoes.

“The thing with this

event is that most of our sponsors come from local businesses or family and friends of members of our team,” Davis said. “But I encourage everybody to sponsor our event.”

Player Hudson Byorick said each team member is required to sell eight tickets for the event and provide four items to put up for auction. During the event players had a task they’re responsible for such as greeting people as they enter, checking tickets or refilling water glasses.

“No matter what it is, it’s awesome to see how many people are there supporting our team and what we as a team can make happen when we all focus on a common goal,” Byorick said.

Tickets can also be purchased online on the Raiders’ Athletics website. Three sponsorship packages are available with different prices depending on the perks.

The Diamond sponsor costs $250, the Homerun sponsor is $500 and the Grand Slam table sponsor is $1,000. Each package includes event tickets, which varies from each package, as well as a mention of sponsorship in the event’s program and logo

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Kat

Hawt Corner Podcast now on YouTube www.youtube.com/user/thepuyalluppost WWW.PUYALLUPPOST.COM

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FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Reviews

Water: A comparison of bottle brands Rebecca Dickson Reporter

Waterthe life sustaining substance commonly found bottled in students’ backpacks. From plastic to fancy glass bottles, differRebecca Dickson ences in acidity, price and taste, +Essentia Hydration Perfection (Safeway 88 Imported Iceland Spring Water (Safeway, 99 students have opportunities to choose cents/pint) from thousands of bottled waters for their cents/pint) +Essentia is one of the worst waters one could choose late-night study sessions. Although seen as a Imported Iceland Spring Water has a pH of 8.88 according to drink. The bottle itself is made out of cheap plastic, luxury item, bottles of water purchased off store to the company website, making it also alkaline, although which bends to the slightest pressure. shelves are popular. According to Today, Amerithe bottle doesn’t mention anything about alkaline water, This cheap plastic should be seen as a warning to the cans spend close to $20 billion on bottled water each it does state that “Icelanders live longer than any other drinker- the water itself tastes like a mixture of cheap year. With this high cost, students may wonder if botnationality; we believe the secret to their long life is their plastic and some other unidentifiable material. This is tled waters have any significant difference in taste. The water,” which can be hard to believe. largely due to its pH. With a pH of 9.5 or higher, the tastes of Core Hydration, Acqua Panna Toscana Italia, The bottle seems cheaply made; it seems almost like pH is higher than that of some laundry detergents.

Imported Iceland Spring Water, Eternal Naturally Alit was meant to be placed in a gas station minimart. The The water leaves a horrible taste in the drinker’s’ kaline Spring Water, Fiji Natural Artesian Spring texture placed on the top and bottom of the bottle adds to mouth, but also doesn’t hydrate the individual. Like Water and +Essentia Hydration Perfection this effect, as it seems as if Kolvidur is purposely trying (and some other alkaline waters, the throat seems oddly dry have unique differences in taste, quality failing) to make the water a luxury item. after drinking. This links up to a phrase found on +Essentia’s and price.

The water itself is quite bitter and metallic in taste. This company website: “Essentia’s distinctly clean and smooth taste is most likely due to the high pH and the filtering of the water will leave you wanting more.” This is true. Although the water is through basalt rock. distinctly disgusting, the dry throat effect will cause customers to continue The water seems like it’s lower quality than most generic bottles of drinking the putrid water. water. Because of the strong bitter taste, students may be better off drinking filtered The water, once entering the stomach, leaves drinkers with an upset stomach and tap water or another generic bottle of water. Imported Iceland Spring Water is not worth coated teeth. the price- it’s not worth the environmental damage the bottle causes.

While other bottles try and make the bottle stand out, +Essentia takes another route.

Without its label, the bottle is unrecognizable and could be filled with seawater for all the drinker would know. The only distinctions found with this bottle is the black sports cap. Although one can respect its utility, it’s hard to get off the bottle one handed. This can make customers resort to the customer using their teeth to take the lid off the bottle.

Fiji Natural Artesian Spring Water (Safeway, $1.01/pint) Although drinkable when necessary, +Essentia’s water is the worst bottled water one Fiji is one of the best luxury waters available to students on the go. With a pH of 7.7, could taste, and should be avoidable at all costs. the water is barely alkaline, as the pure, ideal pH of water is 7.0. The taste is surprisingly Although it tastes like trash, drinkers won’t drop dead after drinking the water. sweet, yet not too strong.

Although the quality of the bottle itself is average and the label leaves a sticky, blurry appearance on the bottle, the lid is secure, allowing for little to no possible spillage, regardless of how many times a student may drop the bottle.

Core Hydration (Safeway, $1.51/pint) The bottle is brick shaped, allowing for product visibility and a distinction from other Core Hydration is a bottled water owned by the record producer Dr. Luke. It’s a bottled bottles of water. While other bottles may be better off being sold in large quantities of water that claims a “perfect pH” of about 7.4, and uses the process of reverse osmosis (a 12-24 bottles, Fiji breaks that mold- the unique shape calls for smaller packaging of six water purification technique) to clean the water. to eight bottles, or even sold individually.

Admired as a great bottled water by many musicians and star athletes, the bottle is often The water quality is exceptional. With a slightly sweet taste, the water leaves an featured on social media and is becoming more popular among millennials. impression on drinkers, which is not forgotten easily. The water is pure and refreshing.

The bottle itself is structured well. Although easy to crush, the bottle bounces back.

Overall, this water is similar to a bottle of water, which can be bought in an airport.

The lid is as wide as the bottle but has a smaller opening. The lid, therefore, can be used Although overpriced, the water is great. as an improvised cup. It has a shape which makes it easy to carry; the bottle curves to the structure of the hand.

The water itself is slightly better than tap water. It’s slightly more bitter than regular tap, and has no scent. Core Hydration can be compared to Crystal Water.

Although the taste is somewhat more pleasing than tap water, the water seems overpriced.

Eternal Naturally Alkaline Spring Water (78 cents/pint) Uniquely, Core Hydration tends to be more filling than other bottled waters.

Eternal Naturally Alkaline Spring water has a pH of 7.8-8.2. Although slightly alkaline, Overall, Core Hydration is a great choice for bottled water, but clean, filtered tap water the bitterness of the water isn’t overpowering. The bottle is slightly squishy, but it isn’t would be much cheaper. dented. As the bottle has a flat back and a curved body, students may grab the bottle easily and simply.

The unique shape allows for a bubbled design on the sides. This design would normally look cheap on other styles of bottles; however, on this bottle, it makes the bottle stand out on store shelves. The bottle’s label is only on the flat back, making it hard to read through the clear water.

Acqua Panna Toscana Italia (Safeway $1.05/pint) The water is slightly bitter, and leaves a somewhat weird taste in the mouths of those Nestle’s Acqua Panna Toscana Italia water claims a pH of 8.2, according to Nestle, who drink it. Although it hydrates the body, the water leaves an odd dry feeling in the making it slightly alkaline. Although the health benefits of alkaline water are somewhat throat. debated, some studies have shown it helps with acid reflux and other health issues.

Although it’s quality water and the bottle is fancy, the water is quite unremarkable.

The bottle itself is quite impressive. Featuring a glass container with a paper label, the bottle is too heavy for practical use outside of use at fancy dinners and in restaurants. The lid secures itself well on the bottle. However, the lid looks and feels cheap.

The only noticeable difference between Acqua Panna Toscana Italia and filtered tap water is the semi-sweet taste Acqua Panna Toscana Italia brings to the table.

Overall, the most impactful quality is the bottle. The water is clean but isn’t worth the price.

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FEBRUARY 21, 2017

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THE PUYALLUP POST

Reviews Asado Cucina Argentina

Andrea Mendoza Reporter

S

izzle and smoke define Asado Cucina Argentina, the South Sound’s only Argentinethemed steakhouse and a staple restaurant of the trendy Sixth Avenue dining district.

Asado Cucina Argentina in Tacoma was established in 2005 and has been voted Western Washington’s Best Latin American Restaurant for six years running. The word “asado” means a gathering of friends for a grill party – the Argentine equivalent of an American patio barbecue – and that theme translates into a convivial gathering spot for friends and family.

Asado Cucina Argentina is a steakhouse with a flavor-forward menu with preparations licked with smoke and sophistication.

Restaurant goers can enjoy the traditional Argentinian cuisine at this exclusive restaurant. Dishes usually range from $27-60.

Appetizers include empanadas, which are savory turnovers of lamb, beef, vegetarian or seasonal fillings, Chorizo crab cakes with Uli’s Spanish Chorizo, Peppadew, Chilean Rock Crab, Cilantro Jalapeño Aioli and crystallized cilantro, calamari steak sliced thin and breaded with seasoned parmesan bread crumbs and roasted yellow pepper aioli.

Ceviche with their daily selection of marinated seafood, guacamole and plantain chips are also available on the menu, as well as fried plantain chips with housemade guacamole.

Asado Cucina Argentina offers lunch and dinner. The lunch menu includes soups like butternut squash, salads such as prawn salad and choripan (sandwiches) like the roasted portabello burger. The menu also includes skewer combos, a variety of parrilla (from the grill) dishes like tenderloin steak and mesquite grilled ribbed steak and cocina (from the kitchen) dishes that include housemade gnocchi, seared scallops and quinoa bowls.

Dinner includes more parilla and cocina options. Parilla includes costilla de la carne,

which is frenched rib steak, and grilled market fish. All parrilla items are served with one’s choice of peruvian purple mashed potatoes, poblano polenta, stewed lentils, braised quinoa or charred red onion mashed potatoes. The Cocina items include more pasta and seafood based dishes such as pollo frito fettucine, which is buttermilk marinated fried chicken, with chorizo gravy alfredo and crystallized cilantro and mero de la costa, which is seared sea bass, seasonal vegetables, fried root crisps and paquillo beurre blanc (butter sauce).

In order to get a table, one can make reservations by phone or online. Those who’ve made a reservation get priority seating rather than the people who’ve arrived without a reservation. Reserving a table is highly recommended as tables fill up quickly in the evenings, especially during the weekends. El Asado is social by design. From any seating area one can see a large chef’s table straddling the display kitchen, but the seating area doesn’t create an intimate setting. The place is quite small, making tables a little too close to each other and therefore being able to hear the conversations around the table.

Heady smoke wafts from the display kitchen where chefs sear beef over a mesquite grill.

Low lighting is moody by night, bright and beautiful by day because of the expansive garage doors that roll up in the summertime, making the dining experience spill onto Sixth Avenue. A mural evokes pastoral Argentina. Metal work and heavy doses of deephued wood create a rustic urban palette that makes the experience feel like a midwestern saloon.

Considering the size of the dishes, Asado Cucina Argentina is fairly priced. Some items on the menu may be a little too expensive, but overall the quality of service and the atmosphere makes the experience worth it.

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FEBRUARY 21, 2017

Features

D g n

g&C

cin n a

ooki

Jared Leingang

Le hopes to put together a team for the Pierce Got Talent event (top left). Le uses dance as a stress reliever and an escape from everyday activities(top right). After performing at Clubs Fest, the popularity of the Choreography Club increased (bottom left and right).

Vietnam to America: a long way from home Jared Leingang

U Reporter

pstairs in Health Education Center in Room 206, there’s a revolution in the works. A dance revolution, that is.

Student Louie Le instructs a room of about 15 people on the moves of hip-hop dancing.

First, as part of her creative process, she has her students rehearse without music to get the movements memorized and then practice with the music to get the rhythm and routine perfect.

As some hopeful learners struggle, Le takes time to further mentor them during breaks with quick one-on-one sessions. She makes the atmosphere fun, easygoing and engaging.

When music is played, everyone dances, and although many people struggle, everyone is smiling and having fun. That’s the goal for Le and her Choreography Club.

After performing at the recent Clubs Fest, the popularity of the club increased and Le was surprised by how many people were interested in dancing and the club.

Le’s in her second quarter at Pierce College. She’s a international student from Vietnam and the distance from her home in Vietnam to Washington is 7,218 miles.

She left her life, her family, friends and sense of normalcy back home to come study at Pierce, but she brought one thing from home: her passion to dance.

“I love dancing,” Le said. “I’ve been dancing since I was in secondary school. I feel and know how dancing can connect people. My two best friends were connected to me through dancing, and I wanted to bring that to Pierce College.”

Le has been dancing since she was a child. She loved dancing to some of Britney Spears’ music when she was growing up.

In Vietnam, dancing is more focused on the technique. But in the U.S., people dance

FEBRUARY 21, 2017

to the flow of the music and have no set technique. Le likes that concept better because people can dance the way they want to without being confined to the technique.

Her first quarter at Pierce was fall quarter and she tried to join the Swing Dance Club, but it wasn’t her cup of tea. She wasn’t used to the ballroom style of dancing, so she decided to start her own club, Le said.

“I see people who just dance for fun, and don’t follow any specific type of dance, so I got the idea to open a club for people to just come and have fun,” Le said.

Dancing is a way to bring people together and create lasting friendships, and although the Choreography Club is new, friendships are already being formed between the members.

With living in a new country and away from her family, Le uses dance as a stress reliever, but she also turns to another passion of hers to feel at home: cooking.

“I feel back at home when I cook Vietnamese food,” Le said.

She said she cooks a lot with her friends and it brings her back to Vietnam and eating the food back with her family at home.

For now, Le is studying at Pierce with the hopes of getting a career in the medical field, but is unsure on the exact career.

One day Le said she’d like to open her own dance studio and make her passion for dancing more than just a hobby. She envisions it being a small studio that’s open to everyone and where she can spread her love of the art to others.

Lee said she also wants to travel and experience the U.S. “I want to go to California or somewhere nice,” Le said. “It’s too cold and gloomy here and it makes the people that way as well.”

Le said when she came to the U.S. she felt empty because she came here by herself and lives with her friends. Dancing has helped her adjust to her new life and she’s excited to see what comes next.

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