Western Nevada College News & Notes: Spring classes begin Monday; students need more help

They'll arrive from all corners of the region to attend college classes on campus as well as online.

More than 5,100 students have signed up for spring classes that begin Monday, and an unprecedented number are attending full time, in search of a degree. Classes are filling up faster than in years past, and many professors have made efforts to accept more students in each class section.

More students also are applying for financial assistance, and more funds are being distributed to assist them. To date this spring, nearly

$2 million in federal and other financial assistance has been awarded to 1,199 WNC students. That amount is more than double the dollars disbursed last spring term. Combined with more than $1.7 million disbursed last fall, the total sets a college record for overall financial assistance in an academic year.

Art reception Wednesday

Meet artists from three new exhibits at the WNC galleries, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wednesday. The reception is free and the public is invited.

"The Lingo of Our Calling: The Legacy of Cowboy Poetry" offers a glimpse into ranching culture of the rural West through the lens of cowboy poetry and related art forms.

"6 Sides 2 Every Story," a printmaking exhibit organized by Reno artist Candace Nicol, features cubes carved by artists around the globe, depicting different perspectives of the same story.

"Out of Print" showcases 25 Utah artists using the art of printmaking to create diverse works. All exhibits are free and may be viewed during regular campus operating hours.

WNC instructor publishes book about smart business

A WNC part-time instructor has written a book to help businesses stay fiscally sound. Marie Gibson will release "Smart Books = Smart Business" this month to help business owners take charge of their budget and run a profitable business.

The book can be read straight through or used as a reference guide. Gibson teaches "Introduction to QuickBooks" (Call # 19330) at Western. For more information visit

marie-gibson.com.