Thanks for picking up the first issue of the Observer for fall quarter. What you have in your hands is an award-winning paper that is by the students and for the students. That being said, this is the first time editing for most of the staff, including myself. We will make mistakes and we will own up to them, but we ask for your patience while we figure this out. We also don’t want to be the sole voice for the student body. We would love to hear your feedback for us and what you would like to see us cover. If you have a story, please let us know and we will try and get your story out there.

Since this is now my last year, but not yet last quarter, I want to take a few minutes to tell any first-time readers about what makes this school amazing. But don’t think that just because you are an upperclassman you can’t take some of these tips and tricks to heart.

My first tip is to not shut yourself in your dorm room all year, though it might be tempting, especially if you are introverted like me. Trust me, once you find that great group of friends they are going to stick with you for life. If you are worried about getting out there again don’t worry, there are literally hundreds of people in your exact same position. Check the event calendar, go to a Monday Movie Madness, a club fair or a sporting event and get to know the people that you will see throughout the year.

Second tip: Just because you have a car doesn’t mean you need to use it. The CWU campus is not very big so there is not a need to drive. Not to mention that parking on campus is a joke. While walking to class would take you about 10 minutes tops if you live on campus, driving is going to take you much longer because you will have to search forever for a parking spot and then rush to class. Also, it’s expensive paying for a parking permit. And if you get a parking ticket from parking in the wrong spot that’s more money you have to shell out.

If you want more information about walking vs. driving, check on the opinion section on page five and read about the parking situation and the costs of driving.

Along the same lines of driving to class, be a courteous biker and pedestrian. Riding your bike across campus is a great way to get from point A to point B. However, during peak foot-traffic hours, riding your bike can become a hassle since the walkways will have an increased amount of pedestrians. If you bike make sure that you watch your speed so you don’t run into anyone; and if you are walking to class stay aware of your surroundings so you don’t accidentally have your day ruined by being run over by a biker.

And if you are an avid biker and are looking for an exciting bike route check out the story on page 3 about the new bike lane.

Alright, last tip, watch how much you are spending at the C-Store. Even though you have all those dining dollars and the discount, the C-Store is still a bit pricey. That said, don’t be that kid at the end of the year (i.e. me) who still has a ton of money in their account and their parents come and buy out the C-Store (or make you buy them lunch and smoothies and snacks).

Thanks again for picking up the Observer. I hope you enjoy the stories printed here and will continue to read throughout the quarter and the year. Also, don’t forget there are often coupons hidden within these pages which can help those of us who are broke af to get out and have a little fun. So read the stories, clip the coupons and let us know how you think we are doing. Have a great fall quarter everyone!

Signed,

Sarah J. Hoot, Editor in Chief