• Director's Message
• A Word from Peter
• Announcement
• Tutoring Column
• Congratulations
• Important Reminder
• Keys for Success
• Happy Birthdays
• Important Dates

On one of our recent Cultural Enrichment Events, a large group of us had the profound pleasure of spending the evening with the Delaney Sisters, Bessie and Sadie, two African American women who taught us what it was like growing up as black women during the 1900?s. I find myself still thinking of Bessie and Sadie. Actually, I find myself thinking of Bessie and Sadie every day. I can not recall when I have been more moved by a story. Was it the triumph they were able to create for themselves in the face of so many difficult challenges that brings my thoughts back to them? Was it their fortitude, their wisdom or possibly their ability to maintain a deep appreciation/connection for those around them; even those who brought harm their way--that brings my thoughts back to them? I am not sure. But what is true for me is my utmost respect for them. They are icons. . . constant reminders for all of us that we can and will endure! What appears to be insurmountable today turns into small hurdles tomorrow. What challenges us today allows us to grow tomorrow. Like Bessie and Sadie, we all have struggles, our own internal and external battles. Like Bessie and Sadie, we are able to control our emotions, our thoughts and our dreams . . . but unfortunately not able to control the perceptions, thoughts and actions of others which are hurtful and harmful. However, unlike Bessie and Sadie, we have strong SSS support systems for each other during our days of battle and words of encouragement during our days of growth. Unlike Bessie and Sadie, you will never have to drink from the "other fountain" or ride in the "back of the bus" because our SSS family will invite you to drink with us and sit by us. We are successful only if you are successful. Bessie and Sadie have re-taught me many lessons. The most important one, for me, is that we will all be somewhere tomorrow. But, if we do it together, our journey will take us farther and will be that much more enjoyable. We are here for you! Like Bessie and Sadie, you, too, will create (not experience) but create, your futures; and, you will do so with our support.
Sincerely, Cheryl

A Word from Peter: "What's Really Imortant?"

When you remind yourself what's really important it's easier to be in less of a hurry and being right loses its appeal. But when we don't remind ourselves what's really important we can quickly lose sight of priorities. Take a minute to check in right now. Look at the list below. For each item first write down something that is not important and gets more attention than it should. Then write down something that is important and deserves more attention. It's good to take a few seconds each morning to ask yourself:
What's really important?

	Poor priority	Important
Best friend	_____	_____
Spouse	_____	_____
Child(ren)	_____	_____
Boss	_____	_____
Colleague	_____	_____
Work	_____	_____
Home	_____	_____
Parent	_____	_____
Sibling	_____	_____
Personal appearance	_____	_____
Chocolate	_____	_____
Diet	_____	_____
Exercise	_____	_____
Recreation	_____	_____
Holidays	_____	_____

(This article is lifted from sect. 94 of The Don't Sweat the Small Stuff Workbook by R. Carlson)

Announcement

FREE Kickboxing-Aerobics Class

Come join in the fun! Do something for you!
Work out--get in shape--stay in shape!
WHEN: Monday & Wednesday from 4-5 pm.
WHERE: In the SCC gym located on the 2nd floor of Bradford Hall (formerly the Services Bldg)

Tutoring Makes A Difference

• Tutoring is available in all subject areas.
  
• The process is easy and it's FREE!
  
• To sign up for a tutor, see Marti Hunter Oaks Hall, Rm 114.
• Tutoring sessions are located at the Learning Assistance Center (LAC) located in Oaks Hall, Room 101.
  
• Last day to apply for a tutor: April 12
• Tutoring is also available in Macon County.
  
• For more information, call Marti at (800) 447-4091, ext. 420

The Learning Assistance Center and Student Support Services presents:
2001 Teaching & Learning Workshops

	March 1, 12:00 - 12:45 pm Study and Test Taking Skills Presenter: Barb Putman . March 7, 12:00 - 1:00 pm Communication Skills Presenters: Tonya Basse', Cheryl Contino-Conner . March 21, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Text Anxiety Presenters: Peter Buck, Marti Hunter . March 29, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. Presenting with PowerPoint . April 10, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. The 1, 2, 3's of Graphing Calculators .

Important Reminder:
Financial Aid Applications

It is time to fill out your financial aid application (or renewal) for the 2001-2002 school year. You can pick up a FREE application for student aid (FAFSA) at SCC's Financial Aid office or the SSS office beginning the last week of January. Don't forget you can now file your FAFSA on the WEB.

Word of the Month
fastidious: adj. 1. Possessing or displaying meticulous attention to detail. 2. Difficult to please; exacting. 3. Excessively scrupulous or sensitive, esp. in matters of taste or propriety.