The Commuter: Feb. 3, 2021 by The Commuter

T H E

L I N N - B E N T O N

C O M M U N I T Y

VOL. 52 EDITION 13

C O L L E G E

FEB. 3, 2021

LEADERS

OF CHANGE K amala Harris, Rosa Parks and MLK Jr. Inside this Edition

GRAPHICS: FREEPIK.COM

STIMULUS UPDATE

SEE PAGE 2

ILLEGAL CAMPING

SEE PAGE 4

SAFE WINTER HIKING

SEE PAGE 6

LOCAL NEWS

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

FEBRUARY 3, 2021

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Stimulus Checked United States Congress Releases Second Stimulus Relief

STORY BY MATTEA HELLMAN As Congress deliberates on upcoming stimulus packages, groups that were neglected in the first two waves of relief are left to wonder when it’s their turn for assistance. When the first stimulus checks were released last April, various groups were not recipients, mainly those who were over 17 but claimed as a dependent on somebody’s else’s tax return. This includes college students still living at home, as well as elderly people in the care of their family. With the stimulus package that began distribution on Dec. 29 -including $600 for individuals -- no action was required for those eligible to receive the payment, and if for some reason it wasn’t received, they are able to claim it when filing taxes. However, as noted by the IRS, “You aren’t eligible for a payment if any of the following apply to you: You were claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s 2019 tax return [...], you’re a nonresident alien [...].” Check out information.

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For those who didn’t file individually for 2019, weren’t claimed as dependents, but plan on filing for 2020, Forbes reported they will still be able to receive the initial check. You can receive the credit from the CARES Act on your 2020 tax returns using Form 1040. According to the IRS, “It’s unclear yet if this will be the same process to claim the

$600 stimulus check, but it’s likely.” In terms of the outlook for future stimulus checks, including students labeled as dependents, Linn-Benton Community College Vice President of Finance and Operations, Sheldon Flom, said, “[it’s] too early in the new administration's term to determine.” However, for students left out, there are options. The previous CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act provided $1,303,338 to LBCC which was then distributed in awards between $100 to $700 to students who had filed with FASFA for federal financial aid, based on unmet financial needs and credit hours. Looking forward, Flom said, “The new student funds are from the

CRRSA Act (Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act), and we are waiting for the guidelines to be released. We know that students do not have to be eligible [for federal financial aid] to be eligible for CRRSA Act funds.” See https://pnpi.org/crrsa/ for more information on the CRRSA Act. In anticipation of the upcoming funding, Flom said, “We have formed a task force to oversee the CRRSA funds' awarding, and we will distribute funds as soon as possible. We will post-award information on the LBCC COVID website as soon as it is available.” For any student struggling with personal finances, The Roadrunner Resource Center can assist with various resources and emergency funding.

Our Staff Adviser Rob Priewe Editor-in-Chief Katie Littlefield

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LOCAL NEWS

What Would Anis Mojgani Do? Oregon State Poet Laureate Hosts Virtual Poetry Workshop

STORY BY LEAH BIESACK When I scrambled to find Zoom links and passwords in order to attend the Anis Mojgani event last week, I didn’t realize I was frantically racing to a writing workshop. Could I have read the invitation closer? Sure. Will I likely get scolded for this? It’s possible, so I would appreciate your condolences in advance. Though I was well-aware (and excited!) that I’d be listening to Oregon’s current Poet Laureate speak, I assumed this would all be sans audience participation. For the first time in decades, I was wrong. Our state’s Poet Laureate, our nation’s Poetry Slam Champ, a performer, writer, artist and musician, Anis Mojgani graciously gave his Friday afternoon to host a public virtual poetry workshop. His accolades are many, his body of published work sizable and growing (get in line for the upcoming children’s book.). In a cyber format with participants hailing from local pockets of Oregon to the far reaches of England, Mojgani welcomed us in what I learned to be his genuine, casual enthusiasm. As we settled into the comforts of our homes, cars, and offices, I’d begun to think I was a little out of my realm. As a writer, I do not venture into poetry. It wouldn’t even be fair to say that I dabble in it. And before someone shows me a crocheted pillow with the phrase, ‘Life is Poetry’ across the front, well, 1. Give me a break, but 2. My hand isn’t build for it and I’m sure I could get former professors to attest to this. That said, despite my seemingly permanent status of single, I take commitment seriously, so I remained

in place, pen poised. To get us warmed up, our calm and collected leader had us do a 5 minute free-write. We were a screen of Brady Bunch boxes scribbling our guts out, scraping the build-up from our brains, making space for the better and brighter. Mojgani followed by giving us a little insight to himself as a writer, his process, his connection to language itself. A poet for the last 26 years, he stressed that one of the most important aspects of the writing practice is showing up. Showing up, not so much with the intention of getting something particular on the page, but ‘showing up, seeing what happens.’ Showing up to ‘see what falls out.’ He equated a relationship with writing to a friendship. It needs to be tended to continually, whatever ‘continual’ means to the individual. The less engagement had with writing will put the writer in a space of forgetting how to interact in that relationship, just like a friendship we’ve left unattended for a time. Writers of all genres and all levels of ‘success’ have exposed their processes for the craft. They’ve written entire books on it, detailed what it takes, the musts, the should nots. They’ve used words like ‘passion’ and ‘drive.’ I’ve consumed these accounts voraciously, looking for even a glimmer of resonance, some sort of reassurance that the way I approach the craft is okay, too. It’s generally been a fool’s errand, until Mojgani spoke to the matter; ‘I don’t like writing. The act is a drag.’ This statement wasn’t even bookended with sugar, backpedaled to politeness. He meant every word. But to dive deeper, he made it clear what exactly

writing means to him, why he continues to do it. ‘Writing is a tool to better understand myself.’ Going through the motions of this art (and arguably any art) is a chance to discover what’s inside. This is where our esteemed poet likes to explore. This is why he shows up, and then shows up again. Mojgani took us through a writing exercise, one he would typically do with unmasked people who likely hadn’t sanitized their hands or groceries that day. Though he expressed how much he missed that kind of interaction in his shows and workshops, he guided us along with ease, as water always finds a way. All participants individually wrote a poem, with a sprinkle of collaboration from Mojgani himself. This was a fun souvenir, but I think the general consensus could be that the takeaway from the afternoon was much larger. It is the act of digging and wrangling that which resides within

us, intertwined in our ribs and clinging to our bones, that provides the growth and understanding, and not than the product itself that gets put on the page. Mojgani quoted William Stafford in this regard, showing us how two Poet Laureates held onto this common thread: “A writer is not so much someone who has something to say as he is someone who has found a process that will bring about new things he would not have thought of if he had not started to say them.” Any artist of any medium, and any person in any headspace can only benefit from attending an Anis Mojgani performance, reading, or workshop. His cool approachability swirled in with his deep well of insight on creativity and language makes for a very fortunate thing to have him representing the rainiest state to ever be founded.

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LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 3, 2021

LBCOMMUTER.COM  Tents hide within the treeline bordering the Willamette river ‘cliff’ edge, near the Skate Park homeless camp.

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CAMPUS NEWS

I’m Hungry, Help! Food Insecurity Amid College Students, and the Resources Available to You.

STORY BY AIDAN ARTHUR

The 411 on Illegal Camping The City of Corvallis Allows ‘Illegal Camping’ Within Its Limits

STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAKOTA GANGE CORVALLIS During the pandemic, The City Council has ordered it’s law against illegal camping to loosen dramatically. Normally, the law on illegal camping states as follows: 5.03.080.080.02 Illegal Camping: 1) It is unlawful for any person to camp in or upon a public right-of-way, park, sidewalk, alley, street, under any bridge, or any properties owned by the City of Corvallis except as provided in Section 5.03.080.080.04 below, or Chapter 5.01 , as amended, or by declaration of the City Manager of Emergency Circumstances. 2) A violation of this section is a Class C Misdemeanor. Check it out here. However, amid the pandemic the City of Corvallis now allows “camping at any park,” according to the Corvallis Police Department’s Captain, Joel Goodwin. I.e. illegal camping will not be enforced. “There certainly is a visible change that we’ve seen with COVID in terms of the number of people that are visible in our parks. Of course homelessness is not a new thing, but what we’ve noticed is with COVID we’ve seen quite a few more people Skate Park homeless camp.

that are out of the parks and more visible.” It’s hard not to notice the tent cities that have developed in the areas, like the communities under the Highway 20 overpass in downtown Corvallis, or the closed BMX park. In Corvallis, alongside the illegal camping laws not being enforced, non-profit Unity Shelter (with authorization from The City of Corvallis) has established a managed camp in the BMX park, adjacent to the Men’s Shelter and Hygiene Center in South Corvallis, off of Chapman Place. This includes set up such as designated tent camping platforms with adequate spacing, toilets, trash service, and hand washing sinks. Additionally, showers, warming tents, and food may be available as well. The BMX track is closed for all other uses while the managed camp is in place, and currently, The City Council has announced that the camp shall end no later than May 15. See Here. “At some point there was a bit of a shift because I think initially with COVID it was the “stay at home and save lives” philosophy, and that’s changed and evolved over time. But with that initial philosophy cities across Oregon received guidance for our homeless community members; we don’t want to move them, just like we don’t want people to leave their

homes….moving could potentially increase the risk to other community members,” said Goodwin. “Another trend we have noticed is that not only do we have more people camping in public places, but that many of them are not from this area, because a lot of other communities have sort of resumed their previous practice of addressing it, we have people from communities as close as Albany, as far away as other states that are coming to Corvallis, because they know it’s [illegal camping] is not being enforced, and they know that there are alot of services that are offered here too.” “This sort of complicates the problem I think for our entire community. And this is a community problem, it’s not a police problem, and I think that people often look to the police to solve it, because problem solving is part of our job...some of the behaviors become police issues, but it’s something that we all need to figure out a solution together to address it... Many of our service providers were already at their maximum, and now this is adding to that. So it’s making it much more difficult for them too.” Some available resources for the community include Community Services Consortium (this includes multiple counties), Jackson Street Youth Services , Community Outreach Inc , and Roadrunner Resources (for students). Many cities have already gone back to enforcing their illegal camping laws, such as Albany, which also has an officially managed homeless camp on their close BMX track as well. City officials met in Sept. 2020 to discuss a 90 day - four stage - plan that ultimately “cleans up” all homeless camps in the City, excluding the managed camp at the BMX track. Read about the Albany City Council meeting here .

But in Corvallis, during our state of emergency, camping in all parks is allowed. “However, if there are certain behaviors that violate other park rules, they can be asked to leave.” “We have seen a significant increase in aggravated assault among adults, and much of that is

Homeless boy walks down the Corvallis Skate Park bike bath and homeless camp.

related to our parks. We have seen several stabbings for example at the [Corvallis] Skate Park in recent months, and other assaults,” said Goodwin. There are No Camping Enforcement Zones , however. These include: ► Proximity to rivers, waterways, and f loodplains; ► Environmentally sensitive areas (such as wooded areas, Riparian zones and other protected natural areas); ► Park locations within 50 feet of designated play areas, ballfields or park features; ► Parking lots; ► Other city rights-of-way. “The City of Corvallis has provided direction that they want to continue not enforcing illegal camping in our parks, as well as refining a few other situations with that, to include establishing a self-managed RV camping in Pioneer Park, as well as establishing a managed tent camp in the BMX track,” said Goodwin. Alongside camping in parks, the parks department provides trash service in some areas, such as the skatepark camp (highway 20 bridge camp). This camp is not managed, but still allowed because it’s in any park.

Forty-two percent. Nearly half. That’s how many community college students struggle with food insecurity, according to the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice -- and the number has likely gone up in recent months. LBCC is not immune to this problem. Hundreds of students require some sort of food assistance, according to Rob Camp, Student Leadership Coordinator at LBCC. Fortunately, this assistance is available at the college and outside of it. Several years ago, Student Leadership founded the LB Lunch Box, a student-run program that provides grocery gift cards for those who need them. They previously provided food directly, but have since changed their services due to with COVID considerations. “The Linn Benton Lunch Box is just a place for students to reach out and say, ‘Hey, I need some help’, and they can get something two times a term as long as they’re a current student,” said Camp. For those needing more, the local, federally funded Linn Benton Food Share supports a group of over 70 partner agencies, including food banks and soup kitchens. “Our task is to access and distribute food to local agencies that actually interact with the public and

SPORTS

AT - A - GLANCE

WHAT: Food banks are a way to help students who are unable to cover basic needs. WHERE: Linn and Benton counties WHAT’S NEXT: Seek aid if you need it, donate if you can. LINKS:

Roadrunner Resource Center (LBCC)

Linn Benton Food Share Donation Page

provide the food either as food boxes or meals to people in need,” said Colleen Dyrud, the Agency Relations Manager at LBFS. “The pandemic has really hit college students in the area very, very hard, and college students often have a hard time qualifying for food stamps,” Dyrud said. A 2018 study, published by the Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice, found that 36% of university students and 42% of community college students reported food insecurity over a thirty-day period. As a result of this, the food

pantry based on the OSU campus has been distributing more food than any other in the area. This food bank is open to the public, not just OSU students. It’s located at Champinefu Lodge, 1030 SW Madison Ave. in Corvallis. Check it out for contact information. Unfortunately, some may not be aware of what’s available. Camp said, “I think a lot of the reason [students] haven’t reached out is that they just don’t know it’s there.” For those who can afford to help, both organizations accept monetary donations. “Donations range from companies and organizations to

Linn-Benton Lunch Box (LBLB) Linn Benton Food Share (has contact info for local agencies such as food banks.)

individuals who can spare “an extra five dollars,” said Dyrud. To donate to Linn-Benton Food Share, visit this site or send a check to P.O Box 1920, Corvallis, OR, 97339. To donate to the LB Lunch Box, send a check to Linn-Benton Lunch Box, 6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, Forum 120, Albany, OR, 97321.

50 for 50 Butch Kimpton Launches Men’s Basketball Program in 1970

COURTESY OF

LBCC NEWS SERVICE The Roadrunners begin playing men's basketball in 1970-71 without a gym on campus, which left them scrambling for spaces to practice and play games. Coach Butch Kimpton assembled a talented squad that earned its first program win in the team's opener against Northwest Christian College on December 1, 1970. Kimpton was the head men's basketball coach at Linn-Benton from 1970-82, where he won 111 league games and was state sub-regional champs in

1972, 1974 and 1976. The Roadrunners also finished second in the Western regional in 1972. Kimpton's teams won eight LBCC Invitational tournament titles and he posted a career record (including high school) of 225-133. Kimtpon was named OCCAA Coach of the Year in 1976 and 1977. Before coming to Linn-Benton, Kimpton was coaching at Madison High School in Portland, alongside Dick McClain, who was hired a year earlier at LBCC to start the athletics program. As a player, Kimpton was a three-year letter winner for University of Oregon. Kimpton was inducted into the NWAC Hall of Fame in 1992.

NOTE: In 2021 LB celebrates the 50-year anniversary of its athletics program. We will highlight people, teams and moments from the past five decades of Roadrunner Athletics. You can nominate a former athlete, coach, team, supporter or memorable moment from LB Athletics using this site: View all 50-for-50

COLUMN

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COLUMN

Winter Hiking Safety

Whitney Rowland and son David visiting the sea lions on the Historic Newport Bayfront.

Thinking About a Winter Hike? Make Sure to Read About the Proper Precautions to Take

STORY AND PHOTOS BY BRENDA AUTRY Winter hiking can be really beautiful. Waterfalls are usually in full flow, if you go high enough there may be snow along the trails, and somehow the wilderness just seems more peaceful in the winter. But there are also some things to consider before setting out on a winter hike. There are fewer daylight hours, weather related trail and road closures can occur, and trail conditions are not always ideal. This year, we also have to take special precautions due to Covid-19. Usually winter means fewer people on the trails, but more people are looking for outdoor activities so you should expect larger than usual crowds. Some services, beautiful waterfall among the cascades flows amid Winter in Oregon.

like trailhead restrooms, are closed, and emergency services may not be available if you get into trouble in the backcountry. With a little extra planning you can still get outside and enjoy one of Oregon’s beautiful trails - you just have to be prepared! Here are some ways you can be prepared, and stay safe while enjoying a hike this winter! CHECK TRAIL CONDITIONS BEFORE YOU GO. Once you’ve chosen where you want to hike, make sure the trail you’ve chosen is open and accessible. Some trails are closed due to Covid, forest fires, or from snow. And some trials are only accessible by snowshoe in the winter. It is important to check ahead and be prepared. One of the best places to check current conditions is the Forest Services website, fs.usda.gov. The Forest Service site will also tell you if there is a fee to use the trail and how much it is. You can also check AllTrails for closures, but be sure to read some of the recent comments for information on current conditions. CHECK ROAD CONDITIONS. Tripcheck.com is the best option to check road conditions in Oregon. It has up to the minute information on road closures and conditions, as well as cameras so you can see how bad the roads are. DON’T HIKE ALONE AND TELL SOMEONE WHERE YOU’RE GOING. Hiking alone in any season should be avoided when possible. Also, always tell a friend or family member where you’re hiking, what route you’re taking, and when you plan to return.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY. The weather can sometimes be unpredictable and change rapidly, so it is a good idea to dress in layers and bring extra clothing. The most important thing you can wear is properly fitting, waterproof hiking shoes or boots and good socks. There is nothing worse than hiking with cold wet feet! You should also bring or wear a sweater, waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves. And water resistant hiking pants can help keep you comfortable on a soggy hike. CARRY THE ESSENTIALS ► Water. At least one liter for every 2 hours (approximately 5 miles). ► Food. Calorie-dense foods like nuts and granola bars are best to fuel your hike. Bring an extra portion or two just in case. ► Map and compass. ► Extra clothes including waterproof layers. ► Safety Items. A light (headlamp or flashlight), waterproof matches, and a whistle. ► First Aid Kit. ► Knife or multi tool. ► Sun protection. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. UV rays can burn you even on an overcast winter day. ► Shelter. In case you get lost or are injured a simple shelter, like a lightweight space blanket, can be a life saver. BEWARE OF HYPOTHERMIA Hiking can work up a sweat, and that can mean trouble if your clothes become wet in freezing temps. If you start getting hot take off a layer to keep from sweating and make sure you have a set of

Why I am

in college A Student's Inspiration for Going to Linn-Benton Community College Uh Oh! While pretty, these steps could be quite hazardous. Make sure to be careful when you find icey steps like these, as they reside on many popular trails here in the Willamette Valle

dry clothes handy if necessary. STAY HYDRATED Staying hydrated is just as important in cold weather as it is in hot weather. Don’t forget to take breaks and drink water throughout your hike. A FACE MASK/COVERING Even in the great outdoors it’s not always possible to maintain six feet of distance, so be sure to have a face mask handy for those narrow trail passings. With the proper precautions you can have a safe and happy hike in any season! Happy trails!

SAFETY SUGGESTION BOX

Staying hydrated is essential for good brain function. Hydration is Key: Water Your Brain! How Staying Hydrated Makes You Smarter Why Hydration is Essential for Employees

LBCC has a Safety Committee whose goal is to identify and eliminate risks on our campus, and to prevent accidents and illnesses through the involvement of employees, managers, and students in an effort to provide a safe and healthy place to both work and learn. A "Safety Suggestion Box" is available to provide a way for you to communicate your safety concerns, hazards spotted, and suggestions for promoting safety. Please email your suggestions, comments, concerns to: safetycommittee@linnbenton.edu

COLUMN AND PHOTO BY WHITNEY ROWLAND Editor's Note: A students essay for Writing 121, with professor Debbie Killingsworth. The prompt: “Why am I in college” Becoming a mother was never on my agenda, not even for a brief moment. However, the course of my life’s anti-child agenda was altered drastically during the Winter of 2017. This was the year I unexpectedly fell pregnant, just before my 30th birthday. The initial shock and horror of that rather unholy plus sign was really quite brief. That once seemingly satanic symbol was instantaneously converted into a crystal-clear map of my life’s one true purpose - to be a mommy. Mixed emotions were simply void here. I was ecstatic! And, I can promise you at least one thing. All of the claims of ‘overwhelming joy’ in the beginning of pregnancy, made by mothers-tobe, can be validated. Within days of the, we will say, editing of the map of my life’s purpose, my world started to smell and feel just plain strange… No - I am not talking about the HCG in my urine or my lumpy breasts (Lumpy breasts usually occur a slight bit later). I am referring to brief instances where my nostrils detected a near microscopic spot of mold on a piece of produce before my eyes even saw it. Then, there’s the blasted, but beyond awesome, infamous baby fever. After butterflies in my tummy at

A Series of Unfortunate, Yet Very Fortunate Events the first glimpse of each tiny baby, and the previously annoying children seeming so wonderful, I cancelled my second trip to the drug store. The act of seeking additional affirmation of the future expansion of my waist line and gorging of my breasts had already been stamped with redundancy. Thankfully, my acidic and chunky prayers to the porcelain Gods were acknowledged in exchange for much excitement and contentment in my new parental journey. According to all my mommy friends, my pregnancy was progressing blissfully, thus far… Despite the number sevens association to ‘luck’ and ‘perfection’, which is supposedly a result of sevens link to God’s resting on the seventh day after perfecting our world, the number seven is not so lucky to me. My seventh week of pregnancy was my last. An ultrasound with that gooey minty tummy gel confirmed that the universe has pulled the relationship ripcord on my blueberry-sized embryo and I. I had experienced a heartwrenching ‘missed miscarriage’. Repeated evaluation, with that devilish gooey minty tummy gel, further ingrained my premature departure from my baby.

Suddenly, the recently edited crystal-clear map of my life’s one true purpose - to be a mommy - no longer had “X” marking the spot. Upon salvaging the wreckage while engaging in self-discovery, I decided I was going to be a mommy if it was the last thing I do before I finally kick the bucket. I am honored to report six months later, my son was conceived on our first try. My BFP (big fat positive) had reconstructed my origami-like ‘mommy map’. Despite having to put that elastic waist band in my pants, the first seven months, or so, of my pregnancy were absolutely glorious. However, that 32nd week was a game changer. A routine ultrasound (with that devilish gooey minty tummy gel) had revealed that my son had a brain anomaly. I’ll spare the details. Just know that my kiddo is currently healthy and happy! Anyway… My son’s panel of half a dozen medical specialists exuded confidence in my son’s exceptional odds of survival. On a less favorable note, it was mentioned that his probability of meeting normative cognitive developmental expectations, (this is our smarts, in layman’s terms), was implausible. Moderate clarification was gained via post-birth genetic analysis. As it turns out, my little bundle of joy has a highly rare chromosomal abnormality which has, to date, resulted in global developmental delays (this means in all areas of development). I so badly want to conclude our story as is, but the rest is still unwritten. Milliseconds after hesitation in our geneticist’s stuttering voice as she disclosed my son’s permanently disabling condition, my partner ABRUPTLY abandoned us. The fashion was nothing shy of bewildering. My disabled son was still small enough to take a snooze in a large shoe box when he became a survivor of child abuse. And, well, I didn’t exactly have a parachute for that dropping. Single motherhood with a disabled newborn wrongfully casted my vulnerable family of two into an unjust predicament. In case reading between the lines isn’t your strong suit, I wasn’t handed a compass for direction in coordinating my son’s medical care and navigating the scarce resources available to us. As if flying solo and providing 100% of the love, affection, and attention a high-needs infant needs isn’t laborious enough. All of a sudden, those old leather bindings quit agitating my olfactory nerve. That was when I made a mad dash for LBCC (Linn Benton Community College). Our undeserved catastrophic outcome, coupled with my diverse employment history, compelled me to explore career options in various ‘helping professions’. The pondering process was expedited, like when you get overnight delivery for a package you ordered at 11:59 p.m. My major had been declared, that fast. It was official. I had sought out to major in HDFS (Human Development and Family Sciences) with an emphasis in social work while minoring in criminal justice. I aspire to mentor child abuse survivors and their families one day. They say not everyone should go to college. But I belong here because I deserve the opportunity to learn how to morph my life’s disadvantages into advantages, so I can one day coach others to do likewise!

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5-Word Book

Reviews BY LEAH BIESACK

The Road, Cormac McCarthy: Bleak. Compelling. Not for poolside. Miles, Miles Davis: Written just as he plays. Gulliver’s Travels, Jonathan Swift: A college obligation. Otherwise, pass. The Colossus of New York, Colson Whitehead: New York to its marrow.

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Ultra Inhale REVIEW BY JOSHUA BLOEDEL

I was about 10 years old when I got my DSi. I got it for Christmas when we were visiting my aunt’s house and I got Pokemon Black and had a great time with it. A few days later, my mother told me that a gift was hiding somewhere in the house. I scoured the building, searching for my prize until finally….I found Kirby Super Star Ultra for the Nintendo DS. This game became one of my favorite games for the handheld. But how did such a game come into existence? Well, it was meant to be a celebration of the Kirby franchise’s 15th anniversary and the team at HAL Laboratory decided to make a remake of Kirby Super Star for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). Upon release, it had overall positive reviews. So, was the game truly ultra? Or did it suck? There are several different stories in this game. The first one is Spring Breeze in which King Dedede has stolen the food in Dream Land and you have to stop him as Kirby. Gourmet Race has you race The third is Dynablade where a giant bird has caused a huge disturbance across the land and destroying crops. Next, we have the Great Cave Offensive. Kirby must escape the cave while collecting as much treasure as he can. Revenge of Meta Knight has Kirby face off against the legendary warrior Meta Knight. In Milky Way Wishes, the sun and moon have suddenly begun fighting. Kirby must

KIRBY SUPERSTAR ULTRA

DESIGNER: Masahiro Sakurai

DEVELOPER: HAL Laboratory PLATFORM: Nintendo DS ESRB RATING: E 10+

seek out the giant comet Nova to help stop the fighting. Revenge of the King has you fight King Dedede once more. Meta Knightmare Ultra allows you to play as Meta Knight as he journeys across Dream Land to train. Finally, the Arena which has Kirby fight many of his biggest foes (there is also the Helper Arena for the Helper characters which we will get to later, and the True Arena which is essentially the same thing as the Arena but with bigger and tougher bosses.) Despite these many modes, the story is quite lacking. They are all quite simple but they do have charming characters like Meta Knight and his crew, King Dedede, Marx (my favorite villain in the entire franchise), and of course Kirby. I will give the story a B+.

The gameplay is essentially the same for all of these except Meta Knightmare Ultra. As Kirby, you can suck enemies and gain a variety of powers. If you want, you can sacrifice your ability to make a helper. These helpers will help fight enemies. As Meta Knight, you slice and dice enemies with a sword and gain points to fill your sword bar to create a devastating move, heal, summon a partner, or increase your speed. The bosses are fun to battle against and treasure hunting in the Great Cave Offensive is also fun. The game may be incredibly easy for some players. The only real challenge is in the True Arena. If you’re looking for a challenge, I don’t recommend this game. The Great Cave Offensive can also be a

bit tedious at times. But overall, I had a very fun time with the gameplay. I give it an A-. The soundtrack is fine. It does have some great music like Marx’s Battle and Galacta Knight. I give the soundtrack a B+. To conclude, this is a good game. However, it can be incredibly easy. I think that’s why it holds a special place in my heart. It came to me at just the right time when I started playing video games that it offered just enough challenge for my younger self to enjoy. If you’re new to gaming, I recommend this game. While it may not be a great game, I think it’s fun. I give the game a 7.8/10

A Window to the Multiverse STORY BY

STEVEN PRYOR

Click here for more information

FEBRUARY 3, 2021

@STEVENPRR2PRYOR

Marvel Studios’ latest spinoff has arrived for streaming on Disney Plus with “WandaVision.” While the series has never been shy about embracing the absurd nature of its comic book source material; this latest effort presents a window into the potential multiverse that lies ahead in Phase 4 and 5 of the longrunning Marvel Cinematic Universe. Centered around Wanda Maximoff the “Scarlet Witch” (Elizabeth Olsen) and her husband, the Vision (Paul Bettany); the series sees the two settling down in the small town of Westview, New Jersey. It then becomes clear that nothing is what it seems as their reality changes shape all around them. Head writer Jac Schaffer, along with collaborator Matt Shakman have had extensive credits in both film and television; with the two bringing a

WANDAVISION

STARRING: Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany DEVELOPER: Jac Schaffer (Based on characters from Marvel Comics) PLATFORM: PS4 (Also Available on Disney Plus RATING: TV-PG

OVERALL RATING: ☆ unique flair to the series that homages and sends up classic TV sitcoms, The first three episodes are entitled “Filmed Before a Live Studio Audience,” “Don’t Touch That Dial” and “Now in Color,” with the humor recalling the likes of classics such as “I Love Lucy,” “Bewitched” and

“I Dream of Jeannie.” While the films and other TV entries in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as of late have been among many impacted by the novel coronavirus/ COVID-19 pandemic; this series has already presented a weird and wonderful

window into the multiverse the franchise has planned next. With that in mind, “WandaVision” is well worth your time for streaming on Disney Plus.

A&E

FEBRUARY 3, 2021

LBCOMMUTER.COM 

An Alternative

Form of Expression REVIEW BY ALISTAIR WOODS

Living Colour is an alternative metal/rock/punk fusion band that originally started in 1984, its current members are Vernon Reid, Corey Glover, Will Calhoun, and Doug Wimbish. The band still appears to be going strong today, having released the album “Shade” in September 2017 and the song “This Is The Life 2020” in June of 2020. Their most popular song seems to be “Cult Of Personality” which was originally released in 1988 in their album, “Vivid”. Their lyrics are often political, singing about things like racism in America and gun violence, however they sing about personal experience as well. Most, if not all, of their music can be found on their Youtube channel under the same name. The original impression of this band was pretty good, the band is incredibly talented and it’s evident that the members care a lot about what they do. The lead singer, Corey Glover, puts his voice to good use while spreading these messages found within each song

LIVING COLOR

MEMBERS: Vernon Reid, Corey Glover, Will Calhoun, Doug Wimbish LABELS: Megaforce, Sanctuary, Epic GENRE: Rock, hard rock, funk, metal, alternative metal

and the experiences him and his band members have faced throughout their lives. On top of the messages they wish to send, they also have a pretty unique style of doing so as they add hip hop or jazz elements into their otherwise metal/rock music. They end up swaying in genre more than usual in a few songs, most notably “Who’s That” in the album “Shade”, but it still has its place among the other songs in the album and still carries that unique style that makes their work really stand out from their fellow metal/rock bands. They have many songs and several albums to go through, so you might just find a favorite among them if you happen to also enjoy this style of music. In conclusion, Living Colour is a great band for those who like alternative style music. It’s made up of passionate black artists who seem to want to make a difference with their music, and they deserve every ounce of support they get. In line with the theme of Black History Month, this band should also be on the list of figures or groups you should look into, especially if you already want to support creators like these who manage to really make a name for themselves.

 COMMUTER@LINNBENTON.EDU

FEBRUARY 3, 2021

LBCCs STUDENT LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

WHY WE VOLUNTEER AND WHY YOU SHOULD TOO BY MARISSA S. MILES Recently, the SLC has launched up a new volunteer program that everyone was excited for! The SLC volunteer program is a great way to gain experience, new skills, meet new people, build up references and give back to the community! The volunteer program runs on the website NobleHour which is a very fast, reputable and easy way to find local volunteer opportunities while still representing LBCC! Volunteer opportunities are added quite often so keep on the lookout! Some volunteer organizations you can work with are Red Cross, Linn-County animal rescue, meals on wheels, litter clean ups and so much more! From my own personal experience, I am an active volunteer within our community through NobleHour! With NobleHour/LBCC I was able to find and volunteer both the with Red Cross and Linn-County animal rescue.

Both organizations are extremely important to our community because they give back in various ways. Volunteering at both places has made an impact on how I view the world and helping others in need. In addition, I was able to meet new people and build up skills I thought I would never be able to learn such as caring for horses. In addition to other skills, I learned better community skills, leadership and taking initiative. I am not alone in my experiences. Deja Ponds says: I have been volunteering for the Room at the Inn, which is a women's shelter here in Corvallis. They have asked for help from the community to provide overnight relief to staff who are up all night making sure that the residents are safe and doing well. Volunteering has allowed me to be a part of my community here in Corvallis. I am from Arizona originally and came up to Oregon to attend OSU Without this program, I don't think I would've known or

heard about all of the wonderful programs and opportunities we provide which give back to the community. I have not learned any new skills just yet, but i hope that by volunteering for other programs and organizations that i will learn new skills as well as continue to meet new people! There are so many opportunities to connect through NobleHour/LBCC and beyond just getting out and doing something there are many other reasons.

YOU CAN:

► Gain experience ► Learn new skills ► Build up a resume ► Meet new people/ Social network ► Earn references ► Give back to the community So CLICK HERE to sign up today!

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