The Vancougar: July 21, 2008

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Washington State University - Vancouver

Caffein’d:

www.vancougar.com

Underclassman Building taking shape Gregory E. Zschomler/The VanCougar

NEW COLUMNS:

July 21, 2008

A former barista takes you inside the world of the coffee culture.

n COMMENTARY, 3 From My Side of D’Fence: An editor’s take on the news and the nuisances that affect us all.

n COMMENTARY, 3

Also in this issue: Clubs on Campus: Thirty-five places to belong or how to start your own.

n FEATURES, 5 Recreational Preview: A look at the new and coming recreational opportunities, facilities and equipment.

n RECREATION, 2

NEW STUDENT GUIDES & HELPS INSIDE!

Mount Hood looms in the background as workers continue construction of the new Underclassman Building slated to open fall of 2009.

By Gregory E. Zschomler Editor in Chief

The 58,000 square foot Underclassman Building is being constructed at a cost of $28 million. It will include a lecture hall, classrooms and faculty offices. Completion is slated fall of 2009. A labor dispute is underway. The local carpenter’s union alleges that WSU-V and

general contractor Tripplett-Wellman Contractors have subcontracted with a subsidiary of Delta Drywall, a supposed tax cheat and non-union. The building has been designed by Thomas Hacker Architects, Inc. For more information on campus building projects and site plans call the office of Dave Smith at (360) 596-9576.

How to stand out on a scholarship application By Kati Hughes Managing Editor

College can be an enriching experience, but it can also leave you less than rich. While loans can be a real life-saver when it comes to education, scholarships are ideal. With their 0% interest rate and the fact that you never have to pay them back, scholarships are a pretty sweet deal. The number of awards available compared to the number of students in need can seem overwhelming. However, there are ways to make yourself stand out on an application. Alyson Galloway of the WSUV Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships says that there are a few key things to emphasize when filling out an application or writing a scholarship essay. The number one attribute that students commonly leave out? The personal story. “Committees typically already have looked at who you are on paper,” says Galloway, “but it’s what you tell in your ‘story’ that makes you stand out from other applicants.” Galloway also encourages students to focus on how they plan to change the world, rather than why. In a scholarship essay, it’s important to incorporate your education into your future goals. Galloway also suggests that per-

sonal essays be creative, as long r e c o m as they’re appropriate. Anything mendation that makes an essay stand out in are usually non-nea positive way will benefit the ap- gotiable. On the other hand, plicant. according to Galloway, local busiAccording to Galloway, “suc- nesses that receive fewer applicacessful essay winners are often the tions will be more willing to bend ones that…conthe rules. nect with the For a successful scholarship essay, If an applireader—stimucant writes an late the senses if give the reader a taste of your per- impressive essay you can without sonality. Tell your story, emphasize but has a GPA being cheesy.” that is slightly your talents, and be creative. Galloway also lower than the reencourages stuquirement, they dents to “be a little bit vulnerable will generally still be considered. —share something about yourself “Scholarships in general are igto help the reader connect with nored because students opt out or you and remember you.” self-select out based upon their asThe amount of work that goes sumptions related to GPA,” says into scholarship seeking can be in- Galloway. This is a mistake. timidating, but students shouldn’t When looking for scholarlet that stop them from applying. ships, Galloway suggests that stuThe amount of work also usu- dents “consider their local options ally correlates to the payoff of the before turning to the big national award. Galloway encourages stu- ones.” Search programs like www. dents to apply for all scholarships collegeboard.com and www.fastfor which they are eligible. web.com can be helpful, but the According to Galloway, one payoff can be less than local busiimportant detail to consider is nesses. eligibility. Committees review“Brainstorm a list of group/ ing thousands of applications will business affiliation you or an imbe more inclined to discard those mediate family member has,” says from students who do not meet Galloway, “[and then] call them one or more of the requirements. up or visit them and inquire about When applying for big ticket scholarship availability.” These scholarships, requirements like n Scholarships, 6 GPA, test scores, and letters of

Pres. Sterr injured in motorcycle accident By Gregory E. Zschomler Editor in Chief

On Thursday, July 10th, ASWSUV President Peter Sterr was injured in a motorcycle accident just weeks after purchasing a new bike. According to Sterr, he “was being an idiot” while “stunting... on a private road in Vancouver.” “I popped a wheelie at about 25 miles per hour, and went too high, bouncing my tail off the ground, and looping the bike.” Sterr says he slid for ten feet and then tumbled another twenty to thirty feet. The spill ripped his shoes off, shredded his feet and knees, sprained his ankle and broke a wrist. The new bike slid for a couple hundred feet. The frame slider took most of the damage. Aside from breaking the clutch handle most of the harm was cosmetic. “All in all, I was lucky in the amount of damage to both myself and my bike,” said Sterr. Undaunted by the incident, he said that when his cast comes off in six weeks he’ll be back on the bike. “I was wearing a helmet, a riding jacket, and leather gloves, all of which saved me from much more extensive damage.” Sterr says that he learned a few things from his accident though he did not mention whether he would stunt again. “I have learned that it is important to wear boots, because tennis shoes won’t stay on.” Sterr is convalescing at home and will be back on campus soon. Cards and well wishes can be left at the ASWSUV office in FSC.

The VanCougar

The VanCougar is a studentrun newspaper serving the students, faculty and staff of WSU Vancouver. Copies of The VanCougar are available free of charge every other Monday during the school year.

Editor-in-Chief Gregory E. Zschomler Managing Editor Kati Hughes Ad Manager Position Open! Advisor Dean Baker Copy Editor Rebecka Reed Staff Writers & Photographers Beau Baxter Rosser, Robert Chu, Collin Rickman, Willy Chi Shue Tsang, Louise Wynn, Jason Garcia, Kevin Raymond Layout and Design Greg Zschomler and Kati Hughes Web Editor Michael Hatch

CLS 212 14024 NE Salmon Creek Ave. Vancouver, WA 98686 Phone: (360) 546-9524 Fax: (360) 546-9072

General e-mail , comments, and employment queries [email protected] Letters to the editor, guest columns, and corrections [email protected] Advertising queries [email protected] We are hiring! We are always hiring. No experience is necessary; we will provide all the training you need in journalistic style, photography, and digital printmaking. E-mail us at vancoug@ vancouver.wsu.edu or visit our office in CLS 212 for more information. Letters to the Editor We encourage letters to the editor. Please include your full name as part of the letter, and a phone number or e-mail address for confirmation follow-up. Letters must be by a student, faculty, or staff member. Guest Columns & Comics The VanCougar accepts guest columns and comics from current students of WSU Vancouver. Interested students should e-mail us at [email protected]. Advertising queries Advertising information and rates can be found on our website at www.vancouver. wsu.edu/ss/vancougar. Advertising rate sheets are available via e-mail and postal mail. E-mail [email protected] for quotes. Corrections policy It is our policy to correct errors. Please contact the editors by e-mail at vceditor@ vancouver.wsu.edu

Rec. Center nears completion for fall facelift By Kevin Raymond

Kevin Raymond/The VanCougar

The VanCougar

RECREATION

The VanCougar

The recreation facilities and staff have significantly grown over the summer. Students, staff, and faculty will soon find expanded services and opportunities. “This is the largest growth the campus has had in recreation,” said Neil Gregory, Recreation Coordinator. “Several long and short term plans came together over this last summer.” While expanding its former inventory of rental gear the office is also increasing the size of the fitness center—adding more opportunities for intramural sports, recreational activities, and outdoor fields. The staff will grow from two people to about ten. The new positions will be held by students. The rental equipment will be bolstered by $30,000 in new ski and snowboard gear while the camping and hiking inventory was increased with new accessories over the summer. The exact brands of the new winter items haven’t been decided yet because of a bidding process to “get the best stuff at the best price.” The rental center will be open for business from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mon.-Fri. Possibly the most exciting change is happening in the fitness center. This fall, students at WSU Vancouver will be able to utilize an enhanced area for exercise. The recreation department added size and equipment to the former facility. It will be in the same location and should be open around Sept. 8th. It is free for all WSU Vancouver students, faculty and staff. Neil Gregory said, “We added approximately 700 square feet to the fitness center; it was about 900 square feet. It will have $60,000 plus of new equipment, including the addition of free-weights and more cardio equipment.” “The Fitness Center will now have

Work continues inside the expanded Rec Center space and will be opening this fall.

to be staffed during hours of operation. [Hours] will be Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Friday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. We are looking for students to work in the Fitness Center,” said Gregory. This will be a change from last year when there wasn’t enough staff to manage the fitness center on a daily basis. Another big change is that we “have added a recreation intern who will focus on intramural sports. That will help us maintain and organize sports like flag football, ultimate Frisbee, and soccer,” said Gregory. Denise Eyerly is the new recreation intern. Along with the new position come two new outdoor fields. These are located just past the basketball court. Gregory said, “These are the first fields at WSU Vancouver. They will be used for our oncampus intramurals, (soccer, flag football, ultimate disk, etc.) and other recreation

“This is the largest growth the campus has had in recreation.” ~Neil Gregory

events. We use the basketball court for dodgeball and basketball.” There are some limitations with the fields during the winter months. John Benson, who maintains the fields, said, “They are clay based and last winter we had standing water in those areas.” He also said that the area is 3.25 acres though and should be big enough for two separate sports fields. Gregory said that plans for outdoor fields have been in the works for a while [under former AWSSUV President Darren Benson] and they finalized the funding last spring. “This should allow us to maintain intramural teams, here on campus, for most of the year. In the past, it was necessary for our teams to be in community leagues.” The WSU Vancouver recreation department has had an exciting summer with expansion in all directions. After doubling participation last year it looks like it will be another great year with potential for more growth.

New sports fields and intramurials bolster WSUV By Kevin Raymond The VanCougar

One of the prime experiences of college life is sports. Whether it is attending Division I rivalries or playing intramural sports, most college students are involved in sports at their respective schools. Sports seem to have a niche at every college, both major universities and minor colleges. WSU Vancouver is unique. The campus is more community oriented. The students have generally been older, many of which already have a career. Although we are part of the proud Pac-10, our chances of catching live games are limited. Cougar home games are further away then the Huskies, Beavers or Ducks. As WSUV grows students are seeking more of that college life. Fortunately for us, this fall semester should see some big changes in intramural sports and activities offered on campus. The Office of Student Involvement and the new recreation intern Denise Eyerly are planning on providing more opportunities right here on campus. Eyerly said that in the past, the university sponsored many sports and activities hosted in the community, but she forsees more intramural programs organized and executed on campus. Eyerly said, “We will continue to have sports such as Coed Indoor Soccer, Men’s Basketball League and Coed Softball but we want to add our own leagues and tournaments to that list.” “I would love to see outdoor soccer,

The new playing field, leveled and seeded, just south of the basketball courts, is ready for play.

volleyball, ultimate disk, dodgeball and flag football starting this coming year as both leagues and tournaments,” said Eyerly. “We also want to encourage students to get involved in sports such as table tennis and disk golf since they can be played in almost all weather.” The Office of Student Involvement has another direction as well. They would like to push for others at WSU Vancouver to get involved. Neil Gregory, the Recreation Coordinator, said, “We want to encourage the faculty and staff to participate.” The ability to host more events at the WSU Vancouver campus coincides with the development of practice fields just south of the basketball courts. This development was strategic to building a solid

base for intramural sports on campus. “A major change will be the addition of two outdoor soccer fields and a football field to our facilities,” said Eyerly. “This will be a first for our campus and they should be finished for the Fall 2008 semester.” The Office of Student Involvement is working to bring more opportunities to all of us at WSU Vancouver. This fall looks to be full of opportunities for the aspiring athlete in each of us.

For a list of upcoming recreational activities, see the calendar on the back page.

Kevin Raymond/The VanCougar

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July 21, 2008

COMMENTARY

Caffein’d By Kati Hughes Managing Editor

Hello, my name is Kati. I’m a coffee-holic. I’m not just addicted to the beverage. Its the allure of the various and assorted cultures and communities that center around coffee that first got me hooked. From miniature espresso stands that offer pet-friendly treats for dog lovers on the go, to cafés that feature a variety of coffee-related cuisine, I’m stuck on the stuff. Even more interesting than the products are the patrons. I don’t believe I’ve ever met more interesting people than I’ve met at coffee houses. Inspite of the bluetooth wearing, Wi-Fi seeking antisocial business mogul stereotype, there are still many captivating conversations to be had at a café, if you’re looking for them. For the duration of the 20082009 school year, I will recount conversations and cultural observations from local coffee shops. I will also review the menu and atmosphere of each caffeine dispensary, hopefully

Kati’s curiously captivating coffee-addled commentary

pointing out the hidden jewels of Vancouver. Let’s face it, who doesn’t occasionally need a caffeinated kick in college? For those of us who don’t necessarily like the taste of coffee or its notorious effects, most coffee houses have alternatives like smoothies or ciders. I’ve decided to focus my editorials on this topic for a few reasons. One being that I think people are generally in too much of a hurry to notice the unique culture that has sprung up around coffee. Another is that my background as a barista has led to many questions from fellow students, and I thought I could create a forum for coffee discussion. Obviously, I realize that I’m not the only student on campus with coffee experience. I also know that I can’t be the only one who has interesting coffee-addled stories to share. If you know of a great local café that I haven’t mentioned yet, then I invite you to send me an e-mail at kati.hughes.04@ gmail.com or drop by the VanCougar office and talk with me.

Now Hiring The VanCougar is now hiring for fall term. Paid positions, great work environment, learning opportunities, and much more! We are hiring editors, designers, artists, photographers and writers. Editors receive a per issue stipend. Designers, artists, photographers and writers are paid on a per piece basis. Many positions are available. Great opportunities for English, DTC and fine arts majors. •Section Editors: Sports, Entertainment, Features, etc. •Production Artist/Editor •Advertising Manager (great for business major)* •Web Editor •Copy Editor •Staff Writers •Photographers •Illustrators

How to Apply:

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*pays 20% of ad revenues

Pick up an application outside The VanCougar office, fill it out, attach your resume and leave it in the pouch provided. You will be contacted for an interview.

The VanCougar Office VCLS #212 (at the top of the stairs) Phone: 360.546.9524 FAX: 360.546.9072 Email: [email protected] Web: www.vancougar.com

Tenacity

You’ve got to hand it to them— those labor union folks at the bottom of the WSUV drive are hanging in there like a new kitten on his mother’s teat. [I use the metaphor because we’ve had a couple of litters of kittens this summer; anyone want a cute, cuddly companion?] Anyway, why don’t they just go away? [That is the union folks, not the kittens.] Because they care about their jobs, decency, and character I guess. They aren’t willing to just pack up and go simply because Dave Smith, Director of Capitol Planning and Development at WSUV, crafts a wordy explanational Letter to the Editor [VC 04/08] that boils down to saying, “my hands are tied.” And so they are there to call attention to our own lack of action. Seems shameful. It’s only going to get worse, you know. When those “scabbing” sheet-rockers show up to do their dirty work the picketers will pick up their efforts and get downright pickety. Polite politics will only go so far when your opportunity to put bread on the table for your family is undermined. My mind asks, “Why did Smith even write the letter?” Why go through the effort if you’re not actually going to do something constructive [no pun intended]? It placates no one. Now this is just me, but I think he might have at least said, “I spoke with the General Contractor about the issue”—assuming, of course, that he actually did. And not that he would have had to have said anything significant or attempted to have changed anything [though, if feasible, that would be nice]. That would go a long way further in my mind and possibly have dissolved the whole “kitten-caboodle.”

Bikinis Got your attention? Okay. I just wanted to say thanks for trying on this itsy-bitsy, teeny-weenie

summer issue (eight pages) for size. If you don’t take it in the water, it won’t shrink. And, hopefully, we’ll bring you sixteen pages or more in coming issues this fall. “The VanCougar exists to be the eyes, ears and voice of the students at WSUV.” [I thought that made a better motto then: “The VanCougar, we’ve got issues,” though, seriously, we do.] My intention as Editor-inChief is to bring you relevant information that you can act upon. I hope to help you see things that might otherwise be hidden to/from you; hear things that are spoken in secret; and voice your concerns and response to and for those who need to hear. Maybe, together, we can affect some important change? Like parking, for example. That is my hope. Of course, we’ll carry some lighter fare as well—movie and game reviews, recreational activities, sports coverage, humor, etc. for your entertainment. If you’ve got ideas or leads, let us know. Staff reporters “are standing by.” Kati Hughes (bless her heart) heads up the staff as Managing Editor. Several great writer/reporters are returning from last year and we’ve added some new and promising staff writers as well. AND there’s room for more. Yes, you, too, can join the staff—writer/reporter, editor, illustrator, photographers and other positions are available. Positions are paid and there are serious fringe benefits. [And I’m not talking about some flouncy tassel on the hem of a yellow polka-dot remnant.] Why not try us on for size?

MySpace What you’ve been reading in this “column” is the opinionated fodder from yours truly. This is my space to rant, rave or otherwise relate what goes on in my mind. Here I will give you my personal “take” on various issues as well as commentary on the stories we cover. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the paper, the staff or Washington State University and I take full responsibility for the content. My intent is to facilitate and/ or spark dialogue on subject matter that may not be hard news, but is none-the-less important intellectual material. Your comments are always welcome and subject to publication and rebuttal. In addition to being actively engaged it is my hope that you enjoy the content of YOUR newspaper. ~GEZ

Journalism 305 Journalism 305: Reporting Taught by The Oregonian’s Alan Brettman Offered fall semester Mondays and Wednesdays 9:10-10:25 a.m.

The VanCougar By Gregory E. Zschomler

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

“Journey” worth the trip

Photo Credit: ©2008 New Line Cinema

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The VanCougar

UPCOMING

EVENTS CLARK CO. FAIR August 1st through 10th. Corbin Bleu, Queensryche, Eric Church, Clay Walker, Joe Nicoles and more. www.clarkcofair.com

Port of Vancouver International Festival

Sunday, July 27th at Esther Short Park, 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. WSUV supported.

A Chorus Line

Keller Auditorium, July 29August 3rd. www.broadwayacrossamerica.com

Phantom of the Opera

Keller Auditorium, August 13th-September 7th. www.broadwayacrossamerica.com

Journey in concert

TONIGHT @ the Clark County Amphitheater, with Heart and Cheap Trick.

Seven Brides for Seven Bros Presented by the New Blue Parrot Theater at Mountain View H.S. through August 2nd. www.newblueparrot.com

Fall term begins August

25th!

“Wall-E” heartwarming and fun By Louise Wynn The VanCougar

Andrew Stanton, writer and director of WALL-E, says he was the only kid in his high school who thought goldfish were lonely swimming around in those little round bowls. He used to wonder what torture an eyelash curler was really designed for. Then he went to art school and found a whole world of people who thought that way. He ended up at Walt Disney’s Pixar where he worked on Finding Nemo, Monsters Inc, and other hit cartoon features. In Disney-Pixar’s new animated feature WALL-E is the last robotic trash compacter left on Earth. He’s cleaning up our mess just as programmed. He has one friend, a cockroach. He wonders about love—could he hold hands like the characters in Hello Dolly, which he watches on DVD? Then he meets EVE, a biological probe sent from the space ship where humans are waiting for Earth to become re-habitable. It’s true love. Don’t be put off by the G rating;

You don’t have to be a kid to love WALL-E. Both the robots, and their mostly wordless dialogue, are cuter than a bunny’s nose. The details and symbolism—probably lost on the kids— will blow you away. The environmen- tal symbolism isn’t the message, though. When Stanton started developing the movie more than ten years ago, no one had heard about Al Gore’s Inconvenient Truth. “I wanted to show that love rises above the world’s programming,” he says. “It’s basically a love story between two robots. I kept thinking about that lonely little robot, but I needed to figure out why humans had left earth. The idea of the environment being destroyed was reverse-engineered.” It’s one thing to make a baby fish or a Cookie-Monster-blue creature look cute, or give personality to toys—kids do this anyway! WALL-E takes it to the

CAR + HOME = BIG SAVINGS HARRY HOFFMAN, Agent

360-574-5222

1307 B NE 78th St., Ste 1 Vancouver, WA 98665 www.harryhoffman.net

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Co. – Bloomington, IL

Photo Credits: ©2008 Disney/Pixar

Arts, Culture Entertainment

071808R2933076

ACE

New Line Cinema/Walden Media’s Journey to the Center of the Earth isn’t half bad. It’s quite on par with the early Disney live-action adventures like Treasure Island and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea—stuff I like. The effects are much better though; the script and acting, however, are pretty much kid fodder. Brendan Fraser (Mummy) gives a pretty standard Brendan Fraser performance and Josh Hucherson (Zathura, Bridge to Terabithia), does quite well. But what makes the movie special is the Real D (3D) experience. So, my advice? Don’t bother catching it without seeing it in 3D. Though the movie is showing widely it can only be seen in select theaters in 3D (in Vancouver that means Cascade Brendan Fraser and Josh Hucherson freak out (as will you) at an incoming T-Rex in Cinemas). It is the first live-action Real D Walden Media/New Line Cinema’s Journey to the Center of the Earth. film; the concert films U23D and Hanna Montana used the format. Also previously The new Real D format developed read the book it wouldn’t hurt to see this shown in the format was Disney’s animat- by Disney uses polarized lenses and just version—which has a twist and is told ed feature Meet the Robinsons. one projector running at a higher frame within a modern framework. 3D film enjoyed a heyday in the rate (60fps vs. the standard 24fps) thus So, as far as popcorn movies go this 1950’s, but the novelty wore off due to eye- eliminating former problems. The effect offering is fun and fairly saccharine, but strain and the chromatic format involving is eye-popping. (Disney is banking on the that makes it good for the whole family glasses with two colored (red and blue) effect as eight of their next twelve animat- (though the film is rated PG due to some lenses. The old system used two projec- ed features are in Real D.) scary—literally—in your face moments). tors that were hard to synchronize—thus You should know the basic story line; See it while you can; the competition may flickering and causing headaches. House this is an updated remake of a very popu- oust the flick from theaters even though of Wax starring Vincent Price (not to be lar work of fiction by Jules Vern involving it has a special charm. It’s a turning point confused with the Paris Hilton remake) a trip to a subterranean world within our in filmmaking history that very well may has gone down in history as the ultimate world. It’s a classic book you should have lead to a 3D standard. 3D experience—that is until now. read. If not, see the movie. And, if you’ve

next step: making robots cute. WALL’E’s binocular eyes, clicks, whirls, and clumsiness, and the plot, achieve the ultimate: they make a non-human image show us what it’s like to be human, after all. [Editors Note: Presto, the Pixar short preceeding the feature—an homage to Walt Disney—is also a hoot.]

The VanCougar Online Visit the online version of The VanCougar @ www.vancougar. com. Our new site will be up and running this fall. Find out more: The news that didn’t fit, editor blogs, podcasts, picture shows and video content to be added soon.

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

July 21, 2008

Crosswords DS a BLAST By Beau

Poppin’ 4th

Baxter Rosser

The VanCougar

Before playing Crosswords DS, I asked myself, “How am I going to review a game with a foundation built around a collection of crosswords?” However, after obsessively playing the game to the point of crossword-induced dreams, Crosswords DS had me in a headlock that would not let go. As part of Nintendo’s “Touch Generations” line, Crosswords DS melds ease of use with sexy aesthetic to form a solid package of crossword puzzles, anagrams, and word searches. The menus are easy to navigate due to their giant-sized input buttons and lend themselves to the casual audience the game is geared toward. Even the most casual of gamers will have no problem becoming familiarized with Crosswords DS’s control. Outside of the main game, there are training exercises that gear up the player with tips as to how the game plays. Although slightly abbreviated and not a necessity, the training exercises are a welcome addition for people new to the gaming world. The bulk of the game is centered on – as the title suggests – crossword puzzles. Within the main game, there are over 1,000 different crossword puzzles waiting to be solved. The puzzles are separated into different difficulty levels that do a good job at gradually moving the player up the scale.

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By Will & Greg

Will: Flashes, crashes, blooies and bangs! Wall-to-wall people lined up to buy the least healthy food offerings at blackmail prices! And the firework show doesn’t even start for an hour. All this noise and flirtation with mayhem comes from my judgment-impaired neighbors launching exploding projectiles.

Unlike other crossword games on the system, Crosswords DS is played holding the DS on its side like a book. This position allows the player to see the crossword in its entirety on the left screen, while the touch screen on the right is open to zooming in and writing the proper letter in the proper location. I found the word search to be an afterthought when compared to the crossword section of the game. The word searches require no skill, which in turn creates a boring atmosphere that feels less like an enjoyable game and more like an arduous homework assignment. The anagrams, on the other hand, can be extremely difficult even when on easy mode. As a writer, I pride myself in knowing many words, but the anagram mode of Crosswords DS was still very difficult. Unlike the word search, though, when I discovered a new anagram out of the letters provided, I felt as accomplished as any wordsmith could bearing the situation. Overall, I found Crosswords DS to be an enjoyable, albeit average, game. For $20, it is definitely worth picking up.

BLACKBERRY PIE The blackberries on campus have formed berries and they should be ripe by early or mid August. That means its time for blackberry pie! Long before a Blackberry was something for Internet and and phone calls there came the Rubus (genus) “fruit” bearing vine also known as bramble. The plant yields a delicious, though seedy, berry that is high in fiber and antioxidants. It is also high in vitamins C and K and the mineral Manganese.

Try this easy recipe (and share it with your class): INGREDIENTS: * 4 cups fresh blackberries * 1/2 cup white sugar * 1/2 cup all-purpose flour * 1 recipe pastry for a 9 inch double crust pie * 2 tablespoons milk * 1/4 cup white sugar DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine 3 1/2 cups berries with the sugar and flour. Spoon the mixture into an unbaked pie shell. Spread the remaining 1/2 cup berries on top of the sweetened berries, and cover with the top crust. Seal and crimp the edges. Brush the top crust with milk, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup sugar. 2. Bake at 425 degree F (220 degrees C) for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature of the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C), and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes.

Greg: Grumpy aren’t we? I’d say he’s, like, sleep deprived. Wouldn’t you, George? Geo: Deprived, that’s nothing new. Oh wait, I think that’s depraved. Deprived, depraved, is there a big difference? Actually, I’m feeling quite patriotic at the moment—you know, “rockets red glare, bombs bursting in air.” Or maybe it’s the smell of gunpowder in the air, vaguely reminiscent of the marijuana in the air at the Peter Frampton concert in the Memorial Coliseum (dating myself, ain’t I.) Will: Ah, comments from the Peanut Gallery. I should introduce our Guest Writer, a friend of mine since Junior High at Shumway. He’s an expatriate now residing in Pittsburgh. Let’s welcome him to the neighborhood in the appropriate TAG manner: by abusing his trust and disparaging his character. Greg: Dude! It’s hard to concentrate…with all these…EXPLOSIONS going on around me! There’s so much haze in the air I can barely see the computer screen. (Hack. Wheeze.) So, George, ol’ man, its good to see you again. How goes the…man, this is a war zone! I SAY, HOW’S BUSINESS AT UOP? Geo: We’ll, I’ve been accused of being a character on and off for the last several years (Greg’s right, the fireworks are a bit distracting, but add some attractive color to the computer screen), so I can afford some disparagement. Of course, the advantage of being a friend o’ Will’s (FOW) since the Shumway days (that is the old Shumway—for those locals in the know), is that I have my own internal database of abuse and disparagement just a’ waitin’ in the wings to be unleashed. As for biz and UOP, it beats WVU, which we did last fall. Greg: At least it wasn’t WSU. Will: Talking in acronyms confuses our readers! Geo is employed by the University of Pittsburgh. I withhold more exact information to protect his reputation at that venerable institute. Me? I went to UCLA. That’d be University of Clark and Local Area here in Vancouver. Geo: So, now that we’ve got that figured out, I guess it’s now time to be audacious on cue. Do you know how challenging that can be? I can be audacious with the best of them, but I would have to say the Will and Greg are the masters. My audaciousness is often understated, but occasionally quite devious (working at a law school, one learns deviousness.) Ask Will about the bloke in the barracks story… Greg: Willster is also a grad of Concordia. So, what about the bloke in the barracks? Will: I’m not telling that story. Forget it. Geo just happened to be in town during the famous Vancouver 4th Of July show. And here I am living down by the fort with an across-the-street seat. So here we all are in the midst of a thousand personal firework shows waiting for the Big Bang and for the humor quotient of this column to pick up. Geo: Will’s fibbing…he only says he doesn’t remember the bloke in the barracks story. All those years of hard livin’, late nights; that “sex, drugs and rock-nroll lifestyle” that is legendary around these parts have taken their toll on the old cranial microchips, leaving only the audacious ones remaining. Greg: Now you’re fibbin’. Tell the truth about Will; he never liked rock-n-roll, he was into Michael Jackson. Will: Good thing my Concealed Carry permit has expired. Me? Michael Jackson? Those are mutually exclusive terms. Your future has a lot of computer viruses in it, you slanderous, slimy swamp scum! Besides, I’ve always been into RUSH as I’ve stated in this column, so there! Greg: George, you gunna let him talk about you like that? Geo: No, but I don’t mind letting him talks about you like that. Will: Ah, this is getting good. I knew three people on this column was a good idea. We can gang up mouse-obsessed Greg. He’s a Disney nut ya know. As well as a nut in general. Watch out for that incoming rocket, BTW. Greg: Yeah, it’s a left hook! So, are we going to go from the Two Audacious Guys to the Three Stooges? Nuk, nuk, nuk. Won’t work; George is always in the Pitts. Geo: Go Steelers! It’s interesting to sit here and monitor Will and Greg as they chat, without them knowing that I’m doing it. I can relate precisely what they’re talking about, or make it up as I go. The conversation included comments about sweethearts, learning experiences, being stuck, service X, wanting to do it, hand offs, cuey-stack (huh?), and extending in essence. Will: On that cryptic note, I must remind you that the firework show is about to start. We only got in one pop culture reference. Forget the Steelers, go Penguins! I got dibs on the last word in this column. Greg: And you said I was nuts. Penguins!? This is Cougar country, dudes! And, BTW, I think that George (Did I mention we use to call him Buddy? That was my wife’s dog’s name, too.), is taking bits of our conversation out of context and twisting it to make us seem more normal than we actually are. Gee, I thought the fireworks were already going, dude. Britney’s shooting a video for Madonna’s new tour; it’s called “Kiss of the Spider Women” (pop ref. #2). Geo: “Twisted” seems to work well when hanging with these guys. As for pop ref #2: Did you know that Brit used to be a Mouseketeer, hence, Disneyphile Gregory Eugene’s reference? Come to think of it, Lindsey (pop ref #3) was also in the Disney stable. Hmm, there’s something there that is worthy of future exploration. Well, my time as an audacious guy is winding down I guess. The word count is up to 999 words, and since Will (Billy) wants the last word, I will end now and leave him with the last… Will: Weren’t Athos, Porthos, Aramis and D’Artignan Mouseketeers as well? Forget it. Show’s on! Bam! Boom! Fizz! Editor’s Note: Drug references in this column are not meant to condone the use of controlled substances.

Visit TAG online at http://www.creativity-unlimited.biz/webtour/twoguys/index.html

The VanCougar

6

Scholarships, cont’d from page 1

kinds of scholarships tend to be smaller, but they also tend to pay off. Suggestions for types of businesses to contact are listed in the box at the right. One final suggestion from Galloway is to work “smarter not harder” when it comes to writing scholarship essays. “Save your work, copy and paste, edit when you can reasonably do so,” says Galloway. When it comes to the length requirements, Galloway encourages students to “say what you have to say in the amount of space you need and then go back and revise as necessary.” During the first week of January students can attend the “Scholarships 101” workshop on campus. For more scholarship tips visit the WSU scholarship web page at http://www.finaid.wsu.edu/scholar/ default.htm.

Untapped Resources:

More Scholarship Tips:

Here are some places you might consider contacting for scholarship opportunities. These resources rarely get tapped!

The internet can be a real help in locating scholarships. Here are some things to consider when using online scholarship search programs.

Family dentist Eye doctor Banking institution Car insurance company Employer Church Community groups Clubs

Never pay to use a search engine!

There are plenty of scholarship search programs that are available for free. Any search engine that asks you for money is a scam, so watch out.

Make sure you are eligible for the scholarships you apply for.

Many of the scholarships available on search engines are larger, national contests. These tend to have much more specific requirements, and stick to them more rigidly. If you’re not sure you meet the standards, don’t go through all of the work they usually require.

Some Available Scholarships:

Here are some free search engines that may be helpful in your scholarship search -

WSU University-Wide Scholarship Application This application puts your name in the hat—so to speak—for some of the university scholarships available to WSU students on all campuses. Deadline for this application is January 31st.

www.fastweb.com www.collegeboard.com www.finaid.org/scholarships www.collegeplan.org www.wiredscholar.com www.mach25.com www.supercollege.com

WSU Vancouver Scholarship Application Similar to the University-Wide Scholarship Application, this puts your name in the hat for all scholarships available to our campus. Deadline is May 1st, but might be changed to April 1st in 08-09. Rotary Foundation Scholarship This Scholarship is funded by the Festival of Trees and involves a written statement, letter of reference, and transcripts. Finalists will be interviewed. This scholarship awards four $5,000 prizes, to two undergraduate and two graduate students. The application will be available in December, and the deadline is early Februaury.

Cougar Walking Trails

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Student Government Peter Sterr, President (360) 546-9521 Andrea Wooster, VP (360) 546-9522 Student Involvement (360) 546-9527

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Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships (360) 546-9559

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The Bookie (360) 573-0447 Fall hours of operation are Mon.-Thur. 9 a.m. 6 p.m., and Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Summer hours of operation are Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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Here is a campus map for your convenience. Below are some handy phone numbers to keep in mind and other useful information. Good luck this fall!

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Library Circulation Desk (360) 546-9680 Reference Desk (360) 546-9686 Summer hours of operation are Mon.-Thur. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. noon to 5 p.m. Recreation Neil Gregory Equipment rental available Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.4 p.m. in VFSC 136. [See back page for a partial list of available equipment.] Fitness Center Located downstairs in the Library building,

room 13. [See related story page 3.]

July 21, 2008

FEATURES

Campus clubs create community By Ruth Zschomler The VanCougar

Are you new to Washington State University Vancouver? Want to make new friends? Make a difference? Why not join a Student Club or, as a they are formally known, a Registered Student Organization (RSO)? “Student clubs foster a sense of community,” says Jason Wiggins, the student contact for the History Club. Last year WSUV hosted thirtyfive active RSO’s—clubs open to any enrolled graduate or undergraduate student at WSUV. Becoming involved is a good way to make WSUV your “home” and foster school spirit. “It was fun...a good way to meet other students,” says Eddie Francis, last year’s president of the Student Business Organization RSO, “A place to network and share ideas.” Can’t find one that interests you? [A list of last year’s RSOs is at the right.] Grab some friends (five minimum) and apply to start your own. For information on how contact the Office of Student Involvement call (360) 546-9527 or look on the WSU website on the Student

Here is a list of the active student clubs listed for the 2007-2008 school year. Many of them may be available again :n the fall: Anthropology Club ASME Chi Alpha Circle K International Cool Cougars’ Commons Club (C4) Cougars for the Cures Focus-Darkroom Photography Club Digital Technology Club Education Club Elevate University Entrepreneur Club Finance Club History Club HR Society (SHRM) Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) International Student Association Kapa Omicron Nu

Law Club MBA Society M.E.Ch.A Minorities Reconstructing Culture Northwest Collegiate Ministries Nurse Network Psi Chi Psychology Club Roots and Shoots Running Club Singers Club Social and Environmental Justice Club Spanish Club Speech and Debate Club Student Business Organization Students for Success Club Swing Dance Club Women’s Resource Center

New Sonic drive-in does booming business RESTAURANT REVIEW By Gregory E. zschomler Editor in Chief

My daughter lives out just east of Oklahoma City. They have Sonics there. Lots and lots of Sonics. Mmmm, Sonic’s are good. Needless to say I was thrilled to learn that we (finally!) have one here in Vancouver—sort of. The new Vancover Sonic Drivein is about as east in Vancouver as you can go without being in Camas, but it is soooo worth the drive. Yeah, it’s fast food, and much of the fare is pretty much what you get at, say, a BK or McD’s. However there are some major differences. You don’t go into a Sonic’s— they bring the food to your car. (For those old enough to remember, A&W used to do that.) Most servers walk it out, but some skate. So there’s no inside seating; you sit in your car. You may also choose to eat on the covered patio if you’re not into dashboard dining. (Note: There are restrooms available.) Most everyone I’ve talked to who’s been out to the new Vancouver Sonic has related tales of long lines. Indeed, during my own visit I saw traffic cones and flaggers out to manage the traffic, but I, nonethe-less, got into one of the thirty stalls rather quickly. The service was all I’ve come to expect from my Sonic visits in Oklahoma and Missouri—fast, friendly and fresh (the food, that is; not the servers). There are many taste treats to sample from simple hamburgers to Toaster™ club sandwiches, chicken, salads, wraps and dogs. Not to say their burgers are simple; both dogs and burgers come in a wide selection of styles. There are fries, onion rings and tots to choose from as well as a WIDE variety of drinks, but I’ll get

to that in a moment. Sonic also serves breakfast items and, unlike McD’s, serves them up any time of the day. (Get with the program, Ronald!) I have never had breakfast at a Sonic, but would bet it is just as good as the afternoon fare I’ve tried. Breakfast items include French toast stix, sandwiches and burritos featuring eggs and meat combos with cheese. Tots are the potatoes of choice. Yes, the hamburgers and Toasters ™ are good, the O.R.’s excellent, but what sets Sonic light years above the rest are the drinks. Believe it or not, there are nearly 170,000 to choose from! There’s your standard soda fare (Coke products), plus a gamut of limeades, shakes, malts, slushes and smoothies—all customizable to your own specifications with flavor shots and mix combos. Oh, these can be refreshing on a hot day! Some of these I like a great deal, others not so much. Of course, I haven’t tried them all. You’ll have to try a few that sound good to find your favorite(s). Most drinks are half price betweeen 2 and 4 p.m. Sonic’s prices are fair and the service fast and friendly. Dogs start at about a buck and go up to three for the ultimate Coney. Burgers start at $2.49. Drinks range from 99 cents to $3.99. The food does not sit in warmer bins, but is made to order so it’s hot, fresh, and right AND, surprisingly, still quite fast. Maybe that’s because I’m in the comfort of my own car, listening to my own tunes. The fastest way to get there

Check it out: 850 S.E. 192nd Ave. Vancouver, Washington (360) 891-6646 www.sonicdrivein.com

that I know of is to take I-205 south to Hwy 14 and head east. Get off onto 164th and head north to Mill Plain and go east. At 192nd take a right (heading south) and look for it on your right. (Yeah, lot’s of new development out there.) The Vancouver Sonic Drive-in is open from 6 a.m. to midnight everyday. Why not drive-in today?

Attention Business Majors On Campus Employment Available in Advertising Sales at:

The VanCougar —the student newspaper of WSUV. Join the team as our Advertising Sales Manager. Enjoy: • Great learning experiences • A community of friends • Use of our semi-private on-campus office equipped with six computers and laser printer • Parties • Work experience • Training • Spending money (earn 20% commission) • PLUS bonus incentives • and a fantastic resume entry!

ONLY ONE POSITION AVAILABLE Apply Now at The VanCougar in VCLS 212

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The VanCougar

8 July/August

2008

ROAR Advising and Registration July 25, 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., Administration Art Gallery Lobby ROAR is meant to prepare Freshman for the start of classes in the fall. Whether you’re a student or family member in attendance, you’ll find things to interest and excite you. Cape Horn Gorge Hike July 26, Sign up in OSI Join fellow students on this FREE eight mile hike. Bring a friend! A-Z of Financial Aid and Scholarships July 29, 5:30 p.m. in Administration Building Room 110 This FREE workshop will answer student and parent questions regarding financial aid. This event is open to the public, so bring a friend! White Salmon Rafting Trip August 2, Sign up in OSI Join fellow students on this rafting trip for $20. Non-students may sign up for $25. PaCE Academy August 4 through August 8 The Preparation and Career Education (PaCE) Academy is open to students in 7th12th grades who want hands-on career exploration. Cost is $90. ROAR Orientation Session August 19 and 20, 8 a.m. ALL incoming students will get a chance to familiarize themselves with the campus and their peers. Freshman Day at Merwin Dam August 22, 10:30 a.m., meet on campus Fun-filled event for new Freshman includes swimming, games, and lunch.

BACK TO SCHOOL BAR B’ QUE The ASWSUV Back to School Bar B’ Que is Wednesday, September 3rd. Mark your calendar and plan to be there between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for good eats, games and more!

TAIL END

The VanCougar Bulletin To include a bulletin on this page, drop a flyer for a school or club-related event into our “Bulletins” folder outside VCLS 212 or email [email protected]. edu. Free for registered student organizations!

Welcome ROAR Students! Your Classified Ad Can Go Here 50 words for just $3.50 per issue; two issues for $5. Contact us for publication dates and deadlines. Upfront cash sales only. 360.546.9524

RECREATION RENTALS Sports equipment (balls, nets, Frisbee golf sets, etc.) are available for check out and use on campus. Snow gear, camping gear and more can also be rented Monday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. from the Rec Office on the back side of FSC near the ASWSUV offices. See charts below for more information email: [email protected].