A big Welcome Back is in order for ASU students, teachers and faculty. I am sure the restaurants, business owners and city officials that love you and the money you spend, are grateful to have you back!
Speaking of money and students, don’t forget to grab your “U-Pass” to save some cash on getting around. Most of us have to pay normal fares for riding the bus and light rail but discounts are available for ASU students! The cost of a U-Pass is just $80.00 for the academic year of 2010-11 which is valid Aug. 16, 2010 – May 15, 2011 and gives you unlimited use of “METRO Light Rail; Local, LINK, Express and RAPID Valley Metro bus routes.” For transit related information around campus, you can follow ASU Parking and Transit on Twitter.
Remember, if using a U-Pass, students must validate every trip before boarding the light rail. The fare is validated by simply touching the back of your U-Pass to the orange card reader (“target”) located on the transit vending machine kiosk at each boarding station. No type of printed confirmation or ticket is issued. Seriously, it’s not hard to tap a card. Yes, I made that up and it rhymes!
Many people are looking forward to some fun and exciting things for this academic year. The University recently held a meeting where school spirit and support of the athletic department was a huge priority. I was told there is some consideration of trying to get METRO to help promote getting more students from the Phoenix campus to sporting activities in Tempe, railgating style. It will be cool to see a BUNCH of Sun Devil fans at the games this year!
Again, welcome back Sun Devils. It’s gonna be a good year but remember… “Your Life Is On The Line!”
Welcome back ASU. I hope the business picks up around campus now.