THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2013
PAGE 3A
CAMPUS
Astronomy lab nixed second consecutive semester
KYLE PAPPAS
kpappas@kanan.com
For the second semester in a row, the University will not be offering an astronomy lab to fulfill students' general education lab requirement. Students looking for an alternative to the biology or chemistry lab will once again have to look elsewhere to satisfy their degree stipulations.
Barbara Anthony-Twarog, professor of physics and astronomy, explained that there were many factors that weighed into the decision to not offer the lab again.
Since weather conditions can heavily affect astronomers' views
"We haven't had a facility of our own or schedule that we can control for the last 12 years," said Anthony-Twarog. "We've been using the top level of Memorial Stadium when we're able to."
on celestial objects, having a proper location and scheduled time slot to view can be crucial.
"It's hard enough to predict at 3 p.m. or 4 p.m., if you will be able to go outside to use the telescopes," said Anthony-Twarog. "Athletics were very nice to let us use their space, but those facilities just aren't meant for us."
"I have a handful of friends that really struggled with or even had to retake the biology lab," said Katie Zyskowski, a sophomore from Minneapolis. "I think they should keep as many options for alternative labs as possible."
The dissipation of the lab affects students looking for a non-traditional lab to fulfill their general education requirements.
The lab last had access to proper facilities in 2001, when it was held in Lindlev Hall.
"We wouldn't restart it in the way that it was previously offered," she said. "It's become increasingly difficult to have a nighttime telescope class on campus, and there no short-term plans for a telescope facility that can actually be controlled."
Anthony-Twarog said if the lab were to return in the future, it wouldn't happen without any changes.
Students who are looking to gain hands-on experience with telescopes can still do so by attending the Astronomy Associates of Lawrence's telescope open house, which takes place at Prairie Park once each month. For more information on specific times and dates, checkout the AAL website.
GEORGE MULLINIX/KANSAN
Edited by Hannah Barling
This photo shows the waning gibbous moon over Lawrence on Nov. 19. While students can no longer take the astronomy class at the University, the Astronomy Associates of Lawrence offer a monthly telescope open house at Prairie Park.
Winter increases threat of carbon monoxide
HEALTH
ASHLEIGH TIDWELL
afidwell@kansan.com
When the cold creeps in with the changing seasons, students turn on their furnaces without any hesitation. But the Kansas Department of Health and Environment wants Kansans to be aware of the invisible danger that comes with heating homes: carbon monoxide.
According to a news release from the KDHE and Safe Kids Kansas, the use of fuel burning appliances in the home leads to dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide.
The CDC describes carbon monoxide as a colorless, odorless gas that can cause sudden illness or death. It is a major concern during the winter months because the use of fuel-burning ovens, furnaces, space heaters, generators and fireplaces that can emit the gas unbeknownst to the user. Prolonged
Students should be aware of the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and should call 911 immediately if they think there may be a carbon monoxide leak in their home.
exposure can cause a person to become ill and possibly lose consciousness, which can eventually lead to death from the gas.
Angela German, program director of the Primary Care Office of the KDHE, said that it's important for students to know which appliances can emit carbon monoxide and take appropriate measures to stop the leaks.
"The main thing is ventilation," German said. "You need to make sure all your fuel-burning appliances are properly ventilated."
This is especially important for students living in older homes, as these homes are more likely to have fuel-burning appliances. German
says that students worried about their appliances should contact their landlords to make sure everything is up to code.
SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:
- headache
- dizziness
- weakness
- nausea
- vomiting
- chest pain
- confusion
"At the very least students should install a CO [carbon monoxide] detector." German said.
Carbon monoxide detectors are available at local hardware stores and stores like Walmart and Target for roughly $20.
HOW TO PREVENT CO POISONING
Edited by Jessica Mitchell
Prevent CO buildup in the first place - make sure heating appliances are in good working order and use only in well-ventilated areas.
Can't run a car engine in the garage, even with the garage door open. If you need to warm up your vehicle, move it outside first.
Install a CO alarm outside every sleeping area, on every level of your home and at least 15 feet away from every fuel-burning appliance.
each month, check the batteries on your CO alarms at the same time - and replace the batteries twice a year.
When you check your smoke alarm batteries
Never use an oven to heat your home.
Portable generators must be used outside for proper ventilation. They cannot be used indoors or inside of a garage.
Have all gas, oil or coal burning appliances inspected by a technician every year to ensure they are working correctly and are properly ventilated.
Source: Kansas Department of Health and Environment
It will be 50 years tomorrow since JFK was assassinated. His brother
Robert opened his presidential campaign in 1968 on KU's campus, and was tragically assassinated just weeks later.
POLICE REPORTS
Information based on the Douglas County Sheriff's Office booking recap.
- A 46-year-old man was arrested Tuesday on the 3800 block of Shadybrook Drive on suspicion of domestic battery. No bond was posted.
- A 36-year-old man was arrested Tuesday on the 300 block of Stockade Street on suspicion of criminal threat and battery. No bond was posted.
- A 49-year-old man was arrested Tuesday on the 2500 block of Redbud Lane on suspicion of sexual battery and criminal damage to property. No bond was posted.
— Katie McBride
THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS UNIVERSITY THEATRE PRESENTS
Adding Machine:
A MUSICAL
Composed by Joshua Schmidt Libretto by Jason Loewith & Joshua Schmidt Based on the play The Adding Machine by Elmer Rice
This production includes offensive language and is NOT appropriate for younger audiences.
Seating is limited. Advance reservations are strongly recommended. General admission tickets are on sale in the KU ticket
General admission tickets are on sale in the KU ticket offices: University Theatre, 864-3982, Lied Center, 864-ARTS, and online at www.KUTheatre.com. Tickets are $18 for the public, $17 for senior citizens & KU Faculty/Staff, and $10 for all students. The University Theatre is partially funded by the KU Student Senate Activity Fee. The University Theatre's 2013-14 season is sponsored by Truity Credit Union.
KU THE UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS University Division
ns are strongly recommended.
Nov. 15, 16, 22, 23, 2013
at 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 17 & 24, 2013
at 2:30 p.m.
Stage Too!
STUDENT
SENATE
NVIDIA
COOLING SYSTEM FLUSH & INSPECTION ANTIFREEZE FLUID REPLACEMENT
888-242-4540 | 1225 E. 23rd | LawrenceKia.com for Details
WINTERIZATION SERVICE SPECIALS
OIL & FILTER CHANGE / TIRE ROTATION/
MULTIPOINT INSPECTION
$2495
LAWRENCE
KIA