VOL. 17 APRIL 9, 1999 NO. 33

highest retention rates among our peer institutions, our percentages have declined somewhat each year. Part of this o undoubtedly had to do with the phasing -East week, we received the latest out of the "fresh-start "program. Let's first year retention report from the Board make it one of our primary challenges to of Regents. The report included all fIrst­ stay number one in retention and strive to time, full-time students - 1993-94 move back into the high 70's in the through 1997-98. percentage of our students retained.

Gainesville College's retention from fall, 1993 to fall, 1994 (including those still at GC and those who had transferred to another System institution) was 77.8% compared to the average two-year college rate of 63.0% and the System total of73.4%. 'Lns year's Honors Day Ceremo~y will The following year, our average was be held on Tuesday, April 13, at 11 75% compared to 62.3% for two-year a.m. in the gymnasium. Faculty, please colleges and 73.8% for System. dismiss your classes at 10:30 a.m. and urge your students to attend the ceremony R From 1995 to 1996, our retention was at 11 a.m. followed by a reception which 72.7%, compared to 64.7% for two-year will be held on the lawn between colleges and 75.4% for the System. Academic II and the Library or in the Student Center if it rains. All cost centers From 1996 to 1997, GC's retention was will be closed during the one-hour 71.9% compared to 64.1 % for two year ceremony to include the ACTT 'Center, the colleges and 76.1 % for the System. Library, etc., in order to permit College employees to attend the ceremony. All From 1997 to 1998, Gainesville's rate cost centers will reopen at 12 noon and was 67.3% compared to 60.4% for two­ classes will follow the regular schedule year colleges and 74.1 % for the System. with the 12:30 p.m. classes. This drop, which was across the board, coincides with semester conversion. Faculty, please line up for the processional beginning at 10:30 a.m. in Academic II In each year's report, Gainesville (same as last year). Tom Bums, Chair of College had the highest retention rate of the Student Affairs Committee will be any two-year college in the System. assisting in the lining up procedure. P.O. Box 1358 That is something to really brag about. Gainesville, GA 30503 770-718-3639 Nevertheless, while we still enjoy the Page 2 TOW£RTALK April 9, 1999

Living With Grief at Work, at School, at Worship. Sixth Annual National Bereavement Teleconference, Wednesday, April 14, 1:30 - 4 pm, CEI08, sponsored by the Hospice Foundation of America. Moderated UIOIIC EllS by Cokie Roberts of ABC News For additional information: [email protected], Important dates for 1999-2000 www.hospicefoundation.org, 202-638-5419

Holidays (campus will be closed) for FY 1999-2000 are: July 5 - Independence Day (Monday) September 6 - Labor Day (Monday) The Cross-Cultural Connections Club presents: November 25-26 - Thanksgiving Day & Friday ... Brazil December 24,27,28,29, 30, 31 - Christmas break ... by: 5ami & Talieh January 17 - Martin Luther King Day (Monday) 0 May 29 - Memorial Day (Monday) Thursday, April 15, 11:00 a.m. if Academic III, Room 181 The Spring 2000 Academic Calendar is as follows: January 6, 2000 ... Orientation & Registration January 7,. 2000 ...... Classes Begin March 27-31 ,"2000 ...... Spring Break o Due to the Bosnian conflict, there is a 0 . April 28, 2000 ...... Classes End blood shortage. Therefore, the Red May 1-4, 2000 ...... Final Exams Cross has asked Gainesville College to hold a Blood Drive on Friday, April 16, from 8:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. to help in this time of need. Please call Glenn Preston at X3790 or email glpresto to schedule an appointment.

A If you cannot donate blood, please be a 0 V volunteer to help with the blood drive.

RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE, April 17, 8 am, GC Nature Trail. Gainesville College and the Students Saturaay, ..7ty;.riC 10 8 J?.m. to .Jvl(c[nigfit for Environmental Awareness will host their first Student Center annual 5k race. A percentage of the proceeds will go :Free to aCC students, to the Chattahoochee Riverkeepers. The remaining staff anafacuCty proceeds will provide scholarships for students interested in expanding their knowledge of the environmental issues that concern us. The registration deadline is April 14. Entry fee is $20. For additional information, call Jason at 706-543- 4966 or Cameron at 770-887-3512. Event coordinators: GC Ambassadors, BSU, SGA, and Multi-cultural Clubs. Page 3 TOWER TALK April 9, 1999

Lois Lynn and her niece, Courtney, will be walking in Jeff Wirth, author of GTA's upcoming play, The the March of Dimes Walk America on April 17. If Antics of Romantics, makes a distinction between you would like to make a tax deductible contribution acting and playing. "Acting means memorizing a to this very worthy cause, please make your check script and performing it as written," he says. "But payable to the March of Dimes and send it via campus playing is what interactive theatre is all about. mail to Lois Lynn by Thursday, April 15. Together, the audience and cast have the chance to drop their adult inhibitions and play make-believe on stage." Wirth emphasizes, however, that participation is purely voluntary.

Wirth's character, the faithful servant Fidello, assists GIVE "A DAY" FOR THE his master Valiente (played by an audience member) in his suit for the hand of Angelina (also played by an STUDENTS AT audience member), who is the daughter of Signora GAINESVILLE COLLEGE Prestigio (Mary Stewart), a grand dame and wealthy pillar of society. Angelina has been promised to Thursday, April 29 Capitano Fanfarone (Ryan Gerard) who has impressed 8 a~m. ~ Start the "Day" with breakfast Signora Prestigio with his entourage but who we donated by Burger King suspect may be harboring a dark past. Angelina's in the CE Lobby and Auditorium maid, the clever and resourceful Rosetta (Dawn Dorsey) , seeks to derail the arranged marriage by a 5 p.m. - End the "Day" at Longwood Park series of intrigues each of which is exposed by the and enjoy refreshments weasely head servant Lasivio (Andy Campbell), who and visit with other volunteers not surprisingly, lusts after Angelina. while you turn in the gifts and pledges you received during "the Day" For tickets or further information, call the Box Office X3624 To volunteer or for additional information, please call Denise Bell, X3844

The Antics of~ Romantics " Joan Marler attended the AAFPE Southeastern April 13 - 25 Regional Conference March 25-27 in Myrtle Beach, CEIP A Theatre South Carolina. Joan spoke to the group about Tuesday-Saturday 7:30 p.m. Sunday 2:30 p.m. obtaining ABA approval.

Tom Bums, Mike Ryan, Katie Simmons and Joan Marler made up the Business Team that finished the Appalachian Trail Departmental Challenge first. GAINESVILLE COLLEGE PROFESSIONAL/SUPPORT STAFF MEETING MINUTES March 24, 1999

The professional and support staff of Gainesville College held its spring semester meeting on Wednesday, March 24, 1999 at 3:30 p.m. in the Continuing Education and Performing Arts Center, Room 1091110. Vice President Bob Howington presided.

New personnel since the last meeting were introduceq: .Sarah Booker introduced Amy Ivester who is new to the ACTT Center; Heather Howington introduced Martin Mote who also works in the ACTT center tutoring math and computer science; Jerry Spiceland introduced Jeff Bazzell and Charles Coy who work on the grounds; BrandQn Haag introduced Rick Crain who is new to the IT team but not new to the College and Major Nelson introduced Kimberly Griffm who is the new counselor in the PACE Center.

President Nesbitt directed everyone's attention to the Value Statements which had been distributed earlier and asked each person to take a couple of minutes to read them. She reviewed how the Value Statement came into being and asked if there were any questions or comments. She stated that the College values needed to be revisited once in a while, even though they may not take us in any new direction. They just needed to be reaffirmed. Sarah Booker moved that the Value Statements be accepted as written, Diane Carpenter seconded the motion and the motion was unanimously approved.

Dr. Nesbitt also said that she thought the semester is going remarkably well. She thanked all staff members for their warm welcome to each of the Vice Presidential candidates. She is looking forward to working with the new Dean, Dr. Michael Stoy, who will be coming to campus on or about July 1. From the feedback she was given, it appears that the entire campus put him as their top candidate choice.

Staff Council Chair-elect Heather Howington stated that the building representative election had been held and the winners were being notified. Once the winners were notified, there would be a general announcement. - State Staff Council Chair Cheryl Harris reported that the State Staff Council had kept a close eye on the House and Senate in regards to sick leave being incorporated into retirement and that we they passed the bill for a 1-1 sick leave use. She also said the State Staff Council was looking at child care on campus. Macon State College has a rudimentary child care system which is being studied. It was also reported that SGA President Jason Brownlow is on the Board of Regents Childcare Task Force.

Director of Human Resources Tom Millwood reiterated that the Legislature did pass the 1-1 sick leave credit and that no sick time credit will be lost. Pay raises will not be delayed. Mr. Millwood also reported that Tuition Reimbursement process has changed wherein payment up front is no longer a requirement. Participants will register at regular registration times. Professional/Support Staff Meeting Minutes March 24, 1999 Page 2

Director of Advancement Marsha Hopkins announced that April 29 is a Day for Gainesville College and encouraged everyone to give an hour or two on that day to work on the fund-drive campaign. The goal this year is $400,000. Burger King will be donating breakfast. The day's receipts and pledges will be turned in at Longwood Park at 5 p.m.

Mr. Howington talked about the FY 1999-2000 holiday schedule as listed on the Agenda and reiterated that the Christmas holiday would be from Friday, December 24, through Friday, December 31. It was suggested that the administration should look at the local school systems' . spring breaks when determining our own spring br~ak. The faculty is concerned about being so late (The Hall County School System's spring break is the first full week in April.) and students don't want the break to be any earlier than this year (March 29 - April 2)

Mr. Howington also reported that the State Budget had passed The salary increases were published at 4%. He stated that people who earn a higher degree or get a promotion will get raises for those accomplishments and the remainder will be available for merit increases. Therefore, a 3% raise should be coIisid~red "ajob well-done."

Kathy Fuller reported that she had received an email from a former student who had written wonderful things about Gainesville College and the way we treat our students. She thanked everyone for the staff's continued good will towards students.

Susan Daniel announced that pre-registration for Maymester and Summer Sessions is April 5-12.

Jerry Spiceland reported that his staff is getting geared up for spring spruce-up from the winter ravages. Ed Jones announced that the campus grounds would be closed to all personnel from Friday, April 9, at 6 p.m. until Sunday, April 11, at noon as they will be treating the Bermuda grass with chemicals.

Kathy Fuller reported that the student who was in the terrible auto accident at the Bell Tower entrance came out of it with a concussion; however, miraculously she will be fine.

Michelle S. Brown noted that Tuesday, April 13, is Honor's Day. The program will begin at 11 am in the gym and all staff are encouraged to attend this event. She also reported that there will be a very nice reception following the event.

Tina Carter reported that the custodians will be stripping and rewaxing the floors during spring break so everyone should be extremely careful when entering Academic III that week.

There being no further announcements or discussion, the meeting was adjourned at 4:05 p.m.

Respec~ly submitted ~ Qi~~sr)( STATE EMPLOYEES CREDIT UNION 130 Memorial Drive. Atlanta, Georgia 30303 • (404) 656-3748

State Employees Days OVER GEORGIA TICKETS GOOD ANYTIME IN 1999! FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (March 31, 1999) TO: State Agencies, State School Systems, Board of Regents Organizations For further information call (404) 656-3748, Toll Free: 1-800-659-7328 Graphic image files available upon request

Once again, the State Employees Credit Union negotiated a fantaStic deal for state employees at . All State Employees and families are all invited to participate in this tremendous benefit to state employees. Don't miss this opportunity to save money, and enjoy Six Flags early in the season. The regular admission price is $32.99 plus tax at the gate this year, your price for this special event is $20.00. This amounts to more than a $14 per ticket savings. Children under the age of 3 are free. Special tickets for children under 48" in height are available at the gate for a special price of $16.75 plus tax, but not thru the Credit Union. Same for Senior Citizens - over the age of 55 - $16.75 plus tax, available at the gate, but not thru the Credit Union.

Orders may be submitted anytime after you see this add. Tickets will be available April l. This sale opportunity ends on or about May 31, 1999, and these tickets can be used anytime in 1999 you wish. So hurry to save big. Six Flags h.as just announced yet another new rollercoaster, The Georgia Scorcher. The Scorcher defmes the meaning of 'thrilling entertainment.' Guests will have to put their 'Feet to the Fire' on the Scorcher because it's standing room only. Standing four abreast and strapped in sleek purple and gold bullet-nosed trains, riders climb over 10 stories ~to the unknown before plummeting almost straight down at 54 miles per hour. The experience intensifies as guests fly up and over six times on high-speed loops, spirals, camel back, corkscrew and a figure eight pulling a max of 4 Gs. , The Ride, has become a crowd favorite in the last two years. It is suspended from a monorail-type track. Another relatively new , Viper is just coiled and ready to Astrike twice@. All the favorites will still be on hand to thrill you - Ninja, The Looping Starship, Ragin' Rivers, Thunder River, Splashwater Falls, Free Fall, The Great-American Scream Machine, The Mind-Bender, The Dahlonega Mine Train, and a local favorite - The Georgia Cyclone, and more. Then, of course, you'll be entertained in the many other shows, games, and attractions you've always loved at Six Flags. Watch upcoming news releases and future issues of State Personnel News for more updates on this program. Tickets will be on sale beginning in April at all the State Employees Credit Union offices or you may order by mail. Mail orders should allow at least seven (7) calendar days for processing and return mailing. .

Send check or money order made payable to the State Employees Credit Union along with a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: State Six Flags Program State Employees Credit Union 130 Memorial Drive Atlanta, GA 30303

PLEASE COME AND JOIN IN ON THE FUN!!! Gainesville College Mini-Triathlon

Tuesday, Apri120, 1999 11:00am

200 Yard Swim (Pool) 4 ,Mile Mountain Bike (GC Trails) 1. 5 Mile Run (GC Trails)

For GC students, employees & dependents and Laker Society members only. FREE T-SHIRTS to all competitors.

AWARDS

Top Male & Female: Overall and Master's Top 3 Males & Females in following age groups: 10 & under, 11-14, 15-19,20-24,25-29,30- 34, 35-39, 40-44,45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-69, 70 & over.

For more information contact Glenn Preston 770-718-3790 . •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Entry Form

Last Name: First Name: ------Address: ------City/S tate/Zip :______Telephone: ('-____) ______Age: CirIce: Male or Female

In consideration of acceptance of this entry, I waive any and all claims for myself and my heirs against officials, volunteers and sponsors of the 1999 Mini-Triathlon for injury or illness which may result directly or indirectly from participation in the event. I further state that I am in proper condition to participate in this event.

Signature: ______-'--______----CDate______(parent or Guardian Signature if under 18) :______string injury (muscle and connec­ STRETCH NOW tive tissue tears) in football play­ ers, a group with generally low ••• OR PAY LATER · flexi bili ty, compared to the muscle tear rate in gymnasts, a high flex­ ibility group. As flexibility de­ Develop flexibility for better exercise creases, there is greater likelihood PART 1 of injury if the body is put in a position outside the normal range According to the respected Uni­ of motion (as with exercise, sport versity ofUtah' s PEAK Academy actions, even slips and falls). there are several benefits to stretch­ mg. Promote body awareness Flexibility exercises allow in­ Increase range of motion dividuals to become 'in tune' with Inactivity, aging, and even ex­ their bodies. Body awareness is ercise can result in tight muscles valuable in identifying limitations and connective tissue that results and strengths. in decreased range of motion. Many of us sit for long periods of Enhance performance time at work or at home and, there­ Performance is enhanced in a fore, have especially tight ham­ number of ways if flexibility is strings and hip flexor muscles. maintained. Muscles contract with Consequently, movement is lim­ more force at long lengths; there­ ited. Flexibility exercises can in­ fore, a long supple muscle is effec­ crease and then maintain a wide tively stronger. Fluidity of motion range of motion. is evident in individuals with HAVE YOU ever started a workout greater flexibility. Again, visual­ before you were completely Decrease muscle tension ize the movements of a gymnast warmed up and woke up to regret Stretching promotes relax­ compared to a muscle-bound body it the next day? Probably you didn't ation by bringing muscles back to builder with a limited range of spend enough time limbering up normal resting lengths. Muscle motion. The gymnast is able to and becoming flexible. tension that results in headaches, perform complex actions with ease 'stiff neck,' and general stiffness because of greater flexibility. Why flexibility pays off can be reduced and/or eliminated Flexibility is the ability to through regular flexibility exer­ It feels great extend each joint through its nor­ cises. Stretching feels good! Many mal range of motion. It is one of people rely on flexibility exercises the most basic principles of physi­ Prevent injury for reducing muscle tension, stress cal fitness and should be included Muscle and connective tissue relief and even meditation. When in any exercise program. There are injuries are commonly due to lim­ performed properly, stretching re­ many benefits associated with a ited joint mobility. For example, sults in a feeling of well-being and well-designed flexibility program. consider the high incidence ofham- relaxation. © COURIER COMMUNICATIONS CLASS DESCRIPTIONS BODY BLAST Great class for all fitness levels. A "BODY BLASTING" head to toe workout using weights, bands, and your own muscles as resistance. CARDIO KICKBOXING The newest cutting edge class. A total cross conditioning workout utilizing jump ropes, punching, coordinated with kicking, and numerous other athletic moves and drills . The class is awesome for conditioning the UPPER and LOWER body. Experience the ultimate knockout of a workout!! 20/20/20 A class where you can get the best of three types of a workout. (Cardio Kickboxing, HilLo, Step, Slide, Sculpting. STEP IT Nonstop total bo~y workout using high intensity effort intervals followed by less intense recovery intervals POWER or CHALLENGE STEP The with muscle! This class . ,power moves, for a high

females. Perfect for all levels YOGAI FLEXIBLE STRENGTH designed to develop strength and balance the stress in our day to day Ives . LITE STEP A back to basics class for beginners or anyone who needs a review. Teaches basic moves. Less complicated choreography. Great for anyone! ··*NEW* FINAL CUTS Full body movements, designed for muscular efficiency and overload. These classes are formulated to create movement patterns that are all inclusive; providing structural integrity, improved lean-to-fat ratio, muscle definition, an inhanced performance in all daily activities! *NEW* S W A T (Step With Atheletic Training) Combines interval step techniques with athletic strengthening and skill work. Speed, agility, balance, coordination, strength, power and determination are necessary. Get ready to bring out the Athlete that you never knew you were!! Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Frl Sat April 1999 I EREE *FREE "DAILY CUSSES -I 1 1 21 3 ABE IQ 'L~SSES wAIEB ~QTTl.E,s S!.l~J:ECT "SEE REVERSE IQ Al.l. FIRSI CHANGE (WIl.l. BE I CLOSED CLOSED CLOSED SIDE FOR lIME ~OSTED I~ AEROBIC CLASS PARTICIPANTS FITNESS CENTER) DESCRIPTIONS 41 5 6 Z 8 9 10 hJQ !.;.QQ 11:00 12:00 CLOSED ~ CARDIO KICKBOXING CLASSES CLASSES 20/20/20 S .W.A.T 1:00- 1:30 hJQ AUDREY ANGIE YOGA/fLEXIBLE CLASSES STRENGTH ANGIE 11 1 12 13 H 15 16 lZ hJQ !l.:..QQ lliQQ !l.:..QQ hJQ CLOSED CLASSES 'tl6LLEhl2E SIE~ '6BDIQ KI~BQXIh12 C6BDIO KI~BQXIhlG 6!.!DBEY 6hI2IE ~ CLASSES

181 12 ZO 21 22 23 ~ 1!!..QQ !.;.QQ 1!!..QQ 1..;.QQ ~ .C6RDIO KI,KBO>(ING hJQ CLOSED CLASSES CHALLENGE 20/20/20 S.W.~.I CLASSES S.I.Ee AUDREY ANGIE ~ ~~(2IE 251 26 2Z 28 22 30 hJQ ll.!OO U100 lliQQ 12 :30-1:00 '6RDIO KI~BQXIhlG CLOSED CLASSES ~t:~ML ,UTS BODY eL~SI YOf£R~.fE ANGIE AUDREY ~ !!..QQ '~DlQ JQ;~BOXI~ ~