VOLUME 76 • ISSUE 47 • MAY 11, 2022
NEWS
ARTS & CULTURE
OPINION
Portland State students protest predicted Roe v. Wade overturn P. 3
PSU’s White Gallery shows the cost of border policy P. 6
The West Coast is dying of drought P. 21
WE’RE HIRING Copy Editors & News Editor EMAIL RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO EDITOR@PSUVANGUARD.COM
CONTENTS
OUTSIDE COVERS BY WHITNEY MCPHIE INSIDE COVERS BY LEO CLARK
NEWS ROE V. WADE MAY BE OVERTURNED, SAYS LEAKED DOCUMENT
P. 3
ARTS & CULTURE FIND IT AT 5TH AVE: DEVDAS
P. 19
INTERNATIONAL A GUIDE TO CHINA’S EIGHT MAIN REGIONAL CUISINES
P. 4
OPINION THE OTHER GREEN AMERICAN DREAM
P. 20
RUSSIAN INVASION CONTINUES TO DEVASTATE UKRAINE
P. 5
THE WESTERN US IS DRYING UP
P 21
ARTS & CULTURE HOSTILE TERRAIN 94 EXPOSES HUMAN COST OF US BORDER POLICY
P. 6
SCIENCE & TECH SCIENTISTS DISCOVER A NEW WAY TO BREAK DOWN PLASTIC IN DAYS
P. 22
GET OUTSIDE GUIDE
P. 7-18
SPORTS SEATTLE STORM CONTROLS MINNESOTA LYNX, 97-74
P. 23
STAFF
EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Béla Kurzenhauser
ONLINE EDITOR Christopher Ward
MANAGING EDITOR Karisa Yuasa
COPY CHIEF Mackenzie Streissguth
PHOTO EDITOR Sofie Brandt
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Tanner Todd
SPORTS EDITOR Eric Shelby
MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Olivia Lee
NEWS EDITOR Zoe Edelman
CONTRIBUTORS Camden Benesh Whitney Griffith Jeremiah Hayden Nova Johnson Michael Jones Analisa Landeros Carmen Peters Clio Riznyk Jesse Ropers Aiden Tuan Isabel Zerr
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR Ryan McConnell ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Tanner Todd INTERNATIONAL EDITOR Alberto Alonso Pujazon Bogani OPINION EDITOR Justin Cory
PRODUCTION & DESIGN CREATIVE DIRECTOR Shannon Steed
ADVISING & ACCOUNTING COORDINATOR OF STUDENT MEDIA Reaz Mahmood
DESIGNERS Leo Clark Fiona Hays Mia Levy Whitney McPhie A Pargett
STUDENT MEDIA ACCOUNTANT Maria Dominguez
TECHNOLOGY & WEBSITE TECHNOLOGY ASSISTANTS Kahela Fickle George Olson Kwanmanus Thardomrong
To contact Portland State Vanguard, email editor@psuvanguard.com
STUDENT MEDIA TECHNOLOGY ADVISOR Vacant
MISSION STATEMENT Vanguard ’s mission is to serve the Portland State community with timely, accurate, comprehensive and critical content while upholding high journalistic standards. In the process, we aim to enrich our staff with quality, hands-on journalism education and a number of skills highly valued in today’s job market.
ABOUT Vanguard, established in 1946, is published weekly as an independent student newspaper governed by the PSU Student Media Board. Views and editorial content expressed herein are those of the staff, contributors and readers and do not necessarily represent the PSU student body, faculty, staff or administration. Find us in print Wednesdays and online 24/7 at psuvanguard.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @psuvanguard for multimedia content and breaking news.
ROE V. WADE MAY BE OVERTURNED, SAYS LEAKED DOCUMENT FEDERAL OVERTURN WOULD DELEGATE ABORTION RIGHTS TO STATES PROTESTERS GATHER OUTSIDE OF THE KMC/URBAN CENTER PLAZA TO ADVOCATE FOR WOMEN’S REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS. ZOE EDELMAN/PSU VANGUARD ZOE EDELMAN The Supreme Court (SCOTUS) appears set to overturn the 1973 decision of Roe v. Wade, following a leak on May 3. Nearly 50 years after Roe, an initial drafted majority opinion written by conservative Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito obtained by Politico asserts a strong distaste for the Roe v. Wade ruling—and plans to change it. The decision will be overturned with a 5-4 majority, if pushed forward in the Supreme Court. Chuck Schumer, Senate majority leader and Democrat from New York, acted immediately to prepare an upcoming vote to codify abortion rights into federal law. However, it is unlikely the vote will pass due to the Republican majority in the Senate. Last year, the House passed the Women’s Health Protection Act, which would have codified the right to abortion into federal law. However, it was blocked by the Senate Republicans—and Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin. A similar outcome could lie ahead. In 1970, Jane Roe (Norma McCorvey’s pseudonym) filed a lawsuit against Henry Wade, the district attorney of Dallas County, Texas. As a resident of Dallas County, Roe challenged the law that made abortion illegal, by claiming the state laws were unconstitutionally vague. She argued for her first, fourth, fifth, ninth and 14th Amendment rights, to cite how the abortion laws violated her right to privacy in the case of abortion. The Court sided with Roe, 7-2. Despite this, Roe v. Wade has been challenged by many Republican politicians besides Alito, such as Supreme Court Associate Justice Brett Kavanaugh. “Roe was egregiously wrong from the start,” Alito stated in his
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
draft. “Its reasoning was exceptionally weak, and the decision has had damaging consequences.” According to Oyez, a Cornell Law archive, the most important citation in the case was the 14th Amendment, concluding that a state law “that broadly prohibits abortion without respect to the stage of pregnancy or other interests” violated the right to privacy. In 1973, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization revisited Roe, following strict abortion laws passed in Mississippi. SCOTUS upheld Roe v. Wade—in the sense that it is unconstitutional to ban abortion—but ruled that states can prevent abortion after fetal viability can be proven, usually around six weeks. To contextualize this, it can take people up to four weeks to realize their period is late, and that would only give them two more weeks to choose—before it is too late, according to the laws in 14 states. “If the court overturns Roe v. Wade, it will be a direct assault on the fundamental rights of self-determination to which all Americans are entitled,” said Vice President Kamala Harris. “Roe protects the right to access abortion, [and] it also protects a woman’s right to make decisions about what she does with her own body.” Oregon instated the Reproductive Health Equity Act of 2017, which enacted state-wide measures to ensure that, regardless of immigration status or private insurance, abortions in Oregon are covered with no out-of-pocket cost. This also applies to other reproductive and preventative health needs.
“Abortion is a right that everyone should have, and to disagree or speak against it is also a right that every American posses,” said PSU sophomore Sebastian Lopez. “But to set out and try to take away the ability to terminate a pregnancy violates women’s rights, and this would definitely cause a commotion in many liberal states.” In western Oregon, there is ample access to health centers that offer abortion clinics, but challenges may lie ahead in eastern Oregon, where some health centers uphold anti-abortion religious beliefs. “I mean I think it’s absolutely terrifying that it’s 2022 and we are still having to fight for our right to choose what we do with our own bodies,” said PSU sophomore Jaiden Flores. Without the help of improved telehealth, having to drive hours to the nearest clinic may become a reality, if Roe v. Wade is overturned, not only for people in eastern Oregon but across the country. Some states are even proposing legislation to punish people who leave their home state to get an abortion elsewhere. On the Wednesday afternoon following the draft’s release, PSU students and other local protestors took to the streets of downtown Portland to protest the opinion and to advocate for reproductive rights. Over 100 people attended the protest, and a few students delivered speeches detailing the gravity of the SCOTUS decision. “I don’t even understand how ‘choice’ is a debate, to be honest,” Flores said. “It’s crazy how people are okay with the government having that much control over another human being.”
NEWS
3
A GUIDE TO CHINA’S EIGHT MAIN REGIONAL CUISINES The different styles of Chinese cooking MIA LEVY
AIDEN TUAN Food—one of the best experiences to enjoy by yourself or share with others. Culturally, food connects us all together, no matter which continent we are on or which creed we follow. We’ve all chowed down on tacos from Mexican spots or dipped our flatbreads into Indian curry. But many perceive Chinese food, and even Chinese culture itself, to be mostly the same. That said, Chinese cuisine is rich and diverse, with differences in ingredients and history. Chinese food is even featured at a few popular places around campus such as Home Taste and Duck House. China is known for its Eight Great Traditions of cuisine, varying in style and taste. SICHUAN CUISINE Well-known for unapologetic use of spicy chilies and Sichuan peppercorns, Sichuan cuisine prides itself on liberal use of seasonings in order to create bold flavors. The history of using pungent, spicy styles in Sichuan cooking has been attributed to the local geography. Chengdu and Chongqing in the Sichuan Province face high humidity and rainfall, and spicy food is reported to help combat internal humidity. CANTONESE CUISINE Cantonese cuisine is the most popular type of Chinese food worldwide. Many Chinese immigrants to the United States, Canada, Australia, Southeast Asia and Latin America were Cantonese. In sharp contrast to Sichuan cuisine, Cantonese food favors a light, fresh and tender taste and texture. Using simplistic methods, such as steaming, poaching and simmering, the natural flavors are highlighted and amplified.
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INTERNATIONAL
ANHUI CUISINE Focusing more on wild game and gathered herbs, plants and mushrooms, Anhui cuisine puts a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients and the pure flavor of cooking. Regional vegetables such as bamboo shoots and tea leaves also feature prominently in Anhui cuisine. In addition to ingredients, braising and stewing are staple cooking methods. SHANDONG (LU) CUISINE Shandong cuisine is considered the cradle of Chinese culinary culture as it boasts the longest history. Created during the Yuan Dynasty, the cuisine gradually spread northwards towards Beijing and Tianjin, where it became influential in imperial food. Shandong cuisine was also featured prominently in ancient Chinese imperial courts, as it was difficult and complex. Being a coastal province, Shandong also uses a variety of seafood, such as squid, scallops, prawns, clams, shrimp and sea cucumber within the dishes. HUNAN CUISINE As the climate of Hunan province is mild but wet, the people there developed a cuisine that prefers sourness and spiciness. Like Sichuan cuisine, Hunan cuisine uses chili, pepper and shallot in large amounts. What sets them apart, however, is that Hunan cuisine uses drying, smoking and pickling in addition to the usual methods, such as boiling and steaming. Many have also said that Hunan dishes are generally spicier than Sichuan ones. ZHEJIANG CUISINE Usually light and fresh, Zhejiang cuisine has a reputation for being mellow and smooth with its dishes. Like
with Shandong cuisine, seafood is another prominent aspect of this cuisine, owing to its proximity to the Yangtze River. Local wine and vinegar, such as the famous Shaoxing rice wine which has been brewed in the region for more than two millennia, are also important within Zhejiang cuisine. FUJIAN CUISINE If you crossed the bountiful, wild mountain foods of Anhui cuisine and the abundance of seafood in Shandong cuisine, you would get a semblance of the variety in Fujian cuisine. From the ocean to woodlands, the ingredients are prepared into dishes characterized by attention to cutting skills and preservation of the original aroma and texture. In this particular cuisine, soup is also a staple. You’d be hard-pressed to find a meal that doesn’t include a soup or broth. JIANGSU CUISINE Once the second-most popular cuisine among Imperial China and served commonly at state banquets, Jiangsu cuisine places strong emphasis on presentation to make its dishes a feast for the senses. Similar to Fujian cuisine, cutting skills are key to creating a good dish, and many chefs focus on intricacies with their knife. For Jiangsu dishes, the flavors are very subtle yet tantalizing, bursting with umami. Chinese cuisine is not homogenous, but vast and varied. Aside from the ones mentioned, there’s far more to explore for lovers of good food. Dozens more Chinese regional cuisines that may not be a part of the Eight Great Traditions hold treasure troves of delicious dishes.
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
RUSSIAN INVASION CONTINUES TO DEVASTATE UKRAINE
GERMANY TO ATTEMPT OIL EMBARGO TO PUT HEAT ON RUSSIA
MICHAEL JONES Many civilians, including children, are still trapped inside Mariupol in Ukraine after Russia declared the city captured on April 21, following a long siege. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a prolonged halt and ceasefire is needed to ensure a safe and effective evacuation as Russian troops continue the assault. After a failed attempt to capture Ukraine’s capital city Kyiv in the earlier stages of the war, Russian military forces shifted focus and intensified attacks on the eastern and southern parts of the country. The port to the Azov Sea in Mariupol is one of Russia’s main targets, as it is crucial for Moscow’s efforts to cut off Ukraine from the Black Sea where goods such as grain and metal are exported. It is also linked to a piece of territory that is under Russian rule. The United Nations and Red Cross evacuated some civilians from Mariupol, with more expected to be evacuated in the coming days. However, around 200 Ukrainian civilians and troops are trapped and held in a network of underground bunkers in the Azovstal steel plant, according to Ukrainian officials. Russia did vow to halt military operations, to allow withdrawal of civilians from danger zones. In an address, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine will stand ready to ensure a ceasefire in Mariupol. “It will take time simply to lift people out of those basements, out of those underground shelters,” Zelenskyy said. “In the present conditions, we can not use heavy equipment to clear the rubble away. It all has to be done by hand.” Over 300 civilians were evacuated on Wednesday from Mariupol and other areas in southern Ukraine as part of a joint United Nations-Red Cross operation, according to U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Ukraine Osnat Lubrani. “While this second evacuation of civilians from areas in Mariupol and beyond is significant, much more must be done
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
PRESIDENT OF UKRAINE VOLODYMYR ZELENSKYY VISITING THE BUCHA REGION OF KYIV, UKRAINE. COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF UKRAINE to make sure all civilians caught up in fighting can leave, in the direction they wish,” Lubrani said. Meanwhile, the European Union initiated further sanctions on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, targeting Russia’s oil sales. Germany, which is Russia’s biggest energy customer, could deprive Russia of a large revenue stream within days. The European Commission proposed a sixth package of sanctions by the EU this week which may also include an embargo on purchasing Russian oil. Officials from Kyiv stated that Russia’s energy exports to Europe—now largely exempt from international sanctions—fund the Kremlin war efforts with millions of euros a day. “This package should include clear steps to block Russia’s revenues from energy resources,” Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address. Germany, however, indicated preparation to back the EU, despite the fact that German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been under immense pressure to take a firmer approach in supporting Ukraine. “We have managed to reach a situation where Germany is able to bear an oil embargo [on Russia],” said German Economy Minister Robert Habeck. Sanctions are not to be lifted until Russian President Vladimir Putin signs a peace deal, Scholz said in an interview with German ZDF public television Ukraine also continues to prepare for the potential intensification of the Russian invasion due to Russian allies. According to a spokesperson for the Ukrainian State Border Service, Kyiv will be ready if Belarus joins Russia’s war effort in Ukraine. Belarus is a close ally of Russia and has indicated that a large-scale military operation had begun on Wednesday to ensure its combative readiness. However,
Belarus claimed to pose no threat to neighboring countries. “We do not rule out that the Russian Federation could at some point use the territory of Belarus, the Armed Forces of the Republic of Belarus, against Ukraine,” said Andriy Demchenko, spokesperson for Ukraine’s State Border Service. “Therefore, we are ready.” Russia launched the initial invasion of Ukraine after conducting joint military drills with Belarus—which allowed Russia to move its troops closer to the Ukrainian border. Russian shelling fell on Ukrainian territories adjacent to Belarus in earlier stages of the invasion, but Russia has now shifted its focus to eastern and southeastern parts of Ukraine. Tension has risen near Transnistria—internationally considered still part of Moldova, though under Russian influence—after Ukraine reinforced the border there. Local authorities said the area was subject to a series of attacks, and Ukrainian officials condemned what it called Russian attempts to drag the region into Russia’s war against Ukraine. Kent Logsdon, the U.S. ambassador to Moldova, described Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as an attempt to redraw the map of Europe at gunpoint, but noted that the U.S. had no evidence Russia wanted to extend the war to Moldova. On Monday, Ukraine’s military said Russian forces were trying to take over the frontline Luhansk town of Rubizhne and prepare an assault on nearby Severodonetsk. The heaviest clashes took place around Popasna, farther south. Shelling was so intense it was not possible to collect bodies, according to regional Governor Serhiy Gaidai. “I don’t even want to speak about what’s happening with the people living in Popasna, Rubizhne and Novotoshkivske right now,” Gaidai said. “These cities simply don’t exist anymore. They have completely destroyed them.”
INTERNATIONAL
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HOSTILE TERRAIN 94 EXPOSES HUMAN COST OF US BORDER POLICY
FROM LEFT: THE WALL OF THE WHITE GALLERY THAT HOSTILE TERRAIN IS INSTALLED ON. A CLOSE-UP OF THE TOE TAGS THAT MAKE UP HOSTILE TERRAIN. JEREMIAH HAYDEN/PSU VANGUARD
EXHIBIT AT PSU’S WHITE GALLERY BEARS WITNESS TO CRISIS
JEREMIAH HAYDEN Hostile Terrain 94 (HT94), the current exhibit at Portland State’s White Gallery, is a somber, collaborative work which stretches the entire width of the gallery’s wall from floor to ceiling. The artwork is a topographical map of the grave human cost of “prevention through deterrence,” a United States Border Patrol (USBP) strategy started by the Clinton administration that continues today. The map is marked by toe tags illustrating places where migrants died as a result of the “prevention through deterrence” policy. Aimed at reducing immigration to the U.S. by forcing migrants into hostile terrain, the policy is an explicit effort to raise the level of risk for those attempting to enter. Associate Professor of Anthropology at PSU, Mrinalini Tankha, helped host the exhibit. “The exhibit is making us bear witness to this humanitarian crisis that’s happening,” Tankha said. The HT94 project was started in 2019 by the Undocumented Migration Project (UMP), a long-term anthropological research organization seeking to uncover how the border environment was transformed through infrastructure and resource extraction, while centering the stories of the Indigenous and migrant communities most affected. One cruel feature of USBP policy is that it makes invisible those who bear the brunt of its slow violence. More than 3,200 people are confirmed to have died trying to cross the Sonoran Desert into the U.S. Since the strategy was employed in the early ‘90s, countless others have gone missing. The Sonoran Desert is 120,000 square miles of land in both Mexico and the U.S., and the busy Tucson Sector runs 262 miles across the southern border of Arizona—a highly dangerous trek given the environmental conditions and risk of apprehension or vigilante violence. HT94 organizers created the map from data collected by the UMP and the Colibrí Center for Human Rights to create a list of each deceased person’s identity, the exact location of their death and the cause of death—most commonly hyperthermia, dehydration, blunt force trauma or gunshot wounds. That in-
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formation was then handwritten onto 3,200 toe tags and pinned to the precise geographic coordinate that correlates with where the body was found. Roughly two-thirds of the tags are beige, representing people who were found and identified. The remaining orange tags represent those who were found but not identified. “This is not something that the public sees,” Tankha said. “The exhibit is really trying to draw attention, to mobilize public support against this horrifying policy.” The HT94 exhibit was intended to run simultaneously in U.S. cities before the 2020 election, before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted plans and most galleries were forced to reschedule. “It had a specific political agenda of mobilizing people, of making people aware of this tragedy that’s happening, that one doesn’t necessarily see otherwise,” Tankha said. While this particular USBP strategy was in effect during the Trump administration, it is not a strictly partisan issue. The same strategy has been utilized under all Democratic and Republican administrations since 1994, including the current one. The collaborative nature of the exhibit is an important part of raising awareness and personalizing the often-overlooked human toll of U.S. border policy. All data on the toe tags were handwritten by PSU students and faculty, as well as other volunteers. In the weeks leading up to the opening, some participants stayed into the early hours of the morning to finish installing the work in time. “When helping fill out the tags, I was struck by the sterile language of death,” said Jennifer Martinez-Medina, a Public Affairs and Policy PhD candidate at PSU. “I ran across one person who passed due to exposure. I immediately thought of farmworkers who often die from pesticide and heat exposure. During the pandemic, farmworkers were labeled essential, and were disproportionately exposed to COVID-19. Many died. I wondered if their death certificates also read exposure.” “Even for someone living and growing up in the area, the true magnitude of the crisis was completely hidden and obscured
from view,” said Chris Rogers, a master’s student in the PSU anthropology department, who grew up 60 miles from the Mexican border in Tucson, AZ. “Commemorating these individuals in a way that brings awareness and respect to the sacrifice they made in pursuit of a better life was an important, albeit small, contribution that I am honored to have been a part of.” At the exhibit’s opening on April 20, 2022, students and faculty bore testimony to their experience both with the project and with U.S. immigration. The White Gallery was adorned with papel picado hanging from support beams, and featured a variety of pan dulce, sage and a small ofrenda—the traditional, Mexican altar space created to celebrate late relatives during Día de los Muertos celebrations. During the opening, PSU student and McNair Scholar, Daniela Ortiz Mendez, read an emotional poem she wrote in Spanish titled “Norte es Muerte,” told from the perspective of someone who passed away while trying to cross the border. “In the U.S., death is not talked about—the culture here is not as comfortable with death,” Ortiz Mendez said. “I wanted it to be tied into death because people don’t make it across—that’s the reality. That’s why this project exists.” Ortiz Mendez said that she hopes the exhibit will spark curiosity in the people who see it, and that they will begin to ask questions about the longstanding prevention through deterrence policy. “This is still actively killing people,” Ortiz Mendez said. “You know, I’m not sure what it takes for people to recognize that these are just people trying to get a better life and they don’t deserve death.” Her family moved to the U.S. from Tijuana in 1998 through the San Ysidro border crossing, in search of a better education and safer neighborhoods where her and her cousins could pursue what they wanted in life. “At the end of the day, they just wanted us to be able to live a happier life,” Ortiz Mendez said. “I think that resonates with everybody—everybody just wants a better life.”
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
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Wheel on down to the Columbia Slough bike trail
Usher in spring with at the Portland Japanese Garden
Four fantastic food spots around Portland
GET OUT TO THE COLUMBIA SLOUGH TRAIL!
A PASSING TRAIN SHOWS ITS COLORS. CAMDEN BENESH/PSU VANGUARD
CAMDEN BENESH
A BIKE RIDE YOU JUST CAN’T MISS
A VERY BLUE AND OVERCAST DAY AT THE BYBEE LAKE. CAMDEN BENESH/PSU VANGUARD
SPRING WEATHER IS HERE AT THE COLUMBIA SLOUGH. CAMDEN BENESH/PSU VANGUARD
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The Columbia Slough is the perfect trail for anyone looking for some adventure. When’s the last time you got out and really got lost in your hometown? The trail is perfect for someone looking for the road less traveled—a bike route unique from others in Portland. What stands out about this trail is how secluded and separate it is from oncoming traffic, similar to the Springwater Corridor in that sense. The bike route is also not paved—making gravel riding a must—but you can still practically take any type of bike you want on it. The lack of maintenance and feeling of isolation makes it seem like you are on a journey. Most journeys are not perfectly paved straight paths, right? Reality tends to be more windy and unpredictable. What makes the Columbia Slough route desirable is all of its flaws. As you bike by all the brutalist architecture, ongoing construction work and train bridges, the path’s personality screams. Located in North Portland, the trail features a myriad of different environments. At times you are passing under graffiti-encrusted bridges where angular shadows serve as a place to cool down during the summer. Or maybe it’s the sound of the oncoming cars, attacking corners and gunning for a new personal record at the Portland International Raceway. It doesn’t feel like a bike path at some moments—it has an unrefined and completely different vibe from your neighborhood bike route. The lush greenery along the bike path combined with the industrial presence creates a very raw energy. It’s gritty, it’s honest, it’s fulfilling and it’s beautiful. You really get to take in your surroundings on this ride—I recommend not listening to music to AN ADVENTUROUS DUCK GAZES UPON THE HORIZON. CAMDEN BENESH/PSU VANGUARD really absorb it all. A perfect time to unplug and destress from the day. Occasionally you see people, but this route is pretty in the thick of it. It can almost be described as a nature route in conflict with city development. Everytime you go, there’s something different. This added suspense of wondering what you will see that day keeps you coming back for more. The trail eventually leads to the Smith and Bybee Lakes area, an ideal stopping point along the trail—a destination, if you must have one. It’s a perfect place to hang out in the summer or take a stroll through during the winter months. Surrounded by warehouses, the lakes become a breath of fresh air within this industrial part of town. The abundance of airplanes taking off overhead once you get to the lakes adds ambience to your surroundings, enhancing the experience. Everytime I go on the Columbia Slough Trail for a bike ride, I’m on a journey—but seeing these airplanes hurl over my head and propel themselves through the sky, I’m reminded of all of the other journeys going on out there. So get out there and start adventuring because, who knows, you might just get lost in the city you THE TRAIL ENDING AS PEOPLE WALK IN THE DISTANCE. CAMDEN BENESH/PSU VANGUARD thought you knew so well.
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: BOUQUETS FROM KERNS NEIGHBORHOOD FLORIST, THE ANGRY FLORIST. BRILLIANT ORANGE AND YELLOW TULIPS AT THE WOODEN SHOE TULIP FARM. LUSH CAMELLIA BUSHES IN SOUTHEAST PORTLAND. SOFIE BRANDT/PSU VANGUARD
THREE GREA GRE AT
FLOwER WaLKS AROUND POR tLAnD Stop and smell the flowers
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
SOFIE BRANDT Enjoy a couple of spots around Portland—and a few miles outside—to find some springtime joy among the flowers. If you find yourself wandering around the east side—over by Laurelhurst Park in the Kerns neighborhood—you will find some gorgeous red, pink, white and orange tulips along with gorgeous daffodils interspersed between the houses. If you keep an eye out, you might even spot some ducks that journey from the pond at Laurelhurst Park to walk on the sidewalks. If you want to treat yourself to a bouquet, you can always stop into the Kerns’ neighborhood flower shop, the Angry Florist. Right off the Tilikum Bridge towards Clinton St., weaving between Division and Powell, you will find some camellia bushes. As it gets to be later in the springtime, you will find many of these flowers on the ground as they fall off the bush. If you are wanting to get out of Portland and catch the last of the tulips, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival is the place to be. There are thousands of tulips with rows of many colors—it is truly magical! Of the many beautiful locations around Portland to find the colors of spring, Ladd’s Addition, Irvington Neighborhood and the Lilac Gardens are just a few more. If tulips are not your thing, later in the summer you will be able to find roses in Ladd’s Addition, the International Rose Garden and Peninsula Park. Peony season is late April to early June and you can check out Adelman Peony Gardens.
GET OUTSIDE GUIDE
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WALKWAY THROUGH THE TREES TO THE BASEBALL FIELD IN COLUMBIA PARK IN NORTH PORTLAND. SOFIE BRANDT/PSU VANGUARD
NATURE PATCHES: A STEP TOWARDS ECO-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPING
LARGE COVERED SHELTER IN COLUMBIA PARK IN NORTH PORTLAND. SOFIE BRANDT/PSU VANGUARD
Portland Parks and Recreation works to improve sustainable landscaping practices
NATURE PATHWAYS IN COLUMBIA PARK IN NORTH PORTLAND. SOFIE BRANDT/PSU VANGUARD CLIO RIZNYK If you walk through Columbia Park in North Portland, you might notice an area filled with ferns, prickly Oregon grape, logs and deep purple hellebore flowers where there was once a muddy patch of land. Small gardens with a combination of native and ornamental plants have popped up all over Portland parks. These areas, called nature patches, are more than just a pretty spot to rest— they are the result of Portland Parks and Recreation’s initiative to introduce sustainable landscaping to Portland’s green spaces which began in Fall 2017. Sustainable landscaping practices offer an ecologically friendly alternative to traditional landscaping, which often involves the use of pesticides, herbicides and excessive amounts of water to maintain the rolling green grass seen in most parks. Instead, the nature patches, part of the Ecologically Sustainable Landscapes Initiative, supply habitats which contain fresh berries for local birds and flowers that bloom throughout the year for pollinating insects. Ecologically Sustainable Landscapes Program Coordinator at Portland Parks and Recreation, Eric Rosewall, is head of this project. The nature patches “serve both hummingbirds, bumblebees and all the [local] wildlife, but also invite people in to learn, explore and relax,” Rosewall said. Rosewall described how the gardens were placed in under-
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utilized areas of parks or areas that have some sort of maintenance issues. For example, Rachel Burdon, president of Friends of Columbia Park, said that the Columbia Park nature patch had been strategically planted where there had been mild drainage issues. These drainage issues caused the mud hikers saw before the nature patches were planted. According to the detailed sign outside the patch, the garden creates healthy soil enriched with fallen leaves and twigs that are intentionally left on the ground to decompose. Burdon explained that Friends of Columbia Park, a volunteer-run organization dedicated to protecting and maintaining Columbia Park, teamed up with Portland Parks and Recreation to plan the project and recruit volunteers to place the plants—a community event in and of itself. “We had probably 60 or 70 people that came out to help volunteer for the planting of the nature patch,” Burdon said. Rosewall said the idea for the program took shape after the successful restoration of Crystal Springs Creek in Westmoreland Park in Southeast Portland. The project involved the addition of a natural play space for children in the park and the return of local salmon populations to the newly restored creek. The Parks Department was inspired by the positive change the project brought to the area. Rosewall and his team brainstormed
how they could pursue restoration projects that were quicker and more cost-effective that could serve additional neighborhoods across Portland in a similar way. The Parks Department eventually drafted a plan for a pilot project to plant nature patches in 10 parks over five years. The pilot is almost finished, and it will continue the project in more parks across Portland. “The city has over 150 developed parks that could all benefit from a closer connection to nature, improved local ecology and expanded horticultural interest,” Rosewall said. Sustainable landscaping is spreading to other areas beyond Portland. Halifax, Canada recently implemented a similar program while Vancouver, Washington works toward additional nature patches in their local parks. Whether they volunteer or simply take a moment to stand among the plants, Rosewall stressed that the nature patches will make nature more easily accessible to Portlanders who may not engage with nature regularly. “We’ve got to give people a tranquil place to experience the natural world,” Rosewell said. Interested volunteers can sign-up through a Google Form on the Portland Parks and Recreation Nature Patches program website, portland.gov/parks/nature-patches.
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
HOTSPRINGING Go soak in Oregon’s rejuvenating waters
A PARGETT
JUSTIN CORY We all need a reset from the perils of our busy industrialized lives—here is a list of hot springs to visit in Oregon.
BREITENBUSH
Hands down, my favorite hot spring of all. It is 70 miles east of Salem nestled between Mt. Jefferson and the Santiam River where it is dammed at Detroit Lake. The springs are more built up and are part of a rustic, intentional community—i.e. hippie— resort. However, you can still go for just a day pass. There is no internet or phone service, no light or industrial pollution, just the sound of the Breitenbush River below and the wildlife all around. The springs have long been sacred for the Indigenous peoples of these lands, and I have rarely been anywhere more charged with magic. I even proposed to my wife there! The tragic fires of 2020 ripped through the area, but the Breitenbush community were able to save many of the historic buildings and it is still beautiful there. If you pay for overnight accommodations, three delicious vegetarian meals are included and there are gorgeous hikes, sunrise yoga sessions and massage therapists there for extra self-care.
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ALVORD
My second favorite choice is a bit of a jaunt from Portland. Way out in the remote, outer southeastern edge of Oregon on the other side of the majestic Steens Mountains, these springs are not for the fanciful. The two pools are built up with buckets for seats and bullet-riddled corrugated metal walls. Otherwise, they are rough and tumble. The best move here is to soak at night by camping in the nearby Alvord Desert, at the Steens Mountains or even at the springs by renting one of their military bunkers. There is nothing quite like the stars in the desert sky. For a remote and lovely adventure, drive west a while to the tiny town of Frenchglen to see wild horses and hike around the Blitzen River!
UMPQUA
Down near Crater Lake are the picturesque Umpqua Hotsprings. I should mention that this and the previous two hot springs are clothing-optional! Be warned, as this one can get busy on weekends and in the peak of the summer season.
TERWILLIGER (COUGAR)
Another clothing-optional place that was heavily impacted by the fires of 2020-21, this one is closer to Eugene and is a bit harder to get to now due to road closures and rockslides. It is still lovely and worth the trek!
BAGBY
Classic 1970s hippie vibes and rustic Forest Service wooden structures are galore at this spot. It is only about an hour east of Portland just past Estacada, so expect crowds and a wait. To be honest, this is not my favorite springs.
KAH-NEE-TA
Soon the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs will be reopening these springs which have served as a sacred space to people of the region for many ages. Though I have never been to them, I plan to support the tribes and check these springs out and encourage others to do the same! Now get soakin’!!
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CELEBRATE THE SPRING SEASON AT PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN
THE PERFECT PLACE TO GET OUTSIDE WITHOUT LEAVING CITY LIMITS A WALKWAY NEAR THE KOI PONDS AT PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN. TANNER TODD/PSU VANGUARD TANNER TODD Springtime in Portland means different things for different people—some might think of getting outside to enjoy the slightly better weather, while others will associate the season with an explosion of flowers and fresh greenery. For other Portland residents, warmer temperatures will bring to mind quality time with friends and family outside, or performance events outdoors. However you choose to enjoy spring, the Portland Japanese Garden offers a little something for everyone, with social spaces, cultural demonstrations and plenty of spring blossoms and greenery. Tucked away behind Portland International Rose Test Garden and next to Forest Park, the Japanese Garden is fortunate to have an abundance of plant life year-round. In the spring, however, the displays of carefully cultivated plants are especially vibrant. In April and March, magnolias, rhododendrons and dogwoods all begin to push out blossoms and open their flowers. As the weather gets warmer, visitors can also expect to see wisteria plants shake off their winter stupor and display their spring colors. Warmer weather also allows the garden to display potted bonsai without the risk of freezing them. Many of the bonsai species even feature blossoms of their own, which can be viewed in a display area near the garden’s cultural village.
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PAVILION INSCRIPTION AT PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN. TANNER TODD/PSU VANGUARD
A MOSSY STONE WALKWAY AT THE GARDEN. TANNER TODD/PSU VANGUARD
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A CLOSE UP OF THE KOTO. TANNER TODD/PSU VANGUARD
MITSUKI DAZAI PLAYS THE KOTO. TANNER TODD/PSU VANGUARD
PEBBLE GARDEN AT PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN. TANNER TODD/PSU VANGUARD
Not far from the spring bonsai displays is the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center, where visitors can find Japanese cultural events and performances almost every weekend. The Learning Center hosts a variety of events, ranging from performances of traditional Japanese instruments to tea ceremonies and flower arrangement demonstrations, all of which are included with admission to the garden. One frequently recurring event at the center are demonstrations of the koto, a traditional Japanese 13-stringed instrument. Mitsuki Dazai, who frequently performs the Garden’s koto demonstrations, said that the music serves as a unique bridge between Japanese and U.S. culture. “It’s always sad to see people building a wall between us,” Dazai said of the gap between cultures. “But music is able to destroy [those] walls and [build] understanding.” Dazai, who has been playing the koto for 40 years and performing it at the Japanese Garden for 12, said that the space is a uniquely beautiful venue to perform in. “I started playing on special occasions, like a moon viewing,” she said. “But after the Cultural Corner was built, I play monthly…it’s an honor.” Dazai added that she enjoys the space of the garden itself, noting the organic, natural style which stands in stark contrast to some Western gardens, which emphasize uniformity and symmetry. For curious readers looking for a place to experience springtime in Portland, this makes the Japanese Garden a worthy stop—whether your idea of spring involves being outdoors, spending time with friends, seeing cultural events or all of the above.
COVERED GATEWAY TO THE PORTLAND JAPANESE GARDEN. TANNER TODD/PSU VANGUARD
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Get outside and eat! New local bars and restaurants to enjoy on a sunny spring day
RYAN MCCONNELL Portland is famous for its culinary cuisine, known before the pandemic as the foodie capital of the U.S. The pandemic brought forth constant struggles for our local restaurants, causing closure after closure from the lack of foot traffic, stringent dining-mandates, increased rent costs and other issues no business could have been prepared for. However, with the restrictions eased, the sun beginning to shine and tourists beginning to travel across the country once more, new local restaurants have been emboldened to open up and serve some of the tasty foods that Portland is known for. Whether you want to grab a nice dinner after viewing the waterfront or grab a drink after a long day of classes, these places highlight some of the best up-and-coming restaurants for everyone to enjoy.
Dough Zone
1910 S River Dr. Portland, OR 97201 Originally a Seattle-based restaurant group, Dough Zone takes up an expansive area along the downtown waterfront. The building is massive, topping a whopping 7,657 square feet. The open windows allow restaurant-goers to check out the gorgeous scenery of the boats and joggers running by. Dough Zone is a dumpling restaurant, so ordering food is as simple as checking the boxes on the list. The Q-bao dumplings were a delicious treat of crispy dough on the outside and pillowy, fluffy goodness on the inside with just about the juiciest, most savory pork one could ever sink their teeth into. The shrimp dumpling was another surprisingly tasteful treat organized delicately together—perfect for Instagram photos. The shrimp dumplings admittedly paled in comparison to the restaurant’s sliced fried pork, which packed flavor resembling that of Pok-Pok, a now-closed local Thai favorite. If dumplings don’t fit the cravings, the restaurant also has a wide range of noodles to eat. Dough Zone is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
the city itself, as well as a painting of Nicolas Cage as George Washington in the restroom. What makes this place stand out isn’t just its atmosphere, but its marketability for the late-night clientele. For anyone looking to grab food past midnight, the choices in Downtown are pretty limited. City Bridge and Tunnel fills this gap by providing a latenight happy hour from midnight to 2 a.m. These are quality meals that taste as if you were dining in the upper-crust Pearl District in the early afternoon. That being said, they do offer an additional afternoon happy hour from 3–5 p.m., which is a great time to stop by after class for a quick refreshment. City Bridge and Tunnel offers a vegan Caesar salad and a Cobb salad that always tastes like they were pulled directly from a garden moments before, but with enough protein (if desired) to be filling. Sandwiches are another delicious option if a salad just won’t quite cut it, and their flamin’ hot chips are not for the faint of heart. Their deviled eggs with pickled red onions, bacon bits and dill whipped into spicy mayo create a bite-sized explosion of flavor. For those of age, their cocktails are just as good as their food. The Spellbound is easily one of the best signature cocktails I’ve ever had. This Mezcal cocktail is like drinking a piece of still life art, bombarding the drinker with fruit flavor without relying on sugar to make it palatable. It’s easy to forget it’s alcoholic, and it’s light enough to ensure you’re not knocked over after one drink. This restaurant had me spellbound from the beginning. City Bridge and Tunnel is open Wednesday–Sunday 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. 1650 NW 23rd Ave. Portland, OR 97210 Located alongside Portland’s famous NW 23rd district, Tini’s Mini Craft Cocktails was too cute not to pass up. The space was as whimsical as a frozen yogurt shop, and the drinks were just as sweet. As I stepped in, the other side of the area had a puzzle out for anyone to contribute to. The tip jar even played into itself, reading Tini Cocks Need Big Tips. What makes this bar worth the trek up towards NW 23rd is the feel-good, do-good attitude. The bar is meant to be a showcase for Dregs Vodka, a local distillery that donates 100% of its profits to low-income youth. Every drink you have, you know is for a good cause, and the success of the vodka means the support of local communities. The cocktails are cheap: a three-drink flight for $13 or up to five individual $5 mini cocktails. The flavors are as colorful
City Bridge and Tunnel
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Tokyo Sando
1927 SW 4th Ave. Portland, OR 97204 This guide wouldn’t be complete without showcasing at least one of the food carts that makes Portland famous for food. Originally opened on Feb. 10, 2020, Tokyo Sando is the oldest restaurant in this guide, but deserves an honorable mention both for its sheer resilience in overcoming the pandemic right as they began their business, and for their ridiculously delicious, nationally-recognized food. Located in a subtle parking lot between Voodoo Doughnuts and Killer Burger, it’s hard to imagine that a place that serves food fit for royalty is located here. This cart was founded by Taiki and Andrea Nakajima. Taiki Nakajima grew up in Tokyo, and eventually made his way to Portland
Tini’s Mini Craft Cocktail
SHRIMP DUMPLINGS FROM DOUGH ZONE. RYAN MCCONNELL/PSU VANGUARD 1200 SW Morrison St. Portland, OR 97205 For those who study late into the night or spend all hours of the evening grading papers and assignments, City Bridge and Tunnel is the perfect place to unwind for Portland State students and staff. Located on SW 12th Avenue across the street from St. Cupcake, it’s less than a 10-minute walk from campus. Replacing Shift Drinks, this bar has a much richer atmosphere than its predecessor. Guests are greeted with an enormous red rose made by a local artist as an homage to
and unique as the space itself. A Matcha Made In Heaven is like drinking a matcha latte with lemony simple syrup. Their version of an espresso martini won over my heart, using cold brew, anise, bitters and coconut water with a coffee bean on top. It was smooth and discreet, like a nitro cold-brew cup of coffee or a white Russian. For a tiny bar, this spot has a big impact on your taste buds. Tini’s is open Thursday–Saturday 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
A NEGRONI AND THE SPELLBOUND DRINK FROM CITY BRIDGE AND TUNNEL. RYAN MCCONNELL/PSU VANGUARD
AN EGG SALAD SANDO PAIRED WITH A MISO PORK KATSU SANDO FROM TOKYO SANDO. RYAN MCCONNELL/PSU VANGUARD as a line cook for Marukin Ramen, until he decided to move on and make a food cart. Tokyo Sando’s sandwiches are full of heart. They are meticulously crafted and evenly split in the middle to show off the ingredients you will be sinking your mouth into, each covered in a soft, spongy bread. These cushiony slices contrast perfectly with the delicate, yet crunchy panko shell of their fried pork and chicken that melts in your mouth. Their pork katsu sando comes with katsu sauce, dijon and cabbage, and they recommend adding spicy mayo and black garlic furikake. Furikake is a savory spice mix which includes dried seaweed flakes, fish flakes and sesame seeds. There are no words to describe the kind of flavor that’s experienced with these sandwiches, except perhaps the taste of Tokyo itself. Tokyo Sando is perhaps the greatest example of what Portland’s food culture is. It is a humble food cart tucked away in a parking lot, providing authentic food and flavor that’s fused with the multigenerational wisdom and experience of the owners, whose greatest joy is to share through food. Tokyo Sando is open Wednesday–Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
ZOE EDELMAN Portland is littered with beautiful parks, bridges and open spaces. Although this may be common knowledge, it is all too easy to forget this amidst assignments, work and the roar of adult responsibilities. Here are a few places with activities that are pretty, free and force you to touch some grass—and remind you why you need to get out more.
TILIKUM CROSSING
WESTSIDE VIEW OF TILIKUM CROSSING OVER THE WILLAMETTE RIVER. COURTESY OF ELIAS LUNSFORD
RESERVOIR VIEW LOCATED WITHIN MT. TABOR. ZOE EDELMAN/PSU VANGUARD
FREE AND EASY HIKES AROUND PORTLAND GET OUT AND GO!
The first thing you’ll notice about Tilikum Crossing is the silence. Tilikum Crossing is a pedestrian-only bridge, save for the TriMet that runs through the middle of the two walking and biking lanes. The lack of noise pollution from heavy traffic on many of the bridges in Portland gives those who walk or bike Tilikum Crossing a serene setting with beautiful views of the South Waterfront and the Willamette River. In fact, it is the largest car-free bridge in the United States, in total around 1,720 feet. The walkway and bikeway are separated to ensure safety for both parties, and depending on which you choose, you can spend upwards of 40 minutes doing a loop on the bridge. I would highly recommend renting the Nike Biketown bicycles—free for students with Lyft—and timing your outing to catch a beautiful Portland sunset. You’ll get to experience the blissful ride over Tilikum Crossing, and watch the purple and pink haze settle with the stars over the city. Find it at Tilikum Crossing, Portland, OR 97201.
PIER PARK
Maybe it’s been a while since you played disc golf—also known as frisbee golf—maybe you’ve never done it or maybe you went yesterday. No matter your experience with this exciting sport, I can guarantee it will be a great time if you visit the Pier Park disc golf course. Located in Northeast Portland, right across the St. John’s Bridge, lies this free, 18-hole course designed to walk players through gorgeous redwood trees around the park. The dense tree cover makes this sport shady on a sunny day and covered on a rainy day, although you should put on some shoes so you don’t mind getting muddy. As a newbie to this sport, I found disc golfing at Pier Park to be a great time. Throwing discs into trees, bushes and anywhere-but-the-goal gave me plenty of laughs. It’s a great way to socialize with friends over something fun, harmless and outside. Find it at 9100 N Bruce Ave, Portland, OR 97203.
MT. TABOR
Looking for a short, beautiful hike over an extinct volcano in southeast Portland? Head over to Mt. Tabor Park and its recreation area. A staircase is front and center at the entrance of the park, and after bounding up several flights of moss-covered steps, there are many possibilities for hiking. The reservoir is a little over a mile away from the top of the steps, and the trees surrounding the water create a wonderful reflection that is fun to walk a loop around. Mt. Tabor has many intricate trails, and once you begin your hike, it is really a choose-your-own-adventure from there. Picnic tables are also available for a lunch break, and longboarders can be spotted along the paved pathway sections of the park. If you get hungry after your Mt. Tabor adventures, Nana’s Guilty Pleasures cafe has delicious sandwiches and cinnamon rolls I would highly recommend. Find it at SE 60th Ave & SE Salmon St, Portland, OR 97215.
ROCKY BUTTE
A WALKWAY ADJACENT TO THE GRAND STAIRS THAT LEAD UP THE ENTRANCE OF MT. TABOR. ZOE EDELMAN/PSU VANGUARD
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
THE WALKWAY AROUND THE PEAK OF THE BORING LAVA FIELD ROCKY BUTTE IS LOCATED ON TOP OF. ZOE EDELMAN/PSU VANGUARD
My favorite part of Rocky Butte has to be the name—and the view, of course. This skyline view overlooking the Columbia River and the Oregon-Washington border is fantastic for a sunny or overcast day. There are a plethora of trails and cute neighborhood streets to walk, jog or cycle around. Traversing up and down the hillside is a workout with a remarkable view. On your drive up to the parking lot, you will encounter a daunting tunnel on the windy, hilly drive to the location. Take your friends and take some awesome skyline view pictures! Find it at 3102 NE Rocky Butte Rd, Portland, OR 97220.
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LEO CLARK
MIA LEVY
A PARGETT
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FIND IT AT 5TH AVENUE: DEVDAS THIS WEEK’S FILM SCREENING WILL SHOWCASE A CLASSIC BOLLYWOOD MUSICAL
AISHWARYA RAI STARS AS PARVATI IN DEVDAS (2002). COURTESY OF EROS INTERNATIONAL MILO LOZA Find It At 5th Ave. is a recurring column that reviews, previews and explores running and upcoming films at PSU’s independent movie theater, 5th Avenue Cinema. This weekend, PSU’s 5th Avenue Cinema will open its doors to screen Devdas, a Hindi film from filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, based on the 1917 novel of the same name by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. The 2002 film is a Bollywood love story following a wealthy law graduate named Devdas Mukherjee (Shah Rukh Khan) as he returns home from London to marry his childhood friend, Paro (Aishwarya Rai). But when Devdas’ own family rejects their marriage, he spirals into emotional decay and turns to vices. Struggling through alcoholism, he meets and seeks refuge with a kind courtesan named Chandramukhi (Madhuri Dixit). Devdas was chosen for screening this week by 5th Avenue Cinema’s Nayeli Naranjo-Robles,
a history student at PSU. 5th Avenue Cinema is known and loved for featuring foreign films, and Devdas is no exception. “Japanese and Korean film is pretty big,” Naranjo-Robles said. “Not many other Asian countries have a large film culture, but Bollywood is fucking huge!” Bollywood began in India back in the 1930s, as the silent film era came to an end. “They’re usually very long—this one’s three hours long—and they’re usually musicals, with dancing, extravagant costumes and lots of drama,” Naranjo-Robles said. Bollywood is a blend of two words: Bombay and Hollywood. Bombay, known today as Mumbai, is India’s biggest city. Since its conception in the ‘30s, Bollywood has remained prominent in Indian films—and even up until now. Naranjo-Robles compared the drama within Bollywood to that of soap operas or telenovelas. “It’s very over-the-top and extravagant,”
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
Naranjo-Robles said. “That’s probably why it’s not very big here.” Telenovelas are known for their exaggerated stories, and are another niche culture that isn’t very popular in the U.S. Narenjo-Robles also acknowledged that there are many people who aren’t much into musicals. “A lot of people are like ‘it’s not realistic,’” Narenjo-Robles said. “It’s not my fault that white people don’t like to sing and dance, like, just have a bit of fun! Put that in [the article]!” Naranjo-Robles may be the newest member of 5th Avenue Cinema, but she stays in touch with film culture. She pointed out that, even though PSU has a large Desi community on campus, 5th Avenue Cinema hasn’t shown too many Bollywood films. Although she claimed she isn’t too knowledgeable about Bollywood film, she shared that Devdas is a great place to begin your dive into the culture. After choosing to screen Devdas, Naranjo-
Robles even received an email from a student who thanked her, expressing how excited they are to see it and experience it with the students of PSU. It’s not rare that viewers will stop by after a movie to thank the staff for their choice. Naranjo-Robles said this is the first time she’s been thanked before the film has been shown. “If you say you’re into film, you can’t just be watching noir; you can’t just be watching French New Wave,” Naranjo-Robles said. “Come on, you have to try new things and see what other people are doing with this medium of film and how they’re utilizing it to create these kinds of stories and visuals, so that you can compare it with what you’re used to and what you like.” Devdas is three hours long, so 5th Avenue Cinema will only have three showings—one each day of the weekend, instead of their usual five. Watch Devdas this Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 7 p.m. or Sunday at 3 p.m.
ARTS & CULTURE
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THE OTHER GREEN AMERICAN DREAM
A LAWN IN WASHINGTON PARK IN PORTLAND, OR. SOFIE BRANDT/PSU VANGUARD
AN EXPLORATION OF THE UGLY PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF LAWNS JESSE ROPERS For decades, the vibrant green patch of grass has been a staple of the American Dream and suburbia. Success and a big swath of maintained grass are one and the same. However—along with everything associated with the ideals of the United States—the lawn hides ugly truths which are rooted in white supremacy and settler colonialism as they kill the planet. In order to understand how lawns became what they are today, we must first go back to their beginning. The origins of the lawn—much like most of the terrible things in the world—has its roots in European aristocracy. Lawns started in 16th century France when landholding elites had workers form manicured gardens. With the enclosure of the commons throughout the continent, the idea of the lawn only grew more popular.
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OPINION
It became a status symbol to have acres of land wasted for glamour and maintained with constant labor. By the time the colonies were established in North America, the idea of grass lawns as a symbol of success was solidified. Founding fathers, such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, enslaved Black people who were forced to finely cut, water and sustain massive properties. Ironically, the grasses native to this continent didn’t match their expectations. European grass seed was imported to the U.S. so oligarchs could mimic the lawns of Europe. On all levels, the lawn was the manifestation of colonialism. Invention of the sprinkler and push lawn mower made lawns more accessible to the lower classes, and the popularity of lawns exploded at the end of World War II. The
Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, commonly known as the G.I. Bill, allowed white veterans to procure loans and purchase houses in the newly booming suburban sprawl. On paper, the bill was for all veterans, but veterans of color were systematically denied loans and disallowed from procuring mortgages in the new suburbs. The beginning of the Norman Rockwell painting style of the American Dream featured the lawn—grown from European seeds on U.S. soil and denied to Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC)—and served as a symbol of conformity. Today, the grass lawn is the largest irrigated crop in the country, taking up 40 million acres, or 50,000 square miles of arable land— three times the land used to grow corn in the U.S. All of those acres require constant fertilizer, pesticides, water and trims. Every day, nine billion gallons of water are dumped onto lawns, with as much as 50% of the water either landing on sidewalks or leaking off the land due to improper watering techniques. More than a third of all residential water goes towards maintaining lawns, on average, with the number reaching 60% in the Southwest and other arid climates. In an era where fresh water becomes more scarce every year, the egregious waste to maintain appearances is a slap in the face. Unfortunately, watering is only the beginning. Due to the fickle nature of European grass in U.S. soil, fertilizer and pesticides are heavily employed in order to achieve the American Dream green. Chemicals originally developed for war are dumped onto the land, killing off any native plants in favor of grass. Every year, 78 billion pounds of pesticides and 90 billion pounds of fertilizer are put onto lawns, much of which makes its way into the groundwater. Of course, even then the chore of maintaining lawns isn’t over. Once the ideal color is reached, the grass has to be routinely mowed. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 35,000 people are sent to the emergency room each year due to lawnmower-related accidents—4,800 of them are children. While the physical harm inflicted is horrific, emissions from lawn mowers contribute to global warming which hurts us all. 10–18% of all non-transportation emissions come from lawnmowers, with 1.2 billion gallons of gasoline consumed annually. The average high-use commercial lawnmower consumes 2,000 gallons of gas every year, while a 25-mpg car driven 10,000 miles only consumes 400. To give a visual, the pollution caused by caring for two and a half acres of lawn is the emission equivalent of a jet flying halfway around the world. Our environment and the world at large are dramatically harmed by a 16th-century French aristocratic ideal. In temperate climates such as Portland, lawns can be replaced with perennial plants native to the area which help ecosystems around them rather than destroying them. Refraining from trimming lawns can also reduce harm. Or as one ambitious man in South L.A. did, the average front-yard patch could be turned into a micro-farm to help feed the neighborhood. In dry climates such as the Southwest, xeriscaping—using landscaping that requires little or no irrigation—can be utilized so minimal water is wasted. Activists in Nevada are paving the way by encouraging legislation that led to Nevada banning ornamental grass, the first state to do so. An estimated 40% of all grass currently maintained in the legislation’s targeted region will be eliminated to save water and the environment. All around us are possibilities for better uses of the land that replace an archaic and idyllic lawn, founded in outdated and prejudiced ideals. In ever-changing times, it is crucial to reassess what we value as a society. The best place to start is the lawn.
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
THE WESTERN US IS DRYING UP CLIMATE CHANGE IS HERE TO STAY WILDFIRE SMOKE ON THE COLUMBIA RIVER IN AUGUST 2021. COURTESY OF SIMON FOOT
CAMDEN BENESH As a human being on this Earth, you might be concerned about the health of our planet. How much more time do we have until large cities become deserts and water is a rarity within society? It’s not looking great for Oregon, as hot and dry summers filled with forest fires become the future norm, resulting in staying inside for weeks due to air toxicity. Climate change is already here and it is changing our world as we know it. While for some it is viewed as a mere belief, reality is setting in for Oregonians. Within the last couple of weeks, four more counties within Oregon declared drought emergencies, bringing the total number of counties experiencing this drought crisis to 11. There are 36 counties in Oregon—what if by August there are 20 counties experiencing this horrific drought? What might we do to prevent Oregon from getting there? It might come down to measuring and predicting these droughts before they happen. Andrew Schwartz, station manager at the Central Sierra Snow Lab for UC Berkeley, said we need to pay attention to the ground. Specifically, Schwartz stated that the dry soil sucks up all the water, and that because of this, water doesn’t make it to reservoirs or other small bodies of water. Everything is drying out more quickly—water is being absorbed
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more quickly and the tree canopy that usually helps keep the snow in the shade is basically gone. What comes with dry soil? Forest fires. And boy has the West Coast seen plenty of those in the past two years. I don’t want the future to be full of dust-storm drills and always having to be indoors like in the film Interstellar. I wouldn’t mind the spaceships though. As Schwartz suggested, we have to be strategic in placing our available water in locations where life grows and flourishes to avoid forest fires and severe droughts. We can’t continue to have counties drying up one after another. Perhaps we as a society have to get even more innovative. For instance, if we do run out of freshwater, we could use ocean water. 70% of the Earth is covered with water. What if we used some of that water to address our drying topsoil? We could desalinate the water—boil it, convert it to steam then have it condensed. This is time-consuming, but if the big billionaires of the world would stop buying social media apps and focus on serious problems, we could do it. If there is a will, there is a way. Another groundbreaking idea is harvesting water from the air. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has done this using a solar-powered device with mechanical, organic
frameworks to catch water and condense it. It passes through two temperature zones and doesn’t use electricity, but most importantly, it can produce water in just about any climate— including deserts! Lastly, we can become more thoughtful and resourceful in our water usage. No more showers longer than 10 minutes. No more leaving the sink running while brushing our teeth. We could wait until our car is really dirty before taking it to the car wash. We could also start collecting and drinking rainwater—the list goes on. Every little bit helps in the grand scheme of things. We have the technology to cut down on excess water usage, and we could use the water we save to help keep our counties from falling into an ever-spiraling drought. So when will the change we need come? Is our society too far gone to recognize the importance of being resourceful and of implementing alternative ways to keep our soil healthy and fertile? Climate change is happening now and we need to act. There is no back-up planet. While I think it would be cool to live on the moon or Mars, I’d rather live on Earth. We can make these changes together because time is running out. While the world probably doesn’t need us, we absolutely need it.
OPINION
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PLASTIC WASTE PILED UP IN A LANDFILL. COURTESY OF LARRY WALSHE
SCIENTISTS DISCOVER A NEW WAY TO BREAK DOWN PLASTIC IN DAYS NEW ENZYME TECHNOLOGY COULD POTENTIALLY REVOLUTIONIZE RECYCLING RYAN MCCONNELL Scientists from the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new way to break down plastics in a matter of days, which would otherwise take centuries to fully break down. The research was published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature on April 27, 2022. This method was developed by creating special enzymes, aided by machine learning, which broke down a specific type of plastic known as Polyethylene Terephthalate, or PET. Enzymes are a special type of protein that acts as a catalyst or agent to significantly speed up the rate of a chemical reaction. These proteins fit together with a single compound like two puzzle pieces. Once the compound fits into the enzyme, the reaction occurs, and the products split away from the protein. Enzymes are a special type of protein that act as a catalyst or agent to significantly speed up the rate of a chemical reaction. Enzymes are most commonly talked about in biology and medicine, because the cells in our body create all different kinds of enzymes to break down food into materials that our body can use as energy. They’re a natural part of digestion and the breakdown and accumulation of different fats in our bodies. This new advancement, however, isn’t about human bodies. This enzyme is a special protein that scientists intentionally mutated inside naturally-occurring bacteria living on plastic waste. When the bacteria had this mutated enzyme in their system, scientists discovered it completely broke down PET into its original monomers. PET currently accounts for roughly 12% of global waste,
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SCIENCE & TECH
according to the study. Polymers and monomers are technical terms to represent some of the most common chemicals found in nature, and many of the materials in our daily lives—from water bottles to clothing—come from these kinds of compounds. Monomers are the Lego bricks that chain together to become polymers. A good example is sugar, which can exist on its own, but when linked together into a large chain becomes a starch. These chains are extremely difficult to break down independently, once these monomers combine to form a polymer. Typically, starches can’t be broken down into sugar without the help of enzymes found in the stomachs of living beings. PET is just as difficult to break down, if not more so, because it is a synthetic polymer that provides no benefit to multi-celled organisms. Single-celled organisms, however, are a kind of life that functions and survives differently. These organisms might only need one compound to live, or else they absorb whatever chemicals they come into contact with, breaking them down and producing waste. This makes it extremely easy to place synthetic enzymes inside of them, because whatever waste is produced doesn’t get processed in a larger organ-system, and won’t affect neighboring single-celled organisms. Breaking down polymers into their basic parts has significant implications for how the recycling industry could function, as well as redefining what it means to recycle. Breaking down PET into its original monomer structures is like
separating paint from a painting. Both the canvas and the paint become like new, and the artist can repaint whatever they desire onto the same canvas, or onto another material entirely. Traditional belt recycling melts the plastic and molds it into a new product. This destroys the integrity of the plastic after each heating cycle, limiting the amount of times it can be reused until it has no other option but to be thrown into the trash. Like painting over a canvas, it accomplishes the same goal, but leaves waste behind which could affect the overall piece over time. The monomers that make up PET are also much more environmentally-friendly, and are safer materials to work and construct with than directly remelting plastic. Plastic fumes come with a variety of health hazards, and release noxious gasses into the atmosphere. What separates this newly discovered enzyme from other research done with mutated bacterial enzymes is how durable it is. Other research has been able to produce these enzymes, but only under specific temperature and pH conditions. These enzymes can’t be used in certain environments like recycling facilities because they’re too fragile. However, this new enzyme can break down 51 types of PET across a wide range of environments—including recycling facilities. This scientific advancement will be key to reducing our waste in a way that’s environmentally-friendly, safe and works with natural processes. It’s important that we do our part to reduce as much plastic in our global atmosphere as possible, one bottle at a time.
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
SEATTLE STORM CONTROLS MINNESOTA LYNX, 97-74 BREANNA STEWART AND EZI MAGBEGOR GUARDING JESSICA SHEPARD. ERIC SHELBY/PSU VANGUARD
EMILY JOHANSEN AWARDED BIG SKY PLAYER OF THE WEEK
ERIC SHELBY
SOFTBALL
Emily Johansen was awarded Big Sky Player of the Week after her stunning performance against Idaho State last series. She went five for nine (.556) with eight runs batted in and four home runs. She ended the series with a .714 on-base percentage and 1.889 slugging percentage. The Viks had a rain delay on Friday and planned to host their last series of the regular season against Weber State University the next day, on Saturday. The series ended up being rained out and canceled, but the Viks still recognised their seniors from the class of 2020 whose season was cut short due to COVID-19 for Senior Day. The seniors recognised were Darian Lindsey, Riley Casper, Ashley Doyle, Alexis Morrison, Jessica Flanagan and Alexxis Ponce. The Viks ended their regular season 2616 (10-5) and Weber State ended theirs 3510 (13-1). The Viks now await the Big Sky tournament. The Arizona Wildcats will host in Ogden, Utah because of winning the regular season for the second straight year. Portland State is currently in third place in the Big Sky standings, behind Weber State and Sacramento State. The Viks won the tournament last year and punched a ticket to the NCAA playoffs in which they played University of Washington and Seattle University.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Alumnus Ashley Bolton returned to the Park Blocks as an assistant coach, under head coach Chelsey Gregg. Bolton was the 2019 Big Sky MVP, averaging 14.3 points per game and eight rebounds per game. In her career, Bolton was a three-time All-Big Sky Second Team selection as well as a captain for all three seasons—and academic All-Big Sky honoree for three years straight.
In the 2019 campaign, when Bolton was an athlete, the Viks won the Big Sky tournament and were the #15 seed in the NCAA tournament—falling to #2 seed state rival Oregon Ducks. She helped lead the Viks to their first Division I tournament appearance since 2010. Other than their tournament runs in their time at D-II, PSU had not qualified for the tournament before 2010. The Viks in their 2021 run finished the season 5-24 (0-20).
MEN’S BASKETBALL
To add to their collection of recent signings, the Viks add transfer Jorell Saterfield from University of Texas, El Paso. This 6’4” guard will come in as a junior with two more years of eligibility due to the COVID-19 waiver. Another recent signing is a high school star from Alabama, MJ Jones. He was Shelby County, Tennessee Player of the Year, averaging 24 points per game. He scored 2,000 career points his senior year and looks forward to bringing the Viks to a Big Sky tournament win and NCAA playoff bid. The Viks finished the season 14-17 (10-10) and made an impressive run in the Big Sky tournament, beating Idaho State and highseeded Southern Utah before ultimately falling to Northern Colorado in a coin toss game. Other notable signings for the 202223 season are Portland native and transfer from Montana Cameron Parker, along with Hunter Woods, Keshaun Saunders, Isiah Kirby, Cole Farrell, Bobby Harvey and Kendall Munson.
Commissioner’s Cup and looked to defend their title. Breanna Stewart—going into her seventh season—and Jewell Loyd showed out, both dropping 17 points on the Lynx. Stewart had eight rebounds and three assists. Loyd had three rebounds and two assists. Sue Bird, in her 550th career start with the Storm, dropped 11 points—with two rebounds and nine assists. Stephanie Talbot put up 11 points as well, with two rebounds and three assists. Epiphanny Prince put up 13 points with three assists. Gabby Williams, who was previously with the Chicago Sky, put up five points with three rebounds and one assist. The Storm started off slow, being down by two in the first quarter and tying it 41 at the half. 34 points were made by Seattle in the third quarter to increase the lead and secure a win. Despite the double-digit loss, Sylvia Fowles and Aerial Powers of the Lynx both put up points in the double digits with 16 and 14. Jessica Shepard almost had a double-double, putting up nine points and 12 rebounds. Seattle finished third place in the West in their 2021 season at 21-11, losing to Phoenix in the second round. The Storm will return to Climate Pledge on May 14 to face Diana Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury.
SYVIA FOWLES BLOCKING EZI MAGBEGOR'S SHOT. ERIC SHELBY/ PSU VANGUARD
SEATTLE STORM
The Seattle Storm played their first ever home game at the new Climate Pledge Arena, in the heart of downtown Seattle. They hosted the Minnesota Lynx, starting the season off right with a 97-74 win. Not only did the Storm start off 1-0, they were 1-0 in the
PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
SUE BIRD DRIBBLING ON LOGO. ERIC SHELBY/PSU VANGUARD
SPORTS
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PSU Vanguard • MAY 11, 2022 • psuvanguard.com
