Implementation of new 'tangible changes' begins

'Winterfest,' beginning Monday, is a student committee's first action. Free apple cider, cookies and candy canes will kick off "Winterfest" activities on Locust Walk Monday, the first project to be implemented by students on the "tangible change" committee. During next week, holiday decorations funded by the Vice Provost for University Life office will line Locust Walk. The committee will also seek to engage interested students in singing holiday carols around campus, said Samara Barend, a College sophomore and Undergraduate Assembly member who sits on the committee. The Class of 1923 ice rink will also be open to students this Sunday, offering music, a DJ and free admission to the first 100 students. All others can skate at a discount. "So far, Winterfest is going really well -- we're actually taking ideas and turning them into visible change," Barend said. "Students argue that the UA doesn't have any real power, but this will demonstrate action and our goal to bring more fun to Penn." The VPUL office, in cooperation with Dining Services, will extend hours in several dining facilities during reading days, giving students more free snack food and studying space. And Stouffer Commons will be open 24 hours next week, according to VPUL Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum. In addition to Winterfest activities, McCoullum said TVs and ResNet connections have been ordered for Houston Hall's Bowl Room and Hall of Flags to provide students with a wider range of programming on upgraded equipment. Televisions will also been installed in waiting areas at student resource centers -- like the Women's Center -- so students will be more comfortable. "The students [on the committee] have helped refine their original list of suggestions to those which will provide the most cost-effective, efficient and positive and immediate impact on the quality of life for students," McCoullum said. The committee now includes representatives from the UA, the InterFraternity Council, Connaissance and other student groups. But Barend said the committee will hold meetings in an open forum next semester to attract more students. "We're trying to bring in as large a group as possible to draw more suggestions," she said. "We want to utilize students' talents." In addition to other Winterfest activities, the tangible change committee has worked with organizers of "Steppin' Out Nite," who will give out more cider and cookies at seven different locations around campus next Wednesday. UA Chairperson and College junior Tal Golomb said he hopes the Winterfest activities will raise spirits during the holiday season. "I think these little changes will be a nice way to brighten up students during finals," he said. McCoullum said the Residential Advisory Board will also work on pilot locations for residential fitness centers to be in place no later than fall 1997.

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