The Commuter: November 10, 2021

T H E

L I N N - B E N T O N

VOL. 53 EDITION 7

C O M M U N I T Y

C O L L E G E

NOV. 10, 2021

Meet the SLC Team LBCC’s Student Leadership Council Is a Cabinet Full of Diversity, with Students from All Walks of Life

President Hannah Briggs was inspired to go into the medical field after her [surviving] mother was diagnosed with cancer, where at the time Briggs spent much of her time in a hospital in support.

She is now dual-enrolled in LBCC’s Degree Partnership Program with OSU, and is on track to graduate this year with both her associate and bachelor's degree in Biology. “I want to be able to help people, I want to be able to be a rock for others and tell them exactly how I can help them,” said Briggs. She is currently thinking of a possible future in pediatrics. “I love kids and I want to help make sure our next generation is set up for success, and I want to do my part to ensure that future doctors, lawyers or world leaders grow up healthy.”

Serenity Wilson, who is studying Elementary Education, is an Executive Assistant. She has been in this position “since the beginning of this fall.” She “enjoys cross-stitching, jigsaw puzzles, anything that an 80-year-old lady would do.”

Executive Assistant Danae Fouts has been in her position since April. She is working on a degree in Human Development and Family Science with a Human Services Emphasis.

In her spare time she “most enjoys playing with my dogs Baxter and Lilah. I also love chatting with friends over social media and attending school events when I can to stay connected with people. In my off time, I tend to be a couch potato, watching a lot of random YouTube content and reading Webtoons on my phone.”

William Shields is majoring in Network and Systems Administration, and has been in the SLC since spring of 2020, where he currently serves as the Campus Outreach Coordinator. In Shields’ free time, he “enjoys spending it with my partner, playing playstation games, shopping or going on adventures.”

In Legislative Affairs is Nia Alvarado. Previously serving as the Vice President, she has been in the SLC for almost six semesters. Alvarado is dual enrolled at OSU as a Computer Science major with an option in Artificial Intelligence. In reference to her major, Alvarado said “Oh it’s actually really interesting. I had to write an essay my senior year about artificial intelligence, and originally I was against it. But I actually found myself loving it and falling in love with computer science.”

Inside this Edition

GRAPHICS FREEPIK.COM

ROADRUNNER CONNECTIONS

SEE PAGE 3

VETERANS CLUB

SEE PAGE 4

CLICK HERE TO MEET THE REST OF THE TEAM!

DIRT ROAD BREWERY

SEE PAGE 8

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CAMPUS NEWS

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

LBCOMMUTER.COM 

Wellness Wednesday Take Time to Have Valuable Conversations with the Valuable People in Your Life STORY BY

LISA HOOGESTEGER

The Commuter is the weekly student-run newspaper for LBCC, financed by student fees and advertising. Opinions expressed in The Commuter do not necessarily reflect those of the LBCC administration, faculty and students of LBCC. Editorials, columns, letters, and cartoons reflect the opinions of the authors.

LBCC is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

Letters Welcome The Commuter encourages readers to use its “Opinion” pages to express their views on campus, community, regional and national issues. The Commuter attempts to print all submissions received, but reserves the right to edit for grammar, length, libel, privacy concerns and taste. Opinions expressed by letter submitters do not represent the views of the Commuter staff or the College.

Deliver letters to: Address: The Commuter Forum 222 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW Albany, OR 97321 Web Address: LBCommuter.com Phone: 541-917-4451, 4452 or 4449 Email: commuter@linnbenton.edu Twitter @LBCommuter Facebook LBCC The Commuter Instagram @LBCommuter

Our Staff Adviser Rob Priewe

Editor-in-Chief Dakota Gange Layout Designer Rebecca Fewless Kailyn McQuisten Marketing/Advertising Sean Ramos ‑ Director Isaieh Heiken - Asst. Marketing Director Naomi Thomas - AD Designer A&E Steven Pryor A&E Editor Leah Biesack Sports Editor Logan Hannigan-Downs Student Voice Editor Avery Leon-Castillo Web Master Marci Sischo Contributors Chrissy Veach Brenda Autry Kolby France Sabrina Dedek Arianna Stahlbaum Logan Utter Brady Magers Kari Shaw Ashlee Luehring Carsyn Meyers Nora Grace Baumgart Amber Flamand Bowen Orcutt

I took a class several years ago that was about ‘conversational skills.’ I was misled to think it was simply about conversation, because really it was about communication, clarity and relationshipbuilding.

One thing the instructor suggested was to look back at the last five conversations you had with anybody in your life and think of that as illustrative in defining that relationship. I sloughed off the idea until I really thought about it, and dang, it showed me a lot.

What kind of real conversation do you have with people who matter in your life?

Is it transactional?

“Hey, did you pick up the groceries?”

“What do you want for dinner?”

Functional?

“How was your day?”

“Should we go to the library to study?”

Relation-building?

“I want to tell you about this awesome thing I learned in Philosophy class today!”

“Hey, how is your dad doing in taking care of your mom?”

You may have heard of the “slow eating” trend; pay attention to what’s in front of you. Limit distractions. Do not do anything else while you’re eating.

Apply this to real conversation. Do not do anything else while you’re in conversation.

This means more than just putting away your phone; no TV, no watching the people out the window, no listening to music.

Relationship-building. This includes talking about things that matter, demonstrating care and interest in someone else, and sharing things that have meaning. In our 24/7 culture we blow through things that matter, and rush onto the next exciting thing. Pause and remember we are human BEings, not human DOings.

During this last year, we’ve become out of practice with face to face conversation. It’s too easy to turn away, stay away and just say no to opportunities of connecting with others. Are you taking mostly online classes? Do you decide on activities based on whether or not you will need to interact with people? Is this conundrum impacting your well-being?

Remember that you’re not alone.

It is to be expected that we’re anxious, uncomfortable and frequently secondguessing ourselves in the choices we make.

So start with small conversations.

And give it your full attention. I guarantee it matters.

PHOTO:FREEPIK.COM

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NOVEMBER 10, 2021

CAMPUS NEWS

Pets of LBCC

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The Commuter Took to LB Live to See Student and Staff Pets at Home Zoey Cannoli is Jolene Vallejo’s dog.

Emily Chapman’s three dogs, Bilbo, Jasper and Buddha

Vedis Frick’s dog, Dulce

Emily Chapman's cat Smaug.

STAY TUNED FOR MORE FURRY FRIENDS!

Vedis Frick’s cat, Coconut.

Roadrunner Connections

A Course Where You Earn Swag and Tuition Credit, for Socialization and Solely Attending a Minimum of Seven LBCC Events STORY BY Workshop’ held over zoom in week two, and had lots of solutions for dealing with stress Camp. In the end, I won two of his three wins.” Harris explained that it is about 20 AVERY LEON-CASTILLO made me more confident in applying for more and other options.”

New to LBCC fall term is Roadrunner Connections, a free, non-credit ‘class’ where students can attend events throughout the term and not only earn a tuition credit, but also earn LB swag, such as water bottles, t-shirts for attending volleyball games and volunteer events, stickers, LB lanyards, and drawstring backpacks.

This class, which is offered every term except for summer, is as simple as it gets; students who attend at least seven out of 10 events will receive one free tuition credit for the following term. That’s equivalent to $140.58 added to your Roadrunner account.

Chieftain of Events for the SLC, Victoria Aguas, says that “Rob's class has no homework, no quizzes and you just go to events… you have to do seven and then you get a free credit.” She relays that the whole program really gets you to engage with other students and get out of your comfort zone.

Interested in this course? Here is the CRN for winter term: CRN35116 Course advisors Rob Camp and Carol Raymundo “have seen that students who get involved with the program, which hosts events completely different from ones you’d see in classrooms, are more likely to be successful inside of a classroom setting. They also gain new social skills and new friends in and outside of the course,” said Camp.

So far, the fall term Roadrunner Connections course has 21 students. A few of the students are more involved in the LB community than others, and that’s how they discovered the class. Danae Fouts, who is the Executive Assistant for the Student Leadership Council, said that “[she is] grateful for the Roadrunner Connections course,” and that “it has pushed me to have experiences I wouldn’t have otherwise!”

Additionally, Fouts said “The ‘DeMystifying the Myths of Scholarships

scholarships at LB, and more confident and knowledgeable when applying for scholarships in the future at different schools.” This event is part of the Roadrunner Connections. This event and others can be found on the SLC calendar.

This program’s goal is to not only provide students with an opportunity for a free tuition credit, but also to help them engage and connect with each other. At these events, Camp said, “that often the same students are attending the same events which makes them more comfortable with each other, which leads to building friendships.” Camp also notes that because of the variety of the events this course hosts, it benefits the whole school community.

Programs like the SLC, The Commuter, First Resort, and various clubs will all have exposure from these students, which will hopefully make them more comfortable reaching out to apply for volunteer spots, run for a position on the Student Leadership board, and begin sharing writing or photography with the school newspaper.

Student and First Resort Student Ambassador Cameron Wright, said “the class makes me feel like I am getting the full college experience. Time at LBCC goes by in the blink of an eye, and this class makes me feel like I am getting the most out of it.”

Wright notes that he speaks for other students participating currently, and states “this class has also helped me put into perspective really how many opportunities and events college can offer. I am excited to share this experience with other students, even those who can’t do classes on campus, and introduce them to these events and get them hooked!”

Jim Harris attended a multitude of events including an SLC board meeting.

Harris said “it was very informative about all the things the SLC is doing on campus.”

He also participated in a stress management workshop and said “that it was well presented

What many in this course can agree on, is that the Tuesday Trivia nights held over zoom were the most fun. Fouts said that she “engaged in an epic battle for first place with the Roadrunner Connections Host, Rob

to 30 questions long, and the competition gets heated trying to see who is gaining the most points, and betting on who will get the prizes. Both Harris and Fouts are planning on joining the course again for winter term.

ROADRUNNER CONNECTIONS Do you want free swag? learn about social events and activities? find out about resources for you? earn tuition in the process?

Roadrunner Connections is for you!

Participate in one event or engagement in 7 out of 10 weeks Receive one credit of FREE Tuition for the following term This can only be earned once Different options each week to help meet your schedule Example Engagements Go bowling with other LB Students Learn about clubs at LBCC Attend an athletic event Volunteer in your community Play Trivia or go to a campus event

So how do you get to participate in this opportunity?

Simple! Log into your webrunner account - Click student - Registration add/Drop - select winter term 2022 in a box under CRN enter 35116 - click submit! This course does not cost you anything and there are no set meeting times.

Engage your inner Roadrunner!

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CAMPUS NEWS

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

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Veterans Club at LBCC Shout Out to the Veterans Club; Check Them Out

STORY AND PHOTOS BY SABRINA DEDEK The Veterans Club at LBCC is a place for members of all branches of the United States service to come together. Club President Isaac Schrader said “the club caters to active duty, reserve, guard, and veterans of the Armed Forces. Our goal is to make a community that is inclusive for people who have served our great nation.” He led the group in placing American flags and Prisoner of War (POW) flags around the Albany campus for Veteran’s Day. The Veteran’s Club aims to be a supportive group, and student and club member Marie Henderson said “she enjoys the group as it has gained her new veteran friends.” The group often meets at Pop’s Branding Iron for brunch where they discuss their future and activities.

Supporting the club is advisor Ken Dickerson-Self. Stop by room F-109 on the Albany campus and check out their Facebook page, or contact club Liaison Sandra Skinkle at shinkls@linnbenton.edu for more information.

The club is looking for new members to help shape it! If you need support right now, do not hesitate to reach out to the Veteran Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or text at 838255.

The entrance to the Veterans Club, on Albany campus at LBCC. Erik Arnsen, (Advisor) Ken Dickerson-Self, Eli Cronin, (President) Isaac Schrader, Marie Henderson, and Chris Batman)

This memorial in the club room represents fallen service members and comrades in arms.

The club lounge is decorated with a bronze bald eagle and the constitution.

Box of miniature United States flags to be distributed around campus for Veterans Day.

 COMMUTER@LINNBENTON.EDU

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

CAMPUS NEWS

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What Does It All Mean?

LBCC Students Step Up to Define the Weighty Terms American, Literature and Minority

STORY BY LEAH BIESACK Language takes on new iterations with time, history, means of communication, and culture. Words can rely on context with every last breath, or they can simply mean what they mean whether the weather. Either way, exploring how we understand language is integral to how we, in turn, understand one another. In Matt Usner’s course Literature of American Minorities, the class was tasked to define each word of the course’s title, separately.

American. Literature. Minority. Here are a few students’ standout definitions.

AMERICAN To me, being an American means coming together to celebrate our differences and the sacrifices we make for the ones we love.

I remember a song I heard in elementary school that my teacher played for the class about being proud to be an American and how we know we're free. At the time I had no idea what that meant andI still don't to this day. Sometimes I find it difficult for me to claim the title of being an American because this past year, and even now, our country has never been more divided. From our political views to fighting for basic human rights, 2020 really became the year I started to feel ashamed to be an American. As I got older, I had so many people in my life that made me feel like I wasn't American enough because of how I looked, so it was hard for me to understand what being a "true" American meant. To some people, a "real" American can be based on one's appearance, culture, religion, and even political views. In my eyes it does not solely rely on your citizenship or a piece of paper because as I got older I realized that it's so much deeper than that.

My definition has changed drastically since I was a freshman in high school. It became very hard for me to believe that America was built upon equal rights and freedom when every other day another hashtag would appear. It took me a long time to come to terms with the fact that America will not become a utopian society overnight and no matter what there will always be that balance of good and bad.

My family is the one thing that helped me realize what it meant to be an American.

They've instilled these beliefs in me because it's important to have somebody in your life that makes you feel like you are enough. I've heard many people talk about how proud they are to be a "true" American and I still don't know what that means. My senior year of high school, we were asked a similar question and I have seen how my answer was received.

It is challenging to hear someone say they disagree with you about something that is so personal to you. At that moment I just kept quiet and focused on the people that were able to have a civil conversation with me. When someone is so fixated on what they think is right, they can forget about how others feel. In situations like these I have to remind myself that there is no right or wrong answer to define American because all of us may be different, but in actuality we are all the same.

- Kayla Epps ...Through all the differences now and in the past in our country, I also believe that being an American is about coming together. Our differences are what make us unique, and our sacrifices are our stories.

When we are willing to accept each other’s differences, and willing to accept that we don’t have to all agree on everything, then, we are being a true American. Over the years people of all cultures, ethnicities, genders and ages have come together to fight for equality through demonstrations and rallies. These gatherings are a great example of how we as Americans, putting our differences aside, can come together to show support for each other to make a change.

- Lauren Hodgson LITERATURE This response really opened my mind up to the many possibilities that literature could represent. For my definition, I tethered myself to the idea that literature has to be a written media like a book. I could see how a graphic novel could be just as intellectually challenging as a novel, even though graphic novels might be discounted since most people don't view them as literature. Maybe recorded works could count as literature since many of them involve writing a script or lyrics beforehand. There are many great movies and songs that involve dealing with complex aspects of humanity. This discussion just shows how abstract the meanings of words can be. I definitely agree that literature is usually thought of as pompous books read in college. This idea might be due to the fact that education is a privilege. Literacy is a skill that some might not have the chance to obtain, especially in a country that doesn't have an educational infrastructure. Even in America, there is a vast inequality of education between areas that are impoverished compared to affluent neighborhoods. Technology can provide a remedy to this inequality since PDFs of classic literature can be found readily available online. I would definitely agree with the fact that college is heavily associated with literature.

-Max MacKenzie Literature is the composition of written language that produces opportunities for growth in knowledge and understanding, morals, spirituality, self-awareness, etc.

Literature produces these opportunities because it is diverse in subjects due to being something that anyone can create.

Literature also presents itself in different mediums, whether it be in the form of a novel, a mythical story painted on Ancient Greek pottery, or hieroglyphics on a wall of an Ancient Egyptian tomb. No matter what medium literature presents itself in, it clearly shows what ideas, thoughts, opinions, beliefs, or feelings the author

has. These aspects of literature give us the ability to experience different forms of literature in a wide variety of ways.

As we read literature and unlock new information and understandings of the world we live in, we begin to start asking ourselves questions that lead us to question ourselves and motivate us to seek answers. With morality, self-awareness, and spirituality in question, we challenge ourselves while reading literature, asking ourselves questions such as, “how would I react to this situation?” or “how does my character reflect the characteristics found in this story?” As I stated in my intro post, reading literature gives us a safe space to truly be ourselves and be honest with our thoughts and feelings. Given the safe space, we are able to evaluate ourselves and decide morally how we want to live.

The more literature we read, the more we are exposed to, and the more we can grow and challenge ourselves within the safety net it provides. We also see ourselves reflected in characters or events that pop up in literature, forcing us to evaluate the good and the bad-- and making us aware of flaws or good aspects of ourselves.

-Arianna Stahlbaum MINORITY The word minorities is a word used to describe an amount; typically it is used to categorize a population size composed of people with different nationalities, race, and ethnicities. It's been used by oppressors to demean other people of different race, ethnic and nationalities, and used to describe “us” and “them.”

What factors into my definition is my own personal experiences. I grew up under the category of Minority. At first I didn’t see it. I saw it as all of us kids in the same class. Soon though, I noticed how all of my other classmates would make fun at students who had their parents' accents, or would make funny faces at lunch when someone brought lunch from home; which only happened to be the white student who would complain.

There were times where I didn’t know the English word for something and stuttered, to which my white classmates would giggle at when they heard me struggle; whereas my group of friends who were of the same background I am were understanding, patient, and helpful. There was a major presence of white students compared to the handful of students that belong to a completely different cultural background.

Soon we, who came from different places around the world, became the minority.

This has carried on throughout my entire

life, not only because of my nationality but because of my sex. When I became interested in anything male dominated, there would always be someone who would point out that because I am a woman, I am not ‘strong’ enough to participate, or too ‘emotional.’ These labels did not let it affect me. The word minority comes based on numbers but there is more to it.

This definition may make a few uncomfortable, it is based on how I have learned to view the country I reside in and how this country views me and anyone like me. Luckily there are people who may never experience the weight of the label “minority.” It’s definitely a conversation that needs to be openly talked about, to help others understand this perspective.

A challenge that this definition may face could be biased, especially since it is based on my experience, and witnessing the discrimination others around me have faced because they come from a diverse background. I am open to others' perspectives on the word “minorities” and their explanation and to adjust my definition for it to be more inclusive.

-Erika Arista A group of people that are looked at as ‘lesser than’ because of their differences from the majority.

When I think of the word “Minority”, I think about people who have been oppressed over the years in the United States. Oftentimes when a person or certain group falls in the category of minority, it’s generally because they are seen as lesser of a human being than the average white male American. Specifically, some groups that I believe fall into the Minority category are Women of all races, people of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, Native Americans, Native Hawaiians, etc… When I analyze these specific groups of minorities, I then think about how each of these groups have fought and are still fighting to be seen as equal to the white majority. Maybe a big part of why they are seen in such a negative light (from people) is because there’s fewer members of people in these communities, so they are right away going to be labeled different than ‘normal’.

When reading my definition, some people may think that minority groups are treated equally with whites/males in this country. They may think that minorities were oppressed in history but believe they are no longer being treated unfairly but treated ‘equally’. But by ignoring their struggles and acting like they aren't struggling in society is in my opinion, still oppression.

Some Challenges that my definition may open up is like everyone is ‘different’ essentially, so how would you then categorize people based on their differences.

How big of a difference does it need to be? Or How many people need to be in that different group? Another point to be made about the challenges my definition could spark is women could definitely be categorized as minority, but when you talk about the number ratio, there is about the same number of men and women (or at least similarly close). I would say it more than falls down as women are seen as less important or not as good or maybe even weaker and therefore were not given equal rights in many aspects in society.

- Hannah Trommlitz

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LOCAL NEWS

Out

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

and

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About

LB’s Photojournalism Students Capture Life Out and About

PHOTO: ASHLEE LUEHRING

PHOTO: SABRINA DEDEK

Talartha Parkins, Annalyssa Ridgeway, and Kamaile Macentire have lunch and study on Wednesday November 3. Laughing and socializing bring signs of normalcy for a moment during the COVID pandemic.

DeAnna Mursch sits in the LBCC Cafe to get out of the cold.

They're playing a game on their phone to relax from all the stress of being at school. Their major is Equine Science, which Mursch explains "is basically studying horses." Mursch has always loved horses so it was the perfect major them, and is planning on transferring to OSU to receive their bachelors. In their free time, however, Mursch likes to make art, read, and play games.

PHOTO: SABRINA DEDEK

At the Benton Center, ceramics students wait for the 'all clear' while participating in "The Great Shake-Out," in Oregon State’s efforts for preparation of earthquake emergency. Students; Hope Cooper, Mel Cox, Olivia Potter, Megan Mayjor, Maggie Bedrin, Kaden Strametz, Jacy Mull, Clarissa Cisneros, and Tessa DeHart, and Instructor Renee McKitterick (Center).

PHOTO: LOGAN HANNIGAN-DOWNS

Hannah Hayduck, of St.Helens runs up "The Hill" at the OSAA State Cross Country Championships held at Lane Community College on Saturday, November 6.

PHOTO: LOGAN HANNIGAN-DOWNS

A South Eugene High School athlete recuperates after finishing his race at the OSAA State Cross Country Championships held at Lane Community College on Saturday, November 6.

PHOTO: LOGAN HANNIGAN-DOWNS

Brothers Junior Aaron and Senior Caleb Lakeman of Tualatin embrace in an emotional hug after the Class 6A race at the OSAA State CrossCountry Championships held at Lane Community College on Saturday, Nov. 6. Caleb placed fifth and was sprawled on the ground when Aaron saw him and pushed through flagging to help him up.

PHOTO: LOGAN HANNIGAN-DOWNS

Crescent Valley Freshman Emily Wisniewski leads the Class 5A race, Emily eventually won the race with a time of 18:27.9 at the OSAA State Cross Country Championships held at Lane Community College on Saturday, November 6.

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 COMMUTER@LINNBENTON.EDU

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

LOCAL NEWS

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

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PHOTO: BRADY MAGERS

Culinary Arts instructor Sarah Booth works with their students after class to catch up on missed labs. On today's menu, they work on creating a batch of mozzarella cheese. They're shown testing the consistency and temperature of the cheese.

PHOTO: KOLBY FRANCE

Cody Taylor, age 24, rakes piles of leaves in the LBCC courtyard, late Friday morning.

This is his second day as a groundskeeper for Linn-Benton, and is one of three groundskeepers on the Albany campus. In his free time, Cody enjoys hiking, fishing, and going on walks with his 5-year old son. He loves hiking with his girlfriend in Grants Pass, near Sisters.

PHOTO: SABRINA DEDEK

The tree was cleared within 10 minutes, just before Sheriff Jeff Pratt arrived, who expressed his disappointment that he did not get to use his chainsaw, but was impressed at the community’s quick work. Helpers included; Brice Knudsen, Kristina Howard, Alex Lopez, Andres Alcatraz, Case Moore, Sheriff Jeff Pratt, and myself Sabrina Dedek.

PHOTO: SABRINA DEDEK

On Thursday Nov. 4 a tree fell blocking both lanes of NW 53rd St. near Touchstone Place.

Passing strangers worked together quickly to move the tree and debris to relieve after school traffic.

PHOTO: KOLBY FRANCE

The Roadrunners volleyball team forms a line before their game against the Clackamas Cougars begins, on Wednesday in Albany.

The Roadrunner players are waiting for the starting lineup to be announced.

PHOTO: KOLBY FRANCE

In his sophomore season, right-handed pitcher from Portland Kenji Lamdin pitches during a scrimmage on Saturday morning, Oct. 30, at Dick McClain Field.

Come Get Some Lunch!

Check out what LBCC's 2nd Year Culinary Students have to offer!

Hours:

Monday: 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday: 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Wednesday: 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Thursday: 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Friday: CLOSED Saturday: CLOSED Sunday: CLOSED ONLY OPEN ON SCHOOL DAYS

Order Here:

LFFORMS.LINNBENTON.EDU/FORMS/ CULINARYORDERFORM

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LOCAL NEWS

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

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All Roads Lead To Pizza Philomath’s Dirt Road Brewery Hits Middle-of-the-Road Marks, With Room for Improvement

STORY AND PHOTO BY LEAH BIESACK Cozied in on Philomath’s Main Street, claiming a corner all its own, is Dirt Road Brewery, an unpretentious newcomer in our ever-growing land of endless brewpubs. While it takes two hands to count how many local breweries boast a build-your-own burger option, Dirt Road is taking the road less traveled. Quell any anxiety about having to stomach yet another basket of beerbattered fries, because at Dirt Road, all paths lead to pizza.

The fairly recent Philomath addition opened its doors in 2019, but like many restaurants in early 2020, it fell victim to the pandemic, which caused the shutdown and eventually some modifications.

Walking in the bar felt like the ‘normal’ people have been wistfully longing for; full tables, hustle and bustle, families, friends, and first dates all breaking bread (crust) in the outside world. The bartenders were welcoming and genuinely excited for every patron who walked in.

They offered me a seat at the bar and took care of me there, but seating anywhere else follows the counter service model — order everything first, pick up drinks at the bar, find a cozy seat, and wait for your pizza to be brought to you on an aluminum platter. It's a modern-day food service with more emphasis on Destiny's Child’s ‘Independent Woman’ aspect. It’s good to feel capable.

Let’s talk eats. The menu showcases 11 different pizzas, from classic and unadventurous options like pepperoni and Margherita, to jazzier and more unique picks like Chicken Pesto and Timber Thai.

While there are a few nods to tried and true classics, their offerings don’t shy away from embodying the trophy tastes of faraway lands. The Philomath Philly

packs beef, pepperoni, pepper, onion, provolone, Alfredo drizzle, and balsamic reduction onto 10-13 inches of their slightly above middle-tier crust.

I thought the wisest course of action, for my first-time visit, would be to establish a baseline, so I ordered the Margherita. It has the visual appeal, so if you only ever order pizza for the photo ops, then this would be a safe bet. The sauce was more sweet than savory, which I don’t find exciting, but I know there’s a niche group out there who would ride or die for the sugary red.

More than once, I wondered if they put any salt on the pizza at all. That said, I ate two slices, plus some pan remnants.

While I wasn’t overly-impressed, I do see

opportunities for growth. During my stay, there were multiple take-out orders for the Timber Thai, and the couple next to me had something called The Paradise Pig, which is topped with BBQ pork, bacon, and pineapple, and seemed very next-level.

In other words, I think I may have just ordered wrong. And to confirm my thoughts, before leaving, the bartender told me that the Margherita is actually their weakest pizza. In this case, I’m pretty sure it’s not them, it’s me.

Dirt Road also offers salads, and appetizers. Nothing to overwhelm your senses, but just enough to offer you an easy starter. I opted for the Caesar salad, which stuck to its traditional make-up

of romaine, parmesan, croutons, and its namesake dressing. If it ain’t broke…

Although my slice was a take it or leave it taste, and after living in New York City for six years, I’m still thanking my stars, my ancestors, my high school English teacher (Hi, Mr. Davis), and just about anyone else who will listen that there’s another pizza option in the Willamette Valley.

Look, I’m not going to open up a debate on where the best pie is located.

I’ve read the message boards, felt the fire-laced comments, navigated the conversations that reliably go nowhere; it’s a battlefield out there, and I’m not masochistic enough to throw my byline into the crossfire of pizza wars. But I’ll tell you everything I know when I know it. And what I’ve known for the seven years I’ve lived here is that the Corvallis area hasn’t yet figured out what equates to good pizza. But there’s hope that they’re still trying.

I look forward to my next visit to Dirt Road, where I will adamantly try to order properly, allowing myself the opportunity to experience what everyone around me seems to be feeling at first bite.

I would love to have a new pizza joint to call my number one, and I’m crossing everything that, with the right pie, Dirt Road Brewery will be it.

Note: I would like to take a moment to honor the brightest beam of pizza hope Corvallis area once had for a hot, four-year stint. Thank you, Demmaggio’s, for setting the highest bar, even if you had to take it away forever. You showed the Willamette Valley that making a great pizza is in fact possible, and you allowed us to feel true joy. But true joy is fleeting, so in honor of how long it took to bake a Demmaggio’s pie, I’m requesting 12 minutes of silence to show our utmost respect and admiration. RIP.

ARE YOU AN LBCC STUDENT OR STAFF IN NEED OF A THANKSGIVING MEAL? If so, please scan this turkey QR code or visit shorturl.at/atPQ8 and fill out your LB information to receive a thanksgiving giftcard!!!

Do you want to see more of Oregon!?

Join the Roadrunner Explorers, a Co-Curricular that combines learning with fun adventures throughout the state.

Upcoming Trip: November 13th, Hatfield Marine Science Center Use this code to sign up and receive invitations to our monthly events

FINAL DEADLINE TO SUBMIT IS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17,2021

CLICK HERE FOR MORE

 COMMUTER@LINNBENTON.EDU

SPORTS

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

Roadrunners Run Circles Around Cougars

9

LB’s High-flying, Hard-hitting Volleyball Team Races Towards Playoffs STORY BY KOLBY FRANCE The Roadrunners got off to a hot start in each of its three sets against Clackamas last week, displaying their dominance as the Roadrunners race toward the Northwest Athletic Conference playoffs.

The Roadrunners defeated Clackamas 3-0; set scores were 2517, 25-12, and 25-21. They extended their win streak to 17 games and improved to 25-2 on the season and 15-0 in NWAC South Region play.

“We just know that we need to make sure we take care of the little details, otherwise even teams that maybe don’t bring in power against us, can get some scores like that. We just have to make sure that we are paying attention to every detail,” said Head Coach Jayme Frazier when asked about improving and finding success heading into the playoffs.

To start the game the teams traded points back and forth before the Roadrunners went on a 5-0 run in a 90-second span, to take a 10-6 lead. From then on, LBCC was in control, and while Clackamas put up a fight, they missed a few digs or didn’t make proper contact that ended up costing them the possibility to tie late in the set. LBCC took the set in 20 minutes, 25-17.

Clackamas’ Matumaivai Taale's had an impressive dig in the opening minutes of the second set, but Shalyn Gray set up Sydnie Johnson to tap it over the net, giving the Roadrunners a quick 8-2 lead. The Roadrunners

PHOTO: JUSTIN LAMB

Alicia Vandervoort-Walters

plowed through the Cougars in the second set, finishing off with their largest lead of the set and taking it with a score of 25-12.

When asked about what the key to their success this season, Frazier responded: “The team chemistry; they love to have fun, they work hard on and off the court. They just really support each other and I think

that goes a long way, and they’re a very athletic group. I think that combination is the key.”

On the sixth rally of the third and final set, the ball was in play for half a minute, including 13 sets, six spikes, and one dig between the teams. The last set went back and forth between the teams, with the game being tied seven times before the Roadrunners started to pull

away and took a 17-11 lead.

The Cougars fought back forcing the Roadrunners to make mistakes which contributed to a 6-1 run by Clackamas, bringing the score to 23-21 and reducing LB’s lead to just two points. Shalyn Gray finished the set with the matchwinning spike, and Clackamas Samantha Tardiff was unable to dig the ball.

PHOTO: KOLBY FRANCE

Coach Jayme Frazier talks to her team, preparing them for the second set.

PHOTO: KOLBY FRANCE

Alexis Chapman spikes the ball in the second set of the Roadrunners win against the Clackamas Cougars on the Linn-Benton campus on Wednesday evening, November 3. She started the game at the middle blocker position for the Roadrunners. Chapman, a former student at West Albany

PHOTO: KOLBY FRANCE

The Roadrunners get low to the court during the pre-match warmup.

10

A&E

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

LBCOMMUTER.COM 

5-Word Book

Reviews

CLICK HERE FOR CROSSWORD

CLICK HERE FOR SUDOKU

BY LEAH BIESACK

The Horse-Dealer’s Daughter, D.H. Lawrence Intentionally grey. Chock-full of symbolism.

Complete the grid so each row, column, and 3x3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit.

The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas, Ursula LeGuin Beautiful opening. Dark, truthful underbelly.

The Dumb Man, Sherwood Anderson Probably about observation. Who knows.

GRAPHIC: NAOMI THOMAS

Out With a Bang REVIEW BY

STEVEN PRYOR

@STEVENPRR2PRYOR

On October 2 of this year, the hit Disney animated series “Amphibia” entered its third and final season. Though the remainder of the story still has yet to unfold, it’s clear that this series from “Gravity Falls” alum Matt Braly is going out with a bang.

Picking up where the previous season left off, Anne Boonchuy (voice of Brenda Song) has returned to her home in Los Angeles, CA alongside Sprig Plantar (voice of Justin Fellbinger), his sister Polly (voice of Amanda Leighton) and their grandfather “Hop Pop” (voice of Bill Farmer). Reuniting with her parents (voices of Matt Braly’s real-life parents On Braly and Brian Sounalath), Anne must help them find a way back to Amphibia and reconcile with her own friends Sasha Waybright (voice of Anna Akana) and Marcy Wu (voice of Haley Tju) before King Andrias (voice of Keith David) can use the Calamity Box to finish them all off for good.

Turning the dynamic of the previous

two seasons on its head, now the Plantars are the strangers in the strange land of LA, and Anne is the one that must help them find their way back home. Sometimes, the dangers Anne must guide them through are a vet’s visit for her cat or a day trip to a local shopping center. Other times, they end up being encounters with scouting robots sent from Amphibia.

Whatever the case, the show has definitely built on the success of the previous seasons. On top of a slick new outfit, Anne also has developed a mysterious power during her time in Amphibia, one that she must learn to focus on before sending the Plantars home. Anne’s parents are also welcome additions to the cast, with Mr. and Mrs. Boonchuy providing the ideal balance of humor and growth for Anne’s character arc. The animation is also some of the best the series has shown to date, with standout scenes including a food truck chase and a skirmish at a museum.

With more episodes to come in this last season, “Amphibia” has taken its biggest leap forward as a story, and is highly recommended.

AMPHIBIA­— SEASON 3 STARRING: Brenda Song, Justin Fellbinger, Bill Farmer, Anna Akana, Amanda Leighton, Dee Bradley Baker, Stephen Root, Jack McBrayer and Troy Baker with Haley Tju and Keith David CREATOR: Matt Braly RATED: TV-Y7 MY RATING: ★★★★★ AVAILABLE ON DISNEY CHANNEL AND DISNEY XD (CHECK YOUR LOCAL CABLE OR SATELLITE LISTINGS), ALSO AVAILABLE ON DISNEY PLUS (MORE EPISODES COMING SOON)

 COMMUTER@LINNBENTON.EDU

11

A&E

NOVEMBER 10, 2021

A Stellar Second Outing THE OWL HOUSE — SEASON 2

REVIEW BY

STEVEN PRYOR

STARRING: Sarah Nicole-Robles, Wendie Malick, Alex Hirsch, Mae Whitman, Tati Gabrielle, Isaac Ryan Brown, Cissy Jones and Matthew Rhys with Zeno Robinson, Grey Griffin, Elizabeth Grullon and Avi Roque DIRECTOR: Denis Villenueve (Based on the novel by Frank Herbert) RATED: TV-Y7-FV MY RATING: ★★★★★

@STEVENPRR2PRYOR

Earlier this year, the hit Disney animated series “The Owl House” began airing its second season. Following up the acclaim and success of the first season, the next chapter in the story builds upon the established foundations and introduces many of its own key story elements.

Picking up where the events of the first season left off, the story follows aspiring witch Luz Noceda (voice of Sarah Nicole-Robles) as she tries to master her abilities and find a way back home. Alongside her mentor Eda the Owl Lady (voice of Wendie Malick) and companions King and Hooty (voice of Alex Hirsch), Luz faces a new gauntlet of challenges as she prepares for the return of the vengeful Emperor Belos (voice of Matthew Rhys).

AVAILABLE ON DISNEY CHANNEL AND DISNEY XD (CHECK YOUR LOCAL CABLE OR SATELLITE LISTINGS, ALSO STREAMING ON DISNEY PLUS)

This season sees many of the introduced characters reach new stages in their arcs, with Amity Blight (voice of Mae Whitman) being a standout example as her bond with Luz grows. With each

passing chapter in the story, the series further cements its place as one of the best animated shows in recent years.

With the second half of the season coming soon, a third season of special

episodes and fan-demand for more.

Season 2 of “The Owl House” is a stellar second outing of an excellent show, and now is the perfect time to check it out.

Help Us Help You! LBCC’s Marketing and Communications Department Requests Students’ Thoughts in Efforts for Improvement

STORY BY AVERY LEON-CASTILLO Welcome to week seven of fall term! As we dive into studying for finals, finishing up class work, and continuing in that ever too familiar overall panic mode, remember to take a minute to help LB better understand some critical information for marketing, communication and recruitment methods by filling out a quick survey from LB’s Communications & Marketing department.

The username is oregon (all lowercase) and the password is OREGON (all uppercase).

The questionnaire will take about 2030 minutes to complete, and is overall easy to understand. The survey is completely anonymous, and the information you give will only be available to the survey makers.

As an incentive, all survey participants may sign up for a raffle. There are 14 $50 gift cards and one grand prize $200 gift card, all for the campus store, all waiting to be won.

But you better hurry, time is ticking! The survey closes on Nov. 12.

The survey is for enrolled LBCC students only, and is available on tablet, smartphone, and computer. The information you give is important in order for LBCC to enhance their marketing efforts in student recruitment, student resources, and communication between students, staff, and faculty.

YOUR OPINION MATTERS Take a fun, 100% confidential survey about how LBCC communicates with YOU! You could win one of 15 prizes, including 14 $50 gift cards and/or a $200 grand prize gift card - all to the Campus Store!

We’ll draw three names each week so the earlier you enter, the better your chances of winning. Hurry, the survey closes Nov. 12!

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