New mascot unveiled; students to vote on choices

After almost 40 years, Artie the Artichoke is being sent to the kitchen to add a dash of spice to his look. Artie has stood strong through the years, representing a statement made by founding Scottsdale Community College students. In the early days of the college, many concerns arose from students in relation to SCC's objectives. Students complained that too much focus was being placed upon athletics. The focus, they said, should be on academics, not athletics. According to a 1980 Campus News article, "A survey conducted in 1972 placed athletics at the bottom of a student priorities list." Although it was apparent students showed a majority of interest in other areas, the administration pushed ahead and used funds toward athletics. The administration then requested that the student government hold an election to appoint a new mascot. The students, upset with administration, reacted with three mascot choices: the Rutabaga, the Scoundrels and the Artichoke. The Artichoke won the election, but not all SCC students were thrilled with the results. A group of athletes formed a club called Concerned Students, according to the 1980 Campus News article. They insisted a new election take place with their mascot choice, the Drovers. The election resulted in an unprecedented number of students at the polls, voicing their opinions. The Artichoke won the election by receiving 70 percent of the vote. Of course, SCC is now famous for its vegetable mascot. Artie has remained the same for many years, but some students voiced that it was time for Artie to make a change. Chris Chesrown, head of marketing/PR for SCC, was in charge of the Artie make-over. "Ever since we built the logo, I've been getting this feedback. They said listen up, its time for Artie to grow up," Chesrown said. Once again, Artie's future is in the hands of the students. The three choices that will be presented are Party Artie, Smarty Artie and Fighting Artie. The choices will be on the SCC website from December to Jan. 12. Website visitors will be able to vote on the Arties as many times as they wish. SCC student Paola Tapia preformed on national TV as Artie for an SCC athletic event. "I think the change is a good opportunity for the student body to get involved in making a change," Tapia said. Tapia likes the idea of Party Artie to represent the college. Freshman Crystal Garcia's vote will go to Fighting Artie. "I like Fighting Artie, it makes us sound tough," Garcia said. Whatever the choice, Artie will always stand for one important voice- the voice of the students.