Save HPU Cheer and Dance!!!

After 23 National Championships, cheerleaders and dancers at Hawaii Pacific University are experiencing budget cuts at its finest. After returning home in April from the Cheer and Dance National Competition, HPU participants were told this would be their last year of competition. 

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Ohana for life.
Photo Credit: HPU Cheer and Dance

According to Todd Simmons, Hawaii Pacific’s VP of Marketing and Communications, “We’re bringing expenses related to this program, more in line with what we want the size and scope of the cheer and dance programs to be. They’ve grown significantly in expenses over the past four years and we’re trying to bring the cost in.”

HPU's dancers circle up before their friends and family sendoff for nationals.
Photo Credit: HPU Dance

Despite the upsetting news, these college athletes are pushing harder than ever to keep their tradition alive. In the efforts to do so HPU cheerleaders and dancers have participated in may activities to raise awareness on this issue and have raised over $7,000 to go towards their team accounts.





2011-2012 National Champions!
Photo Credit: HPU Cheer

Petitions, social media support, fundraisers, flash mobs, and much more, have been a contribution to this debate. Cheerleaders and dancers hope the school will recognize their effort to save the Hawaii Pacific cheer and dance legacy and their decision will be influenced by their love for the program. 

Small Town Girl

Tracey outside of her beautiful country
home.
Photo By:Brittany Watson

When she’s not raising hell in honky tonks, or driving 500 miles a day in her Chevy truck, Tracey Dyleski is your everyday college student.  She is currently a junior at Kansas State University where she fits right in.  Distinguishable by her boots, Tracey lives a country girl life. She was born in raised in Albuquerque, NM, where she started riding horses by the age of six. Tracey grew up with a brother three years younger than her, and they have been close her entire life. Her dad’s job moved the family to Kansas in November of 2004, to a perfect home in the country side. She graduated from Kansas City Christian in 2008 and started off college in Texas, before returning back to Kansas. Tracey was raised in a Christian home where church and bible studies are very important. Her love for the lord and faith has helped shape the women she is today.

One of Tracey's many prized possessions.
Photo By: Brittany Watson

In her free time, Tracey enjoys spending time with her family, riding her horse, shopping, and traveling to her favorite states. These states include New Mexico, Texas, and Colorado. She also loves spending time with her friends, working out, and watching reruns of Grey’s Anatomy. She hates cooking but most definitely has an appetite for freshly made sandwiches.  After graduating from Kansas State in December 2013, Tracey plans on taking her degree in Social Sciences and Family Studies, back to Texas. She intends to work as a trauma counselor, specializing with troubled teenagers. Her dream come true would be to live outside of Austin, Texas with a family of her own, her amazing horse, Zig, and cat, Houston.

Family horses, Surprise and Garcia.
Photo By: Brittany Watson

Tracey’s younger brother is a bull rider and has been doing so for the last two years.  The first summer that he started rodeoing, Tracey was unable to attend any of the events because they were living in separate states.  The first time that she had the opportunity to see him was a special moment that she will never forget.  Nineteen year old boys tend to be pretty tough but this situation brought them closer than ever.  As Tracey was nervously chewing off her nails in the bleachers, her brother was preparing himself to climb aboard an 1800 pound explosive animal.  Right as he was about to climb on, he looked over at Tracey, mouthed that he loved her, and made his 8 second ride. 

Man's Best Friend

The Lost, Lonely, Puppy



Photo by: Brittany Watson


This photo tells the story of a lost, lonely, puppy. He was found on the back porch of a friend’s house, where I decided to take him home with me. I could tell that he needed love and support and I was determined to help him. Within the next day, his owner reported him missing and he was safely returned back home.

Journalists at Work

Photo by: Brittany Watson

Avila University's, Professor Snorgrass and student Mohammed Al-Abdulla, intensely discuss an assignment given to the Introduction to Journalism class.

ROCK CHALK!

Photo by: Brittany Watson

On Saturday, March 31st, proud Jayhawk fans swarm Lawrence's Mass Street, 

celebrating their victory against Ohio State.

Wellness

On the campus of Avila University, there are over 50 clubs and organizations. One of them in particular is the Wellness Organization, directed by Avila University’s Registered Nurse, Carol Frevert. 

Carol Frevert, Regestered Nurse and Wellness directer, at Avila University.
Photo by: Brittany Watson

The main focus of this organization is to engage students at Avila University in the promotion of wellness. This includes enhancing health, and developing healthy choices, mentally and physically. Within the organization there are many programs that are offered to expand these qualities, such as, wellness forums, classes, activities, and events on campus and locally.

A behind the scenes look at Carol Frevert's nursing station.
Photo by: Brittany Watson

The Wellness Organization participates strongly in working with other clubs and organizations, departments, and schools. This is to expand the knowledge of these groups and to provide many activities for students on campus. One organization Wellness teams up with is, PEACH, Peers Educating Avila about Counseling and Health. The main idea of these two organizations is to present a comprehensive outlook for the community of the school.

Being Health Awareness month, I got the chance to meet with Nurse Carol to discuss the top five, and most important ways to stay well. The first way is rest. Many times students don’t receive enough sleep causing their body to shut down. Performance in class can become poor and attention spans can be altered tremendously.  The second way is eating well. If students are giving their bodies the proper nutrients and cutting back on junk foods, their immune systems can stay strong, preventing weight gain and increasing performance. The third way is drinking lots of water. It is extremely important to stay hydrated. Many times dehydration can lead to other serious issues including, changes in the body, kidney failure and life threatening issues.

Avila University helps celebrate April's Health Awareness Month!
Photo by: Brittany Watson

The forth way is washing your hands. Nowadays there are countless bacteria’s and diseases. Not washing your hands can lead to different infections, sicknesses, and outbreaks. Washing your hands will not only keep you healthy and safe, but also the people at Avila University. And the fifth way is seeking help if you’re sick. Many times students will put off a cold or a stomach ache and ignoring your body can make it worse. It is so important to treat the first signs of sicknesses. This will prevent feeling terrible and allowing the sickness to become worse.

“Health Services provides health care, health education, and referrals to other resources which can help students deal with illnesses and injuries, maintain physical health, and improve their health” Carol Frevert, RN

Senior Night








Senior dancers, Erin Penney, Brittany Watson, and Lauren Guthrie.
Photo Credit: Brittany Watson

During halftime of the Avila University men’s basketball game on, February 25^th, Senior Night took place. Senior Night is recognition for students who have completed four years as student athletes. This ceremony was a way for the team and school to honor athletes for their hard work, dedication, and many achievements. 



Brittany Watson and father, Jeff Watson, on Senior Night.
Photo Credit: Brittany Watson

Several senior athletes were recognized on Senior Night. Each student was introduced separately and a brief biography was given. This included, name, year, major, and plans after college. When announced, athletes were greeted with hugs and kind words, as well as flowers and/or something memorable from the coaches and team.

Out of many, I too was categorized as a senior athlete. Previously, I attended Johnson county community college, where I danced for three years. After receiving my associate’s degree, I transferred to Avila University, and was offered a scholarship in dance. Although I was a new student, it was in fact my last year to participate in dancing for college.



Senior Night was a special night, full of many memories. It was a fun way of closing the year and beginning a new chapter in life. This event brought friends and family together and allowed senior athletes to reflect on the progress of their time in college.

Brittany Watson and mother, Barb Titus, on Senior Night.
Photo Credit: Brittany Watson

President's Day

Avila University student, Kaleigh Sheridan, voices
her opinion about President's Day.
Photo by: Brittany Watson

Unlike every other Monday, today is important. It is a day to celebrate and respect the lives of our founding leaders. Today is President’s Day.

Many people are out of school or off work enjoying this national holiday, but others are stuck at work or school having to write about it. It’s not that Americans don’t appreciate their former leaders, but come on, who wants to be at work or school writing about President’s Day on President’s Day? You see, it’s almost like a tease. An irritating reminder that unlike everyone else, there are people still at work and school.

I set out to find the opinions of others and got the chance to interview Avila University student, Kaleigh Sheridan. “If college students are required to attend class on a national holiday, such as President’s Day, I believe it's important for students to take a moment to reflect on our founding fathers.” She continues, “ But I don’t think writing about them is necessarily relevant.”

 If President’s Day is going to be categorized as a national holiday, then it should be treated like one. It seems unjust to let only a select few of our citizens participate in recognizing this day, as others have to continue on with their daily responsibilities. If everyone were allowed to have President’s Day off, it would then be considered a true national holiday.

Exploring the Creative Mind




Participants focus deeply on the significance of the object.
Photo by: Brittany Watson

 On Wednesday, February 9th, Avila University and Steven Fischer held the Secrets of Success: The Nature of Creativity workshop. This all day workshop was an interactive way of exploring one’s full creative potential. During my class period, I got the chance to sit in and observe the workshop. At the time, five different interactive stations were beginning, which challenged the imagination, mind, and creative abilities of students participating.  Each station allowed only five minutes of work, which made it more challenging for the students.



Avila University students pondering over the
creative approach to their assignment.
Photo by: Brittany Watson

The first station was “Words to Thoughts.” It explored the idea of creating a sentence using a select few words. The second station was “Different Expressions.” This station challenged the mind by demanding several different ways one could write the number eight. The third station, “Brick in the Middle of the Table," demanded all the possible ways you could use a brick. The fourth station, “Paper With a Squiggle” challenged students to create something from a simple squiggle drawn on a sheet of paper. The final station, "Black Out Poem,” allowed students to express their thoughts by blacking out random words in a newspaper clip.

The Secrets of Success: The Nature of Creativity workshop was a success. The workshop allowed students to engage each other, as well as learn and develop new strengths. It challenged each student to see from a different angle.

 In the footage below, I talk with Avila University Student, Kara Koehler, about her experience at the workshop.



State of the Union Speech

Courtesy of Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP

On Tuesday, January 24th, President Barack Obama gave the 2012 State of the Union speech in the Chamber of the United States House of Representatives. In his speech, he addressed many different topics including the military, jobs, and our economy.

President Obama began by recognizing those who served our country in Iraq, calling them “heroes of our generation.” For the first time in nine years, not one American soldier is serving in Iraq. President Obama believes these soldiers made the country a safer and more respected country throughout the world.  He called it a testament of the courage, selflessness, and teamwork of America’s armed forces. Students at Avila University are able to receive an education while others are sacrificing their lives and protecting our country. Because of these courageous soldiers, Avila students have the privilege to learn and grow without fear.

In the last two years, over 3.2 million jobs have been created. President Obama addressed American manufacturing, which has recently helped produce a large number of jobs. With this advantage, foreign trade has reduced, allowing the government to focus on the United States budget deficit. It will benefit the students from Avila University by providing a wide range of employment opportunities. This will lower the unemployment rate permitting Avila students to have higher paying jobs in their future career.

Courtesy of Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

President Obama believes the United States is capable of achieving an economy that will continue to stand strong. His vision is where hard work is paid off, and the responsibility put forth is rewarded. Saying this, American’s need to continue to move forward and not lose sight of the goal. If the economy continues to improve, the students at Avila University will benefit from lower mortgage rates as a first time buyer, a larger job selection, and the cost of overseas trade will decrease due to American made products. For an Avila student, this will create a more efficient, stable, and affordable economy.

Smart Tips for the 2012 Spring Semester

2012 has arrived, opening the doors for another year of opportunities. For students, it is important to be prepared in all aspects, for they set the bar and influence the future generation. In saying this, here are two important topics students might need to know or understand in order to be successful in 2012.



Avila University students,
Morgan Hopper and Brian Sagun,
walk to class together, avoiding danger.
Photo by: Brittany Watson

 Student safety is by far the most important. To many this may seem juvenile, but college students tend to commute to many different locations, often putting their safety at risk. It is important for students to always let someone know where they are going and who they are with. Commuting with more than one person is a safer option than going alone. Avoiding situations that might have a student thinking twice will prevent bad things from occurring. Also stay updated with the news.
Staying updated withy the news. The news is one of the best tools, providing countless information regarding safety. Know what parts of town are safe, and be aware of things that might seem unusual or unfamiliar. For college students, it is human nature to want to explore and experience, but sometimes in doing so, the outcome of their choices, can’t be predicted or controlled. College students need to take precautions and be smart about the decisions they make. This might not change the bad things in the world, but it will definitely keep students alert and aware.




Student at Avila University, Kaleigh Sheridan,
makes a list of how she will
budget her money this semester.
Photo by: Brittany Watson

Managing money is also important. Attending college for the first time can be a bit overwhelming. How will I pay for books, gas, food, etc.? These are questions students tend to ask themselves when in a panic for money. Many times students feel like adults when entering college, but don’t realize how important it is to manage their money from the get go. It is so important to manage money and to manage it well.


There are different techniques used when managing moey that can help students be respondsible with their money. Pre planning, cutting back on expenses and making lists are just a few out of several ways college students can be in control. These tactics will assure students of where their money is going and how their money is being spent. Also remember to SAVE, SAVE, and SAVE! With the economy the way it is, who knows what’s ahead for the country. It is vital for college students to put a little money aside every chance they get. What happens if an emergency comes up demanding a pretty penny? If college students start managing their money and saving now, they can create a successful habit for the future.

11/11/11

Love is patient, it is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.-Corinthians 13: 4-8

The gift of marriage is indeed a special thing. A commitment to love and to hold, from this day forward, as long as two people shall live. On 11/11/11 I was able to witness two very important people to me, make a vow to each other. A vow that would express their undying love for each other and hopes and dreams for their future.

These two people were my mother and her husband, Charlie.

Friday, November 11, 2011 was the day of my mother and her Husband Chralie's wedding! The wedding was held in the comfort of their own home, and many friends and family came to witness. What started out as only close family, turned into over a handful of people surrounding my mother and Charlie. The ceremony was short and sweet which included traditional wedding vows and a kiss to seal the deal. Within 20 minutes my mother was a married woman and I was  extreemly happy for her. After the ceremony many friends and family gathered at the local pub and grub to eat dinner and celebrate the uniting of the newlyweds. The night was full of love and laughter as two family's merged into one. I don't think things could have went any better for this was exactly how the we all hoped it would be. 

11/11/11 was chosen for the wedding date simply because of it's uniqueness. What other way to spend their wedding, than on a date that everyone would remember, but also that had something so special about it. Never again will the date 11/11/11 exist in history. Not only was it special and worked out so right, but it also served a significant purpose to my mother and Charlie.  11/11/11 represented a day of love that was their's that noone else could share. A day of happiness that would mark their life of eternity together. 

Beyonce "Countdown" Controversy

After being accused twice of stealing the ideas of others, Beyonce has indeed released another music video that has people all over the world talking. On October 6, 2011 Beyonce released, "Countdown," a fun, playful music video that included choreography and the ideas of others which she failed to acknowlege or give credit for. These ideas came from artists such as choreographer Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker and living legend Audrey Hepburn. According to Beyonce, "Clearly, the ballet 'Rosas danst Rosas' was one of many references for my video "Countdown." It was one of the insperations used to bring the feel and look of the song to life." She continues by stating, “I was also paying tribute to the film, ‘Funny Face’ with the legendary Audrey Hepburn. My biggest inspirations were the ’60s, the ’70s, Brigitte Bardot, Andy Warhol, Twiggy and Diana Ross. I’ve always been fascinated by the way contemporary art uses different elements and references to produce something unique.” Although Beyonce concluded she was simply "paying tribute," this issue hit world wide news, making people really question Beyonce and her motives.

I personally don't think what Beyonce did was wrong I just think she went about it in a wrong way. There is nothing wrong with being inspired by the ideas/works of other and wanting to produce something from it, but on the other hand all Beyonce had to do was acknoledge those artists that she reflected from. Knowing the situations she has placed herself in before, makes me wonder how could she ever forget such a thing? We all know that she isn't trying to steal these ideas to call them her own, but this is the reaction she will recieve when things arn't done properly. All we can do is reflect on something of this nature and learn from the mistakes of others. I do think that Beyonce did indeed make a honest mistake by not crediting those is which she inspired from but what is done, is done. All she can do is aknowledge her error and therefore give those artists the credit that they deserve.

Peace Week

If we devoted a small portion of our lives to spreading the word on peace, we could ultimately change the way in which our world works. According to peaceweek.info, "We have the power to shift our world from a culture of violence to a culture of peace." Although this statement might seem very unrealistic it can indeed happen. But the main question that we have to ask ourselves is what will it really take to put this vision in action? Peaceweek.info states, "The "technologies" for creating peace at all levels of society are well-established. We simply need to share them on a grand scale and accelerate the evolution that will have us live, collaborate and create in the most harmonious ways. Doing so is necessary to address our global crises and birth a new, co-creative era of human evolution." In 2010 The Shift Network launched their first annual Peace Week, which did exceedingly well. According to peaceweek.info, "Peace Week 2011 was a huge success." People from all over the world came to be involved with his historical day. "The feedback was extraordinary as people from Nigeria to India all said "Yes, it is time!" and offered their gratitude for the wisdom and practices shared."- peaceweek.info

On Tuesday, September 20th, my classmates and I went to the Peace Fair held at Avila University. I was very excited to be involved in this inspiring event, but when we got their I was very disappointed with the outcome. There were only three tables promoting Peace Week and about 20 students including my class, there. Although it wasn't everything I had hoped and wanted it to be, I talked to a lady by the name of, Ann Suellentrop who was with physicians for Social Responsibility, that informed us spectators on a very important issue. This issue was the building of the new nuclear plant in Kansas City. Currently Kansas City has a nuclear plant that was founded in 1949. Now 62 years later they want to build a new facility that is half the size, lead certified, and more advanced. This may be the case but the underlying issue of the plant still remains the same. The current plant is known for making about 85% of nuclear bomb parts not only for Kansas City but for the majority of our nation. This idea of a new plant raises lots of issues because of the fact that our city funds will certainly be going to the making it.

As the other listeners and I became educated on this issue, Ann presented us with two petitions she and her organization were conducting. The first petition introduced to us was the idea to withdraw city funds from the making of the new plant. Ann and her organization argue that we are spending millions of dollars on something that isn't going to bring peace on earth. We are basically spending money for people to kill each other. Ann and her organization said that it would be more beneficial to put our hard earned money to things such as, schools, health care, funding, etc. The second petition introduced to us was the idea of converting the old and new plant together and making it into something good for our community. Ann and her organization claim that if we combine the two plants together we could use them for things such as, wind energy, solar panels, IT, medical IT, etc. Why not turn these plants into something valuable, by making the environment good for us as well.

The Early Show - Which living legend should be first on U.S. stamp?

The Future of Stamps

According to Northland’s News Center, the U.S. Postal Service just release that at the beginning of next year, Americans will see acclaimed musicians, sports stars, writers, artists and other nationally-known figures on U.S. postage stamps, while they are still alive. Patrick Donahoe, Postmaster General of the United States of America says, "This change will enable us to pay tribute to individuals for their achievements while they are still alive to enjoy the honor." While the original rule was that an individual had to be deceased for at least five years before their face could be seen on a stamp, the new guidelines of this matter have indeed changed the way in which they originally planned.

Putting public figures and well know celebrities on postage stamps; I think will expand the way in which Americans use mail. It will influence people to want to use the mailing system and help post offices financially. Not only will in advance in these areas but it will give those “faces” the opportunity to be recognized for their hard work and accomplishments. And honestly why not, it’s fun!

A good candidate for a postage stamp I think would be Justin Bieber. He has become a well-known celebrity/artist that has influenced the lives of many with his inspirational story and love. He has worked extremely hard for the things in his life and has donated his time and heart to many parts of the world. There is no doubt in my mind that he wouldn’t be the next face on a postage stamp.  I mean seriously, who could resist that baby face, cute hair and great talent?? Children, teens, parents and even grandparents love him! Having Justin Bieber on a postage stamp would influence the youth to use the mailing system, recognized Justin for the great things he has done and altogether make it a fun experience.

The Mystery Behind the Man

Every morning when I take the exit for school, there never fails to be the same guy standing  on the corner, holding a cardboard sign. I’ve never really paid attention to what his sign entailed, but I expected it to say he was homeless, or something along those lines. It has now been about five weeks of this guy marking that territory, and I’m beginning to think maybe he’s up to something. If this guy was indeed homeless, he would have moved locations by now. No homeless person is going to stay in one place for that long in hopes that maybe one day someone will give in. No, they’re going to move to the next place in search of a better outcome. But the thing is this guy is certainly not homeless. Every day he has nice clothes on and looks as if he has freshly showered and shaved. There is never an obvious indication that he is in desperate need of a helping hand and there’s certainly been a time or two that I’ve seen him with a cell phone. Now, if he was homeless, that wouldn’t be the case. There is not ONE homeless person I know walking around the streets with a new Blackberry, wearing a nice pair of cargo khaki shorts and Sperry’s, who has just shaved and showered! Give me a break. It's one thing to actually be homless, but another to act homeless.

So my question is why is this guy doing this and what are his intentions?

The Meaning Behind the Words

I've never really listened to Tupac. Not because I didn't like him or didn't want to, just because I never did. I mean there are a couple of songs of his that I liked or knew because they were popular at the time, but after doing some reading on him, I became interested. His lyrics are nothing short of the harsh world we live in. For me, they hit me hard, as if I didn't already know. Most of the time people are so caught up in the new releases of music, the "cool" beats and sounds or how fast they can memorize the song and rap it the best, but never really stop to hear what that artist is saying. On the other had there ARE people who hear the artist and do actually relate what they are saying to society and their own lives.

"Changes" has always been one of my favorite songs of his. After being told the true definition of "listening" and "hearing" someone, it's apparent I was just listening. I went back and looked up the lyrics and was surprised at what I had been listening to for so long was actually very sad.

“It's time for us as a people to start makin' some changes. Let's change the way we eat, let's change the way we live and let's change the way we treat each other. You see the old way wasn't working so it's on us to do what we gotta do, to survive.” Tupac Shakur

It’s true, what the world needs is change but that change has to start with us. We can’t just go around wanting or expecting it to happen, we have to take matters in our own hands and do it! Yes, there are some things that will possibly never change like, poverty, racism, fights, gangs, deaths drugs, but I do believe that there are the little things we can change that will indeed reflect back on those others. Tupac’s lyrics are ultimately influential and I do think we could all learn a thing or two behind the true meaning of his words.

“I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world.” Tupac Shakur