Finals are just around the corner...

Once again it is finals week at WSU. Students are beginning to study and cram for their exams. For some studying is easy, but for others studying can be a struggle. As I was browsing the internet I came across some effective study tips and ideas to help everyone during this crucial time of year. Here is what I came up with:

1. Find a place where you won't be interrupted or distracted. This could vary from the library, Starbucks, Daily Grind or a quiet corner in your house.

2. Take a study break. Don't sit for hours studying because your brain needs a break from cramming.

3. Start early. Don't study the day before the test because studying can become frustrating and most students will give up easily.

4. Make sure you ask your professor questions. Don't be afraid if you do not understand something. However, make sure you get all your questions answered early. Otherwise, you might not be as prepared for the exam.

5. EAT! Your body needs food to function. I would suggest preparing study snacks, such as apples, pretzels or even smart pop. Choose something healthy...so you feel good while studying!

* Hope these easy tips will help and everyone has a successful finals week!

Moving your 'stuff ' anytime soon?!

As the school year comes to an end most students are moving out of their living conditions. For some it might be going back home for good or for others into a different apartment complex. Either way students need a way to move all their belongings from place to place. Personally, this situation applies to me right now because I have to pack up my whole apartment next week and move into a different apartment. Therefore, I have created a list of the best and cheapest ways to move everything. I called around to different places to find the best ways to go about this situation. Here are two of the ideas that I came up with:

> U-haul: is a company that has over 15,00o locations all around the nation. This is extremely convenient because Pullman has two locations with trucks and vans that have various sizes to accommodate you. All information you need will be available at http://www.uhaul.com/

> Coug Closet is also another company that provides onsite storage unit space. For some people all they need is to put their stuff in storage for just the summer months and prefer not to haul their stuff back and forth to wherever they are from. Check out their website for more details: http://www.cougarcloset.com/

*If you want to go even cheaper, I would suggest in finding friends to split a truck or storage unit with you!

Where's everyone goin'?

Spokane SkyRide

Created by: Emma Cloninger, Andrea Agostinacci, and Courtney Moorhead

Style and Substance: Imperial Motion Release Party

Imperial Motion is coming to Pullman to promote their new spring 2010 collection. They will be at Stubblefields tonight, April 23, to debut their new line which includes denim, hats, tees, and board shorts. There will be drink special giveaways and wake and skate videos featuring their sponsored riders.

They will be featuring guest Mustacheo, who will be at Stubblefields with the Imperial Team, so stop by and get a picture with him. For more information check out the Imperial Motion website or Stubblefields website.

Summer Jam 2010

Summer Jam is quickly approaching once again. This summer on Friday June 18th, Kube 93 is hosting the infamous Summer Jam concert in Auburn Washington. The lineup of artists is officially posted and some of the biggest names will be attending. The lineup includes Trey Songz, Fabolous, Rick Ross, Jason Derulo, Game, and Drake who will be headlining the concert.

“A little over a year after the release of So Far Gone, Drake is currently prepping the release of Thank Me Later, his highly anticipated first solo album. And if the lead single "Over" is any indication of what we can expect, Thank Me Later is sure to be an instant classic. Drake is in high demand and is one of the busiest artists in the industry, and we are very pleased to have Drake performing live at Summer Jam 2010,” according to Kube 93.



Tickets go on sale April 24th at 10 a.m. at Ticketmaster.com. The first 500 general admission tickets will be sold online for only $9.33. For those who are 21 and older be sure to stop by the beer garden for beer and wine beverages. Take a look at the list below for what to bring and what to leave at home!

What to Bring:

• Backpacks & bags (subject to search)

• Binoculars

• Blankets

• Cameras (non-professional-no detachable lenses)

• Food and Snacks (no hard-sided coolers or picnic baskets)

• One 20 ounce or smaller factory sealed (UN-OPENED) bottle of water per person (no sodas or energy drinks)

• Umbrellas (tote size)

What to leave at home:

• Lawn chairs

• Audio & video

• Hard-sided coolers or picnic baskets

• Opened bottles of water

• Sodas or energy drinks

Dogwood Festival

If you are looking for something different to do over the weekends, like I’m sure many of us are, there is a great festival going on in a nearby city!

The Dogwood Festival is an annual festival put on in Lewiston, Idaho, which is less than an hour away. From April 1st through April 30th, people of all ages can enjoy the array of activities put on at Dogwood. From sports to music, arts to food, and an amazing amount of recreation, the Doogwood Festival is a great way to spend your weekend time in the outdoors, all while participating and experiencing events that don’t occur every day.

Last year nearly 13,000 people enjoyed the event, and this year is sure to be just as great of a success. For more information, such as the Dogwood event calendar and pricing, visit their homepage. Don’t miss out on this amazing, spring time opportunity!

The Pack in the Palouse

Looking for something fun to do over the weekend? I don’t know about you, but I find myself getting tired of the same old weekend routine as it becomes so late in the year. So, lucky for us, we have a great opportunity coming to Pullman on Saturday that is sure to switch up our regular nighttime routine.

On Saturday, April 24th, rap group “The Pack” will be performing a special concert at Stubblefields! It is very unusual for us to get such popular groups to travel out to our little town, so I suggest you take advantage of this opportunity and go see what I’m sure will be a great show!

Although Stubblefields is usually a 21+ building, Pullman has made the concert more available to its students and will make this special event 18+, with a bar in the basement available for those of age.

For more information or ticket sales visit this link.

Things to do before I leave college...

I'm outta here in three short weeks, now. The thought has both inspired me to push through, and has also haunted me with a fresh glimpse of reality. To ease the transition to life-without-school, of which only five of my 22 years have seen, I've compiled a small list of things I probably should have done, but never did as a Coug in hopes that I finally can complete my college experience.

-Eat at Basilio's
-Gamble at Zeppos (I'm less concerned about completing this one)
-Eat at Tam's
-Ride my bicycle to Moscow
-Go through every academic building on campus
-View space-type objects at the observatory
-Revisit Stimson Hall, of which I hail from
-Go to all the parks in Pullman
-Stop by the Moscow Farmer's Market
-Eat at enough free BBQs to sustain me for a week. I think I'll meet new people this way, too... it's not always about food with me.

There are probably a few others, but my list can only be so big before it's no longer feasible. Hopefully this has inspired some consideration about finishing it out the right way for anyone at the cusp of a new chapter, like me.

Manding Jata :: The Lion of Mali

Wow... Yesterday I finally checked off a big one on my list of things I needed to do before I leave WSU. That's right, watching a West African dance and music epic played out in Beasely Coliseum, and gratis at that. I think I lucked out. Here's a youtube video of Manding Jata -

Moscow Hempfest April 17, 2010

This weekend in Moscow, Idaho is the 14th annual Hemp Festival. If you are not familiar with this festival, it is located in downtown Moscow at the East City Park. The festival includes music, vendors, food, hemp education and tons of fun. This festival should be a good time this year, due to the fantastic weather that is in-store. If you are interested in more details, you can visit the myspace page.

BANDS PLAYING AT HEMPFEST:
10:00am Maland Duo (local)
10:45am John Treasure Band (local)
12:00noon Grateful Live (local tribute band)
1:00pm Representative Tom Trail speaks
1:15pm Bunny Almon (local)
1:30pm Corn Mash (local)
2:45pm Simon Tucker Band (Lewiston)
4:15pm Eat Mary (local)
5:00pm Fiddlin Al and Friends (local)
6:15pm Groove Patrol (Spokane)
8:00pm Bio-Luminesce (Sandpoint)

*Note that the picture is from a couple years ago, but the date is April 17, 2010! Still the poster displays the focus of the festival.

North America's deepest river gorge and Waffles?!?

All semester I have focused mainly on local activities. However, this week I wanted to focus on the town of Lewiston, Idaho. Personally, when I think of Lewiston I imagine the location being very far away. However, I was pleasantly surprised, as it was only a nice 45 minute drive.

Along the way you can sit back and relax, as you gaze over the beautiful rolling hills of wheat fields. In my opinion, when I take drives I like be in wide open areas, as it gives you a small dose of serenity from your hectic everyday life.

When you start to approach Lewiston, you have to make two choices: the first being, do you want to look at some of the deepest canyons in North America OR do you want to dine at a local hot spot? Well…either way I am going to share about two attractions that are extremely popular in Lewiston.

The first is Hells Canyon, North America's deepest river gorge, “encompasses a vast and remote region with dramatic changes in elevation, terrain, climate and vegetation”. This river was carved out by the Snake River and is almost 8,000 feet below Idaho’s Seven Devils Mountains. No roads go across this spectacular canyon; therefore it leaves room for many adventures. Located at Hells Canyon National Recreational Area, you can take pleasure in a variety of activities varying from, hiking, horsing riding, boating, fishing to even mountain biking. However, Hells Canyon is not just about physical activities, because you if you want to just unwind, you can enjoy a picnic with a backdrop that I am sure you will never forget!

Lastly, if you’re looking for a great and unique restaurant to Lewiston, check out Waffles N’ More. This small town restaurant has a big town taste. Foods vary from homemade hot waffles, omelets, hash browns to deli style sandwiches, soups and salads. According to Urbanspoon.com, it has “great service, great food, great people".

In all, if you’re looking for some adventure and physical activities or just an upbeat place to dine….I highly suggest Lewiston, Idaho for a nice get away and an all around good time.

Silverwood Theme Park

There are not quite enough words to describe how fun, exhilarating and thrilling Silverwood Theme Park is. With over 65 rides, several shows and attractions, water slides, water pools, a steam engine train, magic shows, etc., one cannot help to love this theme park. If you are someone who lives for an adrenaline rush, head to Silverwood. Located in Idaho, is it just a little over 2 hours from Pullman.

One of the most recent editions to Silverwood Theme Park is the Panic Plunge which is a tower ride that rises and then plunges at a speed close to 50 MPH. Another recent edition is the Aftershock which boasts a 177 foot drop at 65 mph into 3 inversions, going once forward and then backward!

Boulder Beach Water Park is another fun and exciting part of Silverwood. It includes several waterslides, two wave pools, and a rafting ride among several other activities. Boulder Beach is so big, it is like visiting a theme park inside a theme park.

Another great activity at Silverwood is the steam engine train. The train takes you on a tour around the entire park, and even provides entertainment of bandits (or at least it did when I was there last time.)

Plan a trip to Silverwood and have an adrenaline filled day! Opening May 1, Silverwood is offering several deals for discounts on admission. For more information visit the Silverwood Website!

Sella's Calzone &Pizza

I think it’s safe to say I have never met anyone who doesn’t enjoy a good slice of pizza every now and then. I don’t know how I let it slip my mind, but until last weekend, I had almost completely forgotten about one of my favorite pizza restraints ever, and it’s here in Pullman! Sellas!

Sella’s Calzone and Pizza is an amazing, relaxing pizza restaurant located on East Main Street. This laidback restaurant really makes you feel at home, and serves what I’d argue to be the best pizza in town.

If you find yourself craving a good slice of pizza, or even a salad, I strongly suggest you go check this place out! It is sure to impress. For more information such as their menu, visit this link. Enjoy!

Rico's Pub

As the end of the school year approaches, I began to ask myself what kinds of things there are to do here in Pullman that I have yet to try. This is when my friend and I decided to get off of campus, and the area I find myself spending all my time, and venture into town.

Considering downtown Pullman is the size of many people’s neighborhoods at home, it is hard not to notice all of the places it has to offer. I, for one, am guilty of just driving by stores and restaurants without actually checking them out for myself. Over my past three years here, I have found myself driving by Rico’s Pub multiple times a week, but never inquiring what it was all about. In order to figure it out, my friend and I decided we would check the scene for ourselves.

To my surprise, Rico’s Pub was amazing! The atmosphere was much different from the regular bar scene I have found in Pullman, and offered a wide selection of drinks and entertainment. Pool tables, dart boards, and around the clock meals are available and impressive! They also have live bands playing there, which is a great change from the usual repetitive music you hear at most bars. The staff, food, and music were all exceptional. It’s a shame I discovered this place for myself so late into the year, but I will defiantly be back again.

ArtFest 2010

As a child, I remember looking forward to one specific event every summer: ArtFest! ArtFest is one of the most attended, respected and dynamic art fairs in the Pacific Northwest. This summer will mark the 25th year of ArtFest and this event will be held for three days starting June 4th in Spokane, Wa. Guests can enjoy incredible art objects, crafts, bands, a beer garden, great food and the popular Make-It-Art children’s hands-on art making area. Some of the bands this year include: Becki Sue and her Big Rockin' Daddies and Milonga. Over 125 fine artists and craftspeople will be attending ArtFest and displaying their work. Guests can also attend the Mayoral Proclamation on Friday evening.

ArtFest has grown to be a favorite event of locals and draws many tourists in for the fun art activities and displays. As a child, I looked forward to the Make-It-Art children’s hands-on art making area. I was able to get in front of an easel, and paint anything I liked, among with creating other arts and crafts. One year when I was 6, I acted like a miniature Pollock and dripped several colors together on the canvas. The next year when I was 7, I painted a family portrait and made a pin out of dried macaroni. These memories remind me of how much fun I had, and what a great event ArtFest is. Now that I am older, I do not participate in the Make-It-Art Children’s hands-on art making area, but I do love to look at all the different art displays, enjoy the different bands, and indulge in the wonderful food. ArtFest will be held in the Coeur’d Alene Park in Browne’s Edition, just West of downtown Spokane. For more information, access the ArtFest website

Spa Date

If your mom is not the“party animal” and you are searching for a relaxing activity, the Student Recreation Center is holding a Mom’s weekend Tea & Spa. They are only taking appointments and no walk-ins.

"This special treatment includes 30 minute massage and foot bath, followed by 30 minutes of delightful tea and desserts, all for the price of $55.00 per pair."

Call now to make your appointment today: 509-335-8732

Capture the Memories April 9th-April 11th

Mom’s weekend is an annual tradition at Washington State University. “The First Mom's Weekend was sponsored by the Women's League of the State College of Washington on May 28-29, 1927. Addie Copple, president of the Women's League, envisioned this as a way to recognize the important roles mothers had in the history of Washington State College. "If she's anybody's mother, she's everybody's guest” (wsu.edu).

Being a junior this year my mom has already seen most of the campus and a lot of what the city of Pullman has to offer. However, one thing that does not get old is taking pictures with your mom! This upcoming weekend at the Bookie there will be professional photographers available to capture the memory of this epic weekend.

* Call the Bookie to set up a photo time and also visit the WSU site to check out more events!

The Old European, A Great Restaurant to Take Mom To!

There are several activities that students can participate in and enjoy with their moms during Mom’s Weekend at WSU. Coming up this weekend, Mom’s Weekend is a time that students can celebrate their mothers and spend some quality time with them. Aside from the obvious events being hosted through university, I began to wonder what kind of things should I plan on doing with my mom when she comes to school this weekend? There are several options that children and parents can participate in together. Some prefer to party and drink, others like campus events like the Mom’s Day Brunch and others just like to spend quality time together talking, laughing and catching up.

I plan on taking my mom out to brunch on Sunday, and was pondering where I would like to take her. I thought a perfect idea would be to bring her to The Old European for a delicious breakfast or brunch. The Old European is a local restaurant with some of the best food around. With a menu full of meals like eggs benedict, omelets, Hungarian Goulash, Swedish Crepes, Dutch babies, Danish aebelskivers, and a different sandwich offered everyday of the week, who can resist the temptation? However, considering The Old European is one of the most popular restaurants in Pullman, expect a lengthy wait.

The Old European was created in order to preserve the family heritage by the Pedersen family. The mission statement of The Old European is “Gosc w Dom, Bag w Dom”. A Polish saying which means, Guest in the House, God in the House. The Old European uses original recipes which have made it across the Atlantic. All of the batters are made fresh with real products like eggs that are cracked, 100% butter and milk. They serve real potatoes, whipped cream, raspberry jam, fresh ground coffee, and they squeeze real oranges so REAL orange juice can be served.

For more information about The Old European, their menu, or family history, check out their website: http://www.oldeuropean-restaurant.com/.

Jay Leno comes to Pullman

Purchase tickets for a once-in-a-lifetime comedy event hosted by Jay Leno. Known as one of the funniest comedians in late night television, Jay Leno is coming to WSU for mom’s weekend, Saturday April 10th. Get tickets at http://beasley.wsu.edu/, and enjoy a few laughs with your mom. The event starts at 8:00 p.m. in Beasley Coliseum so don’t be late!!

Cougar Baseball With Mom!

Looking for something new and different to do during mom’s weekend? Tired of showing her Pullman or finding things to pass time during the day? Why not support your school while taking your mom to a WSU Cougar Baseball game?!

Saturday during Mom’s Weekend at 2pm the Cougar Baseball team will be playing a game against Arizona State. What better way to spend some time with your mom while also watching a great game? For more information and ticket sales, visit the team home page. Enjoy!

Show Your Mom the Town the Right Way!

Although it is my third, and final, year here at WSU, I still find myself wondering exactly what to do during the ever popular Mom’s Weekend. Being such a small town, Pullman turns into chaos with all of the extra people in town, and options for dining and entertainment seem near impossible. If you find yourself in a similar situation, and wonder what fun things you can do this upcoming weekend with your mom in town, I have a few ideas for you.

1) If you are new on campus, and your mom has had little to no time to explore the scene, defiantly make sure you take her on a campus tour. No, you don’t have to go around to all of the buildings and share boring information, but what I suggest is taking her on a walk through your daily schedule! I did this for my mom my freshman year, and she loved being able to see all of my classrooms and the buildings I am surrounded by every day.

2) Go on a walk. Pullman is a small town, with an authentic campus. Taking a stroll through Greek Row or Stadium Way is a nice way to enjoy conversation and also give your mom a look at the town you call home.

3) Travel out to Idaho and check out the Idaho Mall or downtown! We may be used to it by now, but to some people, such as our moms, it’s very fascinating that we live only minutes away from another state! After taking the short drive you can check out the mall and its shops, go to a great lunch or dinner, and even take a walk around downtown Idaho. It is a great way to pass time while also enjoying new scenery with your mother.

4) If you are looking for something fun to do in the later hours, take your mom to Stubble Fields! It may seem like a crazy idea, but you would be surprised how much your mom may enjoy being in the true college atmosphere. Plus, you will probably run into a lot of people you know and that way she can get to know some of your friends!

Of course there are many more options than just those to enjoy with your mothers, but it’s a great start to the weekend! Have a good time, be safe, and enjoy your mother’s company!

A month of tulips

I won't kid myself or anyone else. I maybe know enough about flowers to survive the most elementary conversation with a Birds & Blooms photog, but the last time I went to Mt. Vernon, it became quite clear I've got hardly a clue when it comes to ornate flora. Even putting on my best convention-face would not cover my obvious and clearly layman's perspective on botany. There's hope though. All this month (April 1 - April 30) the wandering wonderer seeking out everything tulip can check out Mt. Vernon's 27th Annual Tulip Festival. Even those not interested in flowers should be warned that the incredible amount of science and expertise put into coming up with varieties of tulips is mind-blowing and you may find yourself sold on them. If you're heading to the West-side or are already there, a trip up to Mt. Vernon might be a wise choice.

Photo: Mrs. Flinger

Out of town for Mom's Weekend? In case you're heading this way...

Mom's weekend is fast approaching here at WSU. It might be safe to say much of this weekend's activities are well advertised in the area. But what about the Coug that is out of town looking for something to do? Using this excuse paired with one of my frequent Internet perusing moods, I decided I'd check up on Walla Walla. I grew up there, so naturally I thought it might be interesting to see what's going on over there this time of year. Not more than 10 seconds deep into searching my choice favorite, vimeo.com, I ran across a small promo video for Feast Walla Walla. If anyone reading this knows Walla Walla then they know that the culinary and viticultural scenes are highly evident there. The video is slightly outdated (and by outdated I'm only referring to one year's time) but quality. If you find yourself in the city so nice they named it twice this weekend, make sure you check this out!

Feast Walla Walla 2009 from Wine and Dine Walla Walla on Vimeo.