The Baro, October 24, 2016

WEEK OF MONDAY, OCT. 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • VOL. CXVIV, NO. 5

Landen’s Battle

Fight.

A six-year-old’s fight with pediatric cancer, and the OSU group that is raising money for the cause Page 8

NEWS: ‘Beavers Give a Dam’—3

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SPORTS: Reagan flies—10

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OPINION: Letters to the Editor—14

Community Calendar

NEWS

MONDAY, OCT. 24 Visiting Professor Talk Jennifer Mittelstadt, a professor from Rutgers University, will give a lecture on “The US Military, the Welfare State, and Citizenship.” This event takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. in the MU Journey Room.

TUESDAY, OCT. 25 LGBTQ Peace Corps Info Session Recruiter Scot Roskelley with speak on the advantages of joining the Peace Corps and how the application process works. This event is in the Pride Center from 6 to 7 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 27 Queer History Month Workshop Join Demian DinéYazhi´ for the Queer History Month keynote address. This workshop focus on making art to support the Standing Rock Indigenous resistance to Dakota Access Pipeline.

This event is in the Native American Longhouse Eena Haws from 3 to 5 p.m.

Open mic nights The Memorial Union Activities Committee is sponsoring open mic nights for poetry, spoken word, and general freedom of expression for the Oregon State University community. The event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays in Studio 65 on the Mezzanine level of the Memorial Union. Time slots can be signed up for at the MU info desk at 5:30 p.m. the same day.

COURTESY CREATIVE COMMONS

“James and the Giant Peach” cast, rehearsing Fall theater production undergoing time table changes, first showing set for Nov. 3, on Withycombe Hall Main Stage

By Ercoli Crugnale, News Contributor

For Elizabeth Helman, the head of the Oregon State University Theatre Department, her favorite production is a show called “Topdog/Underdog” that she did in St. Louis.

“It’s a good, hard show,” Helman said. “It just tears you up inside.”

Helman has brought this attitude to OSU and this is the type of passion that is fueling OSU’s theatre renaissance. Helman says that there is an abundance of new blood in the program, from the actors to the faculty, and it’s sparking an exciting new transition.

The current production, “James and the Giant Peach” is entering new territory in the form of an ambitious timeline. Instead of the usual, and already rapid, six week production cycle, the play will be fully casted, rehearsed and performed in just over three weeks. In addition, the show will feature extensive practical effects, including puppetry to reflect the cartoonish nature of the work.

“It’s fast. It’s real fast,” Helman said. “It’s a delicate dance right now, you know, getting all the moving parts working together.”

She said that despite the tight schedule,

SATURDAY, OCT. 29 Corvallis Farmers Market Come enjoy locally grown produce and goods. Held in beautiful downtown Corvallis, the market takes place between 1st street, Jackson avenue, and Riverfront Commemorative Park on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more info visit locallygrown.org

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the cast knows they’ll be able to complete the show in time.

The rehearsal process is strenuous, but doable, according to Hellman. The cast rehearses four hours a day for five days a week for a total of 20 hours a week—the equivalent of a part time job.

Tinamarie Ivey was chosen to direct this show because of her experience with childrens’ theatre.

Before settling into her current tenure at Linn-Benton Community College as a theatre professor, Ivey worked extensively in California at institutions such as Cornerstone Theatre Co. and Dell’Arte International, as well as cofounding Sanctuary Stage.

“I believe being highly organized is paramount,” Ivey said. “I also believe that actors can rise to their full potential when given clear expectations and opportunities to feel successful in their work.”

Annie Parham, who has been cast as James, the lead in the show, sees potential for the new changes to be a real positive for the program.

“With there being so much turnover in the

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COVER: Design by Tracy Sokalski, photo courtesy of Natalie Saltares 2 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

recent year, it’s great. There’s the new staff coming in, and they have great new ideas. I think this influx of new ideas is going to be great for the department,” Parham said.

Helman chose “James and the Giant Peach” because it is all about imagination, and about building things from the ground up. She believes these concepts are a great way to kick off the department’s theme of ‘Metamorphosis.’

This is meant to reflect the changes occurring within the department.

“But also, it’s a sweet show,” Helman said.

“And it’s weird. You know?”

Helman knows that these changes aren’t going to take hold overnight. She does add that she hopes every student will see a play on campus at least once. And the way the program is growing, she has reason to be hopeful.

“James and the Giant Peach” can be seen on the Withycombe Hall Main Stage on Nov. 3-5 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. and on Nov. 12-13 at 2 p.m. General admission is $12, seniors get in for $10, students/youths are admitted for $8 and students with ID is $5.

The Barometer is published on Mondays, except holidays, during the academic school year with additional content, including video available online.

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NEWS

ZBIGNIEW SIKORA |ORANGE MEDIA NETWORK

Combating sexual assault through education

Beavers Give a Dam program works to inform students on bystander intervention, has already trained 1500 students from infinity groups

By Sierra Koefoed, News Contributor Thousands of student’s phones buzzed in unison as another school-wide alert was sent out, notifying readers of a reported sexual assault that occurred to a member of the Oregon State University community a few weekends ago—and then again the next.

Rachel Grisham, the ASOSU president, addressed the reality of the high rate of sexual violence among the college population.

“These alerts are horrifying and important, but instances of sexual violence that are strangers are only 10 percent, and so we know that these alerts are only representative of that 10 percent,” Grisham said.

Grisham has made student safety her top priority by becoming involved with Beavers Give a Dam, an evidence based, bystander intervention program. Beavers Give a Dam was created by Michelle Bangen, the associate director for prevention and wellness at OSU. “One of the things that I really like about bystander intervention is that it’s a community based solution,” Bangen said. “It’s not a blaming or shaming program.”

Facilitators of Beavers Give a Dam provide tailored classes taught by a professional lead facilitator and an undergraduate co-facilitator.

The goal is to get more people educated on what consent means so that can we decrease the counts of sexual violence on campuses.

Rachel Grisham ASOSU president

Grisham has co-facilitated, and said that she believes that it is effective having a peer-topeer style class. Fifteen hundred students have participated in Beavers Give a Dam, including all Panhellenic sororities, a handful of IFC fraternities, RAs, and almost all of the athletic teams.

“Any infinity group on campus that wants to be more active and a better advocate on campus for ending sexual violence should definitely take this training,” Grisham said. “It’s one of the best, in my opinion, that the campus offers.”

ASOSU was considering passing legislation on Oct. 11, that would mandate all members of the Greek community to participate in the

Beavers Give a Dam program, however this legislation was not presented because it was no longer seen as necessary.

“IFC and Panhellenic were already working on what we wanted to do,” said Brett Morgan, ASOSU vice president.

There are also efforts being made on the national level to prevent sexual violence.

The “It’s On Us” Campaign was started by the White House under the Obama administration.

ASOSU has joined the movement.

Anyone can take the “It’s On Us Pledge,” which is a commitment to both recognize what sexual violence is and to take action against it.

“The goal is to get more people edu-

cated on what consent means so that we can decrease the counts of sexual violence on campuses,” Grisham said.

Rae Madison, the coordinator of wellness affairs at OSU, said that ASOSU is planning on having an event around the “It’s On Us” Campaign every term.

The student body government within the PAC 12 conference is currently working on an “It’s On Us” video, which should be released by the end of this week on YouTube.

Students who wish to get involved with the “It’s On Us” campaign can contact Rae Madison, and can take the pledge on the “It’s On Us” wepage.

Another resource for students who have been victims of sexual violence is the Survivor Advocacy Resource Center, which works to provide confidential support.

“It’s our job as student leaders and as student government and the administration to keep our students safe,” Grisham said. “It’s our number one priority. Because if we can’t keep students safe, they can’t succeed academically.

There’s no way.”

WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • 3

NEWS

Pumping up the crowd A behind the scenes look into Oregon State University’s cheerleading squad

By Carina Burgher, News Contributor

COURTESY OF LILY HUDNELL-ALMAS

Oregon State University head cheer coach, Amber Bezates, talks with her squad before the Utah vs. OSU football game on Oct. 15. Bezates has been working with OSU cheerleaders for 17 seasons. Rain or shine her and her team are on the sideline for every home football game.

4 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

NEWS

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COURTESY OF LILY HUDNELL-ALMAS

The Oregon State University cheer team gets the crowd hyped for the Beavers home football game versus Utah on Oct. 15.

L

ong before a trophy is proudly displayed there is a dream. Countless hours of training and mental preparation are devoted to earning the highest recognition possible. Oregon State University is lucky to be a powerhouse of PAC-12 Division I athletes that continuously perform at elite levels, bringing home medals, rings and titles that validate their hard work. For OSU cheerleaders, however, there is no tangible reward waiting at the end of a season.

Though cheer is not officially recognized as an OSU sport, stunt technician Eric Weiss and cheer captain Kylie Acoba both consider themselves athletes. Their coach Amber Bezates, who has been working with OSU cheerleaders for 17 seasons, agrees.

“Cheerleading in general is a super physically demanding activity,” Weiss said.

Every practice and game is an extended trust exercise for the cheerleaders. After being lifted to balance on the stuntman’s open palm, a female cheer athlete will often spring into the air for a display of dizzying acrobatics. In these moments, cheer athletes literally have their lives on the line. During the rise and descent, having complete faith in their partner becomes just as important as their learned skills.

“A perfect game is no missed stunts,” Bezates said. “Our main goal is to keep the crowd entertained. If we can keep the crowd loud and supportive it has a positive effect.”

To ensure that every appearance is a suc-

cess, OSU cheer athletes practice two to three times a week for 3.5 hours with coaches.

On game days, cheer athletes are expected to be in game-mode for up to 8 hours. The whole team is constantly looking to improve and will often organize practices outside of scheduled time, using gyms in Albany or even as far as Portland.

“We just want to better ourselves,” Acoba said. “It takes a lot of drive, but we all push each other, support each other.”

Tryouts for the cheer team welcome any interested student, however, males should have a base athleticism and females require prior cheer or gymnastic experience. The team’s isn’t reliant on the athlete identifier, though. Ultimately, cheerleaders strive to be engaging entertainers. In fact, Weiss’ charismatic personality lead him to leave a successful career as an OSU rower in order to pursue cheer instead. His contagious energy and passion awarded him a spot on the cheer team even without having previous experience.

The two-day walk-on process is held biannually, once in April and then again in the fall. Being a cheer athlete requires a commitment to self-improvement and strong intrinsic motivation. The final cuts will have shown a love for the sport and obvious dedication to excellence.

“It’s rewarding to be with someone through their journey of getting better,” Acoba said.

The OSU cheer team kicks off their summer training with daily double practices in antici-

pation of the first football game. This rigorous training schedule continues until the start of school, which can amount up to over a month of 6 hours of practice per day. Throughout the season they focus on stunts and tumbling as well as choreographed routines and the OSU fight song. Both male and female members are sideline for every football, volleyball and men’s and women’s basketball games.

Like all athletes, OSU cheerleaders don’t just represent the school during appearances.

“They’re upheld to a high standard,” Bezates said. “They need to be polite, professional, classy representatives of the university- even on personal social media. This group does it really well.”

These athletes continue to show up to practices and games, come rain or shine, fueled by personal ambition and school spirit.

“Just having a lot of school spirit will come with the ability to say the school letters with a lot of pride,” Weiss said. “I think as a team, if we all worked really hard and smiled the whole game, yelled our heart out, that’s a job well done.”

For cheerleaders, effort is measured in raspy voices and sore cheeks from smiling. This sport requires its athletes to better themselves for the sole purpose of encouraging enthusiastic fan involvement that will create a supportive environment for their home team.

“My favorite part is creating something from nothing,” Bezates said.

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WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • 5

ENTERTAINMENT

New barcade opens in Corvallis In the making since 2013, The Dam offers food, alcohol, arcade and other gaming opportunities to the community, can hold over 400 patrons

By Thomas Hellman, News Contributor Beaver Nation just got a new place to drink and play. The barcade is a popular new trend in Oregon, and now Corvallis has its own-and more-in The Dam. Walking into The Dam, one is greeted by the sounds of pinball machines jangling upstairs. The first sight is the bar, where patrons lounge about and enjoy a drink, while sports news hums from the multitude of TV’s. Upon inspection, are sports cards sealed into the countertops, and murals of sports stars on the walls such as Jacquizz Rodgers and Stephen Jackson. Beyond the bar is a basketball half court, with corn hole boards decorated with characters including Bill Murray and the Great Cornholio. The ceiling is plastered with posters. A feeling of adolescence is invoked.

Owner Ben Metzger has been busy fixing up the old Sivetz Coffee Building, across from the downtown Safeway, since 2013. In 2014, his Indiegogo campaign video detailed his vision of a Sports Bar/Barcade hybrid. His campaign garnered $3,175 in contributions from 39 backers, who were rewarded with

$20 in arcade tokens, Dam t-shirts, Dam club memberships, and custom murals on the Dam walls for their donations.

What has developed is a full service restaurant and bar with 20 local brews, oversized appetizers, a half court for corn hole tournaments, TV’s featuring sporting events, and old school arcade games and pinball machines upstairs. He even has a couple machines with custom-made wooden barrel cabinets.

“It’s a sight to behold. It’s something beavers gotta see,” Metzger said. “We’re just entrenched in here, and we’re here for the students. We got what you need, we got what you’re looking for.”

Russell Barlow has been a Corvallis bartender for over six years, and is excited to be at The Dam. “It’s really open, so we can interact with the customers,” Barlow said. “You come in, there’s stairs to the left, there’s the bar to the right, and then in the middle’s a half court, like a basketball court. So it’s a cool, open vibe, and you can just greet everybody.”

KATHERINE POLLAN |ORANGE MEDIA NETWORK

(ABOVE) A row of pinball machines, some of the many classic arcade games The Dam offers. Others include TV’s, corn-hole, numerous arcade games and food and drink. (LEFT) The Dam bartender Russel Barlow pours a Wild Beaver, just one of the over 20 local beers the new barcade has on tap.

6 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

ENTERTAINMENT Barlow was aware of The Dam’s construction over the past few years, and when the opportunity for employment arose, he applied.

“I was excited, because I like other barcades across the state.

And then the fire code limit is in the high 400’s, so you can fit a couple hundred people comfortably on the dance floor. They’re gonna have some live shows in the future, and people are getting excited about that.”

Reviews on Facebook and Yelp have been largely positive, with some complaints. Among them is a lack of seating.

“We’re getting more stools, because there’s only a couple dozen stools in the place,” Barlow said. “He [Metzger] opened as quickly as he could once the inspections came in. Not everything came in on time, and that was one of the things.”

Jessie Sullivan, another bartender, said that there will also be ten to fifteen more arcade games coming soon. Raised in Corvallis, she wishes there was something like this around when she was growing up.

“Born and raised Corvallis kid.

If this was here when I was in High School, I’d have been here,” Sullivan said.

Both bartenders have been

impressed with Metzger’s enthusiasm. He makes frequent visits, working on the building and the games, asking his employees questions, taking their advice, and ensuring cohesion. Metzger also did most of the bar’s decorations himself.

“Ben’s a jack of all trades,” Sullivan said.

Thomas Dye, a Dam patron and dual enrolled student at Oregon State University and Linn Benton Community College, offered praise, but saw room for improvement.

“I think it’s pretty neat. I think it’s a good start,” Dye said. “I think if they get more support, it could be a lot better. I like the sports theme, too.”

Barlow believes The Dam will only get better.

“Once we’ve got everything dialed in, the positives we got now are gonna be even moreso,” Barlow said.

In the meantime, Metzger continues work, both on the building, and on the games. He is currently working on a game similar to ‘whack-a-mole’ that he called ‘Fire in the Keep.’

“I’m working on one called ‘Putzky,’ a cross between mini golf and ski ball,” Metzger said.

“We’re gonna fill up every nook and cranny with games.”

KATHERINE POLLAN |ORANGE MEDIA NETWORK

The custom built tabletop Donkey Kong game is available to patrons of The Dam to play.

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@cspsoccer CorvallisSportsPark WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • 7

COVER STORY

‘Love Your Melon’ Organization donates half of retail profits to pediatric cancer research

By Sierra Koefoed Harlan, News Contributor

COURTESY OF NATALIE SALTARES

Landen Wilson and members from the OSU Love Your Melon group at the Davis Family Farm.

Six-year- old Landen Wilson charged into the corn maze.

Landen’s laughter carried through the crisp, fall air at Davis Family Farm. He led his family and a small group of Oregon State University students bravely through deep puddles and proudly showed off the big pumpkin that he had picked earlier that afternoon.

While this was a day full of laughter and fun, the past few months have been anything but easy for Landen and his family. Landen’s parents, Cassie and Eli Wilson, received unexpected news this past summer.

On Aug. 4, 2016 the Wilsons took Landen to the emergency room for what they thought would be a routine procedure. Landen was transferred to Doernbecher’s Children’s Hospital, and six days later he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

This news brought immediate change to the Wilson Family. Landen went from living the carefree life of a six year old to having doctor appointments and dealing with the repercussions of treatment. At the beginning of his treatment, Landen suffered compression fractures in the vertebrates along his lower back.

“He went from a very active lifestyle filled with hiking, soccer, swimming, doing 3 mile runs weekly to barely being able to tolerate walking down the hall and having to wear a full back brace until he reaches the maintenance part of his treatment in the spring of 2017,” said Cassie.

Despite Landen’s weekly trips to Doernbecher’s Children’s Hospital for chemotherapy, Eli and Cassie work hard at providing Landen with a normal childhood. Landen is in kindergarten this year, and he goes to school for three hours a day when he feels well enough. He also goes to a weekly Awana’s church group when his blood count is high enough. However, there are challenges associated with going out, and it’s not always possible for the Wilsons to do everything that they would like to.

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8 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

PORTLAND YOUTH PHILHARMONIC SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 3:00 PM The LaSells Stewart Center, OSU Tomas Svoboda: Symphony No. 2 Richard Wagner: Prelude to “Die Meistersinger” Max Bruch: Romanze Samuel Zacharia, viola Winner of the 2016 PYP Solist Competiton David Hattner, Musical Director FREE Concert • All are Welcome • COSUsymphony.org

“Every year we have a Family Farm pumpkin pa and we weren’t sure how year,” Cassie said.

This is where a group of heroes stepped in. Their ha across the front, and their m day for the Wilson family.

Love Your Melon is an that donates 50 percent o cancer research and nonpr families who have been im LYM has 740 campus crews hold Superhero Days for ki Lauran Danna, a sophom campus crew last year. She and has enjoyed having the “I thought it was cool t children that have cancer,” D money, but you actually ge and get them out and doin minds off of it and just let th Cassie had seen kids we more about the organizati “When we originally cont hat sizes, they informed us dren with pediatric cancer to fill out for one,” Cassie s reached out to us in an em Superhero day and asked we would be interested in it and agreed this would b way of celebrating his stre The outing with the Superhero Day that the OS ticipated in, and afterward excitement about how rew been. Danna said that whil

always gone to the Davis atch as a family tradition, w we would pull it off this

beanie-wearing, OSU superats all bore “Love Your Melon” mission was to provide a fun

apparel based organization f their proceeds to pediatric rofit organizations that help mpacted by pediatric cancer. s that promote them and also ids battling leukemia. more at OSU, started a LYM e currently has a crew of 19, e chance to make a difference. that it is so interactive with Danna said. “It isn’t just raising et to provide events for them ng stuff and kind of take their hem be a normal kid for a day.” earing LYM hats and learned ion through other parents. tacted Love Your Melon about about donating a hat to chilr and sent us the information said. “Shortly after that, they mail about Love Your Melon if that would be something . We talked to Landen about be something fun to do as a ength throughout this time.”

Wilson family is the first SU LYM Melon crew has pards everyone expressed their warding the experience had le this is a rewarding job, the

weight of what these children are going through is a hard reality to face.

“The hardest part is knowing that there is a need for this type of thing,” Danna said. “You would wish that no kid would have to go through that and it kind of bums you out that that happens, but just getting to help them overcome that for a day is cool.”

Cassie said that the whole family had a great time at Davis Family Farm, and that it exceeded their expectations. She was encouraged to find an organization that focuses on pediatric cancer as she feels it is not publicized as much as other forms of cancer and is underfunded.

“There are many long term side effects that these children face later in life due to treatments,” Cassie said.

“Cancer is going to make people uncomfortable, but these children are warriors and if more people create a bigger voice for them then we can start seeing better funding someday.”

Thankfully, Landen will be able to receive the care that he needs to recover. He will be going through treatment for the next three years and will continue to receive checkups for the rest of his childhood.

“I think this is something we will always carry throughout our lives, but we truly believe that Landen has an amazing life in store for him,” Cassie said. “When you are around Landen he completely lights up the room with his infectious laugh and bright personality. He is meant for big things.”

At the Davis Family farm, Landen trudged through the puddles and led his group of superheroes through the corn maze. It was obvious that nothing would stand in his way of reaching his destination. Landen has a long journey ahead of him but is determined to fight.

“I’m going to make my own path,” Landen said.

In order to keep you safe on Halloween weekend, Corvallis Police and Oregon State Police will triple its presence with more officers on duty.

It’s ALL of our responsibility to prevent sexual violence.

Be a Buddy. See something?

Do something.

Always know what you’re drinking or serving, and avoid mysterious brews like jungle juice. Don’t serve alcohol to minors.

It’s a criminal offense and you could be arrested.

For a list of fun, free Halloween events, check out http://mu.oregonstate.edu/halloween

Beavers Take Care of Each Other.

WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • 9

SPORTS

Killing it

OSU volleyball hitter Lanesha Reagan uses her athleticism to overcome height disadvantage

By Josh Worden, Senior Beat Reporter

COURTESY OF SCOBEL WIGGINS| OSU ATHLETICS

Lanesha Reagan attacks the ball during the game against USC on Oct. 16. Only 5-foot-8, Reagan is the third shortest outside hitter in the PAC-12, but she is the second on the team for kills (235) and digs (168).

10 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

SPORTS

L

anesha Reagan is barely 5-foot-8 and she targeting Mary-Kate and targeting Lanesha and can grab a basketball rim. they really weren’t worrying about anyone else.”

It goes without saying she’s an athletic, Worrying about Marshall is no surprise; fast-twitch type of person. she’s a 6-foot-1 force who earned Pac-12 Fast-twitch muscles, fast-twitch decision Freshman of the Year honors in 2014. But for making. It’s how she plays Pac-12 volleyball at Reagan, earning that amount of attention from Oregon State despite being undersized for an opponents despite being 5-foot-8 is a credit outside hitter. And, it’s how she came to OSU in to her athleticism. the first place.

According to Marshall, Reagan is “easily” the On Nov. 22, 2011, Reagan was visiting Corvallis best jumper on the team. from her hometown of Snohomish, Wash., and From the top of her hand to the floor, Reagan watched the Civil War volleyball game in Gill can touch 10-foot-2 on a jump. Marshall’s best Coliseum. OSU swept Oregon in straight sets, jump is an inch shy of Reagan’s and that accounts and Reagan’s fast-twitch personality kicked in. for Marshall being four inches taller.

She was only a sophomore in high school but As Barnard puts it, Reagan can go “from zero she decided right then, without even telling to 100 immediately.” her parents, to commit to OSU. The volleyball “Ever since I saw her even as a younger athlete, office was locked, so Reagan had to pound on she just had that ability to jump,” Barnard said. the door to get now-head coach Mark Barnard “You can’t train it. You can enhance your jump to notice her. over time with strength and conditioning, but “She came to the Oregon match and busted you can’t do what she does. You can’t go from through the door,” Barnard said, who was an my jump to her jump. Not even close.” assistant at the time. “I said, ‘what do you want?’

Reagan’s leaping prowess played a part in She said, ‘I’m committing.’ I go, ‘No, no, no. Have how she and Barnard first met. Reagan was you told your playing in a parents? She club volleyball said, ‘No.’ It tournament was a surprise. at OSU seven We had beatyears ago with en Oregon, Barnard in so she was attendance. on a commit The 14-yearhigh, I supold Reagan pose. We were happened to very happy get a bloody because we nose during had been a match and recruiting for Barnard’s first awhile.” ever words “I was like, to her on the ‘Oh my gosh, sideline were I totally want both joking to be here. and compleIt’s going to mentary. be the cool“He came up est experience to me while I ever,’” Reagan was adjusting added. “I just my nose and Mary-Kate Marshall went for it.” he said, ‘Oh, Barnard you jumped OSU women’s volleyball first noticed so high, that’s player Reagan as a w h at h a p freshman in pened. The elehigh school vation made and started recruiting her a year later. It didn’t your nose bleed,’” Reagan said. “I just laughed. take long for Reagan to commit, but that’s I didn’t really understand what he said because just her style. of the [Australian] accent. But he was funny, and That style is the same on the court, where he’s still pretty funny.” the redshirt sophomore is second on the team According to MaxPreps statistics, Reagan in both kills (235) and digs (168). She is listed at was the top-ranked player of her class from 5-foot-10 but admits she’s actually “5-foot-8 and Washington and the No. 6 prospect in the nation. a half-ish,” which makes her the third shortest She was named Snohomish High School’s voloutside hitter in the Pac-12. Of the 67 outside hit- leyball MVP three years in a row and arrived at ters in the conference, 54 are at least six feet tall. OSU in 2014.

“She’s a dwarf,” Barnard said with a laugh.

She’s made the most of her time in the pro“She’s so physically outmatched in this league, gram, earning a starting spot this season as a it’s not funny. But she competes very well. Most redshirt sophomore. Not only has she overcome other outside hitters are six feet and above, but her diminutive height, she’s grown enough as a she’s done well.” player to take advantage of it.

“It’s unbelievable,” added fellow outside hit“It’s very hard to block shorter players because ter and teammate Mary-Kate Marshall. “Teams they jump so well, so timing becomes an can’t stop her, and we can’t stop her in practice issue,” Barnard said. “They just seem to climb as most of the time… When you look at her hitting they jump. So there is an advantage to being against a 6-foot-8 blocker that’s a whole foot smaller, but the thing is if you’re smaller, you’ve taller than her, that’s pretty insane.” got to be better.”

Multiple times, Barnard says, opposing teams “A lot of it is timing,” Reagan added. “Stanford, have accidentally left their scouting reports in who has girls who are like 6-foot-6 and 6-foot-8, Gill Coliseum after playing the Beavers. Their there’s not a ton you can do when you’re 5-footgame plans are exactly what Barnard expected. 8. The jump gives me the off speed between “It was zero surprise,” Barnard said. “They were my timing and their timing. Usually I’ll try to go

a little faster than them since I am kind of fast, so I’ll try to hit before they get their hands up.”

Marshall has noticed Reagan’s development over the past three years. After all, they came to OSU at the same time, live together and are self-described “best friends.”

“She can go above and beyond any hitter that’s been in this program.” Marshall said. “She has a really good work ethic. Having her on the court this year has really helped our offense.

She worked really hard in the offseason. In the summer she had that mentality of ‘I’m going to be the number one hitter, I’m going to come in this season and work really hard.’ All of her hard work is paying off and it’s really helped our team out a lot.”

Reagan has already begun making an impact

on the team, but the fact that she’s only a sophomore increases her potential even further. Her goals aren’t centered around personal accolades, though; she wants to re-experience the NCAA Tournament like when she was redshirting in 2014. OSU’s comeback victory to snap Arkansas Little-Rock’s 25-game winning streak and advance to the Sweet 16 got Reagan hooked on postseason volleyball, even though she watched from the sidelines.

“My biggest hope is with the team to go and experience the Sweet 16 again because that was so fun the first time,” Reagan said. “I want to be able to play in it and not have to sit and watch.

That game against UALR was crazy. I wish I was playing in that game. That’s my favorite memory.”

It’s unbelievable.

Teams can’t stop (Reagan) and we can’t stop her at practice most of the time.

WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • 11

SPORTS

COURTESY OF SCOBEL WIGGINS | OSU ATHLETICS

Running back Kyle White gets tackled during practice. A transfer from Orange Coast College in California last year, White led the Beavers with 53 rushing yards and a touchdown in the OSU spring game.

Change is nothing new for Kyle White

White’s versatility pushes him to new heights this year

By Josh Worden, Senior Beat Reporter The sweat dripped off Kyle White’s forehead as he plugged through the exercises.

He started with five sets of box jumps, switched to jump ropes and followed it with running hurdles. Then back to the box jumps, but a little higher this time. He went through the routine once, then started it all over again.

Jumping workouts are taxing, both for the legs and the mind. But White, a junior running back-turned-cornerback for Oregon State, had a good coach: his mom, Penny.

This was no OSU football practice, by the way. It was a typical day from high school back in Montgomery, Ala. White always had well-rounded workouts thanks to his mom, who wouldn’t just coach him through the sets but do them right along with him.

Penny Lucas-White played volleyball for LSU as well as the USA National Team and now is the head volleyball coach at Alabama State.

The rest of White’s family is athletic, too: his father, Mark, ran track at OSU. His siblings, Keefe and Kayla, are in high school and expect to play collegiate football and volleyball, respectively.

White himself is as versatile as they come, playing volleyball in high school as well as

football, basketball and soccer.

Now he’s is more than half the country away from his family in Alabama, but the athletic background he got from them is the reason he’s playing for a Pac-12 school.

“It was a family bonding time,” he said of their athletic endeavors. “My brother and sister are just as athletic if not more so than I am. Our bonding time is our active time.”

The 6-foot, 207-pounder transferred from Orange Coast College in California last year as one of the top-five running backs in the junior college ranks. He went through spring practices with the Beavers, leading the team with 53 rushing yards and a touchdown in the spring game. Just like his parents both competed at the Division-I level, Kyle had finally joined their ranks.

“I felt accomplished more than anything, but at the same time I felt like my job wasn’t done,” White said of his emotions after transferring to OSU. “I’m happy to make it at this level, but I feel like there’s so much more I want to contribute to my team so there’s something I can be proud of. My mom did great things at LSU, my dad did great things being an individual runner at Oregon State. I feel like I’ve done good, but I haven’t done great yet.”

12 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

White hasn’t gotten closure on that aim yet, either. In fall camp, he had to battle for a spot on the depth chart with other running backs like Ryan Nall, Artavis Pierce and Tim Cook.

Ultimately, White ended up being the odd one out. So, the coaching staff approached him about a position switch to cornerback two weeks before the season opener on Sept. 1.

“The absolute first words out of his mouth were simple and clean: ‘Coach, I’ll do whatever is best for the team,’” said head coach Gary Andersen, who added that White was already beginning to get extra practice in with cornerbacks coach Cory Hall the day after making the switch.

“He was great about it,” added running backs coach Telly Lockette, who first brought the idea to White. “He said, ‘Coach, yeah I’ll go.’ And now, he’s on special teams making plays. That’s a credit to him, how athletic he is.”

The fact that White is able to make a position switch and still be a contributor, at least on special teams, points to the training he got from high school and even earlier. After all, he played basketball all four years at Macon East Academy, volleyball for three years, soccer for one year and football just one. He also ran track at OCC and he says competing in the

various sports helps his overall athleticism on the football field today.

Running track helped White improve his quickness, acceleration and a longer stride in the open field. Basketball helped his hand-eye coordination and volleyball helped his vertical jump, due in large part to the jumping sessions with his mother.

“Each sport has a little something that can help in football,” White said.

The mother-son combo started with mini box jumps, but as the years went on, White’s vertical leap improved so much he had to stack boxes on top of each other to use because the normal boxes weren’t high enough for him. He says his personal best is 55 inches for a flat-footed jump and 60 inches with a onestep gather. For reference, the Guinness World Record for flat-footed box jump is 64 inches.

Incidentally, Penny’s coach on the USA National Volleyball Team was recently retired OSU volleyball coach Taras Liskevych. White says Liskevych reached out to him about practicing with the team, but White declined.

“He asked me,” White said. “I didn’t have the time. (Football) is my main priority.”

That’s still the case, even though White went through a position switch he didn’t expect and

SPORTS has yet to crack the depth chart at cornerback.

It isn’t exactly what he had in mind for his playing time in Corvallis, but he’s not giving up.

“I accept my role, but I will work harder to do better,” White said. “I understand my role right now and I will work to do my best at the role I play. If I can help my team as much as possible, that’s what I’ll do.”

“He has a great attitude,” added coach Andersen. “It’s been like that since the first day he walked in here. He’s always in the weight room, I see him move through there and the way he pushes himself. He’s very coachable.”

Though things have changed a lot of White, he’s used to adjustments. For a guy who has played five different sports since high school, maybe it would be abnormal for him to settle down in the same position in the same sport. He’s playing on a different side of the ball now, but the work ethic and desire is still there.

“Every position switch is hard, but I’m trying to make the most of it,” he said. “I’m trying to get into the playbook as much as possible, trying to be with the coaches as much possible. I’m trying to adapt and learn to help the team.”

“He’s been doing a pretty good job out there making that

quick transition,” added senior wide receiver Victor Bolden. “I’m proud to see he’s picking it up.”

Time and time again, White will mention his utmost goal is to help the team.

No matter the position, no matter the

time he spends on the field, he always relates it back to what the team’s perspective is.

That came to a head in the Idaho State game when White was on the punt return team and Bolden lined up to receive the kick. White missed a block, allowing Bolden to get hit and

fumble the ball. Luckily, White was right there to scoop it up to avoid the turnover. The next play, Bolden took a handoff and sped 92 yards for a touchdown.

“I gave Vic an apology, and then I gave Vic a pat on the back because he did great,” White said. “I just love my teammates because I picked up when he was down, and he picked up when I was down, and we helped the team.”

White still has all of this season and next year to continue carving his role at OSU. It’s hard to say where he’ll make the biggest impact. He’s still got a ways to go learning the playbook and getting the technique of playing cornerback down, but the athleticism and work ethic are there. Maybe most important of all is his desire to turn last year’s 2-10 team into a program moving into the next level.

“He’s all about his team,” said running back Kieran Yancy. “I appreciate that because he’s looking out for me and the rest of the team.

He really cares about winning. That’s what this program is starting to be about.”

“What’s helped me stay confident is knowing where I’m at,” White added. “The coaches we have are amazing. My parents are always behind me and so are my brother and sister.

My teammates, friends, everybody. I have so many positive people around me, I don’t even understand it. There’s kids that come up to me like, ‘You’re awesome, Kyle.’ I’ll say, ‘I don’t even know who you are, but you’re an amazing kid.’

Just people everywhere — I’m happy to play this sport and I don’t care the position, I just want to work as hard as possible and help my team.”

I’m happy to be at this level, but I feel like there’s so much more I want to contribute to my team so there’s something I can be proud of.

Kyle White OSU footbal player

COURTESY OF SCOBEL WIGGINS | OSU ATHLETICS

Kyle White charges into the defense during practice. White trained for football with his mother before coming to OSU, and has a 55 inch flat-footed jump.

WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • 13

OPINION

Letters to the Editor The Voice of the Community

The opinions expressed in the Letters to the Editors are entirely from the individual that sent the letter and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Baro’s staff or editorial board.

From the candidates

Sami Al-AbdRabbuh (Independent) OSU and Corvallis community, I thank you for your trust so far. I had the opportunity to represent you as your student government Senator and Graduate Representative. I had the honor of bringing the national championship in Solar Cars racing to Oregon State. Being in the driver seat was an honor, but it couldn’t be a possible victory without the bright minds of students, staff, and faculty. A community-driven progress is how I precisely want to represent you. I know that it is not enough to be in the driver seat to reach our common goals. But I need to have the bright minds of my community to achieve our dreams.

Today, I have the honor of advising international students as a cultural and language advisor and serve at Corvallis school district budget committee.

My vision for Oregon comes from what I hear from you. Your needs and stories fuel my inspiration for a better tomorrow. When you elect a leader, see who dreams big but is still grounded in people’s experiences.

Let’s ask the hard questions. When we hear that more money is allocated to education, I ask why tuition costs are increasing, and highschool graduation rates are nation-wide low. Why some of the brightest Oregonian minds are outpriced from college? When instructors aren’t paid enough, I ask what can we do to help them, so

they help our students.

When I started campaigning, I invited everyone I know for help and support. We evolved into a dedicated group acting as your megaphone. We listen to your stories and make sure our community hears them. I knocked on thousands of doors along with my campaign volunteers. We had tables on the quad and busy sidewalks in town. We still know there is someone else yet needs to reach out. That is why I’m going to be available for you to listen and help. Some citizens work 12 hours shifts, And can’t reach to town halls or farmers market.

That is why I will spend every midnight this week reaching out in an accessible location for doctors, nurses, and social workers during their 12-hour shift changes. It is never enough to reach out, and I hope you continue to support me as an advocate and megaphone for this community. It will be an honor to be your next state representative.

Sami Al-AbdRabbuh (I), Progressive nominee for State House of Representative, District 16 (Corvallis and Philomath). sami2016.com

Andrew Freborg (Libertarian) My name is Andrew Freborg, and I am asking for your vote for State Representative for House District 16 which covers Corvallis and Philomath.

I am running as a Libertarian because both of the old parties have failed our generation. They have saddled us with crippling debt, unending wars, and innovation-stifling regulations that prevent us from reshaping the economy and the world for the better. They invade our privacy at previously unheard of rates; spying on our emails, our text messages, and our Facebook pages. They use the mainstream media and rig opinion polls to stifle our voice.

I have had enough. I am the only candidate running that wants to hold the line on the ever increasing spending in Salem that leave us on the edge of a $1.7 Billion shortfall in the next biennium, despite an expected $1.5 Billion increase in revenue. I am the only candidate running that wants to protect and defend ALL of your rights, ALL of the time, even when I may disagree with you. I am the only candidate running that trusts you enough to let you live your life the way that you want to, as long as you do not harm anyone else through force or fraud; I am fiscally sane and socially tolerant.

I want to make higher education affordable again, not by making the government pay for it, which will only increase the cost, but by making the schools take on more of the risk, and by making your student loan completely tax deductible.

A study by the Federal Reserve of New York found that the number one cause of higher tuition was federally subsidized student loans. For each dollar of those that a school receives there is a corresponding 65 cent increase in tuition. Right now, the school has no incentive to keep costs down; they get paid up front. The lender has no incentive to keep costs down; if you default, Uncle Sam picks up the tab. Make the school take on the risk and costs will drop. Make the loan tax deductible and you will be better able to pay it back.

Finally, I want to increase government transparency, so I will post ALL of my votes and the reasoning behind them on my Facebook page (facebook. com/Freborg4orRep16) so you can ALWAYS know what I am doing as your representative in Salem.

Thank you Andrew Freborg

Improve forest management I graduated in 2015 with a Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree from the Department of Public Policy at Oregon State University Ah, Corvallis. You are blessed with an amazing forest in your backyard, where an expansive trail network provides opportunities to hike, run, mountain bike, walk the dog or just get away from it all.

Unfortunately, outdoor recreation takes a back seat to forest research and logging in this forest and many of the best trails remain unsanctioned, largely underused or unknown, and last only until the chainsaws and logging trucks come. I am referring to the college-owned Mac-Dunn, of course.

In recent years there have been efforts to sanction and improve some of its trails, build new sections, and improve connectivity. These efforts should be applauded, yet during this same time even more trails were lost to logging operations. Is it too much to

expect that in this growing and vibrant city where people embrace outdoor recreation that our forest managers do the same? Is it truly necessary for OSU’s School of Forestry, a world-class institution, to fund itself by logging the forest surrounding our town?

I am not against responsibly managing this forest for research purposes and forest health, but I am advocating for an increased emphasis on recreation and wondering if too many trees are being cut. The Mac-Dunn contributes significantly to our quality of life and well-being in this town. It’s time for Corvallis to realize its outdoor recreation potential and abandon the myth that logging must always be king in this forest, while outdoor recreation takes a back seat.

Corvallis can do better, so can OSU Dan Roper

Endorsing Sami Al-AbdRabbuh Sami has a fresh vision of how state government should be run. He is an honest person who cares about his fellow Oregonians.

He has been involved in school issues in Benton County and has contributed with new ideas towards the betterment of education delivery. Oregon needs more people Listening to Sami Al-AbdRabbuh is a complete delight. He is curious, passionate and knowledgeable about a wide variety of topics: culture, different religions and faiths, education, economics, local, national and international policy.

At the same time he cares to learn and actively listen about subjects he is not acquainted with. When discussing a topic where he has

Dr. Mario Magana Associate Professor at the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

different views that you, he cares to listen to your point, not to formulate a rebuttal, but to truly understand where you are coming from.

He was one of the first persons I met when I got to Corvallis to initiate graduate studies. After a year and a half of being close friends I have to say that Sami is a competent young professional who has been committed to improving the

I have known Sami for a few years now through various random events, like ballroom dancing, leadership meetings, and many other community events. He seems to be involved or aware of everything happening within Corvallis and the surrounding areas!

I’ve never met someone as driven and passionate as Sami. If you haven’t already met Sami, I would say you’re missing out on speaking with one of the most brilliant, genuine,

Submitting letters to the editor

who think outside the box like Sami.

experience of students at OSU. The multiple projects and experiences he has completed make him qualified for the position he’s running for; I have no doubt that he would be a great Oregon state representative for District 16.

Best regards, Mayra S. Crespo Bellido, RD

and hardworking people around. I am going to vote Sami for State House Representative, because I know he will serve my community with the idea of diversity, affordable education, and sustainability in mind.

Best regards, Auna Godinez

Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be printed on a first-received basis. Letters must be 300 words or fewer and include the author’s signature, academic major, class standing or job title, department name and phone number. Authors of e-mailed letters will receive a reply for the purpose of verification. Letters are subject to editing for space and clarity. The Baro reserves the right to refuse publication of any submissions. Each reader will be allowed one published letter per month.

email: baro.editor@oregonstate.edu The Daily Barometer 488 Student Experience Center 2251 SW Jefferson Way Corvallis, OR 97331-1617

14 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016

C R O S S W O R D

Go Beyond CORRECTION: In the Monday edition (10/17) of the Baro, the column “Condoms on campus” contained incorrect information about the availability of condoms on the OSU campus.

The following information is correct: According to Michelle Bangen, the associate director for prevention and wellness with OSU Student Health Services, the Condom Hot Spots and the Condom Express programs that were mentioned in the column are currently under construction and are not operating in the capacity that was described.

Across

Free condoms can still be accessed at all student health service locations including Plageman, Student Health Services at Tebeau and Dixon Student Health Services at Dixon.

Larger quantities of safer sex products for events or student groups can be requested online or by texting @ safersex to 39242.

For more up to date information on the availability of condoms and safer sex products, continue to check the Student Health Services webpage.

The Baro apologizes for this mistake.

1 “La Vie en Rose” singer 5 Ashtray array 10 Interest greatly 14 “There __ joy in Mudville ... “ 15 Livid 16 Cambodian currency 17 Lump 18 Hasbro soldier 19 Raison d’__ 20 Lake Michigan port 22 Dietary need 24 TriBeCa neighbor 26 Backspaced over 27 1974 hit with a Spanish title meaning “You are” 31 Jedi Council VIP 33 VCR successor 34 Brief meeting?

36 Army rank above maj.

41 Told ... and a hint to this puzzle’s six sets of circles 44 Ivy League sch.

45 “Rebel Without a Cause” star James 46 Where a retriever may be retrieved: Abbr.

47 Blacken 49 Prepare 51 Kansas motto word 55 Omit 57 “Moby-Dick” crew 59 Made possible 64 Italian air 65 Cumberland Gap explorer 67 Hall of Fame linebacker Junior 68 Copper that’s mostly zinc 69 Corned beef __ 70 Not fem.

71 __-Ball 72 Construction rod 73 Long haul

Down

1 Draft item often traded

2 Vacation destination 3 Erelong 4 Snap, commercially 5 Michigan Stadium nickname, with “The” 6 Heep of trouble?

7 __ Mahal 8 Camaro roof option 9 What 15-Across people do 10 Former Fox News anchor Van Susteren 11 Ceremonies 12 Where eagles hatch 13 Some of this and some of that 21 JFK-to-Heathrow flier, once 23 Dental care name 25 Seafood found in beds 27 Website for handmade art 28 Electrolux spokeswoman Kelly 29 Pernicious 30 Something underfoot

32 DOL division 35 Scandinavian literary work 37 Try out 38 Toy gun ammo 39 Almost never 40 Six-part undergrad exam 42 Money 43 Tech graduate 48 Abet, in a way 50 Grime-fighting org.

51 Spy plane acronym 52 Toondom ogre 53 “Common Sense” writer 54 Give a big lift 56 Uganda neighbor 58 40-decibel unit 60 Realty ad abbr.

61 “I am a very foolish fond old man” speaker 62 Comfort 63 “Fore!”

66 Sun or moon

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HOROSCOPE Today’s Birthday (10/24/16).

What do you want this year?

Consider possibilities. Plan and budget for long-term goals. Ritual and symbolism satisfy. One door closes as another opens with your career this spring, before romance flowers anew. Domestic changes next autumn lead to exciting professional opportunities. Reflect on love.

To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is an 8 -- Focus on financial planning over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Scorpio. Talk about family funds. Collaborate to manage extra work today and tomorrow. Share with love.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -Today is an 8 -- Communication thrives with your partner over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Scorpio. Listen

and compromise. Stay in close contact. Romance blossoms, especially today and tomorrow.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) -- Today is a 6 -- Discuss your work, health and fitness with experts to grow stronger over the next three, weeks with Mercury in Scorpio. Enjoy domestic pleasures today and tomorrow.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) -Today is an 8 -- Your thoughts turn toward fun and romance, with Mercury in Scorpio. For about three weeks, it’s easier to express your feelings, and you’re exceptionally creative, especially today and tomorrow.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Over the next three weeks, fix up your place with Mercury in Scorpio.

You’re inspired; revise the budget today and tomorrow.

Get creative with color, form and function.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Writing,

recording and publishing projects come together over the next three weeks, with Mercury and the Sun in Scorpio. Push for a personal goal over the next two days.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -Today is a 6 -- Use creativity to boost income over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Scorpio. Profit from communications.

Consider strategies today and tomorrow.

Stay in the conversation.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 9 -- It’s easier to make personal decisions, with Mercury in your sign for about three weeks. Reinvent and share your vision. Inspire your team, especially over the next two days.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Complete old projects and plan what’s next over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Scorpio.

Professional opportunities have your attention today and

S U D O K U tomorrow. Commune with your inner muse.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 6 -- For about three weeks, with Mercury in Scorpio, team projects coalesce. Communication oils the machinery. Plan a trip over the next few days. If you can get away, go.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 7 -- Plan your next career move. Make bold professional choices over the next three weeks, with Mercury in Scorpio. Do numbers with your partner, especially today and tomorrow.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -Today is an 8 -- Invite someone special on an adventure over the next two days. For about three weeks, with Mercury in Scorpio, travel and discovery beckons. Strengthen loving bonds.

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OrangeMediaNetwork.com WEEK OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2016 • DAILYBAROMETER.COM • 15

ENTERTAINMENT

Is Ms. Pac-Man feminist?

By Gareth Baldrica-Franklin, Player Orange Blog Manager Upon its release in 1982, Ms. Pac-Man quickly outsold its predecessor, becoming the highest selling American arcade game. Ms. Pac-Man introduced us to one of the first female protagonists in video games, and is widely regarded as a better game than Pac-Man. It marks one of few instances throughout media where a sequel starring a woman is considered universally better than the original starring a man. Today, Ms. Pac-Man is referred to by some as a feminist hero, so much so that Buzzfeed made a video about it. But other critics point to her gendering as the origin of the Anita Sarkeesian term “Ms. Male character,” where a female character’s existence is created solely for the purpose of creating a female version of a male character (also known as the Smurfette effect). Is there a right answer? Looking at the history of Ms. Pac Man’s importance to the video game industry, I found that both viewpoints could be true.

The original Pac-Man, released in 1980, was an English version of the Japanese Pakkumen.

Toru Iwatani, the creator of Pac-Man, intended to create a game about eating in order to appeal to women. I’m serious. You can read it in an interview here. In 1981, a trio of American game developers created an “enhancement kit” for Pac-Man called Crazy Otto that improved on many of original game’s features. One of biggest changes in Crazy

Otto was that a dot with slender legs replaced the original yellow mouthed disk.

Crazy Otto was eventually sold to Midway, the American distributor of Pac-Man, who changed the sprites and rebranded the game as an outright sequel to Pac-Man. To thank female players of the original game, they decided to change the legged Otto into a female version of Pac-Man. One of the initial name iterations was Pac-Woman, but this was changed to Mrs. Pac-Man due to fears of protest of her and Pac-Man’s child out of wedlock. It was later decided that Ms. Pac-Man was easier to say.

Ms. Pac-Man was one of the first female protagonists in a video game. She is also one of the few female characters who is specifically feminine and not simply a women with masculine traits (what I like to call Quentin Tarantino “feminism”).

To be fair, what I’m referencing as feminine is simply her bow, lipstick and eyeshadow, but they are emblematic of broader societal symbols that have come to be associated with the female gender.

While societally defined femininity is very important to represent positively in video games, it has often been minimized to a bow and a pink shirt slapped on a male template.

Take Nintendo character, Toadette, who appears to be the only female character of the

Toad species. Not only is she pink, she has pigtails.

It is clear that she is female, and it is also clear that being female is her defining trait. One of the many problems with “Ms. Male characters” is that they exist in predominantly male universes and they are also usually defined only by being the female version of the male character they are based on.

Obviously, there isn’t really overarching story and lore in games like Ms. Pac-Man, and this is true of many other games that make use of the “Ms. Male character.” One could make the argument that femininity could be explored were there more of an emphasis on character in such games. The problem with this argument is that there already is a story in these games, a story of surface-level gendering. Distinctions between characters are boiled down to a trait or an outfit. Male characters typically have a full gamut of different costumes and abilities, while female characters throw hearts or fly with a pink umbrella. Their personality is limited to being a woman.

While there are games that explore femininity in complex, meaningful ways, there are many

more games that dabble in outright sexism and perpetuate the embedded negative masculinities in the gaming industry. While the sexism is certainly subtler in games like Ms. Pac-Man, it is still problematic, and continues to send negative messages about women to society.

So should Ms. Pac-Man be a feminist icon?

Well, the answer is more complicated than simply yes or no. In terms of representation, Ms. Pac-Man marked a great first step by completely outselling and outplaying her male predecessor, not bad for one of the first women in an already male dominated industry. On the other hand, she began a continuing trend of “Ms. Male characters,” wherein simple icons of femininity are the only thing separating female characters from their male originators. This perpetuates gender stereotypes and simplifies the experiences of women in favor of men.

The opinions expressed in BaldricaFranklin’s column do not necessarily reflect those the Baro’s staff.

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