Woodlands of Statesboro : Blog

Decorating Tips for Woodlands Residents

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

College Prep: Dorm Design 101 Experts Suggest This Year's Must-Have Items NEW YORK, July 7 /PRNewswire/ -- MS -- As fall draws near, the millions of students (and their parents) that are headed off to college will begin to prepare for this exciting but challenging time of life. With the abundance of dorm room gear available for dorm dwellers, Bed Bath & Beyond recommends a few key items that are must-haves for comfort and decor. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090707/NYFNSU01 ) "For years, Bed Bath & Beyond has been helping students and parents save time and money on this journey," commented Bari Fagin of Bed Bath & Beyond. "Check with your college or university before you shop to learn the specific rules of your on-campus housing. Then, use our checklist to identify what you need to buy and what you can take from home. Save money by dividing the list with your roommate, this way you avoid buying duplicate items." Fagin highlights some of this year's must-have items for dorm dwellers: Make a statement. Since the bed is typically the largest item in the room, it typically sets the decor tone. Select a bedding pattern that reflects your personality. This year Nautica(R) offers several patterns in both comforters and duvet covers. Grover Beach is a great set for guys, in masculine grey and black it has a modern geometric appeal. For a fun, feminine look, go with the bright and bold plaid of "Torrey Beach." Good Night, Sleep Tight. If you're headed for on-campus housing, you're probably not destined for a new mattress. Convert any mattress to comfy cozy by starting with a mattress protector, which acts as a barrier between you and the mattress, and then add a mattress topper like a fiberbed for additional comfort. Storage Solutions. Tuition may have increased over time, but the size of the average dorm room has not. Choose a double hang closet rod to double the amount of usable closet space and use bed lifts and underbed storage bags to maximize every nook and cranny of your room. Wake Up Call. Finally something that actually listens... and responds! The Moshi(R) Interactive Voice Response Alarm Clock is voice or touch activated. The clock responds to voice commands such as "Time," "Temperature," "Alarm" and so much more. Now there are no excuses for being late to class. Quick Study. There's no reason you can't be comfortable while getting work done. The My Place(TM) Bed Desk will help you knock out that term paper from the couch, bed or even your favorite chair. Folds down for storage and comes with an LED light and built in mouse pad. All Charged Up. With all of the wireless gadgets students carry these days, cell phones, PDA's and MP3 players, a great organizational accessory is a charging station. This unique item keeps all of your wireless wonders together and conveniently charges them while keeping the cords out of sight. With the wide array of products student have to select from, it's easy to transform any dorm room from drab to fab. Whether shopping in stores nationwide or online at bedbathandbeyond.com, let Bed Bath & Beyond be your one-stop-shop for all your back to college needs. Website: http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com

GSU President Stepping Down

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The Woodlands of Statesboro is sad to see President Bruce Grube leave Georgia Southern, but happy for all the achievements that he has accomplished at GSU and in Statesboro. Please see the article below. h4. Georgia Southern University President Bruce Grube Stepping Down STATESBORO, Ga. – Nov. 24, 2008 – Bruce Grube has announced that he is stepping down as President of Georgia Southern University effective June 30, 2009. On July 1, 2009, Grube will take one year of educational leave to prepare to return to the classroom as a professor of Political Science for the 2010-2011 academic year at Georgia Southern University. In addition to preparing to return to the classroom, Grube will also serve as a consultant and mentor with the University System of Georgia where he will work with new and newer presidents within the 35-school state system. The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia will begin a national search to replace Grube. Grube began his tenure as the 11th President of Georgia Southern University July 1, 1999. During his presidency, Georgia Southern University has undergone the greatest increase in academic quality, and the greatest expansion of physical facilities than during any other comparable period in the history of the institution. “It has certainly been an honor beyond words for my wife Kathryn and me to have served at Georgia Southern University,” Grube said. Grube recently informed the University System of Georgia of his plans to step down as president next year, providing the University time to complete a search and transition to a new president. “While I have enjoyed serving as President, I am excited to begin this next chapter in my life. Kathryn and I are looking forward to spending more time with friends and family.” Timing played a role in his decision. “It is the right time for the University. The University’s strategic plan has been developed and put into action, numerous construction projects are underway and a new president will have the opportunity to come in and not only build upon what the University has already accomplished, but take Georgia Southern to new a level. An experienced leadership team is in place and we have an outstanding base of alumni, friends and supporters not only at the institution, but in the community, the state of Georgia and throughout the country.” University System of Georgia executive vice chancellor and chief academic officer Susan Herbst applauded Grube’s service, “During Dr. Grube’s tenure, Georgia Southern University has made tremendous progress in nearly all areas. He has expanded university facilities, beautified the campus, introduced the most sophisticated practices in higher education, and inspired his faculty, staff and students. Most important has been his keen and unyielding focus on academic excellence and achievement.” President Grube is a bold leader and a true intellectual; he has made Georgia Southern University one of the real success stories in academe today. We will miss him immensely. Dr. Grube has served as a visionary leader, not only for Georgia Southern, but the University System as well. His work has benefited and will continue to propel the entire system forward.” Academic Success Grube’s tenure has been marked by records in enrollment, academic quality, fundraising and retention. He has increased student enrollment by more than 3,200 full-time students during the past 10 years and the composite SAT score for incoming freshman has risen 124 points with the Fall 2008 class scoring a record 1111. In addition, the University has increased its student retention rate, a key measure of academic and University quality, from 69 percent to a record 81 percent this past fall. Under Grube’s leadership, Georgia Southern University was designated a Carnegie Doctoral/Research University and the institution has been featured in U.S. News &World Report’s Best Colleges guide. In addition, the institution was recently named one of the Top 100 Best Values by Kiplinger. While at Georgia Southern, Grube also oversaw the introduction of new ways to learn. The first Internet-based courses were introduced in 1999 and the University now offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees online via Georgia Southern University Online. A student may now also earn a full engineering degree while never leaving Georgia Southern University’s campus through a unique relationship with the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech), while previously their only option was to take two years here before transferring to another institution. The Honors endowment has attracted significant support from donors, and the rapid growth of qualified applicants has ensured its success. Perhaps one of the most visible additions has been the creation of two new colleges: the College of Information Technology, the only one of its kind in the Southeast, and the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health. Both have greatly expanded the University’s ability to offer unique and innovative programs that are not only in high demand, but result in the continued improvement in the quality of life in the Southeast. Funding for the Future Another remarkable accomplishment is the doubling of the amount of scholarships funded through the Georgia Southern Foundation, Inc. In 1999, scholarships totaled $644,000. In 2007, the Foundation distributed $1.3 million to deserving scholars. Georgia Southern University’s Campaign for National Distinction, between 2001 and 2006, set a new standard for private support, more than tripling the highest amount ever raised in a capital campaign collecting $53.1 million. In addition, thanks to private sector support, the University Foundation’s permanent endowment has grown from just more than $21 million in 2000 to nearly $40 million today. Finally, during the past 10 years, Georgia Southern has raised more $1 million each year through the A Day for Southern campaign. Building for Growth During the past decade, more than one billion dollars in capital has been invested in the growing campus. In fact, Georgia Southern has enjoyed a boom in new construction and building re-use since 1999. The College of Education building opened in 2000 and was followed in rapid succession by other academic and support buildings. Public service was given a huge boost when the expanded Nesmith-Lane building and its 825-seat Performing Arts Center opened in 2002. One of the most visible additions to campus is the Zach S. Henderson Library. Serving as the center of campus, the University began a massive expansion of the facility and has since renovated the original structure. When complete, it will be among the finest university libraries in the Southeast. Other major building projects completed during Grube’s tenure have included the College of Information Technology, building, the Nursing/Chemistry building, the Center for Art & Theatre, the Soccer and Track facility, the Gene Bishop building and the Bennett-Ramsey Golf Center. Grube has also led projects to expand on-campus living. Residence halls like Southern Courtyard, Southern Pines and Eagle Village have set new standards for student housing. An even higher benchmark will soon be raised when the 1,001-bed Centennial Place is complete. It will feature recreational spaces and even retail shops on the ground floor. On the Field Another aspect of Georgia Southern’s success in the past 10 years is the excitement and institutional loyalty of students, faculty, staff and alumni brought about by athletics. Since 1999, Georgia Southern has enjoyed great athletic successes by both teams and individuals. Some of the accomplishments include two NCAA championships in football, two Walter Payton award winners, multiple NCAA tournament and playoff appearances, Southern Conference championships and a cheerleading national championship. More recently, Grube launched a study to research the feasibility of moving its football program to the Football Bowl Subdivision. While President, Grube has served as Chair of the Council of Presidents of the Southern Conference and as Vice Chair of the Council of Presidents of the North Central Conference. He is currently a member of the NCAA Executive Committee and Division I Board of Directors. He also serves as Chair of the NCAA Division I Presidential Advisory Group. “As I begin this next phase of my life, I will never forget the people or the students of Georgia Southern University. It has been an honor,” said Grube. Georgia Southern University, a Carnegie Doctoral/Research University, offers more than 110 degree programs serving nearly 18,000 students. Through eight colleges, the University offers bachelors, masters, and doctoral degree programs built on more than a century of academic achievement. The University, one of Georgia’s largest, is a top choice of Georgia’s HOPE scholars and is recognized for its student-centered approach to education.

Top 10 Web Tools For College Students

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

With classes starting, Woodlands residents can use this helpful link and article to help with studying and other school-related issues. h4. Top 10 Web Tools For College Students See full article: http://www.educatednation.com/2006/08/16/tools-for-students/ 1) *Writely* - The “Web word processor.” Allows you to save your work and documents on the Web, and access them from anywhere. 2) *Soundslides* - Storytelling management made easy. Allows you to easily merge sound and audio to create and audio slideshow presentations. Requires a small registration fee. 3) *Bluedot.Us* - A great social bookmarking/networking service. With the click of a button, you can “Dot” a Web site / page that you find interesting and instantly share it with all of your friends. Perfect for groups of students who have similar interests - it’s an easy way to share information. 4) *eFax* - Need to receive a fax? Do it for free over e-mail! eFax will hook you up with a phone number that you can give to people…your faxes will show up in your inbox. 5) *PDF Online* - Create PDFs for free. I’ve used this on numerous occasions in conjunctions w/ e-fax. It’s great when you don’t have a scanner handy. Just e-fax yourself the document and then convert it into a pdf. 6) *Google Calendar* - Add events and activities to this simple and easy to use calendar. You can also share your calendar with other people, have multiple calendars, and have events e-mailed to you or sent to your cell phone. 7) *Google Spreadsheets* - I’ve only just started using this, but it seems like a great way to create and save spreadsheets online. 8) *Bloglines* - A way to search for and subscribe to news feeds and blogs. Not so new anymore, but I use it every day. 9) *Technorati* - They claim to track 51.3 million blogs. You can search for pretty much any type of blog you are looking for. However, I have heard there are other (perhaps better) options to Technorati these days. 10) *mynoteIT* - mynoteIT is a free service built for students to help keep school information organized and have it easily accessable whenever, wherever.

College Presidents Want to Lower Drinking Age

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Woodlands is known for being a fun and lively student community, but we also want to remind our residents to drink responsibly (and legally). Please read below for the Fox News article: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,405766,00.html h4. College Presidents Seek Lower Drinking Age Monday, August 18, 2008 College presidents from about 100 of the nation’s best-known universities, including Duke, Dartmouth and Ohio State, are calling on lawmakers to consider lowering the drinking age from 21 to 18, saying current laws actually encourage dangerous binge drinking on campus. The movement called the Amethyst Initiative began quietly recruiting presidents more than a year ago to provoke national debate about the drinking age. “This is a law that is routinely evaded,” said John McCardell, former president of Middlebury College in Vermont who started the organization. “It is a law that the people at whom it is directed believe is unjust and unfair and discriminatory.” Other prominent schools in the group include Syracuse, Tufts, Colgate, Kenyon and Morehouse. But even before the presidents begin the public phase of their efforts, which may include publishing newspaper ads in the coming weeks, they are already facing sharp criticism. Mothers Against Drunk Driving says lowering the drinking age would lead to more fatal car crashes. It accuses the presidents of misrepresenting science and looking for an easy way out of an inconvenient problem. MADD officials are even urging parents to think carefully about the safety of colleges whose presidents have signed on. “It’s very clear the 21-year-old drinking age will not be enforced at those campuses,” said Laura Dean-Mooney, national president of MADD. Both sides agree alcohol abuse by college students is a huge problem. Research has found more than 40 percent of college students reported at least one symptom of alcohol abuse or dependance. One study has estimated more than 500,000 full-time students at four-year colleges suffer injuries each year related in some way to drinking, and about 1,700 die in such accidents. A recent Associated Press analysis of federal records found that 157 college-age people, 18 to 23, drank themselves to death from 1999 through 2005. Moana Jagasia, a Duke University sophomore from Singapore, where the drinking age is lower, said reducing the age in the U.S. could be helpful. “There isn’t that much difference in maturity between 21 and 18,” she said. “If the age is younger, you’re getting exposed to it at a younger age, and you don’t freak out when you get to campus.” McCardell’s group takes its name from ancient Greece, where the purple gemstone amethyst was widely believed to ward off drunkenness if used in drinking vessels and jewelry. He said college students will drink no matter what, but do so more dangerously when it’s illegal. The statement the presidents have signed avoids calling explicitly for a younger drinking age. Rather, it seeks “an informed and dispassionate debate” over the issue and the federal highway law that made 21 the de facto national drinking age by denying money to any state that bucks the trend. But the statement makes clear the signers think the current law isn’t working, citing a “culture of dangerous, clandestine binge-drinking,” and noting that while adults under 21 can vote and enlist in the military, they “are told they are not mature enough to have a beer.” Furthermore, “by choosing to use fake IDs, students make ethical compromises that erode respect for the law.” “I’m not sure where the dialogue will lead, but it’s an important topic to American families and it deserves a straightforward dialogue,” said William Trout, president of Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn., who has signed the statement. But some other college administrators sharply disagree that lowering the drinking age would help. University of Miami President Donna Shalala, who served as secretary of health and human services under President Clinton, declined to sign. “I remember college campuses when we had 18-year-old drinking ages, and I honestly believe we’ve made some progress,” Shalala said in a telephone interview. “To just shift it back down to the high schools makes no sense at all.” McCardell claims that his experiences as a president and a parent, as well as a historian studying Prohibition, have persuaded him the drinking age isn’t working. But critics say McCardell has badly misrepresented the research by suggesting that the decision to raise the drinking age from 18 to 21 may not have saved lives. In fact, MADD CEO Chuck Hurley said, nearly all peer-reviewed studies looking at the change showed raising the drinking age reduced drunk-driving deaths. A survey of research from the U.S. and other countries by the Centers for Disease Control and others reached the same conclusion. McCardell cites the work of Alexander Wagenaar, a University of Florida epidemiologist and expert on how changes in the drinking age affect safety. But Wagenaar himself sides with MADD in the debate. The college presidents “see a problem of drinking on college campuses, and they don’t want to deal with it,” Wagenaar said in a telephone interview. “It’s really unfortunate, but the science is very clear.” Another scholar who has extensively researched college binge-drinking also criticized the presidents’ initiative. “I understand why colleges are doing it, because it splits their students, and they like to treat them all alike rather than having to card some of them. It’s a nuisance to them,” said Henry Wechsler of the Harvard School of Public Health. But, “I wish these college presidents sat around and tried to work out ways to deal with the problem on their campus rather than try to eliminate the problem by defining it out of existence,” he said. Duke faced accusations of ignoring the heavy drinking that formed the backdrop of 2006 rape allegations against three lacrosse players. The rape allegations proved to be a hoax, but the alcohol-fueled party was never disputed. Duke senior Wey Ruepten said university officials should accept the reality that students are going to drink and give them the responsibility that comes with alcohol. “If you treat students like children, they’re going to act like children,” he said. Duke President Richard Brodhead declined an interview request. But he wrote in a statement on the Amethyst Initiative’s Web site that the 21-year-old drinking age “pushes drinking into hiding, heightening its risks.” It also prevents school officials “from addressing drinking with students as an issue of responsible choice.” Hurley, of MADD, has a different take on the presidents. “They’re waving the white flag,” he said.

Move-In Updates

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

We hope everyone is having a great summer so far, and we can’t wait for ya’ll to come home to your FAVORITE Statesboro apartment – The Woodlands of Statesboro! The Woodlands of Statesboro continues to get bigger and better with the complete remodel of our clubhouse. The clubhouse now features an entirely new fitness center with new weights, cardio equipment and even three new flat-screen TVs. The computer lab also has a new Mac and new Dell computers. The billiards room now features a new flat-screen TV as well. Also, the ping pong table is now located outside on the pool patio underneath the shade. Just when you thought the clubhouse couldn't get any better... it will become _24 hours_ this fall! New keypads will be installed in the coming months with codes which will allow all residents to use the clubhouse at anytime. Just a reminder that move-in this year is on August 4 at 12 noon. Be on the lookout for info on our upcoming Back-To-School pool party. It's sure to be a splash!

Welcome To Our New Website

Mon, 19 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Welcome! Take a few minutes to click around. Make sure to subscribe on our homepage and also check out our new amenities in our media gallery.