Mount Hood

New developments revealed in annual State of the Cities Address

Byron Kimball | Freelancer

On Feb. 7, community members, city council representatives and members of the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce came together in Smith Music Hall. Details about new city developments and 2017 milestones were revealed during this year’s State of Cities Address.

Among these new developments coming to Monmouth and Independence? A plan to revitalize Highway 99, changes to parking enforcement around Monmouth and a variety of new businesses in both downtown Independence and Monmouth. “We (at Western) look forward to working together with Monmouth and Independence,” said Western President Rex Fuller, who provided opening remarks.

The event, which was co-sponsored by the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce and ASWOU, was presented by Independence mayor John McArdle and Monmouth mayor Steve Milligan.

For both mayors, 2017 was a year full of accomplishments and milestones. The high turnout for events during the August Solar Eclipse was cited by both mayors as a strong sign of renewed tourist interest in both cities.

McArdle unveiled a new renovation initiative, charged with reviving downtown Independence. “We want a place that feels like home,” he explained.

New renovations for the Independence airport are planned as well as an extensive urban renewal project. Independence Station and the old city hall were both recently sold to developers, who plan on leasing the newly acquired space to tenants. One of whom may be an independent brewery, though McArdle’s remarks on the subject were brief.

He cited new business growth, including a chocolatier, which was said to open Feb. 10 according to McArdle. He also expressed plans for Independence to become a new training zone for World Track and Field, bringing in new business and faces. A new strategic plan for the city was also announced, one which McArdle hopes will help boost economic and technological development in the city. “We’re helping Independence become a smarter rural city,” said McArdle.

Though mayor Steve Milligan claimed more modest growth in Monmouth over the course of 2017 and coming into 2018, he remained hopeful that Monmouth would grow strong over the coming years. A new Monmouth Electric building is planned, as well as additional street renovations.

But one of the more shocking changes to Monmouth city policy in 2018 just might have to do with parking. Milligan, along with President Fuller, expressed a wish to revisit downtown parking enforcement, deterring unpermitted Western parking at independent businesses.

Two new cannabis businesses are moving into Monmouth, a move which required Monmouth city council to revise legislation in order to allow both businesses to come in. Also on the books? A Domino’s Pizza, though no opening date was declared.

Overall, Milligan emphasized his goal for the city of Monmouth: to continue to remain a reliable home for residents. “We care about everybody,” said Milligan, citing a continued effort toward last year’s addition of an ‘inclusivity resolution’, which emphasized the city of Monmouth’s commitment to support diversity.

Miriam Haugen, director of the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce, explained, “We may be two cities, but we are one community.”

Contact the author at bkimball16@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Time for political action

Natalie Dean | Freelancer

Dennis Richardson, the current Oregon Secretary of State, visited Western’s campus on Jan. 30 to promote local politics and expand education around state government issues.

Secretary Richardson spoke of his own political journey starting with his work for the Central Point City Council. Richardson noted in his speech one thing that he learned during his time there, “citizens do not come into their government office unless they have to. But when people came in, it was because something was amiss and they wanted their elected official to take action. It was an opportunity for common sense and ordinances to be balanced and resolve things citizens think are important.”

He continued by pointing out that, upon running for Secretary of State, the last Republican to serve in that position was Norma Paulus, who was elected 40 years prior. The cards were stacked against him, and Richardson explained, “it was said that it couldn’t be done. My advice is to focus on the principles you stand for and not focus on a party. I tell this to republicans, to anybody who asks me how to win (an election.) Have ideas on how to solve the problems that face the people, and run on that with the dedication to do what you said you would do.”

Later in the evening, Richardson posed an important question to the crowd, “What do you want out of your life?” he asked. “When you die, people say nice things about you if they have something to say. Wouldn’t it make sense to say ‘when I leave this life, here’s what I want to be remembered for.’. I want to be known as a good man, a civil servant, an honest man, a person of integrity, a hard worker. These are all important to me, and I’m trying to live up to it, because it’s not going to happen otherwise. So, what do you want to be remembered for?”

Richardson spoke on one current Oregon issue: the foster care system.

“The time for talk has passed, the time for action is now. Those that think it’s a broken system will not be surprised,” he said. “We have auditors who have been on the job for over 10 years, and they said this was the most difficult audit they had done … But these are issues that must be addressed if we are going to change the system and serve our most vulnerable population, which are the children.”

Secretary Richardson finished the speech by answering a final question from the crowd: how can college students become involved and educated in local politics? He urged folks to vote and seek out education, to reach out to local legislators and to ask questions. He encouraged all students to be actively engaged and in turn, create the world they would want their own children to live and thrive in.

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Stay updated on the Tuition Advisory Committee

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

What is the Tuition Advisory Committee?

           The Tuition Advisory Committee is a committee composed of Western students, faculty and staff that want a voice in how tuition dollars are spent. Led by President Rex Fuller and interim Vice President for Finance and Administration Jay Kenton, the open meetings encourage an honest dialogue between students and administration on budget cuts, tuition increases and effectively spending student dollars.

How can students get involved?

Students are the basis of Western. If a student has ever felt like their thoughts and opinions are not being taken in account by the administration, this is the opportunity to voice concerns. Students can give opinions on whether they’d rather see tuition and fee increases or department budget cuts to make up for a shortage of funds. Are students willing to pay more tuition dollars if that means an increase in staff salaries? Additionally, should more money be put toward fee remissions or scholarships for low-income students? These are all important decisions that the administration needs to make, and students now have an opportunity to give their opinion on how student dollars are spent.

 

Will tuition increase next year?

Tuition is expected to increase no more than five percent next year. Money that goes to funding the university comes from tuition dollars and state funding. There is expected to be a shortage of $130 million, which could lead to a tuition increase. In future Tuition Advisory Committee meetings, the administration will prepare proposals for cuts ranging from one to five percent and students can give input on the proposals.

           

When is the next meeting?

           Feb. 16 at 11:30 a.m. in RWEC 104. The dialogue will continue between administration and students and more information on the university budget and potential tuition increases will be discussed.

Helping Western students succeed

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Week five can be a stressful time in a college student’s life. When midterm exams, essays and projects start to pile up, the Student Success and Advising Office can be an important resource to keep on track and receive academic help.

The Student Success and Advising Office aims to support students and provide them the tools they need to be successful in their academic and career goals. One of the major services provided by the department is free peer tutoring for Western students. Every student can take advantage of these tutoring services by simply clicking the “WCS” logo on Portal and making a tutoring appointment for a current class. Tutoring through the Student Success and Advising Office is available for most humanities, linguistics and social science classes.

Tutoring Coordinator and Student Success Specialist Carly DelaBarre emphasized that the peer tutors undergo extensive training in their position. This includes teaching to multiple learning styles, multiple intelligences, and general communication skills to effectively assist students in need.

Even if students don’t require tutoring for specific classes, DelaBarre encourages everyone to seek help at the Student Success and Advising Office, “I would really love students to know that they can come in and see us if they have a 4.0,” she explained. “I want to help you. I want to make sure that your time management is solid, study habits are solid, and your classes are going well. I genuinely care about every single student that comes in here … I have students from all different grade levels and all different backgrounds come in and see me regularly, and I wish more students did that.”

Student Success Specialists like DelaBarre can help with everything from test anxiety to studying for specific learning styles. When asked what advice she would give students during midterms week, DelaBarre replied, “It’s so crucially important to manage your time well … Take care of future you by planning now for the future.”

Visit the Student Success and Advising Office in its new location, the old Student Health and Counseling Center next to the WUC, starting on Feb. 12.

For more information on the resources that the center offers, visit wou.edu/advising.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Giving a voice to student concerns

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Current Western students may have noticed a recent email in their inbox from university president Rex Fuller. The email emphasized Western Oregon University values such as community, diversity and respect, and introduced the recently developed Bias Reporting Form. But what is the Bias Reporting Form and what does it mean for Western students?

The form was created as a result of a bias-related incident that occurred in Monmouth last year. The individuals involved in the incident noted that there was not a clear path that they could follow to report what had happened. The university CARE Team, a team composed of staff members from various departments, took it upon themselves to create this form in hopes that it would simplify the process of reporting bias-related incidents for students and community members.

The Bias Reporting Form can be found on the Division of Student Affairs webpage on Western’s website. Students that have experienced or heard about a bias-related incident have the opportunity to complete the form online. Within the document, there is an option to remain anonymous and list details of the incident. The CARE Team then reviews the Bias Reporting Form and finds resources for the students involved.

“That’s our primary goal: to support students,” explained Tina Fuchs, Dean of Students and CARE Team Chair. “And continue to evaluate best practices in terms of how we address issues that might be coming up on campus.”

The CARE Team is made up of individuals from several campus departments including Campus Public Safety, the Student Health and Counseling Center, Student Success and the Vice President for Student Affairs. Fuchs explained the importance of this team, stating, “This gives us an opportunity to have all of those experts come in and look at that and do the best we can to support our students. I think by bringing multiple people together to do that, we’re giving them the best opportunities. We’re responding in the best way we can.”

Fuchs explained that the name “CARE” stands for Campus Assessment, Response and Education Team. In addition to supporting student concerns, the CARE Team also gives training and presentations to students regarding working with distressed individuals and responding to information on sexual misconduct. Fuchs emphasized, “We’re not just a response team. We’re also a team that educates.”

President Fuller hopes that the bias reporting form will be an easy and accessible method of incident reporting. When asked why the form is important to have available, Fuller replied, “The process is intended to support our campus values that were reaffirmed in the recent strategic planning process. These values are community, diversity and respect. I believe that all universities, especially Western, have a sacred trust with society to be places that are safe for all members of their respective communities.”

Find the Bias Reporting Form at wou.edu/student and contact Tina Fuchs at fuchst@wou.edu for more information.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

WOU Campus Garden provides locally sourced food

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Located behind the old education building is a small patch of land known as the WOU Campus Garden. The garden, now eight years old, aims to give students and community members the opportunity to learn how to garden while providing fresh produce to nearby food banks.

According to the WOU Campus Garden website, the mission of the garden is “to show how we can grow vegetables and fruit locally and sustainably. We want to see the garden being used as a practical and educational resource for the whole campus community.”

Campus Garden Coordinator Chrys Weedon is a junior studying American Sign Language. Weedon was excited to get involved with the campus garden first as a volunteer and now as the garden coordinator.

“My mom is an avid gardener, she’s been gardening since before I was born and I have a huge garden at home,” Weedon explained. “It’s just very therapeutic and you kind of lose track of time, at least for me, and I just really wanted to get involved with that. I miss it being here at school.”

The garden is run entirely by volunteers and supervised by communications professor Dr. Emily Plec. Volunteers help maintain the area by weeding, planting various types of plants and spreading awareness through tabling and events. Volunteers set their own schedules and have the first pick for the variety of vegetables, fruits and herbs planted in the garden. The rest of the plants produced by the garden are given to Western’s food pantry — where both students and community members alike can take advantage of the fresh produce.

The WOU Campus Garden practices organic gardening by only using organic compost for the plants and never spraying them with pesticides or herbicides.

When asked why a garden is important on campus, Weedon replied, “I think it’s important to have fresh food. I think a lot of college students don’t have the best diet just simply because they don’t have the resources… We grow good food. And it’s important also because it helps the environment. I think that mass farming can be very detrimental to the environment so the more food we can grow ourselves, the better.”

For more information on the WOU Campus Garden or how to become a volunteer, contact Chrys Weedon at cweedon16@wou.edu.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Western discusses wellness

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

The Jan. 24 Health and Wellness Fair at the Peter Courtney Health and Wellness Center provided an opportunity for students to learn more about all aspects of health, from physical fitness to mental well-being. The event, organized by the Student Health and Counseling Center, focused on presenting students with the variety of resources available to them both on campus and within Polk County.

Student Health and Counseling Center employee Crystal Ross provided information and resources at the fair. When asked why health and wellness is important, Ross explained, “I think it’s important for anybody, but especially students’s general well-being. You’re already so stressed from studying and classes, and some students work on top of that, so just trying to keep a balanced, healthy lifestyle on top of your stressors. And sometimes you get sick or you get hurt and it’s nice to have a doctor’s office on campus to come to.”

Ross also stressed another important aspect of the SHCC: counseling. “We also have the mental health counselors, so if you’re stressed you can come and talk to somebody. It’s just a great service that we can offer to our students.”

A variety of organizations were in attendance. Oregon Reproductive Health and Planned Parenthood answered questions regarding reproductive health for college students. The WOU Food Pantry and LifeSource Natural Foods informed students on the importance of nutrition and healthy eating for overall physical health. Local fitness centers such as Firehouse Crossfit in Monmouth and Timberhill Athletic Club in Corvallis gave students information on their businesses.

Resources for all ages were available at the fair, including Polk County Public Health and YMCA Independence. YMCA employee and youth basketball coach Karissa Torres explained how the organization plays an important role in health and fitness. “I think for youth in particular, sports definitely creates a better path. Involvement at a young age is really positive for someone’s future.”

Additionally, many Western clubs and organizations were represented at the fair including the WOU Campus Garden, Safe Zone, Peer Mentors, the WOU Community Health Club and Campus Public Safety.

Contact the Student Health and Counseling Center at health@wou.edu for more information on health and wellness.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: Sam Dunaway

New baker in town

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

A new friendly face has arrived at campus this year — the new Campus Dining baker, Maggie Stewart. Stewart can often be found in Valsetz providing delicious cookies, cakes and other pastries for students as well as filling baking requests for catering.

Stewart expressed her enjoyment for cooking and baking for most of her life. “My family is very food-oriented, all of our family gatherings are surrounded by food,” she explained. “Both my mom and my grandma are great cooks and bakers, but baking is what I’ve always really enjoyed … As far as I remember, I knew I was going to go to culinary school to pursue that.”

After gaining knowledge and skills baking for small weddings and birthdays in high school, Stewart went on to a two-year culinary program at Linn-Benton Community College. Since graduating, she’s worked at Big River in Corvallis as a pastry assistant and Crush Wine Bar as a manager.

Stewart is excited for the opportunity to improve campus dining and catering. “Last term and this term I’ve gotten a lot of orders for sheet cakes and celebratory cakes … so I’d really like to, especially for the catering part of things, just kind of amp up what we provide. I know a lot of people were excited about what I made.”

And students that don’t have the occasion to purchase a cake from catering can still enjoy Stewart’s delicious pastries at Valsetz Dining Hall.

When asked why she enjoys baking, Stewart replied, “(I enjoy) the meticulousness of things. Cooking and baking are two different worlds. Cooking is so fast-paced, to order, get things out as fast as possible. But with baking, you get to take your time and you get to put more of your personal touch on things. I really love anything that allows me to be creative and really just making things look pretty is fun. It’s just kind of calming for me getting to bake and then sit and take my time and decorate something.”

Stewart, from the small town of Pendleton, enjoys Western’s small community. “It’s nice that I can see people that I see on a regular basis here — outside of just in Valsetz. I can walk down the street and recognize somebody and it’s just very small and has small town comfort.”

Make sure to greet Stewart and welcome her to the university.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Get to know the Incidental Fee Committee

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

What is the IFC?

Each year, all Western students pay a set amount of money as part of Western’s tuition and fees known as the Incidental Fee. The Incidental Fee Committee, or IFC, decides how that money gets allocated throughout various departments. The committee is comprised of Western students, faculty and staff where nine selected students are the only voting members.

 

Who decides what students sit on the IFC?

Three students are selected through the ASWOU general elections, three students are appointed by ASWOU President Jessica Freeman and three students are appointed by President Rex Fuller.

 

What departments are funded by the IFC?

Abby’s House

Access

ASWOU

Athletics

Campus Recreation

Childcare

Creative Arts

Service Learning and Career Development

Student Media

Student Engagement

Student Activities Board

Vice President for Student Affairs

 

How much is the Incidental Fee?

For the 2017-2018 year, students pay $349 for fall, winter and spring and $153 for Summer 2018.

 

Upcoming meetings

Feb. 2, 2-5 p.m. in HWC 205 – Large budget presentations

Feb. 9, 2-5 p.m. in HWC 205 – Preliminary decision

Feb. 16, 2-5 p.m. in HWC 205 – Preliminary decision

Feb. 20, 2-5 p.m. in HWC 205 – Open hearings

Feb. 23, 2-5 p.m. in HWC 205 – Open hearings

What are open hearings?

Open hearings are IFC meetings that allow students to voice concerns, thanks or opinions about the committee’s preliminary budget decisions.

Visit wou.edu/ifc for more information

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

 

A week of service, justice and celebration

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Martin Luther King Jr. Day brought several events to Western’s campus. Each year’s MLK Celebration Week consists of a day of service, a faculty-led session, a student-led session and a dinner with a keynote speaker. This year’s events focused on the history of racial injustice and talking about race from a historical perspective. In case you missed any of these powerful events, read on for a recap of the week.

 

“Poverty Simulation: Addressing Income Inequality”

The faculty-led session for the university’s Martin Luther King Jr. week consisted of a Community Action Poverty Simulation led by Community Health professor Doris Cancel-Tirado.

The purpose of the exercise is to help people better understand the realities of living in poverty. According a study conducted by Oregon Center for Public Policy in 2014, one in every six Oregonians lives below the federal poverty line. Some individuals have never experienced living in poverty, while some know it all too well.

The simulation split participants into family groups with a specified income, monthly budget and various struggles that needed to be addressed. The hour-long exercise simulated an entire month, with each 15-minute period representing a week. Families had to find ways to make ends meet throughout the “month” in very low-income situations.

“There’s a lot of myth about families of low income,” Cancel-Tirado noted. “One of the myths is that they don’t work. That is a myth. Most of the families that are in the system receiving some sort of support have at least one adult working. So these families are working but they face systemic challenges that make it very hard for them to move out of poverty. And that’s one of the things that the simulation illustrated.”

Cancel-Tirado explained that many people think of poverty in the context of developing countries and hungry children, but this simulation represented a more widespread type of poverty.

“It’s poverty where people struggle, maybe do a little bit better, then struggle again. It’s kind of a roller coaster all the time. And that has in impact on people’s health … your socioeconomic status has an impact on your health overall. Those that haven’t experienced poverty can at least get an idea of the stress level that these families have.”

When introducing the simulation, Cancel-Tirado expressed the importance of this topic during MLK week. “When we think about Martin Luther King Jr., we think about racial injustice. But with racial injustice, we need to talk about economic justice as well. The purpose of this simulation is not just for you to participate in this experience, but it’s to raise our level of involvement so we can move some of these agendas forward for economic justice for everyone.”

For more information on the poverty simulation and economic justice, contact professor Cancel-Tirado at canceltd@wou.edu

 

Keynote speaker: Walidah Imarisha

The annual Martin Luther King Jr. week dinner invited students, staff and community members to join keynote speaker Walidah Imarisha in talking about the history of race in Oregon.

Imarisha is a writer, reporter, educator and spoken word artist. She’s written numerous novels including two anthologies, a non-fiction book that won a 2017 Oregon Book Award and a poetry collection. She’s traveled as a representative from the Oregon Humanities Conversation Project and talked about race all over Oregon for six years.

The focus of the speech was race in history — the history of Oregon, how black individuals were treated in the Pacific Northwest throughout history and where we are today.

Imarisha spoke of the Martin Luther King Jr. that many don’t talk about.

“I think there is an image of Dr. King that gets put out that is a sanitized image, it is a safe image,” Imarisha explained. “I think it’s incredibly important to recognize Dr. King was a political prisoner who was arrested multiple times for his beliefs. Dr. King engaged in civil disobedience, he shut down bridges, he shut down highways.” She compared these acts to the Black Lives Matter movement that shut down bridges in Portland on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2017.

“When we talk about the legacy of Dr. King’s work, we have to talk about the real Dr. King and the real work that he did.”

Learn more about Imarisha’s work at walidah.com

 

“Media’s Representation of Marginalized Communities”

The student-led session, Media’s Representation of Marginalized Communities, capped off the week’s events. The session was led by Black Student Union president and MLK committee member Marnasha Fowlkes and Black Student Union secretary Sabrina Clark.

The representation of different races, sexual orientations and cultures was the focus of the session. A timeline beginning with the 1950s and ending in modern day displayed the different attitudes about race and culture in the mainstream media.

Several examples of race being poorly represented in movies and TV shows were discussed. This included the happy-go-lucky black servant in “Gone With the Wind,” the representation of gang violence in the Mexican-American community in “Mi Vida Loca,” the stereotypically loud Latina character of Gloria on “Modern Family” and the slant-eyed buck-toothed Chinese stereotype and the womanizing Italian stereotype in Disney’s “The Aristocats.”

Other misrepresentations were discussed at the session. The idea of the gay best friend and other token minorities are used in several movies and TV shows, and Caucasian actors casted to play minorities is still an issue in modern entertainment.

The session explained that, although there have been improvements in the representation of marginalized communities in the media, society still has a long way to go.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: Paul F. Davis

Leaving the community better than they found it

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Nine Western student veterans had the opportunity to attend the Student Veterans of America National Conference from Jan. 4-6, the largest annual gathering of student veterans in the nation. The students came back from the conference with knowledge, motivation and a 2018 Chapter of the Year title.

“We knew going into the conference that we were one of the top five finalists for Chapter of the Year,” remarked Shane Follett, chapter President. The national organization represents over 1500 chapters around the United States. “We were up against schools like Syracuse, UNLV, LSU. We were the only Division II school in the top five.”

The annual National Conference is both a personal and professional development experience that many of the organization’s members benefited from.

“The networking opportunities for me especially are huge,” Follett commented. “I know student veterans from literally all over the country, but then on top of that, there’s opportunities to network with people from D.C. in the national organization.”

Laura Pettyjohn, the club’s Communication Officer, explained the ways in which the conference is beneficial to all student veterans. “You have the seniors who look at it as a huge outreach opportunity. Who are getting ready to graduate and are looking at the next steps in their life and looking for those connections. And you also have the freshman and sophomores who are coming in and getting extremely motivated from it while they’re also making those connections.”

Cole Hendren, a first-year and new member of the organization, expressed his enjoyment of the experience and motivation to move the club forward. “I want to do so many things now just from the three days that I was there… For any student veteran who is needing some motivation or some eye-opening to the opportunities that are laid out before them, this is the place to go. If you want to know who’s out there working for you and wanting you to succeed, this is where you should be at. Because they’re all there.”

The Western SVA chapter has been an official club since the 2014-2015 school year, but Follett has seen the improvements and growth that the club has undergone in the past two years. The organization was awarded Club of the Year at the 2017 Leadership Recognition Night. Notable accomplishments by the organization include the campus-wide Food Drive, community Easter Egg Hunt, and the annual Memorial Day Banquet.

When asked why Western’s chapter stands out from the rest, Follett replied, “Our chapter is a little bit different from other chapters because our chapter is focused on service. We’re a service-based chapter… I think it was a combination of the community service that we’ve done, the outreach that we’ve done, and recognition of how quickly we’ve gotten to where we are.”

“It’s making an impact directly to your community and making it better than you found it, that’s the biggest point,” Vice President Jeremy Bulluss emphasized. “We want to make any type of impact we can on our community.”

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Photo by: WOU.edu

Change is coming

Natalie Dean | Freelancer

The 2018 Womxn’s March took place on Jan. 21 in the heart of Salem with the area surrounded by all walks of life. There were men, women, children and dogs pressed close together to support women’s rights and have a frank conversation of the continuous oppression of minority groups.

The choice to name it the Womxn’s March was a conscious one. After the 2017 Women’s March, many community members felt that it wasn’t inclusive to minority groups. By renaming it the Womxn’s March, it encompasses the full spectrum of women everywhere; those who identify as queer women, trans women and women of color.

The men that participated stood in support of their sisters, mothers, wives and daughters who have faced oppression. Signs were held by many, sending direct messages to those in power. Some reading, “Listen to me as I stand,” and “Beware; for I am fearless and therefore powerful.” There were little girls with their own homemade signs, some dressed as the Statue of Liberty, Rosie the Riveter and Wonder Woman.

Sophomore Jamie Norr was among the hundreds marching in Salem. “The Womxn’s March this weekend was humbling,” Norr reflected. “There were so many people who just wanted peace and equality and it was amazing to be a part of something so positive and impactful …  In our country’s current state, women, people of color, the LGBTQA+ community, and so many others are discriminated against and having our voice out there, loud and proud, is the only way to end all this hate.”

During the event, emcee LeAnna Thornton asked everyone in the crowd to participate in an exercise. She spoke, “There’s a lot of hurt and shame and guilt around sexual assault. We’re asking everyone to raise their hands if you can say, ‘me too.’ And to look around at the faces of those who have experienced an assault or harassment, and to not be ashamed. To let the guilt, and the pain, let it go. Work through it. Heal.”

Then, with knitted pink hats and signs in hand, they marched.

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

Photo by: OPB.com

What is Measure 101?

wweek.com

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Oregon Measure 101, Healthcare Insurance Premiums Tax for Medicaid Referendum, is on the ballot for the special election on Jan. 23, 2018. The measure addresses taxes on hospitals and insurance companies to fund Medicaid, which provides healthcare coverage to 1 in 4 Oregonians.

 

Arguments in support of Measure 101

  • Taxes imposed on insurance companies and hospitals would provide funding for healthcare for low-income individuals and families.
  • The Measure will stabilize insurance premiums purchased by individuals and families.
  • Over 1 million Oregonians benefit from the Oregon Health Plan.
  • All Oregonians will have access to mental health care.
  • A “no” vote would require budget cuts to be made in other areas of the state budget.

 

Arguments in opposition of Measure 101

  • Measure 101 will impose a tax on student health plans.
  • Middle-class families that don’t qualify for government-funded health plans will pay an increased healthcare tax.
  • Oregon school districts will pay $25 million for healthcare taxes.
  • Medicaid provides healthcare to immigrant children illegally residing in Oregon.
  • Increased taxes will affect small businesses more than insurance companies.

 

Visit oregon.gov for more information.

 

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Curiosity is your compass

njcu.edu

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

For those interested in traveling across North America, gaining a different perspective on the world and creating lasting memories, all of this and more can be accomplished through the National Student Exchange program.

The National Student Exchange is an opportunity for Western students to study away at one of the 180 universities also participating in the program. Qualified individuals can spend up to a year at an out-of-state university while paying Western tuition rates and earning credits that count towards degree completion at Western.

In addition to participating universities in the fifty states, United States territories such as Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are also a destination option for students. Study abroad to Canada goes through the National Student Exchange program as well.

Debbie Diehm, National Student Exchange Coordinator, commented on the numerous opportunities available for students, “North America is a big continent,” Diehm remarked. “There are opportunities to go to an urban setting, maybe an NCAA Division I university, a doctoral-granting university or a university that’s smaller than we are, located in Nova Scotia, Canada, and has a very Scottish feel to it … There are so many amazing people and places out there.”

Students must meet the eligibility requirements to apply for the National Student Exchange. This includes at least a 2.5 GPA, good academic standing and having completed at least one academic term before applying for the program.

This program is a low-cost opportunity for students to travel and experience new locations while progressing toward their degree. Students will work with the program coordinator and their academic advisor before departing to determine how the credits acquired during the exchange will meet Western degree requirements.

Stephanie Magee, sophomore art major, is currently attending New Jersey City University as part of the National Student Exchange. “I chose NSE because I wanted to explore the east coast and some possible masters programs,” Magee explained. “My exchange university is about an hour by train to the heart of Manhattan … I’ve met people from all over the world, from Korea to Cypress. If I could put into words how great this program is, I would.”

When asked why this program is important, Diehm replied, “Experiences like National Student Exchange, studying away, give you a perspective of something different. Whether it’s weather, geography or culture … Looking outside of where you grew up and experiencing something different, even for a short period of time immersed in a university setting somewhere, there are skills that you can articulate on a resume that show you have a broader perspective … And that’s another opportunity that Western provides for our students.”

Applications for the 2018-2019 program are due on Feb. 15.

For questions about the National Student Exchange, contact Debbie Diehm at diehmd@wou.edu or visit the information session on Jan. 17 at 3:30 in the Ochoco room of the Werner University Center.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

New club aspires for inclusivity

Paul F. Davis

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Western offers over 60 clubs and organizations that students can choose to be involved in. These clubs are created and led by students to enrich the college experience. The newest organization on campus is the Western Oregon University Democrats club, whose purpose is to give all students a place to express their political views and raise awareness of political issues at the local, state and national levels.

After transferring to Western from Chemeketa Community College, senior political science major Steve Bell hoped to find a Democrats organization on campus.

“I noticed that there was a very strong Republican club,” Bell noted. “There’s also a really nice foundation of students that want to get involved that don’t have that outlet, if they have more of a Democrat minded perspective.”

Bell decided to take matters into his own hands and begin the process of starting an organization on campus. Collaborating with political science majors Rubi Tapia and Cristian Urzua, the students founded the club as a project for a civic engagement class. All three individuals have a background in political science, including internships with elected officials and student government positions.

When asked why this club is important, Urzua replied, “I feel like the club comes in handy in allowing students of any view to join in and speak their minds and get engaged on campus. That is part of the college experience.”

According to OrgSync, the purpose of the organization is to promote the principles of the Democratic Party, assist in the functioning of the Democratic Party at all levels of government and help its members develop political and leadership skills.

The club, which meets Fridays at 1 p.m. in the Rogue room of the Werner University Center, is an open space for everyone to share opinions and ideas.

“We are not exclusively just Democrats,” Urzua emphasized. “We accept every different political view. We’re open to deliberation, discussion and debate and we welcome everyone. Just because it says WOU Democrats, doesn’t mean it’s just Democrats.”

Find more information about the Western Oregon University Democrats on OrgSync.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Senator Ron Wyden addresses Polk County concerns

Eric J. Frey

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

One individual asked the senator what citizens could do if the Over 200 citizens of Polk County gathered on Jan. 13 for a public town hall meeting with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden. Wyden, who has a reputation for listening to the concerns of all Oregonians, holds town hall meetings in each of Oregon’s 26 counties every year.

The Senator has been representing Oregon first in the U.S. House of Representatives and then in the U.S. Senate for a total of 37 years. He holds a ranking member position on the Finance Committee, the leading Senate Democrat on the Joint Committee on Taxation, and a member of the Selection Committee on Intelligence and the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

Polk County citizens were given the opportunity to have their voices heard and questions answered in the course of the afternoon. Many questions were regarding the state of the federal government and proposed policy changes by the Trump administration.

Concerns were stated from multiple citizens about the deportation of DACA recipients if the DREAM Act is not passed. Wyden expressed support for the DREAMers, explaining, “You meet with these students and you just walk away with a near breathtaking judgment that they represent all things that we like young people to be spending their time on: working their heads off to get good marks, helping their families, career interests that will clearly benefit all of us.” Wyden emphasized. “We are a better and stronger country because of immigration.”

One citizen asked a question about where the Selection Committee on Intelligence stands on investigating collusion in the 2016 election process. Wyden replied, “Our committee is supposed to tell the story of how the Russians, in effect, undermined our democracy… A big part of what our committee should be doing is not getting done.” He went on to explain that the investigation is one of his priorities as a ranking member of the committee. “I am committed to staying at this, and I will say here today at Western as I’ve said around the state, I am your guy on the Senate Intelligence Committee and on my watch this investigation is not going to get swept under the rug.”

Concerns were expressed about the offshore drilling proposed on the Oregon Coast. “I’ve been part of a group of about 35 senators that have made it clear that we’re going to fight this arbitrary politically hotwired process,” Wyden commented. “In terms of our land, air, and water, this is really big stakes stuff for Oregon. Once you sell off your treasures to exploiters, you don’t get them back.”

y are concerned about issues that affect them. Wyden responded that calling senators is an effective way to have your voice heard. “Always remember that those contacts, particularly something like a phone call, really make the difference,” Wyden offered. “Finding an issue where you have a particular interest and you can, in effect, educate others… Political change is not trickle-down. It’s bottoms-up. I really encourage you to be out and talking about what’s important to you.”

Visit wyden.senate.gov for more information on Sen. Ron Wyden and a schedule of upcoming Town Hall meetings.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Psychology student receives fellowship abroad

Haley Morris

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Western psychology major Haley Morris is using her passion for global health to change the world. In late January, Morris will join a team of students and faculty from various universities on a month-long fellowship in Rwanda to conduct research on reproductive health.

In February of 2017, Morris was notified of the opportunity by her advisor, Western sociology professor Dr. Callero. The highly competitive fellowship, funded by the National Science Foundation, covers all domestic and international living and travel expenses. Morris decided to apply in May of 2017 and was notified that she was one of only nine applicants that received the award.

The program begins at Western Washington University in early January, where the fellowship recipients take classes and learn about qualitative research. At the end of January, Morris and her team leave for the country of Rwanda, where they will conduct research for a full month.

The purpose of the research is to gain a better understanding of the contraceptive programs that the country offers. Morris states that the percentage of individuals using contraception have tripled over the course of ten years, and the implementation of contraceptive use programs in Rwanda is much more successful than neighboring countries. The team hopes to obtain data that can give insight into Rwanda’s success and help other Sub-Saharan countries do the same.

In addition to the benefits this research provides for several African countries, it will also help Morris develop important data collection skills and international research experience. She noted that the opportunity is going to be important for her future endeavors. “Knowing how many doors it’s going to open for me is really, really exciting,” she commented. “After WOU, I hope to get my Masters in global health. Having this experience on my resumé is going to be incredibly helpful when applying.”

Callero explained that education abroad is important in gaining a new perspective on the world. “Most students who experience international education through study abroad report being transformed by the opportunity,” he commented. “When our personal beliefs and parochial assumptions are confronted with an alternative cultural worldview, change happens.”

“It’s really exciting knowing that I get to travel and see and experience things that many people go their whole life without seeing or experiencing,” Morris explained. “This experience is going to blow my mind, and I can’t wait for it to begin.”

 

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

New year, new laws

Paul F Davis

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Over 700 laws were passed in Oregon in 2017, many of which went into effect on Jan. 1, 2018. Read on for a few examples to become familiar with.

Increased tobacco age

The age at which an individual can purchase and use tobacco products has increased from 18 to 21 with the start of the new year. This law also prohibits the use of vape products, e-cigarettes and other inhalant delivery systems by anyone under the age of 21. Western remains a tobacco and vape-free campus and prohibits the use of these products campus-wide.

Move Over Law

Oregon’s previous Move Over Law required vehicles on the roadway to change lanes or slow down if there are emergency or roadside assistance vehicles on the shoulder of the road. On Jan. 1, this law expanded to include any vehicle that is pulled over with activated hazard lights. If a far lane is available, it is required for drivers to change lanes. If not, they must slow down to at least 5 miles per hour below the posted speed limit. Drivers that do not move over or slow down can face a fine up to $400.

Bottle bill expanded

On Apr. 1, 2017, the deposit value of refundable beverage containers increased from 5 cents to 10 cents. But even more changes to Oregon’s Bottle Bill became effective with the new year. Now, the bill has expanded from only including water, beer, and soft drinks to including almost everything that comes in a container between 4 ounces and 1.5 liters. Exceptions include dairy, wine, distilled liquor, infant formula, and meal replacement drinks. Everything from energy drinks to coconut water is now refundable for a 10 cent deposit.

Process for changing name, sex on birth certificate

Before Jan. 1, individuals that wished to change their name and/or sex designation on their birth certificate had to obtain a court order to prove that they had completed sexual reassignment. Beginning in 2018, House Bill 2673 states that any individual born in Oregon can submit an application to alter their birth certificate to accurately reflect their name and gender identity.

Self-serve fuel

House Bill 2482, passed on June 6, 2017 and officially taking effect Jan. 1, 2018 allows individuals in low-population Oregon counties to pump their own gas. This law does not require gas stations to allow 24-hour self-service, but instead gives them the option to offer it. This policy change follows the 2015 law that stated that individuals in low-population counties – counties with a population of 40,000 or less – may self-serve fuel between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. The law applies to counties in Eastern Oregon as well as Clatsop, Tillamook and Curry counties.

 

Visit oregonlegislature.gov for more information on bills passed in 2017.

 

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Meet the Greeks

Paul F. Davis

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

When Greek letters are displayed campus-wide, it can only mean one thing – fraternity and sorority new member recruitment.

There are currently four Greek organizations established on Western’s campus: Omega Delta Phi, Kappa Sigma, Alpha Chi Omega and Kappa Delta Chi. Each organization has its own mission, philanthropy and standards that Western students can learn more about.

Omega Delta Phi is a multicultural service-based men’s fraternity with the philosophy “One culture, any race.” The traditional values upheld by the fraternity are unity, honesty, integrity and leadership. According to the Omega Delta Phi national website, individuals in the fraternity aim to “form an organization which not only challenges the traditional perception of fraternities, but also one with deals with the issues of culture and race for a completely new perspective.” Omega Delta Phi’s philanthropy is through Court Appointed Special Advocates, a national organization that provides advocates for abused or neglected children.

Kappa Sigma is a values-based men’s fraternity focused on the four pillars of fellowship, scholarship, leadership, and service. According to kappasigma.org, the fraternity aims to promote the ideal of brotherhood, promote ethical behavior, encourage service to others and contribute to the personal growth of its members. Kappa Sigma’s philanthropy is the Kappa Sigma Fraternity Military Heroes Campaign, which advocates for veterans and men and women wounded in combat.

Kappa Sigma is tabling every day during weeks one and two of winter term to recruit new members. Check them out in the WUC from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for more information on how to join.

Alpha Chi Omega is a social-based sorority on Western’s campus. According to the sorority’s national website, “The real, strong woman is what we aim to help Alpha Chi Omegas become in their four years of college and beyond. It’s what we’re most proud of, and the outcome we’re committed to creating for each member.” The sorority selects its members based on the five national standards of membership: academic interest, character, financial responsibility, leadership ability, and personal development. Alpha Chi Omega’s philanthropy is domestic violence awareness.

Alpha Chi Omega members will be recruiting in the WUC from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 10 and Jan. 11 and again from Jan. 16 to Jan. 18. Stop by for more information on joining the organization.

Kappa Delta Chi is a multicultural community service-based women’s sorority that values unity, honesty, integrity, and leadership. Stated on the chapter website, Kappa Delta Chi members “blossom into committed leaders, are able to network with our remarkable alumnae, and continue to serve as civic leaders well past their graduation.” The national philanthropy of Kappa Delta Chi is the American Cancer Society.

Greek organizations can be an excellent way to get involved on campus. Alpha Chi Omega president Julia Webster comments, “Just joining anything on campus is a great way to stay connected to the community and find your place to fit in.”

Visit OrgSync for more information on Greek organizations and upcoming events.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

Suspicious activity alerts community

Paul F. Davis

Sam Dunaway | News Editor

Two separate instances of suspicious activity within the same week alerted the Monmouth community in early December. One incident occurred on Nov. 29 when a woman reported that a man tried to enter her parked car near the intersection of Clay and Knox Street. Less than a week later on Dec. 6, another woman reported that a man approached and tried to grab her near her residence. The investigation of this incident is ongoing.

Although these circumstances occurred off campus, Campus Public Safety was quick to offer advice on keeping safe and taking the necessary precautions both on and off campus.

One service that Campus Public Safety provides is the safety escort service where a Public Safety officer will escort individuals around campus if they feel unsafe. If a student doesn’t want to walk with an officer, they also have the option to stay on the phone with an individual from Public Safety as they walk, or an officer could keep an eye on the student via campus cameras.

Although the safety escort program only offers assistance around campus, Wolf Ride is available for off-campus locations. If a student feels nervous or uneasy about walking around Monmouth or Independence, they can call Wolf Ride at 503-428-7238  for a ride from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. daily. Wolf Ride is not operational during winter break.

In addition to safety escorts and Wolf Ride, Director of Campus Public Safety Rebecca Chiles suggests following the most well-lit paths through campus, indicated by the white paw prints on the sidewalks. Emergency phones are available in various locations around campus that directly connect to Campus Public Safety in case of an emergency.

Chiles also offers an additional piece of advice for students: participate in bystander training.

“Any kind of training and information that you can get empowers you to make decisions to be able to interact and intervene when things like that are going on,” Chiles advises. “Knowledge is power. The more you know, the more you can react positively and be able to take care of yourself and keep yourself safe.” Contact Craig Wimmer at wimmerc@wou.edu for more information on Green Dot bystander training on campus.

Chiles advises to stay alert when walking alone. It’s common for students to browse social media while walking down the street or sitting in a car, but putting the phone down and being aware of one’s surroundings can prevent distractions that lead to unsafe situations.

Chiles wants students to know that Campus Public Safety is there to support and keep them safe. “Our department here on campus works hand in hand with Monmouth Police Department. Everything that we do is tied to the university’s mission and strategic plan to make this a safe place to learn, to live, to work, and to visit … We’re going to do everything we can to provide those safe environments.”

Students who are concerned for their safety can contact Campus Public Safety at 503-838-8481.

Contact the author at journalnews@wou.edu

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Western Oregon University in Monmouth, OR is located within the traditional homelands of the Luckiamute Band of Kalapuya. Following the Willamette Valley Treaty of 1855 (Kalapuya etc. Treaty), Kalapuya people were forcibly removed to reservations in Western Oregon. Today, living descendants of these people are a part of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Community of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz Indians.

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